Warning Signs for Traps and Snares

It’s bad enough that traps are set along trails where people like to hike, but what is worse is that trappers don’t have to post signs warning that traps are there. The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) is reviewing a petition to adopt a regulation requiring trappers to post signs to alert people to the presence of traps or snares within 25 feet of the posted sign. These devices are often completely hidden or difficult to spot and pose unnecessary danger to children and dogs.

We have less than a week to speak up in support of this proposal to require signage for traps and snares. To voice your opinion, please submit an email to the following email address before midnight (MDT) on Wednesday, May 6: SignsNearTraps@idfg.idaho.gov

• People deserve to be forewarned if dangerous devices have been placed in areas where recreation occurs.
• Requiring signage is a simple measure that is long overdue.
• Traps and snares can be set as close as 10 feet to any maintained, unpaved public trail.
• Traps and snares can be set as close as 300 feet from any designated public campground, trailhead, paved trail or picnic area.
• Traps are often baited with strong scents that attract dogs as well as wildlife.
• Most traps and snares require specialized equipment to release them, equipment people will not have access to during recreation.
• Some species can be trapped year-round, which means there could be traps present any time of year.
• Everyone should have input on how public lands are utilized, especially regarding public safety, not just the few thousand trappers in Idaho.

Much of the world has limited the antiquated practice of trapping, yet Idaho continues to expand not only the length of trapping seasons but also the geographic areas within which trapping is allowed.

A trap will catch, maim or kill whatever animal is lured to it by the strong-smelling bait, which of course, includes dogs. Requiring signage in areas frequented by people and pets does not eliminate the danger that traps and snares pose, but warning signs would help alert the general public to the hazard and allow them to take precautions.

Idaho trappers have already mobilized to oppose the posting of signs in the vicinity of traps.

We urge you to voice your opinion in an email to SignsNearTraps@idfg.idaho.gov .

We must speak up in order to effect change, which is why Living with Wolves collaborated with three other organizations to submit a petition to IDFG. Policy makers need to hear from people who do not agree with current practices, even if you live outside of Idaho.

Further information about the IDFG meeting, during which the comments will be reviewed, can be found here: https://idfg.idaho.gov/press/fg-commission-meeting-teleconference-may-14