Ethical sportsmen are reminded that they can help stop a game thief by designating a dollar to Citizens Against Poaching (CAP) when purchasing a license or applying for controlled hunts.

Citizens Against Poaching is a nonprofit citizen organization, managed by a volunteer board, that works in cooperation with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. CAP has a 24-hour hotline where citizens can report wildlife crimes, and remain anonymous if they choose. Callers may also receive a reward.

CAP does not receive any funding from the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, so a $1 donation is critical to the CAP poaching hotline.

“Donations provide funding for rewards,” said Chris Wright, Fish and Game assistant enforcement chief. “You will simply be directing that dollar to be used by Citizens Against Poaching, but your controlled hunt application fee will remain the same.”

In 2016, the CAP hotline received 878 calls from citizens reporting suspected Fish and Game violations. These calls resulted in 77 cases, 157 citations issued. These concerned citizens were paid $17,700 in reward money.

Citizens who witness fish and game violations are encouraged to call the CAP hotline number at (800) 632-5999, call any law enforcement authority, or report online at https://idfg.idaho.gov/poacher.

Mike Demick is a conservation information supervisor employed by Idaho Fish and Game.