Calling All Volunteers

By Matt Bruns - Idaho Department of Fish and Game

As many of us settle into a new year, our minds are filled with reflection and memories from the past year as well as anticipation for what lies ahead in 2006. When I reflect upon the past year working as a volunteer coordinator for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG), I enjoy thinking about all of the dedicated volunteers who gave of their time and talents to help Idaho's wildlife.   

Volunteers in the Clearwater region donated almost 8000 hours of their time in 2005. These hours were spent rehabilitating wildlife, assisting with population surveys, improving habitat, facilitating educational clinics and demonstrations, and working to create better partnerships between IDFG and the citizens of Idaho.

The past year concluded with several winter projects including fisher fur- sample collecting surveys, a turkey release on Craig Mountain, and Chronic Wasting Disease monitoring throughout the region. Projects including wildlife habitat plantings, fisheries creel surveys, and recreational use surveys are planned for next few months. To successfully complete these projects, IDFG is in need of your volunteer support.

The Clearwater region has an organized volunteer program in which anyone can get involved. Over 120 volunteers participated in the program during 2005. Getting involved in the volunteer program is a great way to take an active role in the management of Idaho's wildlife. Volunteering also offers many opportunities for self satisfaction as well as building friendships with other volunteers and IDFG employees. With increased support and dedication by volunteers in 2006, the number of volunteers will continue to grow.   

Wildlife plays a vital role in our lives as Idahoans. Many of us cannot imagine what it would be like if we could no longer experience seeing wildlife. We value and appreciate wildlife's existence in our state and realize that in order to preserve and protect this resource we must each give something of ourselves. As volunteers we can work together to continually improve Idaho's wildlife and ensure that future generations will have the same opportunities to enjoy wildlife as we do.   

Managing Idaho's wildlife is a monumental task requiring public support and involvement. Fish and Game employees realize that many of the projects that are planned on a yearly basis could not be completed without the "strength in numbers" that the volunteer program provides. A little time and energy goes a long way when dealing with committed and thoughtful citizens working for a common goal. "You tell us what to do and we will help get it done," is a commonly shared attitude that project leaders hear when they direct volunteers.

What does Fish and Game look for in a volunteer? The most important qualities include being reliable, enthusiastic, positive and adaptable. Volunteers who possess special skills or knowledge are also welcomed.

Wherever you live in the state, and whatever your interest may be, there are opportunities for you to invest your time. There will always be something new to learn from every experience with Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Visit the volunteer page on the IDFG website at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/cms/about/volunteer/ and contact your local Volunteer Coordinator today for information on upcoming opportunities.

IDFG Volunteer Coordinator Contacts
Panhandle Region- Pete Gardner (208) 769-1414
Clearwater Region- Matt Bruns   (208) 791-1291
Southwest Region-  Mary Dudley  (208) 327-7099
Southeast Region- Terri Bergmeier  (208) 232-4703
Upper Snake Region- Jimmy Hobbs  (208) 525-7290
Salmon Region- Vicky Runnoe  (208) 756-2271
MK Nature Center, Boise- Brenda Beckley (208)287-2901

Matt Bruns began his IDFG career by working several summers as a wildlife technician on the Craig Mountain Wildlife Management Area near Lewiston. He is currently pursuing his Masters Degree at University of Idaho and working part-time for IDFG.

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