Odds Stacking Against Poachers Rewards Program Gives Hunters Incentive To Report

Thu., Sept. 21, 2000

Hunters in Idaho and Washington can cash in illegal behavior by reporting poachers.

In Washington, hunters who turn in poachers can earn cash or points that give them a better chance at drawing a coveted hunting tag.

More hunters are becoming aware of the advantages of reporting poacher activities since 1997, when the new rewards program was established.

Persons who provide information leading to the arrest of poachers are given an option of taking a cash award or receiving up to 10 points for special deer and elk permit hunt drawings.

Since the program was established, bonus point rewards have more than doubled.

“The chances of being a successful applicant in the special permit drawings are substantially increased with the addition of 10 bonus points,” said George Tsukamoto, Washington Fish and Wildlife Department big-game manager.

And reporting a poacher helps prevent the theft of valuable wildlife resources.

Idaho’s Citizen’s Against Poaching program also offers cash rewards for tips that lead to convictions for poachers. Citizens can remain anonymous after giving the tips to law enforcement officers.

Report poachers on the following toll-free telephone lines:

Washington’s hotline number for reporting trespassing and gamelaw violations is (800) 477-6224.

Idaho offers cash rewards for reporting poachers. Report violations at (800) 632-5999.

This sidebar appeared with story: IN MONTANA Verify outfitters

In Montana, it’s illegal to hire an unlicensed outfitter or guide unless the guide owns the land. Questions: Call the state Board of Outfitters, (406) 444-3738.

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