Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) recently became aware of a slight mishap. Their app MyODFW will not work on iPhone or iPads when the device is out of network area, or in aeroplane mode. Instead, an error message will be presented to the users.
Users encountering this problem are not able to e-tag their fish or animal, once out of service. That is if their MyODFW app isn’t open on their Apple device. Thankfully, Android devices are not affected.
While OWDF is working hard to resolve this issue, here are a few steps the user should take:
Steps:
- Take a screenshot of your licenses and tags.
- Open the app while you still have a network, and try your best to keep it on during the entire trip.
- Keep it turned on/logged in during the entire trip
- Do not swipe the app off the screen, as this will result in the app closing down.
- If possible, do not turn your phone off during your trip, as this will close the MyODFW app.
Following the above steps will suffice, in case you run into the Oregon State Police or the ODFW. All you need to do then is show the concerned officers a screenshot of the valid tag. But, the MyOWDF app users must immediately complete their e-tagging. Once they’re back in a location with network coverage or Wi-Fi service. Users will soon have to update the latest version of the app MyODWF, once the problem is resolved. After which a screenshot will no longer suffice. Users will be notified once the updated version of the app is available.
Hunters and Anglers, that are on the field need to take the following steps while they’re on the field.
Steps for Hunters and Anglers out on the field.
Hunters: If you have an animal, take the steps you normally would, under a normal circumstance. The only difference is instead of electronically validating your tag. The number needs to be hand-written on your tag.
Important: Hunters who are e-tagging need to write their name, OWDF ID, date of birth, and harvest date. It should be written on a material which can stand up to the harsh climatic conditions. Like a flag, or a piece of duct tape. Then adhere it to the animal like a traditional tag.
Keep it attached to your carcasses during transportation.
Once you’re back somewhere with a network service, complete e-tagging. Write the confirmation number on whatever is adhered to your animal.
Anglers: At the time of harvest, document the important information. Important information like species, type: wild or hatchery, location. It should be noted on a piece of paper, or any tool that is available on a mobile device, like notes, text, or email.
As soon as anglers are in a place with network coverage, they are to complete the regular e-tagging procedure.
“We apologize for this inconvenience and want to thank all our customers for their business and their patience while we resolve this problem,” said Mathew Oeder, ODFW Management Resources Division administrator.
