Vote to protect trapping

In a 38-page scientific report, George Hurst sums up wild turkey predation: “Predation has been documented (empirical evidence) to be the primary cause of nest (eggs) destruction, and poult and hen mortality.”

He states further that “predator management should be part of a holistic (comprehensive, integrated) turkey management plan,” and that “the most intensive (predator) reduction should take place … as close as possible to the beginning of the turkey nesting period (March).”

That coincides perfectly with regulated trapping seasons in Idaho.

Here’s one example why trapping is included in House Joint Resolution 002aa, the right to hunt, trap and fish amendment. The Idaho Fish and Game Department has stated that they need hunting and trapping to assist with proper wildlife management. Yet, groups who state that “Idaho wildlife should be managed by Fish & Game” urge voters to reject HJR002aa because it includes protection for trapping.

If we don’t protect the right to trap in Idaho now, while HJR002aa is on the ballot, anti-trapping groups will see that Idaho loses that management tool. We can’t allow that to happen in Idaho given the expanding numbers of large predators.

Please vote yes on HJR002aa even if you don’t hunt, trap or fish.

Jared Boley

Rupert, Idaho