Firearm Ban Floated For English Point

A popular hunting and target-practice area near Hayden Lake may soon be off-limits to firearms.

Citing increased recreational use at English Point, and more people living nearby, acting Fernan District Ranger Susan Matthews said Thursday that she may allow only bow hunting in the 360-acre area.

English Point is well-known for its cross-country ski trails, but an average of 15 people a day use the national forest land for biking, hiking, running and horseback riding.

Worries about safety have been increasing, Matthews said.

“We’ve received several phone calls, and in the last couple of weeks I received about eight letters from local landowners, concerned about what happens during the hunting season.”

Steve Agte, regional conservation officer for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, said hunting restrictions sometimes must be set for safety reasons as more people move into areas near good wildlife habitat.

Matthews plans to make a decision by Oct. 1. She invited people to call her at 769-3000 or visit the Fernan District office, 2502 E. Sherman Ave., to discuss the proposed firearms closure.

, DataTimes