Tell me why you think the GC is responsible for the decline of Pheasants and Grouse? Studies seem to be indicating that Grouse numbers have declined due to West Nile Virus. If so, then what could the GC have done to prevent a mosquito born disease from infecting Grouse? Remember it would cost money if they could have.
Ticks and Lyme are being discussed and since Ticks live in the woods and transmit off Deer, is the GC responsible for that also?
You don't see anywhere near the numbers of songbirds that once were here. Somethings has been in the wind for years. Then the States legislature mandates the GC must invest in Hawks, Owls, Eagles. Animals that do nothing to increase game birds that we have to buy a license to hunt. That mandated investment costs what? And it comes out of the GC fixed budget. The State doesn't kick in any extra even tho they forced it on the GC. So now we have Game Wardens checking on Eagle nests, giving Eagle, Hawk and Owl seminars to the public schools. The GC paying additional biologists to study them and implement plans to increase their numbers.
But heaven forbids the license buying public wants to grant the GC an increase in license fees. The last one was what, 12-15 years ago? Fixing today's broken costs money and biologists, studies, implementation, failures and successes require it. Nor will it get done in 1990's dollars.
The GC is far from perfect, but our license buying members are not much to brag on either.
The hunters beetch to the legislature their unhappiness and don't think the GC deserves a fee increase. The legislature, being the representatives of the people they propose to be, go along. Eventually, the GC may go broke and who do you think will take over control of 1.5million plus acres of Game Lands.
Why it would be the State, and believe me nothing would make them happier. Timber, future gas royalties. Wake up guys. You are willing to sell your kids future hunting rights, but hey today, let it be known you proudly stood tall and said the GC sucks.
Last edited by battue; 02/23/17.
