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Idaho Fish & Game Repositions Feed Stores

ST. ANTHONY, Idaho - Normally the elk push right on through Sand Creek Wildlife Management each December on their way to winter on the desert behind St. Anthony, but this year a group of about 70 animals failed to keep up with the thousands of other elk and for some reason stopped near the ponds at the center of the wildlife management area (WMA).

While the habitat at the WMA is managed to benefit wildlife, normally only a few hardy moose overwinter there. Recreational snow machine riders reported to IDFG that they had seen elk at the WMA that appeared to be struggling and that some calves had died. Investigation by IDFG biologists confirmed that some elk had stopped short of the traditional winter range and appeared to be having trouble making a go of it on the WMA. IDFG staff reviewed the situation with the Upper Snake Region Winter Feeding Advisory Committee to explore the issues and potential actions. Key to any decision was an accurate elk count.

A previously planned radio telemetry flight made three passes over the WMA on the morning of February 25. At that time no elk were seen anywhere on the WMA and a large animal trail was observed heading to the southwest towards the traditional wintering area.

Because these elk have proven unpredictable, IDFG worked with Fremont County to develop a contingency plan should the elk return. The county has plowed the Sand Creek Road to the WMA and has also closed it to keep people from disturbing the elk. IDFG took an existing supply of alfalfa hay bales and will position 6 tons at the WMA. According to IDFG Regional Supervisor Steve Schmidt, "The situation is extremely fluid, but we want the public to know that IDFG has worked with the county to reposition our assets so that we can feed if the elk return."

IDFG will continue to monitor the situation and will be poised to implement an emergency feeding operation if necessary. Weather conditions are such that feeding would only need to be done a short time before the elk could hopefully move onto natural forage.

Media Contact:
Gregg Losinski (208) 390-0635