New Idaho wolf trap rules intended to protect dogs on walks

Lawmakers have made an initial step in approving rules changes requested by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game that require wolf and other trappers to set traps farther from paths to avoid catching dogs out on walks with their owners.

The House Resources and Conservation Committee approved the rules Monday.

The new rules would require traps to be no closer than 10 feet from the edge of any maintained unpaved public trail. The current rule is 5 feet from the centerline.

The new rules add paved trails to a 300-foot distance requirement for trappers that also include areas such as public campgrounds and trailheads.

The changes come after several dogs in recent years were caught in traps while out for walks.

Several more steps by lawmakers are needed before the rules would take effect.