BLAINE COUNTY, Idaho — The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG), said the department is still getting reports of yew even though there are ordinances that prohibit the plant. Ornamental yew is extremely toxic to people, wildlife and pets. Following the recent death of a moose, IDFG is reminding people to remove it.
"Homeowners should completely remove any yew from their yards. If removal is not possible until spring, the bushes should be securely fenced so that wildlife cannot get access to the plants, or the plants should be tightly wrapped with burlap," a news release stated.
The department stated, in the winter of 2021/2022 20 elk died in the Wood River Valley from eating the plant. It is often used in landscaping around homes and businesses. Yew is an evergreen and scientists believe that is why there are more reports of wildlife eating it in the winter.
People can get rid of their yew for free at the Ohio Gulch Transfer Station but because of it toxicity, the yew must be totally separate. For more information people can call the Blaine County Noxious Weed Department at 208-788-5574, Ketchum City at (208) 726-3841, City of Hailey at (208) 788-4221, or the Idaho Fish and Game, Magic Valley Regional Office at (208) 324-4359.
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