A bill that would essentially eliminate any representation of hunters and farmers on the Fish and Game Council, moved out of committee and is headed for the General Assembly. In an article in the New Jersey Herald it is clear what the intent of the bill’s sponsor and others who support it is.
The proposed legislation deletes language which requires the council set up hunting and fishing regulations for “public recreation and food supply.” It adds the responsibility to institute non-lethal ways of controlling wildlife populations.
Angie Metler of the Animal Rights Alliance said the change to seven members, all appointed by the governor, would “modernize the council” and bring it up to date, more in line with the views of a majority of voters in the state.
New Jersey continues to deal with wildlife overpopulation issues. Of late coyotes are attacking children and killing pets and citizens are dealing with some serious bear problems. Combine that with deer growing at alarming rates that are causing property damage, spreading disease and taking lives through car/deer collisions and we are facing some very serious issues.
This move to restructure the Fish and Game Council is a blatant attempt by anti-hunters to take control of the council in order to further their agenda of stopping hunting. This move is unconstitutional and will ultimately cost the taxpayers of New Jersey millions of dollars directly and indirectly.
There is no sense or sensibility to this proposal and the results will continue to put New Jersey residents at risk. I would urge every New Jersey resident to contact their representative and tell them not to let the fox tend the chicken coop. Keep control of the fish and game in the hands of those who understand it and will insure a well managed and healthy wildlife population.
Tom Remington
