Special Thanks to OHA and ifish Members for Your Help

[BlacktailBowhunter]

I want to thank those of you that gave public testimony and submitted written testimony on HB 2971 and SB 892.

Each of us makes a difference when we apply ourselves. This is proof and ifishers should feel real good right now, because you made a difference. Each and every person that took the time to write had a big impact on the outcome of these bills.

They both passed and will apparently be signed by Ted. This is a great victory for hunters and we need to continue to press forward.

For those of you that have read the emails sent out by Al Elkins the OHA lobbyist. It might not be a bad idea to email him a special thanks. There is one guy that was most instrumental in helping us as well, and I will thank him the next time I see him.

[Old Soldier]

You Got It Right Thank Al Elkins for all his work this session! Also the hunters that wrote and testified. Please do not forget the Oregon Hunters Association and the great hunters that make the organization run. The ones that raise the funds to hire the lobbyist and do all the work. Also all the members whos membership is important.

What HB 2971A Does

As you know currently in order for ODFW to use someone to conduct bear and cougar work they cannot appoint them as an agent but must hire them as a full time employee. It is the belief of ODFW that they do not have the authority to appoint agents. This bill gives them the authority to do so.

What HB 2971A Does Not Do

It does not change the provisions of Measure 18. The bill does not change the Cougar Management Plan. The bill does not allow for the sport hunting of Cougars.