ITA Members,
I've been on the phone for quite some time today with the ITA/NTA lawyer. Judge Winmill did dismiss the lynx lawsuit today. This is a tremendous win for trappers and sportsmen in the state. This could have put tremendous restrictions on trapping in two of our northern regions. It would have essentially eliminated wolf trapping in those regions. The plaintiffs wanted 1 1/2 jaw spreads, 24 hour checks, no snares, and no body grippers throughout lynx habitat. Thank you to the NTA for footing half of the lawyer bill, the Upper Snake River Trappers, Intermountain Fur Harvesters and the Foundation for Wildlife Management for their help with the lawyer expenses. Even though I never will probably set a trap in lynx country, as your president I am committed to protecting Idaho trappers rights in all parts of Idaho. I fully believe that it was the right thing to do by intervening in this case and I'm glad our past president Pat Carney did back in 2014. ITA gave testimony and were instrumental in supplying information in this case.
There is an appeal process coming up and when the delisting process comes up (might not be until 2019) we need trappers and sportsmen to give written comment. I will give you notice when that time comes. We still have a tremendous lawyer bill so we need all of your support through memberships, donations and supporting our March 10th fur sale is much appreciated. The ITA is here to protect Idaho trapping!
Thank you
Rusty Kramer
ITA President
