The California Chapter has been growing over the past three years, and our 2016 leadership team will continue to impact issues affecting the state. Craig Van Arsdale is secretary. The chairman position will be held by George McCloskey, and treasurer will be J.R. Young.
California added four new board members. Cody Karutz, Gregory Blascovich, James Kresser and Jon Kruger will help guide the chapter and develop programmatic goals for 2016.
The chapter has established four new committees. Eleven members have volunteered for roles on the Conservation Committee, Fundraising Committee, Membership Committee and Education Committee.
We have been asked to participate actively on the BLM’s Central California Resource Advisory Committee and attend meetings to support public land initiatives and management issues. The chapter is actively monitoring the California Fish and Game Commission meetings to identify issues that align with national and state BHA goals. California’s Wolf Management Plan has been published, and the California BHA membership provided comments.
California BHA staffed a booth at the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument dedication ceremony in March. This was a great opportunity to represent hunters and anglers and celebrate this designation, which has broad local support. The event was attended by the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture.
California members attended the 2016 Rendezvous in force this year, and it was great to meet everyone in Missoula!
The chapter has committee openings. Reach out if you are interested. We’re looking forward to a great year to further BHA's goals in California.
–J.R. Young and George McCloskey
About Backcountry Hunters & Anglers
The Voice For Our Wild Public Lands, Waters & Wildlife.