The Sawtooth Avalanche Center and the Bureau of Land Management – Shoshone Field Office released a PSA reminding backcountry skiers and snowboarders to respect and give priority to wildlife.
Idaho is home to a rich variety of wildlife, from mammals and birds to reptiles and fish. The state’s mammal population is broad, with small mammals like bats and pikas, medium mammals like lynx and wolverine, and large mammals like moose, deer, and elk.
Idaho has a wide reach of terrain for backcountry skiers, snowboarders, and snowmobilers, with plenty to offer across the state. So the Bureau of Land Management – Shoshone Field Office is urging backcountry recreators to choose a different location if the spot deer or elk on the slopes where they hope to ride.
Sawtooth Avalanche Center and the Bureau of Land Management – Shoshone Field Office PSA:
“From our partners at the Bureau of Land Management – Shoshone Field Office: With the last few storms behind us, we are starting to see the signature lines on the southern Wood River Valley hillsides—deer and elk tracks, plus backcountry skier tracks. These last couple storms brought enough snow for some epic backcountry skiing and snowboarding, but let’s not forget: we share this beautiful land with wildlife. They depend on fat reserves and energy conservation to survive the winter. Be a responsible ambassador for your sports—if you spot deer or elk on the slopes where you plan to chase powder on your skis or snowmobile, choose a different location. The wildlife are counting on your respect. Let’s spread the word!“