The letter reminded hunters to send in their harvest reports soon because this critical information is used to set big game seasons for next year. The first step in setting hunts begins in January when potential big game rule changes are sent out for public comment. The Fish and Game Commission actually sets the seasons in early March. "The sooner we have harvest reports, the sooner we can compile harvest data and get potential rule changes out for public comment," Van Vooren said.

The letters contain a reminder that failure to comply could prevent hunters from being able to buy a license next year. "We didn't mean to make that sound threatening," said Van Vooren, "We apologize for the concern the letters have caused and want to stress that it is just a reminder. If your hunt is closed, please send the report. If not, please remember to do so."

Reports can be turned in four ways. Fax it to (775) 423-0799; phone it in to (877) 268-9365; mail it to Harvest Reports, P.O. Box 70007, Boise, ID 83707-0107; or use the internet.

In neighboring Nevada, where a successful mandatory mail-in report has been developed, a similar late-season reminder letter was found to be crucial to getting reports filed.