Good morning,

I would like to ask that my brothers/sisters in hunting stand up for the fish and wildlife commission.

There are still several things are happening politically that will be extremely damaging to the DFW and our resources, both fish/marine life and wildlife/waterfowl. First, we no that SB 5127 was put in the can and shouldn’t be brought back out. Now the (sneaky) politicians (doesn’t matter which party or who did it for now) have put the entire content of 5127 into HB 1778. This bill is moving forward and we need to Write, Call and Visit with all state representatives and senators and let them know that you do not support this bill or any that would remove or overturn the current DFW Commission structure and approach of science and conservation (use your own words, but be respectful).

Second this week there will be a confirmation hearing/meeting for Commissioner Miranda Wecker. Ms. Wecker is a commissioner and has been serving for 4 years, after her appointment by the Governor. By showing support for Ms. Wecker you will be showing that you want commissioners that are conservation and environmentally focused on fish and wildlife. If as a HUNTER, as I, you need to support Ms Wecker’s confirmation because she is there working on issues for us and will keep conservation of these resources in the forefront. So, please read her Bio (http://wdfw.wa.gov/commission/bios/wecker.html , http://www.cfr.washington.edu/aboutTheCollege/newsLetter/01-summer/staff.html )
for yourself then ACT NOW and Write, Call and Visit with Senator Jacobsen (cc to the Governor!) and the Senate Nat’l Resources Committee. (and if you can attend represent yourself as a hunter at the hearing (if you are) Wecker Confirmation Hearing Friday 8:00 a.m. Senate Nat'l Resources Committee)

I would lastly ask that if you belong to a Club or Organization, like Washington State Bowhunters, Washington Muzzleloaders Association, WAC, or Safari Club International, that you please write to your board and ask them to provide a written statement for the confirmation of Commissioner Miranda Wecker and Also ask them for a written statement opposing HB 1178 or any other legislation that removes or restricts the DFW and overturns the voters passage of Referendum 45 (implementation of current DFW structure) we was the will of the people.

Please act now… this is very time sensitive and could set our fishing and hunting back for years and would remove YOUR ability to provide input to the Commission and Director if they are put back under the appointment of the Governor.

We all need to know how the clubs and organizations feel about the SFW Commission and the Commissioners and specific Bills that affect our resources and enjoyment of them whether hunting or fishing. So, PLEASE get involved now on these issues, or you may not even get a chance to speak up in the future.

Thanks
Shawn

How does it take the public out of the equation? I read the bill and I did not see where it said public feedback will no longer exist. I am not for or against the bill yet. Just need a little clarification on how the public voice will not be heard.