Turn in a Poacher and Earn Bonus Points
By George Tsukamoto

Poachers beware! The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission passed a rule in 1997 that rewards persons who provide information which substantially contributes to the arrest of another person for illegally killing big game or endangered species. Hunters have been keeping their eyes open while in the field because of the new rewards program. Persons who provide information are given an option of a cash award or up to 10 bonus points for special deer or elk permit hunt drawings.

This reward system was patterned after a program developed in the State of Utah. Their experience showed a significant reduction in “trophy” poaching activity in well known and desirable special permit hunt areas. Hunters are actively engaged in “patrolling” these areas to turn in a poacher.

Officials of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife believes the new incentive of bonus points as a reward will be an effective tool to combat poaching. Fish and Wildlife Commission member Lisa Pelly said, “We have added one more incentive for hunters to be aware of poaching activities and to report them.”

Since it’s inception bonus point rewards have more than doubled. The chance of being a successful applicant in the special permit drawings are substantially increased with the addition of 10 bonus points allotted under the rewards program. Keep you eyes and ears open and don’t let a poacher steal our valued wildlife resources. Turn them in and be rewarded.

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