>wyoelkhunter,
>
>Just curious how much time you've
>spent at the legislature this
>session?
>
>Can you point out all the
>bills that really help wildlife,
>public lands, and wildlife habitat
>that were introduced this session?
>
>
>The view from my numerous trips
>to Cheyenne, and time spent
>in lobbying efforts, is that
>a majority of time is
>being spent fighting horrendous legislation.
>
>
>While it would be nice to
>focus on things that help
>wildlife, etc., we cant sit
>back and let bad legislation
>pass.
>
>I'm also of the opinion that
>"uniting" hunters is akin to
>pi$$ing up a rope. I
>see how many "concerned" hunters
>show up at GF meetings,
>commission meetings, and legislative sessions.
>The concern for wildlife, hunting,
>the NAM, etc. seems to
>be a pretty thin line...to
>put it mildly.
>
>Every excuse under the sun why
>they cant find the time
>to support wildlife, hunting, fishing,
>recreation, etc.
>
>The problem isnt in-fighting between special
>interests within the ranks of
>hunters, no matter how much
>you want it to be
>or how many times you
>say it. Its 99% about
>the average hunter being a
>apathetic, uninformed, and unwilling to
>help in any way beyond
>"gettin' their elk" every year
>and buying a tag once
>a year.
>
>Those in the arena see what's
>going on, and they capitalize
>on hunter apathy, big-time...whether it
>be the legislature or special
>interests.
>
>Those few that bother to take
>a stand and make a
>difference, are forced to focus
>almost entirely on keeping what
>we have.
>
>Just the way it is...and unlikely
>to change anytime soon.
>
>
Buzz. I and others appreciate your efforts in the legislature. Im no stranger to wildlife politics after a 30 year career as a state wildlife biologist. Ive fought the fight and have the bruises to show for it. For your information I do try to keep tabs on bills and let my legislators know how I feel. Im not sure how you think Im disagreeing with you. If youve read my posts you will see ive tried to convince hunters to get involved for their own good. Cant say Ive had much more luck than you have.
I guess this isnt the place for that