The IBA will have a flyer/handout at the Classic. By March 1st some of this stuff will go away and other stuff will take it's place.
PF & IBA work very closely and our two lobbyists talk daily this time of year. There are several groups in the Conservation Alliance, some are politically active and some don't want to make waves. Several groups have never taken the time to build a grassroots network. Email makes it so easy to keep people informed. CA members get the same weekly legislative updates the IBA get, Don Brazilton, our lobbyist, compiles this information. If you belong to sportsmen’s group and don't get information about what's happening at the statehouse, I'd be contacting your groups leadership and ask, "Why am I not getting information and updates".
Groups can only do so much. Individuals have got to stand up and let their voices be heard and I don't mean here at IW that's like preaching to the choir ( not many causal hunters on this site). Every one of us have friends that likes to sit back and do nothing. Now is the time to kick them square in the butt and say you're getting involved. It is sooooo much easier to sit back and do nothing. I’d much rather be sitting in a tree, looking for sheds, ice fishing, just about any thing rather writing or talking to a legislator. I do have a selfish agenda, with ten grandkids I’d like for them to have a few of the outdoor thrills and adventures that I’ve enjoyed. Of all the animals I’ve taken none were more exciting than watching two of my grandsons take their first deer.
On the IBA forum, at the top of page is a post on how to contact your legislator, just a couple posts below that is Blake’s post about effective lobbying. If you don't like a piece of legislation let the sponsors know how you feel. If you think Rep Pettengill is way off base let her know it. Her legislation has been filed; the next step is that it will go the House Natural Resource Committee. Please contact the members on house committee to voice your displeasure.
What all legislators need to remember or be reminded of is this.
At the next election not one NR will be able to vote for them. Not trying to be a smart a** just stating a fact.
I'd love to have every bowhunter or deer hunter in the state belong to the IBA. If you don't want to join the IBA find a group that is active and get involved and I don't mean just pay your dues GET INVOLVED.
When I sit down to write something like this, I wish I’d paid more attention in school. I’m sure if my old English teacher read this she would say “After 40 years you still can’t write a decent letter”. Sometimes it’s just better to write from the heart. Thanks for letting me ramble, if got this far a really big thanks.