FreeLists / tn-bird / [TN-Bird] Stamps and revenue for wildlife

["Ken Hale" <khale@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

TWRA has cut its budget by 10% each of th last two years.  Staffing is probably 
at its lowest level in years.  TWRA is being asked to cut positions in the 
agency as an example to other agencies, despite the fact that little of its 
staffing budget comes directly from the Tennessee state budget.
I'm not sure where it presently stands, but there is a legislative measure 
under way to allow TWRA to set license fees independent of the State 
legislative process.  Many are fighting the measure as a claimed "backdoor" 
taxing measure.  

There are few substantial sources of revenue for state wildlife agencies: 
license fees, boating registration fees, Pittman-Robertson federal funds, and 
Dingle-Johnson federal funds.  PR funds are raised as an exise tax on archery 
equipment, sporting arms, and ammunition.  DJ funds are raised as an exise tax 
on fishing equipment. 

Non-game programs have had minimal effect via private fund raising efforts for 
purely "non-game" efforts.

What helps?  Private organizations like Ducks Unlimited and the Nature 
Conservancy.  Personally, I donate considerably through the PR program (I shoot 
recreationally :-).  

Next time you see a hunter afield, a boater (whether it be a ski boat, bass 
boat, or the dreaded jet ski), a trap-shooter with a shotgun, or someone with a 
fly rod in hand, don't forget why it is important that we support each other.

Ramblings from an old wildlifer.

Ken Hale
Bristol, TN

 
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