Idaho drafts plan for sharp-tailed grouse

Idaho Fish and Game is seeking public comments on its draft management plan for the conservation of Columbian sharp-tailed grouse, one of six subspecies of sharptails in North America. 

The prairie grouse were once considered the most abundant and well-known upland game bird in the Pacific Northwest, but now occupy less than 5 percent of their historic range in the United States, the plan says. 

Idaho supports 60 to 65 percent of the remaining Columbian sharp-tailed grouse in the country.

The plan outlines conservation measures to enhance sharptail habitat and populations that could head off endangered species protections.

The draft plan is on the Fish and Game Department website, fishandgame.idaho.gov.

Comments are due by June 24.

Nature fest at Turnbull

The annual “Floods, Flowers and Feathers Festival” at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge is set for 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. The free event includes educational activities about wildlife, habitats and geology of the unique Channeled Scablands landscape. 

Activities, led by members of local groups, include nature hikes, tours, kids’ activities, food vendors and informational booths.

Info: (509) 235-4723, or fws.gov/refuge/Turnbull.

Cycling, river talks at REI

Two free upcoming 7 p.m. programs at the Spokane REI store include:

• Tonight – State of the Spokane River. Meet the Spokane Riverkeeper and programs to keep the river fishable and swimmable.

• Friday – Cycling Sojourner Washington, with photos, info and stories about bike touring.

Sign-up for sessions at rei.com/spokane

BLM seeks Idaho advisors

The Bureau of Land Management Coeur d’Alene District is seeking nominations for several vacating positions on its 15-member Resource Advisory Council.

Citizens are chosen for the panel based their expertise in natural resource issues.  

Nominations must be accompanied by letters of reference in various categories.

Info: (208) 769-5004.