Visiting Portneuf WMA

Visiting Hours - Portneuf Wildlife Management Area is open year-round and has no established visiting hours. School and other groups are encouraged to visit Portneuf WMA in the early sprng when deer, elk , moose and breeding sharptailed grouse are more visible. Those interested in a WMA guided tour should call well in advance of the proposed trip date. IDFG personnel will make every effort to accommodate group trips.

Access for the Disabled - For persons with disabilities, access within Portneuf WMA is extremely limited. Visitors with special needs are encouraged to contact WMA management personnel to determine which area(s) are most suitable for physically-challenged visitors. In all cases, visitors are encouraged to assess their own abilities before entering Portneuf WMA.

Area Restrictions - Motorized access to the Portneuf WMA is closed seasonally from November 15 to June 1 to protect wintering mule deer and elk from human disturbance. Use of motorized vehicles on Portneuf WMA is prohibited during this closure although visitors may still access the WMA on foot, horseback or cross-country skis. For further information regarding area closures, contact Portneuf WMA management personnel.

Wildlife Observation/Photography - Portneuf WMA is known for its concentrations of big game species, with deer, elk, and moose commonly seen on the WMA during winter months. Visitors are welcome to hike throughout the WMA for viewing and photography purposes. Remember to watch for area closure signs. First-time visitors and/or those unfamiliar with the area are advised to visit with management personnel before traveling the WMA on foot.

Hunting/Fishing - Both hunting and fishing are allowed on the WMA, but specific regulations and access to some WMA locations may change from year to year. Consult current regulations for more details.

Fires/Firewood Cutting - Open fires and firewood cutting are prohibited on the Portneuf WMA. Removal of materials from their natural setting is prohibited.

Pets - Dogs must be leashed or under close control at all times on Portneuf WMA, with the exception of bird dogs during hunting seasons. The release or abandonment of domestic animals on Portneuf WMA is prohibited.

Vehicles/Parking - Use of motorized vehicles, including ATV’s, is permitted only on roadways shown on this brochure map. These restrictions protect area vegetation, reduce erosion, minimize wildlife disturbance, reduce wildfire risk, and improve hunting experiences and success. Please park only in designated areas.

Weed-Free Hay - All animal feed brought on to the Portneuf WMA must be certified weed - free. Straw or mulch should also be weed-free. Livestock should be fed on weed-free feed for at leat 96 hours before being brought on the Portneuf WMA. Noxious weeds can destroy habitat and forage; reducing the quality of wildlife, recreation, and hunting.

For more information regarding your visit to Portneuf Wildlife Management Area, contact:

Regional Wildlife Habitat Biologist
Portneuf Wildlife Management Area
Idaho Department of Fish and Game
1345 Barton Road
Pocatello, ID 83204-1819
(208) 232-4703

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