I went today to address the Commission about proposed changes in Wildlife interaction rules. Specifically I wanted to make some points regarding changes that would mostly affect WCOs but also fur trappers. They weren't voting on anything. The proposals were just being presented. I had only three minutes but I did submit written testimony that covered the problems with these changes. So not a lot to report as we will find out later how things go. I do have additional meetings upcoming with WDFW staff to reinforce my points.
I did want to comment on something unrelated to trapping though. The Commission had at a previous meeting increased the cougar quotas in some E WA units. In the public comment period in the morning there was a parade of animal rights types crying , complaining and asking this be reversed. HSUS, DOW, CNW and a couple other groups I never heard of before were represented. It went on and on. It was enough to make your backside ache. Lot of bogus polls and studies quoted. One women even told them if people in E WA didn't like cougars they should just move. That was kind of the straw that broke the camels back so to speak and several Commission members took the predator loving anti types to task. It was very heartening and gave me a little hope that some of the Commission members can see through the BS these groups are slinging.
Jay Keyne seemed to be the notable exception. He seemed to fall right in line with these groups take on cougars. I guess no surprise.
