Idaho Fish and Game Department, the U.S. Forest Service and Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness are training volunteers to educate the public on the hazards of feeding or association with the wild goats that have become icons on Scotchman Peak northeast of Lake Pend Oreille.

Last year, Trail 65 was closed after goats became aggressive and injured some hikers.  The trail was reopened in February.

"The trail ambassadors will be wearing Forest Service volunteer shirts and FSPW hats," said Sandy Compton of the FSPW. "They will be taking surveys about any experiences that visitors might have with mountain goats, whether confrontational or not."

"Ambassadors will be trained in goat behavior and habits, including goat body language," Compton said. "Individual ambassadors will hike the trail at least twice during the coming hike season, concentrating on weekends and holidays.

"This will give us opportunity to teach people about goats, ensuring their safety on the trail, as well as the future of the goats themselves."

Contact: Sandy Compton by email,  sandy@scotchmanpeaks.org