Idaho Fish and Game Commission on Aug. 23 approved a memorandum of agreement with the Idaho Department of Lands to continue public access for hunting, fish, trapping and other recreation on about 2.3 million acres of state endowment lands.
While most Idaho endowment lands have traditionally been open to hunting, fishing, trapping and other recreation, state endowment lands are managed to provide revenues for public schools, universities, prisons and state hospitals. Revenues are typically generated through timber sales and grazing leases.
Unlike federal public lands, state endowment lands don’t receive general tax funding to manage public recreation, provide recreational services, or repair damage from irresponsible use.
In recent years, other western states have limited or restricted recreation and public access on their state trust lands, or required user fees or general tax funds to continue access and recreation.
