A Review of The Board of Game

              I went into the Board of Game as someone with no prior experience with the Alaska state fish and game regulation process, minimal understanding of what the process entails, and a lot of passion for conservation. I ultimately found the experience fun and exciting, but also difficult to follow along with as someone who does not work with or around Fish and Game (yet…). There are a few recommendations I have for the Board of Game that may make the process easier to understand for the average Alaskan.

I found the Board of Game to be extremely candid and direct with what they were saying, which I appreciated. Everyone who spoke was very direct about what they wanted, and they did not mince words. I found it refreshing to have a group that was so direct.

              There were several handouts near the meeting room entrance that discussed the different topics that we should expect to see during the week. I thought this was a fantastic addition to the meeting. I had read all of the proposals prior to attending, but I appreciated that the physical materials offered a quick refresher on all the topics.

              I also liked that the Board Member biographies were available on the website. These were helpful in getting to know a bit about everyone who was on the board. My favorite bio was from board member James Baichtal of Thorne Bay. His bio discussed all the important information including: who appointed him, where he is from, his education, his work experience, and his relationship to a non-profit.

              One downside was that I often found myself confused about the process of the flow of the meeting. As a politically active Juneauite, I spend a lot of time in and around our congress, and therefore I am very familiar with Robert's Rules of Order. The Board of Game did not follow Robert’s Rules, which made it difficult for me to follow along with. I did enjoy getting to see a different process; however, I wish there was a handout or website link that explained what to expect during the meeting proceedings. This would also provide the audience with a better understanding of when and how they are able to provide public testimony, when presentations on a topic might occur and why, etc. My recommendation would be to provide a clear outline or infographic of a general board meeting process that is available at the front either by QR code or a printed copy to hand out.

              Along similar lines, I found it difficult to keep up with a lot of the abbreviations and jargon. It is understandable that this lingo would be popular, however I would also appreciate a handout that highlighted any potential jargon.

              Engaging in the Board of Game process is important for Alaskans as is accessibility of the process to all residents that depend on the resource. One great thing about nonprofits like Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is that they can help agencies do public outreach, which is why leaning into those opportunities and building relationships is a significant part of the Alaska Chapter’s work.