Today, President George W. Bush released the order, entitled “Facilitation of Hunting and Wildlife Conservation.” It directs all relevant federal agencies to facilitate the expansion and enhancement of hunting opportunities, wildlife management and habitat.
The Executive Order is a great milestone for sportsmen and wildlife conservation. It clearly demonstrates that the President understands the unbreakable bond between successful wildlife conservation and hunting – that sportsmen are the key to abundant wildlife and habitat. The order, number 13,443, directs federal agencies that manage public land, outdoor recreation and wildlife management to:
— Address declining trends and implement actions that expand and enhance hunting opportunities,
— Consider the economic and recreational value of hunting,
— Manage wildlife and habitat in a manner that expands and enhances hunting opportunities,
— Work collaboratively with states to manage wildlife in a manner that respects private property rights and state authority over wildlife,
— Establish goals with the states to foster healthy game populations
The order gives federal agencies a clear-cut directive that they work to increase hunting opportunities with state wildlife agencies. It will result in more resources directed at preserving the future of hunting and greater access to public land. The President is to be commended… take that PETA, HSUS, ALF, ELF, Hollywood, House Speaker Pelosi and all you other tree-huggin’ commies.
