HB 677: Prohibiting Blinds and Stands Near Water Sources on Public Lands (2026)

Summary: Would prohibit placing temporary or permanent hunting blinds or stands within 300 feet of water troughs or stock ponds on public lands, restricting both hunting and wildlife viewing near these water sources.

ICL’s Position: Oppose

Current Bill Status: Committee - House Resources & Conservation

Issue Areas: Wildlife, Public lands

House Bill 677, introduced by Rep. Jerald Raymond (R-District 31), would prohibit individuals from constructing or placing any permanent or temporary blind, pit, platform, or tree stand within 300 feet of a water trough or stock pond on public lands in Idaho.

Hunters pursuing pronghorn and elk in desert or other dry game management units often use ground blinds or tree stands near improved water sources that attract wildlife. State and federal land management agencies already regulate the placement and use of such structures on public lands.

HB 677 appears to be driven in part by livestock interests and would impose a blanket statutory prohibition regardless of existing agency rules. The restriction would apply not only to hunters but also to individuals using temporary structures to observe wildlife near water sources.