Good morning Idaho BHA members,
I would like to take this opportunity to draw your attention to some legislation being considered by the Agricultural Affairs Committee next Tuesday (2/18) at 8:00 a.m. that if passed, could have a devastating impact on our big game herds. Currently, 100% of dead domestic elk must be tested for chronic wasting disease (CWD). House Bill 431 would remove this common sense measure. As written, House Bill 431 requires that only 10% of dead domestic elk- selected for testing by producers would be required to be tested for CWD. This would increase the risk of CWD transmission to Idaho’s healthy wild deer and elk herds exponentially, and have a direct impact on the venison on your family’s plate. In 2011, Idaho Dept. of Agriculture scientists used best science to write Administrative Rules requiring 100% CWD testing of dead farm elk. Elk Breeders couldn't kill those rules as Sportsmen spoke up for meaningful protection of our wild big game from infected imported elk.
Please take a moment to contact the members of the Senate Agricultural Affairs Committee and let them know that we, as sportsmen, will not support legislation that increases the risk of CWD in Idaho’s wild deer and elk herds. The Idaho Sportsmen’s Caucus Advisory Council (ISCAC), of which BHA is a member, has provided a legislative update on House Bill 431 a link to contact committee members here.
Thank you for all you do for Idaho’s backcountry,
Derrick Reeves
Co-chair, Idaho Chapter
Backcountry Hunters and Anglers
About Caitlin Thompson