Gertschen letter: Wildlife management

Because I believe that many Idahoans feel as I do that our state’s biological diversity is of greater value than hunting that wildlife is for some. I am asking the Idaho Fish and Game Commission to consider conservation instead of politics in policy and management decisions. My vision for wildlife management is driven by science and ethics. One that:

1. Demonstrates and teaches respect for wildlife and the land.

2. Understands and demonstrates that hunting is a privilege that comes with stewardship responsibilities.

3. Listens to conservation scientists on the principles of ecosystem management.

4. Adheres to the Boone and Crockett credo of “fair chase” in hunting. Trapping, snaring, and baiting violate those principles.

5. Respects wilderness areas as places where natural rhythms dominate, places where we do not interfere with evolution and where management is not necessary.

6. Practices and teaches non-lethal methods to livestock owners.

7. Refuses to allow unethical and destructive predator killing derbies.

8. Works with other agencies to enhance biological diversity in Idaho.

9. Embraces conservation education programs of the Idaho Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the Idaho Master Naturalists and works to expand their outreach to schools and communities of all Idahoans.

This story was originally published December 23, 2015 at 7:15 PM with the headline "Gertschen letter: Wildlife management."