Survey Request: Wildlife Express Newsletter (Jan 7 2026)
Idaho Fish and Game invited Wildlife Express newsletter subscribers to complete a survey to improve the publication. The survey asked readers to share their preferences and suggestions, and noted that it closes on January 17. The email encouraged participants to click a link to complete the survey.
2026 Nonresident Tag Drawing Results Available (Jan 6 2026)
This notice announced that Idaho Fish and Game had posted results for the 2026 nonresident deer and elk tag drawing. Successful applicants were instructed to check whether they were drawn and claim their tags by January 20; otherwise, the tags would be forfeited and made available during a second application period. The message noted that tags could be claimed at local license vendors or by contacting regional offices.
CWD Detected Near Grangeville & Other News (Jan 5 2026)
A newsletter highlighted several wildlife updates. Idaho Fish and Game reported the first detection of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in hunting Unit 15 near Grangeville, roughly twenty miles from Slate Creek. Multiple deer and elk tested positive, and the agency urged hunters to be vigilant. The same newsletter noted plans to relocate bighorn sheep from Oregon to Jacks Creek to bolster an under-performing herd. Other sections reminded hunters to submit mandatory harvest reports, promoted early purchase of 2026 hunting and fishing licenses, and encouraged upgrading to durable license cards and listening to the “Hook and Bulletin” podcast.
Wildlife Express Newsletter: Eagle Edition (Jan 5 2026)
The January issue of Wildlife Express focused on bald and golden eagles. The newsletter explained how these raptors adapt to winter, described their habitat, reproductive cycles and nesting behavior, and discussed threats they face. Readers were encouraged to share the newsletter with teachers and students; the publication meets Idaho core standards for elementary science education and includes classroom activities and field-trip suggestions.
Windows to Wildlife – Winter 2026 Edition (Jan 5 2026)
Windows to Wildlife explained how tiny tracking devices and the Motus Wildlife Tracking Network help biologists monitor birds and bats across continents. The newsletter also offered a DIY project for making window decals to keep birds from hitting glass, highlighted birding opportunities at the Coeur d’Alene Wildlife Management Area, and promoted participation in the Great Backyard Bird Count scheduled for February 2026. The publication encouraged readers to share the subscription with friends and emphasized conservation awareness.
History of White-Tailed Deer & Good Neighbor Authority (Dec 30 2025)
This end-of-year newsletter offered a video presentation on the history of Idaho’s white-tailed deer and tips on feeding winter birds responsibly. It informed readers about a pneumonia outbreak (Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae) detected in the Reynolds Creek bighorn sheep herd and reminded hunters to submit harvest reports. Additional stories recounted the relocation of moose from the University of Idaho arboretum to suitable habitat and announced that Idaho Fish and Game had signed a new Good Neighbor agreement with the U.S. Forest Service to improve forest conditions and wildlife habitat. The email also promoted the “Shootin’ the Bull” podcast featuring interviews with Fish & Game staff.
IDFG Draft Strategic Plan, Fish Stocking & More (Dec 3 2025)
Idaho Fish and Game invited public comment on a draft update to its strategic plan (last revised in 2015) and explained that nonresident hunters could apply for general-season deer and elk tags December 5–15. Hunters were urged to submit input by December 7 on proposals for the 2026–2027 upland game, turkey and furbearer seasons.
- Reminders about mandatory hunter reports.
- Announcement of the 19th annual bird seed sale fundraiser at the MK Nature Center on December 5–6 in Boise.
- A report about a poached bighorn sheep near Riggins and a request for public tips.
- Updates on a Panhandle Region check station monitoring transport of big game and CWD compliance.
- Notices about habitat projects and seasonal motorized closures in the Teton Canyon Complex to protect wintering elk and deer.
- December fish stocking plans, including the release of more than 4,500 catchable rainbow trout statewide.
- Deer population surveys near Salmon and Challis and the winter closure of the Farragut Shooting Range Center from December 8 – January 9.
The newsletter concluded by encouraging license holders to upgrade to durable cards and listen to the “Hook and Bulletin” podcast for more Fish and Game news.
Kokanee Success, New Nonresident Drawing & Public Input (Nov 26 2025)
This newsletter recapped the November 20 Fish and Game Commission meeting, noted adoption of administrative rules, and explained that the 2026 nonresident tag drawing would move from first-come, first-served sales to a drawing system. The Kokanee captive broodstock program’s first crop produced 1.6 million eggs and about one million fingerlings for spring stocking. Hunters were reminded to provide input on the 2026–2027 upland game and furbearer seasons. Other items included a profile of a Mackay conservation officer, updates on juniper removal projects, changes to muzzleloader elk seasons, the loss of 1.2 million Chinook salmon fry at Rapid River Hatchery due to water interruption, tips for waterfowl hunting, a report about wasted deer near Slate Creek, and reminders to upgrade to durable license cards and enjoy the “Hook and Bulletin” podcast.
Public Comment Period: Upland Game, Turkey & Furbearers (Nov 25 2025)
Idaho Fish and Game opened a public comment period for proposals affecting upland game, turkey and furbearer seasons. The comment period ran through 6 p.m. MST on December 7. The email provided links to proposed season changes by region and explained the difference between management plans and season setting. It urged hunters and trappers to submit feedback to help shape regulations.