Chapter News State Issues Action Alerts Michigan chapter urges action to protect Lake Superior: The Threat of Copperwood Mine 9/17/2025 This is going to sound familiar and that’s because in December of 2024 we were successful in stopping the Michigan legislature from approving a $50 million dollar grant to the Copperwood... Tags: Michigan Chapter
Chapter News State Issues Atlantic Striped Bass Draft Addendum III 9/16/2025 The Atlantic striped bass was declared overfished in 2019, prompting the implementation of a rebuilding plan aimed at restoring the stock to its target spawning stock biomass by 2029. Tags: New Jersey Chapter, New England Chapter, New York Chapter, Mid-Atlantic Chapter, blog
North American News Press Releases Federal Issues Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Condemns Effort to Roll Back Public Lands Rule 9/12/2025 Tags: Public Lands & Waters, policy blog, press releases, North American News
North American News Press Releases Federal Issues Public Hunting, Fishing Expanded on 16 National Wildlife Refuges 9/8/2025 Tags: Access & Opportunity, policy blog, press releases, North American News
Media News North American News Press Releases Federal Issues Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Readies Grassroots Network for Roadless Rule Comment Period 8/27/2025 Tags: Public Lands & Waters, press releases, North American News
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Supreme Court Could Determine Access to 8 Million Acres of Public Lands 7/21/2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 21, 2025 Contact: media@backcountryhunters.org WASHINGTON, D.C.—With more than 8 million acres of public lands on the line, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers... Tags: policy blog, the campfire, press releases, Wyoming Issues, Colorado News, wyoming news, Colorado Issues, Utah News, Utah Issues, New Mexico news, New Mexico issues, Kansas News, Kansas Issues, Oklahoma News, Oklahoma Issues
Media Chapter News State Issues Roadless Rule Rollback 7/14/2025 Roadless Rule Rollback On June 24 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) posted a statement (“USDA Rescinds Near Quarter Century Old Protections for 58.5 Million Acres of National Forest Lands”)... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Sunday Hunting coming soon to Pennsylvania 7/10/2025 By Don Rank HARRISBURG, PA, July 9, 2025 – This morning, at a small ceremony near the state capital, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro signed into law House Bill 1431. At last the ban on Sunday... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NC: Helene Storm Debris Removal Threatens Native Trout Habitat in Western North Carolina 7/2/2025 Nine months after Hurricane Helene ripped through the Southern Appalachians, contractors hired by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continue to rip through critical aquatic habitats in the name of... Tags: North Carolina Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues State Policy Spotter 7/1/2025 This is your July edition of BHA's State Policy Spotter - a high-level scan of state policy and legislation impacting our wild public lands, waters and wildlife across North America. Note - this... Tags: Idaho Chapter, Florida Chapter, New England Chapter, Illinois Chapter, Utah Chapter, policy blog, the campfire, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Russian River Fencing Project 2025 Recap 6/26/2025 Russian River Fencing Project 2025 Recap“Ahhh yes, the great Friday evening Kenai migration,” my wife joked as we headed south along the Seward Highway. In front of us stretched a seemingly... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NC Chapter Urges Members to Take Action During Small Legislative Window to End Inshore Bottom Trawling In State 6/18/2025 TAKE ACTION NOW! A rare opportunity has presented itself during this legislative session for recreational anglers in North Carolina to support a ban on inshore, bottom-disturbing trawlers from... Tags: North Carolina Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues New England Chapter Opposes Watered-Down CRMC Reform Bills in Rhode Island 6/18/2025 For the last several years the New England Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers has advocated to reform Rhode Island’s Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC). After first weighing in in... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues BHA Condemns Senate Proposal to Sell Off Up to 3 Million Acres of Public Lands 6/11/2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 11, 2025 Contact: media@backcountryhunters.org MISSOULA, Mont. — Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) is rebuking a sweeping new proposal released by the Senate... Tags: Colorado Chapter, Washington Chapter, Idaho Chapter, Utah Chapter, policy blog, the campfire, featured, press releases, New Mexico Chapter, Alaska Chapter, Arizona Chapter, California Chapter, Nevada Chapter, Oregon Chapter, Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues Privatization of Public Lands 6/9/2025 “Privatization of Public Lands.” Colorado Springs (Colo.) Gazette: 6/5/25 Public lands, and hence hunting, are under threat like never before. From states such as Utah (and 14 others) laying... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CA BHA 2025 Desert Bighorn Survey Recap 6/5/2025 At sunset on Saturday, a small and enthusiastic group of BHA volunteers joined up with CDFW's Region 6 sheep biologists at the foot of the Marble Mountains in the Mojave for the annual desert... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Comment in Support of Access to the Crossbar SRMA 6/4/2025 The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comment on future development and recreation management of the Cross Bar Special Recreation Management Area in the Panhandle from now until June 12.... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues End of Session Texas Legislative Update 2025 6/4/2025 Texas conservationists welcomed the end of the 89th Legislature on Monday, celebrating a handful of wins and dodging a long list of bad bills that would have undermined the state’s ability to... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media State Issues Sulfide-Ore Mining a Lose-Lose for Minnesota 6/4/2025 Op-Ed: “Sulfide-ore mining a lose-lose for Minnesota.” Duluth News Tribune: 5/21/25. From the column: “Mining should not take place in water-worlds like the BWCAW watershed.”[1] In April, U.S.... Tags: Minnesota Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NC Chapter Advocates for the Removal of Part III, Section 3.1(a) from HB1012 "The Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 6/3/2025 North Carolina House Bill 1012 provides 500 million dollars of funding to state agencies and grants to local governments for Hurricane Helene disaster recovery. While we applaud the additional... Tags: North Carolina Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Minnesota Heritage Forest Protects Over 8,000 Acres of Public Land and Access 5/30/2025 MINNESOTA HERITAGE FOREST PROJECT ENSURES PUBLIC ACCESS AND HEALTHY ECOSYSYTEMS, BOTH LOCALLY AND DOWNSTREAM The Conservation Fund and Northern Waters Land Trust announced on May 1, 2025 that... Tags: Minnesota Chapter
Media State Issues Op-Ed: Missouri Hunters Should Be Careful What They Wish For 5/22/2025 There are a few things that I know to be absolutes in my realm of existence: government is and should be by the people for the people, that efficiency and effectiveness are two indispensable... Tags: Missouri Chapter
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Public Lands Victory: BHA Applauds Removal of Land Sale Amendment from House Budget Bill 5/21/2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 21, 2025 Contact: media@backcountryhunters.org Public Lands Victory: BHA Applauds Removal of Public Land Sale Amendment from House Budget Reconciliation... Tags: Utah Chapter, policy blog, the campfire, featured, press releases, Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Iowa BHA Chapter Hosts Auction for 2025 Statewide Nonresident Deer Tag! 5/20/2025 The Iowa chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is proud to offer a highly-coveted Statewide Special Non-Resident Deer Tag! This will be the second year in a row that the Iowa BHA chapter has... Tags: Iowa Chapter
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Reintroduced Senate Bill and New House Companion Would Conserve More Than 700,000 Acres of Public Lands in Colorado 5/19/2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 19, 2025 Contact: media@backcountryhunters.org WASHINGTON, D.C. – Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA), North America’s leading public lands advocacy group, is... Tags: Colorado Chapter, policy blog, the campfire, press releases
Media Chapter News State Issues Turkey Quills & Teenagers 5/15/2025 I received a well written email from the head of student council at a local high school asking for BHA to come table an event during their Earth Week. He was put up to this task by his... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues The Mendenhall Wetlands: A Place of Abundance and Connection 5/14/2025 The Mendenhall Wetlands: A Place of Abundance and Connection by Alec Boyd-DevineThe Mendenhall Wetlands is a 4,000-acre wetland in the heart of Juneau, Alaska. It is home to a variety of flora... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Pop Up Waterfowl Birding at Chena Flood Project - A Recap 5/13/2025 Pop Up Waterfowl Birding at Chena Flood Project - A Recap by Nate Kibbey, Interior Representative AK ChapterMid-May is a great time to see all of the beautiful migrators pushing north. Birding... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Stand Up for the Mendenhall Wetlands State Game Refuge 5/9/2025 Hunting and Fishing Opportunities Threatened on the Mendenhall Wetlands The Mendenhall State Game Refuge (Taashuyee-Chookan.áani/Mendenhall Wetlands) in Juneau, Alaska, is a rare... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Appoint Steev Wilson To Roaring Fork Valley Group Regional Director Position 5/7/2025 The Colorado chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) appointed Steev Wilson to serve as Regional Director for the Roaring Fork Valley Group. Steev was raised on the east coast fishing with... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Attorney General Weighs in on 10th Circuit Corner Crossing Decision 5/5/2025 The following communication is from Colorado Statewide Hunter Education Coordinator, Jordan Likes, and details the current Colorado Attorney General's position regarding corner crossing. While... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Alaska BHA Spring 2025 Internship Recap: Lillian Thorington 5/2/2025 Alaska BHA Spring 2025 Internship Recap by Lillian Thorington As my internship with Backcountry Hunters & Anglers comes to an end, I feel I have so much to reflect on. At the end of an... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CA BHA Turkey Camp 2025 Recap 5/2/2025 Recap: California BHA’s 2025 Spring Turkey Hunt In the heart of California’s spring turkey season, the California Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) hosted its third... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Celebrates Sine Die and is Optimistic about Bills Awaiting Governor's Signature 5/2/2025 As the final gavel dropped and Montana’s 2025 legislative session came to a close, the dedicated members and volunteers from the Montana Chapter of BHA took a deep breath—and then a moment to... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Spring Migration Celebration, April 26th 2025 5/1/2025 Spring Migration Celebration, April 26th 2025 by Nate Kibbey Nearly 100 swans, hundreds of geese, and a wonderful array of multiple duck species all flock to Creamers Field Migratory... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues AK Copper Ammo Challenge at the Fairbanks Outdoor Show, April 2025 5/1/2025 The Alaska Copper Ammo Challenge at the Fairbanks Outdoor Show by Mark LindbergLate in my career in academia, I gave several lectures about lead contamination and its negative effects on... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Appoint Kassi Smith To San Luis Valley Public Lands & Community Liaison Position 4/25/2025 The Colorado chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) appointed Kassi Smith to serve on their Chapter Leadership Team (CLT) as San Luis Valley Public Lands & Community Liaison. She... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Public Lands Mountain Merriam’s Hunt 4/25/2025 Access And Opportunity Are On The Chopping Block Public lands, and hence hunting, are under threat like never before. From states like Utah (and 14 others) laying claim to Bureau of Land... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CA BHA 2025 Q1 Newsletter 4/23/2025 Support a 2nd Bear Tag in CA! CDFW has released their final black bear conservation plan, and in response, CA BHA has submitted a resolution calling on the Fish & Game Commission to implement a... Tags: California Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Recap: eBird for Waterfowlers, Birders, and Outdoor Enthusiasts – April 18–19, Juneau, AK 4/22/2025 Recap: eBird for Waterfowlers, Birders, and Outdoor Enthusiasts – April 18–19, Juneau, AK by Alec and Angelica Boyd-Devine Mary Glaves, Alaska BHA Chapter Coordinator, introducing the event... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues BHA Pushes for Permanent Protections of Two Iconic New Mexico Watersheds 4/22/2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 22, 2025 Contact: Kaden McArthur, Director of Policy & Government Relations, mcarthur@backcountryhunters.org BHA Pushes for Permanent Protections of Two Iconic... Tags: policy blog, press releases, New Mexico Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Chapter of BHA Appoint Aidan McCormick To Routt County Assistant Regional Director Position 4/22/2025 The Colorado chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) appointed Aidan McCormick to serve as Assistant Regional Director for the Routt County Group. Aidan started hunting and fishing as an... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers - 16th Annual Rendezvous 4/22/2025 August 8-10, 2025 The Colorado chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) 16th annual Rendezvous is scheduled for August 8-10, 2025. We’ll set up camp in the Gunnison National Forest south of... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NV BHA March 2025 Newsletter 4/22/2025 Spring is here, which means the big game tag application season is upon us. NDOW has set May 7th as the application deadline and results will be released on or before May 23rd. NDOW will be... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues California BHA Drafts Resolution in Support of a Second Bear Tag & Submits a Petition to the Fish & Game Commission 4/17/2025 After many years advocating for science-based management of fish and wildlife, California BHA celebrates the release of the Final Black Bear Conservation Plan and has submitted a petition to the... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues A Review of the Alaska Board of Game 4/16/2025 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... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues Montana's $8 Billion Gamble - the High Stakes of Transferring Federal Lands to the State 4/15/2025 Montana BHA has signed a report detailing crippling costs to the state that would ensue if federal lands were to be transferred to the state. BHA has long opposed this notion and has pushed back... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Hunters and Industry: An Essential Partnership for Migratory Bird Conservation 4/14/2025 Hunters and Industry: An Essential Partnership for Migratory Bird Conservation Photos and Story by Mark LindbergThe 1918 Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), an international conservation... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues Building Community at the Alaska BHA Beer Dinner Spring 2025 4/14/2025 Building Community at the Alaska BHA Beer Dinner Spring 2025 by Ridge NelsonSince moving to Alaska last year, I have attended several Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) events. The primary... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Recap of Alaska BHA’s Pint Night with Cameron Carroll – A Great Time for Conservation and Community! 4/11/2025 Recap of Alaska BHA’s Pint Night with Cameron Carroll, ADF&G Small Game Program Coordinator – A Great Time for Conservation and Community! by Alec Boyd-DevineOn the evening of April 7th, Alaska... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Hunters and Anglers Applaud the Reintroduction of the Ruby Mountains Protection Act 4/11/2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 11, 2025 Contacts: Dan Johnson, California/Nevada Public Lands Manager, Trout Unlimited, dan.johnson@tu.org Kaden McArthur, Director of Policy and Government... Tags: policy blog, the campfire, press releases, Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CA BHA San Gabriel Bighorn Survey Recap! 4/11/2025 Counting Sheep in the San Gabriels – Even When We Don’t See Them Earlier this spring, BHA members joined volunteers from the Society for the Conservation of Bighorn Sheep (SCBS), personnel from... Tags: California Chapter, California Events
Media State Issues Take Action to Support Conservation Funding in Montana 4/11/2025 In 2021, Montana led the nation by dedicating a portion of marijuana tax revenue to the Habitat Montana program. That funding has already delivered significant returns, including improved public... Tags: Montana Chapter, Montana action alerts
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Hunters and Anglers Applaud Introduction of Legislation to Permanently Protect Boundary Waters 4/9/2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 9, 2025 Contacts: Kaden McArthur, Director of Policy & Government Relations, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, mcarthur@backcountryhunters.org Lukas Leaf, Executive... Tags: Minnesota Chapter, policy blog, the campfire, press releases
Media Press Releases State Issues Ruby Mountains Administrative Mineral Withdrawal Cancelled 4/8/2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 7, 2025 CONTACT: Russell Kuhlman, executive director, Nevada Wildlife Federation: Kuhlman@nvwf.org Devin O’Dea, western policy & conservation manager, Backcountry... Tags: press releases, Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Two PA Sunday hunting bills introduced for 2025 legislative sessions 4/7/2025 Pennsylvania Senate bill SB67, and House bill HB851 were introduced recently and referred to each chamber’s Game & Fisheries Committee. Both SB67 and HB851 would permit the Pennsylvania Game... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Arkansas, Stop SB290: Defend Our Watersheds, Recreation, and Rights 4/6/2025 TAKE ACTION NOW! Amid controversy and under threat of damming, Arkansas’ iconic Buffalo National River was designated as the country’s first National River in 1972. Despite that monumental step... Tags: Arkansas Chapter
Federal Issues State Issues Issue 6 4/6/2025 Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Aenean euismod bibendum laoreet. Proin gravida dolor sit amet lacus accumsan et viverra justo commodo. Proin sodales pulvinar sic tempor.... Tags:
Federal Issues State Issues Issue 5 4/5/2025 Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Aenean euismod bibendum laoreet. Proin gravida dolor sit amet lacus accumsan et viverra justo commodo. Proin sodales pulvinar sic tempor.... Tags:
Federal Issues State Issues Issue 3 4/3/2025 Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Aenean euismod bibendum laoreet. Proin gravida dolor sit amet lacus accumsan et viverra justo commodo. Proin sodales pulvinar sic tempor.... Tags:
Media Chapter News State Issues A BHA Pint Night with Roman Dial 4/2/2025 A BHA Pint Night with Roman Dial On March 26th a large group gathered at Midnight Sun Brewing Co. in Anchorage, Alaska. The group consisted of conservationists, students, outdoor... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Federal Issues State Issues Issue 2 4/2/2025 Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Aenean euismod bibendum laoreet. Proin gravida dolor sit amet lacus accumsan et viverra justo commodo. Proin sodales pulvinar sic tempor.... Tags:
Media State Issues Protecting Oregon’s Backcountry: Keeping Members Updated on Deschutes National Forest E-Bike Proposal 4/1/2025 “We just started out by riding down deer trails...” It might sound like the beginning of a joke, but for local wildlife populations, one could argue it has almost become a nightmare. The Oregon... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues Freedom and Healing on the River 3/28/2025 A veteran’s story and thoughts on protecting the Kootenai River I am 36 years old. At this point in, what I like to think of as being, my young life, I have served my country and community in... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Rallies Against Anti-Public Lands Legislation 3/28/2025 Last week, Montana BHA members showed up in full force at the state legislature, advocating for the conservation and stewardship of our public lands, wildlife habitat, and hunting... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Texas BHA - Mid-Session Legislative Update 3/27/2025 Over a week has passed since the bill-filing deadline in the 89th Texas Legislative Session, and Texas BHA has been deep in the weeds monitoring key pieces of legislation on priority issues — most... Tags: policy blog, Texas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues 2025 Utah Legislative Session Recap & Impacts 3/27/2025 After an extremely busy session, the Utah Legislature wrapped up on Friday, March 7. The chapter leaders of Utah Backcountry Hunters and Anglers tracked several bills this year and participated in... Tags: Utah Chapter, policy blog
Media State Issues Securing Michigan's Outdoor Heritage: MI BHA's Support for House Joint Resolution C 3/26/2025 The Michigan Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (MI BHA) is actively working to protect and strengthen the future of hunting and fishing in our state. House Joint Resolution C (HJR-C),... Tags: Michigan Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Alaska BHA's UAS Intern on SB 105 3/24/2025 Alaska BHA's UAS Intern on SB 105 -Lillian Thorington's oral testimony at the committee hearing on March 17th. Hello, I am your Miss Juneau Volunteer America, Lillian Thorington. I am also an... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CT BHA Comments on Sunday Hunting and Bear Hunting 3/24/2025 BHA submitted online testimony in reference to two bills up for public hearing in the Connecticut General Assembly Environment Committee today (3/24/25). Connecticut is one of the few states... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Understanding SB5 and Future NM Fish & Wildlife Governance 3/21/2025 SB 5, signed into law in 2025, brings major updates to wildlife governance in New Mexico. It renames the State Game Commission as the State Wildlife Commission and changes the Department of Game... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues Nolichucky River – TN Dept. of Environment and Conservation Public Comment Period 3/21/2025 On December 11th, 2024 the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) issued an Aquatic Resource Alteration Permit to CSX Transportation Inc. for the repair of railroad... Tags: Tennessee Chapter
Media State Issues Fly Fishing in Juneau: Presentation Recap and Rundown! 3/21/2025 Fly Fishing in Juneau: Presentation Recap and Rundown! by Angelica Boyd-Devine Photos by Alec Boyd-Devine & Mary Glaves On March 19th, Alaska BHA members and outdoor enthusiasts gathered at... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues Hunters & Anglers Raise Strong Opposition to SB 307 3/20/2025 This bill passed the second reading in the Senate by a vote of 30 to 20, but there is still an opportunity to kill it. Check out the letter that BHA and other sporting organizations submitted... Tags: Montana Chapter, Montana action alerts, container
Media State Issues Montana BHA Opposes Legislation that Would Streamline the Sale of State Lands 3/20/2025 HB 676 has already passed the house and has a hearing this Friday in the Senate Judiciary Committee. Right now, only constituents of committee members may take action, but if it advances out of... Tags: Montana Chapter, Montana action alerts
Media State Issues Restoring Alaska’s Wood Bison through Dedication and Collaboration 3/18/2025 Restoring Alaska’s Wood Bison through Dedication and Collaboration Two wood bison settling into the soft release pen in Minto Flats State Game Refuge. by Mark Lindberg I always thought it a... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues 10th Circuit Court Affirms District Court Decision in Corner-Crossing Case, Upholding Public Access Rights 3/18/2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 18, 2025 CONTACT: Devin O’Dea, Western Policy & Conservation Manager, odea@backcountryhunters.org Denver, CO – In a huge victory for public land owners,... Tags: Colorado Chapter, Utah Chapter, the campfire, press releases, New Mexico Chapter, Oklahoma Chapter, Wyoming Chapter, Kansas Chapter, utah
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues California’s National Monuments a Bullseye, 850,000 Acres of Public Lands Under Threat 3/18/2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 18, 2025 Contact: Kaden McArthur, Director of Policy & Government Relations, mcarthur@backcountryhunters.org California’s National Monuments a Bullseye, 850,000... Tags: policy blog, the campfire, press releases, California Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues New Mexico BHA Policy Update 3.17.25 3/17/2025 Have you been paying attention to your local public lands? Sierra, Otero, and Catron counties recently passed anti-public lands resolutions, and now Luna County is next. The attack on our public... Tags: policy blog, New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues MI BHA Chapter Raises Concerns About Sea Lamprey Control Staff Cuts 3/17/2025 Michigan Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Raises Concerns About Sea Lamprey Control Staff Cuts The recent firing of 12 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) employees responsible for sea... Tags: Michigan Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado BHA Applauds Passage of Senate Joint Resolution 25-009 in Defense of Public Lands 3/14/2025 DENVER – Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) Colorado chapter celebrates the passage of Senate Joint Resolution 25-009, "Protection of Colorado’s Public Lands," which reaffirms the state’s... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues March 2025 Alaska BHA Newsletter 3/11/2025 February brought some challenges for public lands and it also brought Draw Results Day. Alaska BHA hosted 3 Draw Tag Celebrations across the state,... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Mid-Session Legislative Report 3/11/2025 GOOD NEWS: BHA’s Two Top Priority Bills Are Moving Forward! The Montana Chapter of BHA is promoting two key pieces of legislation this session and both are meeting with success: HB... Tags: Montana Chapter, Montana action alerts
Media Chapter News State Issues NC BHA in Opposition to Denial of Public Access in Senate Bill 220 3/9/2025 The provisions outlined in North Carolina senate bill SB220, Section 4, specifically the new Section 14-280.4, pose significant restrictions on public access to our waterways by making it a... Tags: North Carolina Chapter
Media State Issues The Power of Community: BHA's Mission Across the Country 3/6/2025 The Power of Community: BHA’s Mission Across the Country by Alec Boyd-Devine I recently had the opportunity to attend the Western Hunting and Conservation Expo in Salt Lake City, Utah. Having... Tags: Utah Chapter, Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues SC Supports Bill H3872, Hunting Heritage Protection Act 3/5/2025 South Carolina Bill H3872 "Hunting Heritage Protection Act" is measure aimed at preserving and promoting hunting opportunities on South Carolina's Department of Natural Resources managed lands. A... Tags: South Carolina Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado BHA Statement on HB25-1258, Scientific Management of Wildlife 3/4/2025 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is a member organization that seeks to ensure North America's outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through conservation education and work on... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Western State Policy Spotter - March 3/4/2025 This is your March 4th edition of BHA's Western Policy Spotter - a high-level scan of state policy and legislation impacting wild public lands, waters and wildlife across the West. Note - this... Tags: Colorado Chapter, Washington Chapter, Idaho Chapter, Utah Chapter, policy blog, the campfire, Montana Chapter, New Mexico Chapter, Alaska Chapter, Arizona Chapter, California Chapter, Nevada Chapter, Oregon Chapter, Wyoming Chapter, Texas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NM BHA Supports SB 291 to Enhance LEO Authority 3/3/2025 BHA Supports Senate Bill 291 At Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, we fight to protect wild places, fair chase hunting, and responsible fishing. But none of that matters if our fish and game laws... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NM BHA Supports SB 5 - Bill Summary & Status Report 3/3/2025 The New Mexico Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (NM BHA) supports Senate Bill 5 (SB 5) and has worked with legislators and hook and bullet partners to ensure the hunting and angling... Tags: policy blog, New Mexico Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Blacktail Deer Foundation Pint Night Juneau: Recap and Citizen Science Opportunities 3/3/2025 Blacktail Deer Foundation Pint Night Juneau: Recap and Citizen Science Opportunities by Lillian Thorington, AK BHA Intern Spring Overview of BDF in Southeast Alaska. One of the most... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Draw Tag Results Day and Night: February 21st, 2025. 3/2/2025 AWP Draw Tag Results Party Moose Call Winners. On the evening of February 21, over 100 Alaskans: hunters, anglers and trappers from all over Southcentral Alaska, gathered at Double Shovel Cider... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues The Sportsmen’s Caucus Advisory Council: A Collective Voice in the Legislature 3/1/2025 For the last handful of years, Utah BHA’s Board has been involved with the Utah Sportsmen’s Caucus at the Capitol during the Legislative Session. In the past, the Caucus served as an opportunity... Tags: Utah Chapter
Media State Issues Senate Bill 105: "An Act relating to the lease and sale of state land for recreational cabin sites; and providing for an effective date." 2/28/2025 POLICY ACTION Updates from Alaska's 34th Legislature On February 26th, 2025 Governor Dunleavy introduced legislation Allowing Alaskans to Build Recreational Cabin Sites, Senate Bill 105. SB... Tags: Alaska Chapter, Alaska events
Media State Issues Montana HB 763 - Accessing Public Lands Through Block Management 2/27/2025 Montana is home to millions of acres of public land, yet much remains out of reach for hunters. Over 3 million acres—10% of our state and federal lands—are landlocked, surrounded by private... Tags: Montana Chapter, access
Media State Issues KYBHA Opposes Senate Bill 89 – Surrendering Waters of the Commonwealth 2/27/2025 Hunters and Anglers must stop Senate Bill 89 (SB89). SB89 abandons Kentucky’s definition of “Waters of the Commonwealth” contained in KRS 244.1-010, replacing it with the federal definition of... Tags: Kentucky Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues IN BHA HB 1447 - State Management of State Forests 2/26/2025 “I have read many definitions of what is a conservationist, and written not a few myself, but I suspect that the best one is written not with a pen, but with an axe. It is a matter of what a man... Tags: Indiana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Minnesota BHA Emphasizes Importance of BWCAW Protections 2/26/2025 Minnesota Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers' Position Statement on Protecting the Boundary Waters Watershed As the voice for wild public lands, waters, and wildlife, the Minnesota... Tags: Minnesota Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Interagency Collaboration Leads to Reward for Private Citizen 2/24/2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February, 24th, 2025 BHA Contact: Dre Arman arman@backcountryhunters.org BLM Contact: Bruce Hallman bhallman@blm.gov Interagency Collaboration Leads to Reward for Private... Tags: Idaho Chapter, OHV
Media Chapter News State Issues NV February 2025 Newsletter 2/19/2025 It’s that time of year when the final seasons have come to an end, and we start planning for the fall. That is of course, unless you’re one of the lucky few who were awarded a spring turkey tag.... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NV January 2025 Newsletter 2/19/2025 As the dust settles on 2024, we can look back and assess the work that BHA has done. BHA advocated and supported actions taken by the Department of the Interior and U.S. Forest Service that... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Mountain Goat ID Public Lands Pint Night with Alaska BHA & RMGA 2/14/2025 Mountain Goat collars, skulls, horns, and ID information made available by ADF&G and RMGA at the Mountain Goat ID Pint Night On the evening of January 31st BHA Alaska Chapter co-hosted a fun... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues Colorado BHA Statement of SN25-053, Protect Wild Bison 2/14/2025 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is a member organization that seeks to ensure North America's outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Why New Hampshire House Bill 202 is Bad for Wildlife Conservation 2/13/2025 UPDATE - 2/13/25 Good news! House Bill 202: House Committee Vote 14-1, Inexpedient to Legislate. Fortunately, the bill’s forward progress is all but over. Today, the House Fish and Game and Marine... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NM BHA January 2025 Newsletter! 2/11/2025 New Mexico Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers Don't miss your chance to connect with fellow hunters and anglers at the upcoming New Mexico Outdoor Adventures Show. NMBHA will be selling... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues UTAH 2025 Mid-Legislative Session Update 2/11/2025 Every year in Q1, Utah state officials engage in the Utah Legislative Session to pass new laws or amend laws. Utah BHA follows and engages in the Session quite closely, as there are typically... Tags: Utah Chapter, policy blog
Media Chapter News State Issues February 2025 with Alaska BHA - Newsletter 2/7/2025 Alaska -- We made it through January, which was filled with Board of Game meetings, a few great Pint Nights, and a lot of news about public lands conservation in Alaska. Not... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues Juneau Mountain Rescue 2/7/2025 Juneau Mountain Rescue On January 29, the Alaska Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) hosted a pint night at Forbidden Peak Brewery in Juneau, Alaska. BHA invited Juneau... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Western State Policy Spotter - First Look 2/7/2025 Welcome to your first glimpse of BHA's Western Policy Spotter - a high-level scan of state policy and legislation impacting wild public lands, waters and wildlife across the West. Much like... Tags: Colorado Chapter, Washington Chapter, Idaho Chapter, Utah Chapter, policy blog, the campfire, Montana Chapter, New Mexico Chapter, Arizona Chapter, California Chapter, Nevada Chapter, Oregon Chapter, Wyoming Chapter, Texas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Defends Coyote Hunting and Commission Processes in CA 2/5/2025 Next week, the California Fish & Game Commission will consider acting on a recommendation by the Wildlife Resources Committee (WRC) that C.C.R. § 472 be amended to remove coyotes. CA BHA... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Take Action to Allow Montana to Offer Raffles AND Auctions for Big Game Tags 2/3/2025 Montana BHA has been tracking and engaging on a large number of bills during this legislative session, and we are urging you to support House Bill 283, which would allow Montana Fish, Wildlife... Tags: Montana Chapter, Montana action alerts
Media Chapter News State Issues Policy Alert: Senate Bill 5 Gains Momentum in the New Mexico Legislature 2/3/2025 After many years of unsuccessful attempts at reforming the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, a new bill is speeding through the 2025 legislative session. The New Mexico Chapter of... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Rhode Island BHA 2024 Policy Roundup 1/30/2025 Rhode Island BHA 2024 Policy Roundup Following a successful year in 2023, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers’ team in Rhode Island advocated more effectively than ever in 2024 to support the Ocean... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Nolichucky River - Stop CSX Destructive Construction Activities 1/29/2025 Protect the Nolichucky River: Stop CSX’s Destructive Construction Activities In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s devastating floods and landslides across Southern Appalachia, a Herculean effort... Tags: North Carolina Chapter, Tennessee Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NC Chapter Applauds Wildlife Commission for Fighting Against Privatization 1/27/2025 Last summer, a private property owners association in Western North Carolina filed a contested case against the NC Wildlife Resources Commission to block public recreation on sections of two... Tags: North Carolina Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Mid-Atlantic Chapter Celebrates Maryland’s Newest National Wildlife Refuge 1/22/2025 The Mid-Atlantic Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) is thrilled to share exciting news for Maryland and the greater Chesapeake Bay watershed. On December 13, 2024, U.S. Secretary of... Tags: Mid-Atlantic Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Advocating for Wildlife Protection and Resilient Infrastructure in Virginia 1/22/2025 As Virginia faces increasing challenges related to wildlife-vehicle conflicts, habitat fragmentation, and biodiversity loss, the Mid-Atlantic Chapter continues to support proactive measures that... Tags: Mid-Atlantic Chapter
Media State Issues New England BHA Supports Proposed Bear & Deer Hunting Regulation Changes in Massachusetts 1/21/2025 The Massachusetts State Leadership Team (SLT) supports a series of proposed regulation changes impacting both deer and bear hunting in Massachusetts. These changes create additional hunting... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues President Trump’s Day One Actions Include Assault on Alaska Public Lands 1/21/2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Jan. 21, 2025 Contact: Kaden McArthur, Director of Policy and Government Relations, mcarthur@backcountryhunters.org President Trump’s Day One Actions Include Assault on... Tags: the campfire, featured, press releases, Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Virginia’s Great Outdoors Act (HB2059) Moves Forward: Action Needed! 1/17/2025 Exciting news! Virginia’s Great Outdoors Act (HB2059) has been referred directly to the House Appropriations Committee (HAC), bypassing the Agriculture, Chesapeake, and Natural Resources... Tags: Mid-Atlantic Chapter
Media State Issues NM BHA Supports Caja del Rio Monument Designation 1/17/2025 Recognizing Caja del Rio as an Ancestral Homeland The Caja del Rio holds profound significance as an ancestral homeland for Indigenous communities, including the Pueblo people who have lived,... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA 2025 Winter Newsletter 1/14/2025 Hello from the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers! We hope you're beginning the new year by taking stock of a successful 2024 in the backcountry, as well as looking forward to what... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues January 2025 Alaska BHA Newsletter 1/13/2025 2025 with Alaska BHA Alaska BHA has been active in Southcentral Alaska attending the Board of Game meetings, talking with partners and sponsors about plans for this... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Florida Black Bear Management - The Full Story About the Potential 2025 Hunt 1/12/2025 Will bear hunting in Florida be a reality in the future? At the December 2024 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) commission meeting the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute... Tags: Florida Chapter
Media State Issues Field to Table Mule Deer Picadillo 1/9/2025 Growing up in Houston, Texas, I was exposed to an abundant food scene fueled by the city’s diverse population. From African oxtail stew to VietCajun crawfish and noodles, I developed an... Tags: the campfire, Field to Table, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Wyoming BHA Response to House Bill 99 1/9/2025 The Wyoming Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) has long advocated for sportsmen’s and women’s ability to access public lands via corner crossing—the act of moving between adjoining... Tags: Wyoming Chapter, wycorner_crossing, public access
Media State Issues Q & A with the Montana BHA chapter’s new Board Chair, Jake Schwaller 1/8/2025 To welcome the new year, the Montana BHA board elected a new leader, Jake Schwaller, after our previous Chair, John B. Sullivan III, completed his term. First and foremost, we are grateful for the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Jimmy Carter's Alaska Public Lands Legacy 1/7/2025 Alec Boyd-Devine walks into the Tongass National Forest on Admiralty Island to go Sitka Black-tailed deer hunting.Jimmy Carter’s Alaska Public Lands... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Hunters & Anglers Celebrate Temporary Oil and Gas Withdrawal in Nevada’s Ruby Mountains 12/30/2024 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Dec. 30, 2024 Contact: Kaden McArthur, Government Relations Manager, mcarthur@backcountryhunters.org The Sportsmen for the Rubies Coalition encourages strong collaboration... Tags: the campfire, press releases, Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues Floating to the Hunt: Lessons from Alaska's River Expert, Barry Whitehill 12/23/2024 Floating to the Hunt: Lessons from Alaska's River Expert, Barry WhitehillFloating the wild waterways of Alaska is a bucket-list adventure for many outdoor enthusiasts. For Barry Whitehill,... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Valley County is for Public Land Owners 12/23/2024 As the Utah lawsuit to seize our public lands rages on, some of our elected officials in Idaho are jumping on Utah’s bandwagon to destroy our public land heritage. In October we saw Idaho... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues Waterfowl Banding at Creamers Field 12/23/2024 Photo by Nick Schaefer The only thing that I like more than hunting ducks has to be banding them. Banding ducks consists of capturing ducks live, putting a numerated metal band around their leg... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Alaska BHA Beer Dinner Recap 12/22/2024 BHA Beer Dinner Recap A Night of Conservation, Community, and Culinary Delights Darren Bruning, Deputy Director of Wildlife Conservation presenting on Wood Bison Restoration in AlaskaThe... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues The Alaska Copper Ammo Challenge 12/22/2024 AK BHA Volunteer shooting ballistic gels in Feb. 2024 at the Hank Harmon Rifle Range in Juneau, AKThe Alaska Copper Ammo Challenge Earlier this year, Alaska Backcountry Hunters & Anglers... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues California BHA 2024 Recap 12/13/2024 With 2024 coming to an end, we would like to take the opportunity to reflect on California BHA's engagement and accomplishments that were made possible by the support of our dedicated members and... Tags: stewardship blog, California Chapter, habitat, r3
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Two-Year Protection Initiated for Pecos River Watershed 12/13/2024 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Dec. 13, 2024 Contact: Kaden McArthur, Government Relations Manager mcarthur@backcountryhunters.org Two-Year Protection Initiated For Pecos River Watershed Washington, D.C.... Tags: press releases, New Mexico Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Michigan chapter urges action to protect Lake Superior: The Threat of Copperwood Mine 12/13/2024 At Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA), we are passionate about preserving the wild places and public lands that provide us with the hunting, fishing, and recreation opportunities that we all... Tags: Michigan Chapter
Media State Issues WHY BHA? 12/3/2024 WHY BHA? Mary Glaves, AK Chapter Coordinator It’s #GivingTuesday 2024. The onslaught of attacks to the heritage of public lands in this country defies over a hundred year value system to... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Trapping Heritage and Education with Alaska Board Member, Ryan Bandy 12/3/2024 Trapping Heritage and Education with Alaska BHA Board Member, Ryan Bandy Greetings from the Interior, BHA members! As we arrive in December, trapping along the Yukon and Koyukuk Rivers is in... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Trails (Motorized & Mechanized) Impacts On Public Lands Habitat 11/25/2024 As populations and outdoor recreation grows in the west it’s imperative that trail planning and management consider the effects of roads, trails, and recreation activities on big game high... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Senate Committee Advances Final Public Lands and Waters Legislation for the 118th Congress 11/20/2024 On November 19, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee held its final Business Meeting of the 118th Congress. The record-breaking number of bills on the docket highlights the backlog of... Tags: Colorado Chapter, policy blog, the campfire, Montana Chapter, California Chapter, Nevada Chapter, access, Public Waters Access
Media Chapter News State Issues US Marines Provide Helicopter Support for Bighorn Sheep Habitat Improvement 11/15/2024 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Nov. 15, 2024 Contact: Devin O'Dea 415-246-5329, odea@backcountryhunters.org | Scott Gibson 909-210-0548, scottygibson@gmail.com Backcountry Hunters & Anglers and the... Tags: stewardship blog, the campfire, California Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues Veterans Against the Ambler Road: A Call for Responsible Stewardship of Public Lands 11/13/2024 As a veteran who has dedicated my life to serving this country, I am deeply troubled by an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would revive the Ambler Road project.... Tags: policy blog, the campfire, AFI Featured Stories, AFI Comms Channel, featured, Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues First Annual Alaska Chapter Board Retreat & Crawdad Catch-and-Cook Stewardship Event October 2024: Event Recap 11/12/2024 First Annual Alaska Chapter Board Retreat and Crawdad Catch-and-Cook Stewardship Event October 2024: Event Recap Board Retreat Earlier this year, our Chapter Chair, Dave Johnson, shared an... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CWD Detected in New York 11/12/2024 Recently the New York Department of Environmental Conservation sent an email to locals in Region 6 and then to the rest of the state concerning detection of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) at a... Tags: New York Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Utah is Not For Sale, and Neither is Idaho 11/8/2024 Utah’s lawsuit to seize 18.5 million acres of public land has brought with it significant outcry from public land enthusiasts across the beehive state. It can be tempting to think the... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CALL TO ACTION: Support a Sandhill Crane Season in Wisconsin 11/4/2024 Join the Wisconsin Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers in urging committee members to recommend the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources seek federal approval for a hunting season of... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues Protecting Access and Preserving Public Lands in the Crazy Mountains 10/25/2024 The Crazy Mountains in Montana have long been a battleground for public land access. As a cherished area for hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation, the region represents a vital part of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Mid-Atlantic Chapter Supports Virginia’s Great Outdoor Act 10/24/2024 The Mid-Atlantic Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is expressing its support for Virginia’s Great Outdoors Act (HB 1297). Introduced by Delegate Paul Krizek of Virginia’s 16th District,... Tags: Mid-Atlantic Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues MINNESOTANS: Vote "YES" To Renew Lottery Funding to Natural Resources 10/18/2024 Minnesotans will see a proposed constitutional amendment on the ballot as they head to the polls for the general election. It is called “Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund... Tags: Minnesota Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Rhode Island BHA Submits Comments to NOAA Coastal Program Evaluation 10/15/2024 On October 15, 2024, BHA’s Rhode Island Team submitted written testimony to NOAA, related to their periodic coastal management program review focused on Rhode Island’s Coastal Resources Management... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues Proposed Indiana Bobcat Season, Public Comments Needed 10/4/2024 Update - Second Comment Period Open NOW until January 16th! Natural Resources Commission seeks input on proposed bobcat trapping rule changes - State of Indiana To learn more about how seasons and... Tags: Indiana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA 2024 Fall Newsletter 10/3/2024 It's the best time of the year! Take a look at what we’ve been up to the last three months at the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers: Montana BHA and their conservation... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Montana BHA Celebrates Public Lands Day 10/2/2024 To celebrate this year’s Public Lands Day, Montana BHA Chapter volunteers organized a river cleanup on the Missouri River between Holter Dam and the town of Cascade. Boasting over 7,000 trout per... Tags: stewardship blog, Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Field to Table Grouse & Dumplings 10/2/2024 The arrival of fall means many things to a hunter. Here in Montana in September, I’m often conflicted by the dueling options of archery elk hunting and the upland bird season. Bow or shotgun?... Tags: the campfire, Field to Table, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Wyoming BHA Fall Newsletter 10/2/2024 It's the most wonderful time of the year! The days are getting shorter and hunting season is officially upon us. Like most of us here at Wyoming BHA, we expect many of you are spending as much... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Reward Issued in Central Idaho for Successful Report of Illegal Motorized Use 10/1/2024 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is pleased to issue a $500 reward to Ken Mason as a token of appreciation for the time and effort invested in reporting a tip that resulted in two separate... Tags: Idaho Chapter, OHV
Media Chapter News State Issues Wildlife Habitat Connectivity Bill Signed into Law in California 9/30/2024 As urbanization increasingly carves up California's landscapes, the need to conserve and enhance wildlife connectivity becomes critical. Assembly Bill 1889 is a significant step toward addressing... Tags: policy blog, California Chapter
Media State Issues NY Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area Management Being Questioned 9/17/2024 An advocacy group is trying and stop the New York State Deperment of Environmental Conservation (DEC) from completing a forestry management project at Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area in Otto New... Tags: New York Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Illegal Motorized Use Reward: Hunters Speak Up to Protect Habitat in the White River National Forest 9/17/2024 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) was recently happy to celebrate the courage and commitment of two hunters who played a crucial role in combating illegal motorized use on Colorado’s public... Tags: Colorado Chapter, OHV
Media Chapter News State Issues Hunters Cannot Dismiss the Magnitude of Utah’s Public Lands Lawsuit 9/16/2024 On August 20th, 2024, Utah’s Governor Cox announced a sweeping lawsuit that the State filed with the U.S. Supreme Court to challenge the federal government’s legal right to hold and manage 18.5... Tags: Utah Chapter, the campfire, featured
Media State Issues Spring Bear Hunting to Continue in Oregon 9/16/2024 Last week the Oregon Fish and Game Commission met to discuss big game hunting regulations for 2025 based on the recommendations of biologists from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Prior... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media Chapter News State Issues The Public Lands Rule could be great for conservation – we should give it a chance 9/14/2024 The Public Lands Rule could be great for conservation – we should give it a chance The Bureau of Land Management Conservation and Landscape Health rule, commonly known as the Public Lands Rule,... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues OR Chapter Supports Agency Proposed Game Regs for 2025 9/12/2024 The following letter was submitted to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Commission on September 12th ahead of the September 13th, 2024 ODFW Commission meeting: September 12, 2024... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media Chapter News State Issues Make Your Voice Heard! Travel Management Planning on the Little Missouri National Grassland 9/11/2024 The Forest Service is in the early engagement stage of their Travel Management Plan for the Little Missouri National Grasslands. They are hosting a series of Open House meetings to engage the... Tags: North Dakota Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues The Fight for Stream Access: Hunters, Anglers, and Boaters Unite for Colorado’s Waters 9/6/2024 “Colorado’s magnificent rivers and streams are a public trust to be enjoyed by all. Our message to state officials: let our people float and fish.” - Colorado Chapter Co-Chair, Don... Tags: Colorado Chapter, Public Waters Access, stream access
Media Chapter News State Issues The Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project 8/30/2024 The Mid-Atlantic Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is committed to our mission to ensure North America's outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education... Tags: Mid-Atlantic Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Hunters And Anglers Call For President Biden To Designate Dolores River Canyons National Monument 8/26/2024 Area faces threats from industrial scale mining, habitat fragmentation, unmanaged recreation) (Colorado Newsline: 8/21/24) In the words of former Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) Conservation... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Welcomes Murphy Robinson to Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission 8/23/2024 Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is glad to welcome Murphy Robinson as the newly appointed sportsmen’s representative to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) Commission. Appointed by... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Utah Attempts to Wrest Public Lands Out of Public Hands 8/20/2024 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Aug. 20, 2024 Contact: Devin O’Dea, 415-246-5329 odea@backcountryhunters.org Utah Attempts to Wrest Public Lands Out of Public Hands SALT LAKE CITY, UT — Backcountry... Tags: Utah Chapter, policy blog, the campfire, featured, press releases
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Montana to Idaho Wildlife Crossing Feasibility Study 8/16/2024 August 14, 2024 Honorable Pete ButtigiegU.S. Secretary of Transportation1200 New Jersey Ave, SEWashington, DC 20590 Subject: US-93 Darby, Montana to Idaho Wildlife Crossing Feasibility Study Dear... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Using the eBird App to Further Citizen Science Efforts in Bird Hunting Species & Habitat Conservation 8/12/2024 Using the eBird App to Further Citizen Science Efforts in Bird Hunting Species & Habitat Conservation The integration of technology into conservation efforts has opened up new ways for citizen... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues Wyoming BHA Comments on Proposed Big Game Damage Claim Regulation Change 8/9/2024 Earlier this year, with your help, Wyoming BHA helped to defeat HB60 in the legislature. Our efforts were aimed at protecting the investment of hunter and angler dollars from a significantly... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues OR Chapter Gathers Signatures and Submits Comments Opposing E-bikes in Deschutes National Forest 8/8/2024 On July 30th, the Oregon Chapter of BHA submitted comments and petition opposing e-bikes on specific trails within the Deschutes National Forest. The proposal by the US Forest Service... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media Chapter News State Issues Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) Statement on Colorado Ballot Proposition 127 8/6/2024 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) is disappointed that Proposition 127, which proposes a hunting ban for Mountain Lion, Bobcat, and Lynx, has garnered enough signatures to appear on the Colorado... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Comments on Mule Deer Management Plan Guiding Principles 8/6/2024 The Montana Chapter submitted the following comments to the FWP Mule Deer Citizen Advisory Committee in response to the Guiding Principles that MDCAC has developed to help shape a mule deer... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Trails at Mena - Project on Ouachita National Forest 7/31/2024 In mid-July I traveled to Mena for my first look at Rich Mountain, Arkansas’ second highest peak. I wanted to see for myself where the Trails at Mena project would go and imagine what the... Tags: Arkansas Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Hunting and Conservation Groups Laud Legal Victories alongside the State of Montana in Defense of Elk and Game Management 7/29/2024 Joint Press Release by All Intervening Organizations In a major legal victory for the State of Montana, hunters, and conservation groups, a District Court judge has sided with the public and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Save the Cutoff Road Case - July 17 Hearing Update 7/25/2024 The battle to Save the Cutoff continues with new developments in the court case that BHA formally weighed in on earlier in the year – view the amicus curiae we submitted alongside the Texas Rivers... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Thompson Divide Mineral Withdrawal: A Win for All 7/22/2024 Backcountry Journal: Summer 2024 Backcountry hunters and anglers value wild country, clean water and intact habitat. It’s a founding principal of this organization, and one that remains a priority... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Large-scale mountain bike project on Ouachita National Forest 7/18/2024 The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism is requesting a Special Use Permit for an area of National Forest Service lands for trail development and recreation-related infrastructure.... Tags: Arkansas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Florida's Right to Fish & Hunt Bill 7/15/2024 This November, Floridians heading to the ballot box will have the opportunity to vote on Amendment 2, Florida’s Right to Fish and Hunt bill. This bill would protect Florida’s rich outdoor heritage... Tags: Florida Chapter
Media State Issues Support of Emigrant Creek Ranch 7/11/2024 Sue DoroffPresident, Western Rivers Conservancy 71 SW Oak St., 100Portland, OR 97201 RE: Western Rivers Conservancy’s Emigrant Creek Ranch project in the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media Chapter News State Issues Permanent Public Access Secured on Missouri's Finley River 7/10/2024 The Missouri Court of Appeals has rendered its verdict on the appeal of the decision in favor of public access to the Finley River at Lindenlure. In a unanimous ruling by all three judges, the... Tags: Missouri Chapter
Media State Issues WY BHA Seeks to Protect Our Investments in Wildlife Management 7/10/2024 As hunters and anglers, we invest significant time, money, and care into the management of our state's wildlife and habitats. It's our right to protect these investments and ensure that our... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA 2024 Summer Newsletter 7/9/2024 Besides turkey and bear hunting, fishing, and camping, we've had a busy spring here in Montana. Take a look at what we’ve been up to the last three months at the Montana Chapter of Backcountry... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Field to Table Whitefish Melt 7/8/2024 Whitefish (Prosopium williamsoni) often get a bad rap among Western anglers, but the native salmonid deserves our respect as both worthy quarry and delicious table fare. Related species dominate... Tags: Field to Table, Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Illegal Motorized Use Reward: Gunnison Area Hunter Speaks Up to Protect Habitat 7/2/2024 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) was recently happy to celebrate the courage and commitment of a local Gunnison hunter (name withheld at his request) who played a crucial role in combating... Tags: Colorado Chapter, OHV
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado BHA Rendezvous Roundup: San Isabel National Forest (June 21-23, 2024) 7/2/2024 The Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) chapter held their 15th Annual Rendezvous in the San Isabel National Forest west of Salida/Poncha Springs during June. A dozen hunters and anglers... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BLM Denies Ambler Road Permit 7/1/2024 Unloading for a backcountry hunt in the Brooks Range. PC: Barry Whitehill, AK Chapter of BHA. BHA and Hunters & Anglers for the Brooks Range Celebrate the BLM's Denial of the Ambler Road... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues RI BHA Submits Comments to CRMC on Quidnessett Country Club’s Illegal Seawall 6/28/2024 Some time between late 2022 and early 2023 the Quidnessett Country Club (QCC), located near the northern end of North Kingstown RI, built a sea wall near one of the holes of their golf course. Had... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado BHA Chapter Newsletter, Summer 2024 6/26/2024 “The solution to any problem–work, love, money, whatever–is to go fishing, and the worse the problem, the longer the trip should be.” John Gierach, Standing in a River Waving a Stick Welcome to... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Russian River Stream Watch Fencing Project: Longterm Stewardship 6/23/2024 Alaska Chapter Backcountry Hunters & Anglers & USFS at the fence site, Sunday June 9th, 2024. Every year over 150,000 anglers, nearly a quarter of the population of Alaska, fish along the... Tags: AFI Featured Stories, AFI Comms Channel, Alaska Chapter, stewardship, AFI Event
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado BHA Q2 2024 Update 6/21/2024 “The natural world sustains us with clean air, unpolluted water, recreation, and natural resources. If we destroy nature, we destroy ourselves.” –Jim Posewitz, Beyond Fair Chase[1] Backcountry... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Wisconsin BHA Signs on to Protect Prairie Chicken Habitat From Solar Farm Project 6/20/2024 The Wisconsin Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers has signed on to a letter that addresses concerns around the Vista Sand Solar Project, which if allowed, would be the largest solar farm in... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NY sends comment into NYSDEC on OGC-9 Public Rights to Navigation and Fishing 6/20/2024 On June 14, 2024 The New York Chapter submitted a comment to NY Department of Environmental Conservation in regards to OGC-9 Public Rights to Navigation and Fishing. Access to some streams and... Tags: New York Chapter
Media State Issues BHA opposes mandated seats for special interests on Pennsylvania Game Commission 6/18/2024 Pennsylvania BHA leaders and members - and all of our conservation organization allies - were hopeful earlier this year when there was not one, but two bills, one each in the Senate and House,... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, featured, news
Media Chapter News State Issues Kansas Legislative Recap 2024 - Efforts to Fight Commission Attacks 6/17/2024 The policy team at Kansas BHA rode a veritable roller coaster of legislation in the 2023-2024 session aimed at abolishing or drastically modifying the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission, the... Tags: policy blog, Kansas Chapter
Media State Issues NM Youth Hunter Benefits from Soules Family Elk Tag Donation 6/12/2024 Since 2021, the family of late game commissioner and conservationist David Soules has generously donated a private land elk authorization to New Mexico BHA with the aim of getting one more public... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues RI Assembly sends Three BHA-Backed Wildlife Bills to Governor 6/12/2024 Just days before the end of the 2024 legislative session the RI General Assembly approved three wildlife bills in concurrence, each of which was supported by the New England Chapter of Backcountry... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NY Wildlife Crossings Bill S4198B 6/11/2024 NY Senate bill S4198B has been passed by the NY Senate and NY Assembly and is now on its way to Governor Hochul's desk for signing. The bill directs the New York Department of Transportation and... Tags: New York Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues OPINION: Non-residents harvest more mule deer bucks than residents in NE Montana 6/6/2024 When it comes to hunter crowding and the state of mule deer, non-resident hunting pressure and harvests aren’t the only culprits, but mounting evidence shows they’re a big one. According to an... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Montana’s Stream Access – a Legacy Worth Protecting 6/5/2024 Forty years ago, the Montana Supreme Court affirmed that the public may use rivers or streams – regardless of who owns the streambed or adjacent land – for recreation purposes. This is now known... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Backcountry Hunters and Anglers’ raffle raises record amount for mule deer conservation in Montana 6/3/2024 The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers generated a record-setting $56,620 for mule deer conservation by raffling the species’ Governor’s tag. The amount raised this year exceeded... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Hunting Colorado’s Mountain Merriam’s (with The Colonel & The Fox) and Struttin’ & Cluckin’ at Rendezvous 5/28/2024 Among hunter-conservationists the story of the decimation of wildlands and wildlife during the 1700s-1800s followed by a remarkable recovery during the 1900s-2000s is well known. However, a week... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Oregon Hunters and Anglers Rally Rapid Support for Next Director of ODFW 5/23/2024 In a quick turn of events, the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) Commission announced their final candidates for the next ODFW Director, allowing a short turn around for stakeholder... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues OPINION: Montana BHA raffle raises the bar, sets record amount for mule deer conservation 5/22/2024 The opportunity to hunt shouldn’t just be for the wealthy. So why should Montana’s special, statewide tags be any different? This was our pitch to the Fish & Wildlife Commission last summer. We... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Local Outdoorsmen Rally to Save the Cutoff 5/22/2024 In early 2022, a private landowner illegally blocked access to a popular public hunting and fishing destination in East Texas known locally as “The Cutoff”. A group of local sportsmen who hunt and... Tags: the campfire, Texas Chapter, access, Public Waters Access, container
Media State Issues Montana Raises Record Funds for a Coveted Mule Deer Tag — Through a Public Raffle 5/21/2024 Montana’s chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers today announced that it raised a record $56,620 for mule deer conservation by raffling a single statewide deer tag. The winner is a Washington... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues BHA raffle raises record amount for mule deer conservation in Montana 5/20/2024 Montana BHA’s statewide mule deer raffle raised a record amount for mule deer conservation, and the lucky winner has been drawn!Last summer, we successfully argued in front of the Fish and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues TAKE ACTION: Support HB 1873 For Stream Access 5/13/2024 Illinois stream access is widely misunderstood, a result of the state not mirroring federal law. A stream that would be considered public by federal law is not public under Illinois state law, as... Tags: Illinois Chapter
Media State Issues Tribes, sportsmen groups warn against ballot initiative 5/8/2024 You may have seen them at the grocery store. Outside a gas station. Or walking around town. People are out collecting signatures for a number of proposed ballot initiatives. One in particular... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Mining Company Out of Canada Says it Will Continue to Explore Bitterroot River Headwaters for Rare Earth Metals 5/8/2024 On May 2, U.S. Forest Service officials stationed in the Bitterroot National Forest of western Montana said they’ve received a mining company’s Notice of Intent (NOI) to further explore the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CO BHA Chapter Newsletter Spring 2024 5/8/2024 “One swallow does not make a summer, but one skein of geese, cleaving the murk of March thaw, is the spring.” -Aldo Leopold, A Sand County Almanac There’s no other organization like Backcountry... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Hunters and anglers, pay attention 5/7/2024 Whether it's repeated attempts to privatize our wildlife or attacks on public access, Montanans have had plenty to complain about recently. While the legislature and Gov. Gianforte have been... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues California’s New Era in Black Bear Conservation: A Science-Driven Approach with a Role for Hunters 5/6/2024 Bear hunting has been an integral part of California’s history since the Golden State was founded in 1850 and for thousands of years prior to colonization. In 2021 and 2022, anti-hunting groups... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Central Yukon Resource Management Plan 5/3/2024 Floating and fishing in the Jim River Area of Critical Environmental Concern along the Dalton Highway. The Jim River is an important spawning tributary for... Tags: AFI Featured Stories, Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues OK BHA Pilot CWD Program on Wild Deer 5/3/2024 Oklahoma BHA Members, HB3462 has advanced to Governor Stitt’s office and will likely be considered this coming week. IF passed, the bill would initiate a program involving captive bred deer and... Tags: Oklahoma Chapter
Media State Issues 2024 Idaho BHA Legislative Recap 5/3/2024 The Idaho legislature adjourned the 2024 session on April 10, bringing to a close what was ultimately a fairly average session from a conservation and public lands perspective. Idaho BHA tracked a... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues OH BHA Joins Partners to Take Legal Action Opposing Permitting Process 5/3/2024 History In 2011, a law was passed permitting natural gas drilling at state parks in Ohio. (Ohio Senate approves bill to allow oil and gas drilling at state parks). Largely due to public concern... Tags: Ohio Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Supports the Montana Great Outdoors Conservation Easement – Phase 1 5/2/2024 *** Learn more about this proposal and submit your own comments by the May 15th, 2024 deadline. *** May 2, 2024 Leah Breidinger Habitat Conservation Biologist Montana Fish, Wildlife &... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Hunting and Fishing Opportunities Threatened on Mendenhall State Game Refuge 4/30/2024 Alaska BHA is committed to fighting for wild places and critical habitats that give hunters and anglers an opportunity to participate in the outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Board Member Dan Parkinson Receives Aldo Leopold Award 4/29/2024 Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) Board/Executive Leadership Team (ELT) member Dan Parkinson received the BHA Aldo Leopold Award for outstanding effort conserving terrestrial wildlife... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: BHA Supports Gold Creek-Twin Creek BLM Acquisition 4/25/2024 LEARN MORE AND SUBMIT YOUR OWN LETTER OF SUPPORT BY APRIL 30TH April 25, 2024 Lonna SandauBureau of Land Management Western Montana DistrictMissoula Field Office3255 Fort Missoula... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on Utility-Scale Solar Energy Development PEIS/RMPA 4/11/2024 *** Learn more and comment here by the April 18th, 2024 deadline *** April 11th, 2024 Mr. Jeremy Bluma, Acting Division ChiefNational Renewable Energy Coordination OfficeBLM Headquarters1849 C... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues VT: GMNF TELEPHONE GAP INTEGRATED RESOURCE PROJECT, 2024 4/11/2024 On April 8th, 2024, the Vermont team submitted a comment to the US Forest Service on the Telephone Gap Integrated Resource Project (Telephone Gap IRP). The Green Mountain National Forest is part... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Support Dolores River Canyons National Monument Proposal 4/5/2024 In the words of former Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) Conservation Director John Gale, “Conserving large tracts of undeveloped public lands as national monuments is essential to America’s... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues VT: GMNF Telephone Gap Integrated Resource Project Comment Period 4/5/2024 4/5/24 The US Forest Service is seeking public comment on a project called the Telephone Gap Integrated Resource Project (Telephone Gap IRP). The scope of the project is broad and it includes a... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Update: Vermont BHA Opposes Legislative Bill to Restructure Fish & Wildlife Board 4/3/2024 Thanks to pressure from the hunting and angling community, which was generated from New England BHA and other key Vermont Sporting groups, lawmakers made significant amendments to S.258 before... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Minnesota BHA Position on State Land Transfers 4/2/2024 BHA MN Position on Ownership Transfer of Public Lands As the voice for public lands, waters, and wildlife, the Minnesota Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA MN) believes our shared... Tags: Minnesota Chapter, container
Media State Issues Montana BHA 2024 Spring Newsletter 4/1/2024 Besides waterfowl hunting, ice fishing, and enjoying home-cooked comfort meals featuring wild game, here’s what we’ve been up to the last three months at the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Kentucky Senate Bill 3 Defeated 3/29/2024 FRANKFORT, KY -- The Kentucky Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers helped defeat a dangerous bill in the statehouse that would have made conservation more difficult in the state. Senate Bill... Tags: Kentucky Chapter, policy blog
Media State Issues Field to Table Mule Deer Reuben 3/29/2024 I’m a daydreamer at heart, and I spend a lot of time fantasizing about recipes during the big game hunting season. Between the idle hours spent driving to trailheads, hiking to glassing knobs in... Tags: Field to Table, Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Hunting For Experience: Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Oral History Project 3/28/2024 During December 2023 I was contacted by a University of Montana student about taking part in a Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) Oral History Project. “I am a student enrolled at the University... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on Lolo National Forest Plan Revision 3/25/2024 *** Learn more and comment here by April 7th *** March 25, 2024 Lolo National Forest Supervisor’s Office Attn: Amanda Milburn - Lolo Plan Revision 24 Fort Missoula Rd Missoula, MT... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Comments on 2024 WMA CLOSURE EXCEPTIONS 3/21/2024 ***Learn more and submit your own comments by March 28th, 2024*** Chair Robinson, Vice Chair Tabor, Commissioners: On behalf of the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, we submit... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Comments on 2024-2025 MIGRATORY BIRD REGULATIONS 3/20/2024 *** Learn more and submit your own comments by March 28th, 2024 *** Chair Robinson, Vice Chair Tabor, Commissioners: On behalf of the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, we submit... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues LETTER: North Dakota BHA Supports Keeping Grand Forks Water Board Lands Open for Hunting 3/19/2024 March 18, 2024 Tom PerdueChairmanGrand Forks County Water Board151 South 4th StreetGrand Forks, ND 58201 Chairman Perdue and Members of the Grand Forks County Water Board, On behalf of the North... Tags: North Dakota Chapter
Media State Issues Pathways to Clarity - PART 3 3/18/2024 The confluence of forces that created the checkerboard land ownership patterns that so vex many Montanans was not an overnight phenomenon. A slew of congressional acts, land transfers, lawsuits... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on the Draft Supplemental Environmental Assessment at Northwest Montana Wetland Management District 3/15/2024 *** Learn more and submit your own comments by April 3, 2024 *** March 15, 2024 Ben Gilles, Project LeaderUS Fish and Wildlife Service53775 MT HWY 212 Charlo, MT... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Spring Black Bear: Sealing the Deal 3/13/2024 Ryan Schuman, Southeast Alaska Representative with a black bear.It’s nearly April and spring is fast approaching. With that, myself, and many other hunters across Alaska are starting to poke... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports Left Coulee Access Proposed Action 3/13/2024 *** Learn more about this proposal and submit your own comments. The deadline is March 28th, 2024.*** March 13, 2024 Bureau of Land ManagementUpper Missouri River Breaks National Monument920 NE... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Auction vs. Raffle Tags: Should States Stop Selling Big-Game Tags to the Highest Bidder? 3/13/2024 This Friday Arizona’s Game and Fish Commission may direct the agency to consider alternatives to its controversial system of auctioning coveted hunting opportunities that raise millions of dollars... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OR Chapter Submits Comments for ODFW Selection Process 3/12/2024 On January 26th, 2024, the Oregon Chapter of BHA submitted comments reflecting the necessary considerations needed for the recruitment of the next Director of the Oregon Department of Fish and... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media Chapter News State Issues NY BHA 2024 Legislative Tracker 3/12/2024 Part of the responsibility of the NY BHA Chapter Board is to keep an eye on legislative proposals in the NY Legislature that potentially impact hunters and anglers. We will do our best to keep... Tags: New York Chapter
Media State Issues Efforts Combating CWD and Invasive Species Receives Funding 3/11/2024 The 2024 legislative short session has come to an end and in a bewildering turn of events, despite broad stakeholder support, House Bill 4148, (HB4148) Rep. Helm’s Wildlife Omnibus Bill, died in... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media Chapter News State Issues AZ Public Lands Bill Watch 3/11/2024 HB 2021 This bill would require the holder of a conservation easement to make an annual payment in place of taxes on the reduction of value of the original parcel caused by the placement of the... Tags: Arizona Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues 03/08/24 New Mexico Game Commission Recap 3/11/2024 Friday March 8, 2024 Albuquerque, NM The meeting began shortly after 9 a.m. with the Commission roll call. Commissioners present included Tirzio Lopez (Vice-Chair), Fernando Clemente, Sharon... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues Nearly 900,000 acres of Montana in access limbo - PART 2 3/11/2024 Nearly a decade before four Missouri Hunters drove to Wyoming for a now-famous hunting trip that landed them before state and federal judges on trespassing charges, Bozeman-based hunting... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Iowa BHA Opposes Attempts to Block Public Land Acquisitions 3/7/2024 Attacks to our public lands and public access can take many forms at the legislature. They can come as proposals that focus on maintaining current public lands rather than acquiring new lands,... Tags: Iowa Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Opposes Sweeping Fishing Closures in California 3/7/2024 Right now in California, anglers, spear fishers, Tribes and other saltwater stakeholders are grappling with a series of regulatory petitions that could result in reduced fishing access along... Tags: California Chapter, access
Media Chapter News State Issues NY Chapter Visits Albany to Lobby for Wildlife Crossing Bill 3/6/2024 Tuesday March 5th NY BHA along with Wildlands Network, The Nature Conservancy, Rewinding Institute, Protect the Adirondacks, Scenic Hudson, and Hudson Highlands Land Trust visited with NY Assembly... Tags: New York Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Commissioners got it right with black bear vote 3/5/2024 As a responsible black bear hunter and firm believer of hunting as a crucial component of wildlife management, I thank Commissioner Brooke along with Chair Robinson and Commissioners Burrows and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues TN BHA - Legislation to END Sandhill Crane Hunting 3/5/2024 SB 1876/HB1867 in the Tennessee Legislature aims to criminalize Sandhill Crane hunting. The bill will be voted on Wednesday March 6th by the TN Senate Energy, Agriculture, and Natural Resources... Tags: Tennessee Chapter
Media State Issues KY BHA: Defeat Senate Bill 3 3/5/2024 Senate Bill 3 is a concerning piece of legislation that could have profound impacts to hunting, fishing, and trapping in the state of Kentucky. CLICK HERE TO TAKE ACTION In 1945, Kentucky was... Tags: Kentucky Chapter
Media State Issues Montana proponents for public access, landowners, await implications of Wyoming lawsuit - PART 1 3/4/2024 When four hunters used a specially constructed ladder to step from one corner of public land in southern Wyoming to another, the ripples from that decision were initially small but have since... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues 2024 Utah Legislative Session Recap & Impacts 3/4/2024 After a busy session, the Utah Legislature wrapped up this past Friday, March 1. The chapter leaders of Utah Backcountry Hunters and Anglers tracked multiple bills this year and participated in... Tags: Utah Chapter
Media State Issues New Jersey Chapter Comments on Sparta Mountain WMA Forestry Management 3/4/2024 The New Jersey Chapter sent a a letter in support of the proposed forestry management practices proposed for the Sparta Mountain Wildlife Management Unit. The plan laid out by the New Jersey... Tags: New Jersey Chapter
Media State Issues Governor Greg Gianforte unveiled the Montana 2024 Migratory Bird Stamp 2/26/2024 HELENA — On Monday, February 26, Governor Greg Gianforte unveiled the Montana 2024 Migratory Bird Stamp at the state capitol. Montana received over 70 submissions for this year’s contest. Florida... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Draw Hunt Donations and Wildlife Conservation: And, Sometimes You Get Lucky 2/26/2024 Alaska Chapter Coordinator Mary Glaves with the downed muskox. The race of muskoxen that currently populate Alaska is the Greenland muskox. These muskoxen a have dark brown coloration with... Tags: Alaska Chapter, Alaska events
Media State Issues West Virginia BHA 2024 Legislative Update 2/23/2024 WVBHA 2024 State Legislature Update The 2024 West Virginia state legislative session is about two-thirds done. Your local chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers has been monitoring the session... Tags: West Virginia Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Kansas BHA encourages action on three bad House bills 2/22/2024 Kansans are facing a rash of bills in the state legislature that will greatly affect hunters and anglers. It should be noted that all these bills originated from the House Committee on Agriculture... Tags: policy blog, Kansas Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports the Stafford Ferry Conservation Easement 2/22/2024 LEARN MORE & SUBMIT YOUR OWN COMMENTS BY MARCH 21, 2024 February 22, 2024 Sonja Andersen, Wildlife BiologistMontana Fish, Wildlife & ParksPO Box 938Lewistown, MT 59457sandersen@mt.govRe: Stafford... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Zinke debuts bill to limit privatizing public lands 2/20/2024 Congressman Ryan Zinke announced on Monday that he is putting forward the “Public Lands in Public Hands” bill to limit the privatization of public lands. Zinke introduced the public lands bill... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Vermont BHA Opposes Legislative Bill to Eliminate the Fish and Wildlife Board 2/20/2024 2/17/2024 The Vermont Legislative session is in full swing and bills that will have a major impact on our ability to hunt, fish, and trap are up for discussion. The Senate Committee on Natural... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado BHA Q1 2024 Update 2/16/2024 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) mission is to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands,... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Tennessee Baiting Bill - HB1618/SB1942 2/16/2024 There is a concerning bill regarding baiting of wildlife in the State of Tennessee we want to bring to your attention. HB1618/SB1942 would allow a person to hunt deer and hogs on private property... Tags: Tennessee Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues ID BHA Opposes SB 1340 2/15/2024 February 15, 2024 Senator Van T. Burtenshaw Chair, Senate Resources & Environment Committee P.O. Box 83720 Boise, ID 83720-0081 Chairman Burtenshaw: The Idaho Chapter of Backcountry Hunters... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues VT Chapter Wants Hunters, Anglers and Trappers to Weigh-in on Survey 2/15/2024 The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (FPR) and the Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaborative (VOREC) are leading Move Forward Together Vermont a large-scale planning... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues How To Privatize a Mountain 2/13/2024 We had followed the trail for a half mile when it ran headlong into a fence. Signs nailed to the trees blared messages of unwelcome: “Private Property” and “No Forest Service Access.” They... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Stalking Wildness: BHA’s Wilderness Warriors 2/13/2024 Stalking Wildness: BHA’s Wilderness Warriors The title caught my attention: “Wilderness Warriors: Tales of Backcountry Hunting and Veteran Camaraderie.” It was for a Backcountry Hunters & Anglers... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Conservation Group Holds Open Raffle for Coveted Statewide Mule Deer Tag 2/13/2024 The Montana chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) is hosting a raffle for one of the Treasure State’s most coveted big game tags, and it’s open residents and non-residents alike. The... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on Spotted Dog WMA Grazing and Water Development Plan Draft EA 2/9/2024 *** Submitted via email on February 9th. Learn more and submit your own comments by February 12th at 5pm. *** February 9, 2024 Liz Bradley, Region 2 Wildlife Manager Montana Fish, Wildlife and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Utah Legislative Session Update 2024 2/7/2024 The Utah Legislative Session commenced on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, and will extend through Friday, March 1, 2024. During this time, members of the Utah State Legislature convene to revise old or... Tags: Utah Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues ID BHA Opposes HB 469 2/6/2024 February 6, 2024 Representative Ron Mendive Chair, House Resources & Conservation Committee P.O. Box 83720 Boise, ID 83720-0038 Chairman Mendive: The Idaho Chapter of Backcountry Hunters &... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues Support for HB 4148 2/6/2024 The following letter was submitted on behalf of the Oregon Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers on February 6th, 2024 ahead of the House Committee on Natural Resources hearing in support of... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues ID BHA Supports SB 1258 2/6/2024 Senator Doug OkuniewiczChair, Senate Transportation Committee P.O. Box 83720Boise, ID 83720-0081 Tuesday, February 6th, 2024 Chairman Okuniewicz: The Idaho Chapter of Backcountry Hunters &... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues RI House Committee to Hold Hearings on Two Wildlife Bills 2/4/2024 On Tuesday February 6th RI’s House Committee on Environment and Natural Resources will meet at the Rise of the House to hold public hearings on several bills, including two wildlife bills that... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues A Win for Public Lands in Iowa: HF 2104 Killed In the House, But The Fight is Not Over 2/2/2024 The Iowa Chapter of Backcountry Hunter & Anglers is happy to report that HF 2104 died in subcommittee today. As a result of an outpouring of support by Iowa’s hunters, anglers, trappers, and... Tags: Iowa Chapter
Media State Issues Indiana Wetlands Targeted Once Again 2/2/2024 TAKE ACTION- Indiana wetlands continue to be in the crosshairs during the 2024 session with HB 1383. Backed by the Indiana Builders Association, state officials are once again reworking... Tags: Indiana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues California BHA Expresses Serious Concerns Over Future of Fishing Access in California 2/1/2024 As an organization dedicated to ensuring our North American heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting with over 350,000 supporters, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers expresses... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues MONTANA BHA IS RAFFLING A STATEWIDE MULE DEER TAG 2/1/2024 The opportunity to hunt shouldn’t just be for the wealthy. At least, that’s how Montana BHA feels about it, and that’s what the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation says,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Support Expanded Sunday Hunting in Delaware 2/1/2024 The core mission of the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, a non-profit conservation organization, is to preserve our unique outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing through... Tags: policy blog, Mid-Atlantic Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Rhode Island BHA Opposes Kelp Proposal that Impacts Wildlife Habitat, Hunting Access 1/31/2024 Last April BHA’s Rhode Island team participated in a preliminary determination hearing before the Jamestown Harbor Commission related to two CRMC aquaculture applications, 2023-02-080 and... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues ID BHA Supports HB 404 1/29/2024 Representative Ron Mendive Chair, House Resources & Conservation Committee P.O. Box 83720 Boise, ID 83720-0038 Wednesday, January 24th, 2024 Chairman Mendive: The Idaho Chapter of Backcountry... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues Take Action: Help the BLM Refine Proposed Action for Left Coulee Access 1/29/2024 The BLM is proposing to create and open a Left Coulee Access Road, a 0.6-mile primitive route that would provide legal motorized access to a network of 51 miles of motorized roads through the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on Left Coulee Access EA 1/29/2024 January 29, 2024 Bureau of Land ManagementUpper Missouri River Breaks National Monument920 NE Main St, Lewistown, MT 59457Rachel Miller, rmiller@blm.gov Re: Left Coulee Access Environmental... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on Cebull’s black bear amendments 1/29/2024 *** view and comment on Commission agenda items (amendments) here *** January 29, 2024 Chair Robinson, Commissioners - On behalf of the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, we... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Illegal OHV Use Reward: How Two Brothers Helped Protect Colorado's Public Lands 1/24/2024 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) was recently happy to celebrate the courage and commitment of two brothers, Brad and Brian Phillips, who played a crucial role in combating illegal off-highway... Tags: Colorado Chapter, OHV
Media State Issues Massachusetts BHA 2023 Policy Roundup 1/22/2024 2023 was another busy year for the Massachusetts BHA team! From Beacon Hill to Westborough, the New England Chapter worked diligently on behalf of our fishing and hunting heritage, not to mention... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues Objectors raise concerns regarding East Crazy Mountain land exchange 1/19/2024 Concerns that public lands proposed for trade to landowners along the east side of the Crazy Mountains will be developed — whether with condos, lodges and golf courses for the wealthy or mining —... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues FWP seeks members to serve on Mule Deer Citizens Advisory Council 1/17/2024 Ask any Montana hunter, and they’ll have a different response on the state of our mule deer herds and mule deer hunting. There’s certainly no shortage of complaints, nor ideas on what to do about... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Yellowstone Northern Range elk herd management to change after hunting district boundary modified 1/14/2024 This coming season, elk and deer hunters on the western side of the Yellowstone River, just north of Yellowstone National Park, will have a two-week longer season than their counterparts across... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports the Lost Creek Proposed Land Acquisition 1/12/2024 January 12, 2024 Amanda James, Field ManagerBureau of Land Management - Dillon Field Office1005 Selway DriveDillon, MT 59725 Re: Lost Creek Proposed Land Acquisition Ms. James: On behalf of the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests Plan Revision 1/12/2024 January 12, 2024 The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & AnglersPO Box 9257Missoula, MT 59807 Regional Forester Leanne Martin (Reviewing Officer)USDA Forest Service Northern (R1) Regional... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues FWP Hosting Meetings to Discuss Upland Game Bird Regs 1/12/2024 Are upland game bird regulations about to be flipped on their head? Not exactly. Current proposals include nothing drastic. But FWP’s decision to host two meetings - and reminding the public that... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Corner Crossing Lawsuit Update: The Brief Defending Access to Public Lands 1/11/2024 WYOMING — The corner crossing lawsuit is on appeal at the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit in Colorado after moving from state court in Wyoming, to federal court in Wyoming,... Tags: the campfire, Wyoming Chapter, container
Media Chapter News State Issues California BHA 2023 Recap 1/11/2024 With 2023 in the books and some meat in the freezer (hopefully), we would like to take the opportunity to reflect on California BHA's engagement and accomplishments that were made possible by the... Tags: stewardship blog, California Chapter, habitat, r3
Media State Issues TAKE ACTION: Protect our wild backcountry in the Great Burn 1/11/2024 Now in its final stages of planning, the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest has made clear what they intend to do with the 252,000-acre landscape of wild, roadless lands that most know as the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Legislative Liaison Ivan James Appointed to Habitat Stamp Committee 1/10/2024 Colorado Gov. Jared Polis recently appointed Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Legislative Liaison Ivan James to the Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp Committee.[1] The Habitat Stamp Committee... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Decline of the Western Arctic Caribou Herd Continues: BOG is Considering Proposals to Close Hunting to Nonresidents on State Lands 1/10/2024 (Taken from 2023 WACH WG Binder) Decline of the Western Arctic Caribou Herd Continues: BOG is Considering Proposals to Close Hunting to Nonresidents on State LandsBoard of Game Proposal 3... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues For Brook’s Sake-Bring Enough Gun 1/8/2024 PHOTO: Willis Mattison “If that’s a moose’s antler, how can we get ’im up?” I whispered to Kenny. We were lying prone on the arctic tundra, our rifles bridged across our daypacks in... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues Roundup man's hunting privileges revoked for 10 years after elk poaching 1/4/2024 What began as a sweeping prosecution for three bull elk poached in Musselshell County ended last month with a conviction for a single elk killed out of season and a man's hunting privileges... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Smith River 2024 - What you need to know 1/3/2024 The application season for the prized Smith River float permits is now open, and things look a little different this year. 1) Non-residents are now limited to 10% of the launch permits, which... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Ambler Road: My Father's Foreboding 12/27/2023 Ambler Road: My Father's Foreboding By Barry Whitehill Fly-fishing and athletics were my Dad’s salvation. At age 12, his father was sent to the penitentiary in Monroe, Washington for... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Let FWP biologists do their job 12/26/2023 During Montana’s Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting in Helena last week, a subtle yet profound shift occurred, signaling a troubling trend in Montana wildlife management. This shift wasn’t a... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Dixie Creek Fence Repair Project Recap 12/22/2023 On October 21st, 2023, the Nevada chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management, Tuscarora Field Office conducted fencing repairs along Dixie Creek... Tags: stewardship blog, Nevada Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues IN BHA S.2990 Position Statement 12/22/2023 Federal legislation known as the Benjamin Harrison National Recreation Area and Wilderness Establishment Act (S. 2990) has been introduced by Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) to create a wilderness... Tags: Indiana Chapter
Media State Issues Indiana Forests - Healthy Management for Biodiversity & Recreation 12/22/2023 By: Brian Stone PHD Indiana’s native bird populations are in trouble. Several species are declining, and US Forest Service proposals to address the issue in the Hoosier National Forest have been... Tags: Indiana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA: 2023 Year In Review 12/21/2023 Here's a quick(ish) recap of what Montana BHA was able to accomplish in 2023, and what's on our minds as we head into the new year: Policy Efforts Every other year, Montana’s legislature is... Tags: Montana recap, the campfire, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Field to Table Rabbit and Pheasant Curry 12/18/2023 Too often during a pheasant hunt we find our four-legged companions not being able to withstand the wild chase of a cottontail through the brush and briers. It is easy to holler, “Easy girl,... Tags: Field to Table, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Fish and Wildlife Commission nixes quota ranges for trophy-hunting districts 12/15/2023 The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission voted this week to scrap quota ranges in trophy-hunting districts, a decision that drew criticism from hunters concerned about politics steering the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Peninsular Bighorn Sheep Get Another Boost from U.S. Marine Corps Helicopter Squadron 12/13/2023 ANZA-BORREGO DESERT STATE PARK, Calif - For the third year in a row the brave men and women of the U.S. Marine Corps Helicopter Squadron HMLAT303 have stepped up to provide aerial support for bold... Tags: stewardship blog, the campfire, AFI Comms Channel, California Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Responds to New Elk Management Plan 12/12/2023 FWP’s new Elk Plan has been adopted. Last revisited in 2004, the long awaited plan has a lot to like, but falls short of expectations. Montana BHA participated diligently in the public scoping... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues TAKE ACTION: Support the Montana Headwaters Legacy Act 12/12/2023 Tags: Montana Chapter, access, Montana action alerts
Media State Issues Montana BHA Comments on the Beaverhead-Deerlodge Outfitter and Guide Project 12/11/2023 View and comment on the Outfitter and Guide Project Revised Draft Environmental Assessment (DEA) here.The deadline is Dec. 18th. December 11, 2023 Beaverhead -Deerlodge National ForestAttn:... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Beaverhead-Deerlodge Outfitter and Guide Project 12/11/2023 The US Forest Service is proposing to increase guiding and outfitting use days 153 percent on our public lands found within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. The comment deadline is... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Groups weigh in on new Montana elk management plan 12/10/2023 Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ recently released Elk Management Plan has drawn fire from sportsmen and landowner groups. Unveiled on Dec. 1 after three years of work, the new elk plan updates... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Legislative Council Splits Vote on Ballot Initiative to Extend Landowner Hunting Rights 12/8/2023 A proposed ballot initiative seeking to more broadly extend landowner hunting rights to private parcels in Montana — even for non-tribal members who own property on reservation lands — would... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Ballot initiative seeking to expand landowners’ hunting access met with committee opposition 12/6/2023 A ballot initiative seeking to allow landowners to hunt elk, deer and black bears on their property hit a setback Wednesday when the Environmental Quality Council voted not to support the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Tribes, conservation groups pile on against ballot initiative on hunting 12/6/2023 Tribal officials and conservation groups on Wednesday raised their objections with an incoming ballot initiative that will soon go out for signature gathering. Initiative 193 would allow... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana EQC Votes on I-193 12/6/2023 Today, Montana’s Environmental Quality Council held a hearing to discuss I-193, the proposed ballot initiative that would prevent landowners from being prohibited from hunting black bears, deer or... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Surprise Ballot Initiative Would Allow Montana Landowners to Hunt Big Game Without Permits 12/5/2023 A proposed ballot initiative that could have broad implications for Montana’s elk management and tribal relations will be the sole subject of a surprise state oversight committee Wednesday... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CO BHA Leads the Effort on Public Hunting and Fishing Access to Indemnity Lands 11/27/2023 Thanks to BHA member Steve Witte and his research and draft letter, the Colorado Chapter of BHA was able to lead the effort to encourage the State Land Board to provide CPW an exclusive initial... Tags: Colorado Chapter, container
Media State Issues Wyoming Chapter of BHA Opposes the Columbus Peak Ranch Land Exchange 11/27/2023 Wyoming, a state renowned for its vast landscapes, pristine wilderness, and rich biodiversity, faces another critical threat – the proposed Columbus Peak Ranch Land Exchange. This controversial... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Elk Hunting: A State of Mind (& Body) 11/21/2023 “Elk hunting is a physically and mentally grueling endeavor, but is also worth every second for nothing other than the clarity it can provide in your life.” –Tony J. Peterson[1] During... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Chapter 2023 Holiday Gift Guide 11/20/2023 The Montana Chapter is extremely grateful for our business sponsors across the state that want to protect access to our public lands and waters. This holiday season, we encourage you to shop local... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues New Bridge Linking Kentucky and Illinois Threatens Boatwright WMA 11/20/2023 UPDATE: Public Information Meeting information is now available on their website plus a Public Feedback Survey about this issue will be open until December 30th! Click on the following link to... Tags: Kentucky Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Texans Vote to Pass Proposition 14, The Centennial Parks Conservation Fund 11/14/2023 In support of wild places and more public access, voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 14 at the polls earlier this month, dedicating significant money to acquire and develop new state... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media State Issues Floating Rivers without Bridges in Northwest Alaska 11/13/2023 PHOTO: Robbie Everett Floating Rivers without Bridges in Northwest Alaska Stepping out of the boat onto the rugged riverbanks of Alaska is an immersive experience that engages not just the... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Stand with Hunt-Fish Effort Opposing the Ambler Industrial Road 11/10/2023 PHOTO: Barry Whitehill, AK Chapter Vice ChairAn unparalleled experience for sportsmen and women can be had in Alaska’s famed Brooks Range – a region home to caribou herds, Dall sheep, moose and... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues Utah Regional Advisory Council (RAC) Engagement - November 2023 11/9/2023 In the November Regional Advisory Council (RAC) meeting agenda, we saw various proposals from the Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) emerge for public comment, some of which directly relate to... Tags: Utah Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Objects to Draft Decision on East Crazy Inspiration Divide Land Exchange 11/9/2023 *** To learn more about this proposal and comment, click here. *** To read the Montana Chapter of BHA's objections submitted on November 9th, 2023, click here. Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA comments on 2024-25 Season Setting Proposals 11/9/2023 *** Review the proposals and submit your own comments here, by November 21st *** November 9, 2023Dear Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks:On behalf of the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters &... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues TAKE ACTION: Oppose the North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act 11/8/2023 Tags: access, North Dakota Chapter, North Dakota Action Alerts
Media Chapter News State Issues WI Sharptail grouse comment period OPEN 11/7/2023 Sharptail grouse hunting was once as much a mark of autumn as the family hunting camp in the North Woods. Men, women, children and dogs would take to the pine... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter, upland, Sharptailgrouse, Hunting
Media Chapter News State Issues Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Policy & Government Relations VP John Gale Transitions To Bureau of Land Management 11/6/2023 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) Vice President of Policy & Government Relations John Gale transitioned to a Senior Executive Service position with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) on... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Edwards Creek Project Update 11/6/2023 On October 21, BHA Nevada Chapter volunteers assisted NDOW staff in a vital project to restore fencing around the springs that feed Edwards Creek, which provides water and critical riparian... Tags: stewardship blog, Nevada Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues Trout Unlimited / Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, A Statement of Support Medicine Lake Highlands Should Be Designated a National Monument 11/1/2023 Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues The Proposed Missouri Headwaters Conservation Area - What You Need to Know 10/30/2023 Right now, the US Fish and Wildlife Service is taking comments on a proposal to create a conservation area in parts of five counties in SW Montana. If enacted, private landowners would be eligible... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA comments in support of Proposed Missouri Headwaters Conservation Area 10/30/2023 *** LEARN MORE AND COMMENT HERE BY NOVEMBER 27th *** October 30th, 2023 Ben Gilles, Montana National Wildlife Refuge Complex Project Leader U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service 922 Bootlegger... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Alaska BHA Still Opposes Proposed Ambler Road 10/27/2023 Alaska BHA Still Opposes Proposed Ambler Road PHOTO: Kevin Fraley, AK Chapter, Interior Representative The proposed Ambler Industrial Road has posed unacceptable risks to Alaska’s Brooks Range... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado BHA Q4 2023 Update 10/27/2023 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) mission is to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands,... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Michigan BHA Opposes Commercial Targeting of Sport Fish 10/26/2023 Michigan BHA Opposes Commercial Targeting of Sport Fish Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) seeks to ensure North America's outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through... Tags: policy blog, Michigan Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Applauds Sen. Tester's Efforts to Restore Funding for Hunter's Ed 10/26/2023 Last Friday, Montana BHA board member Jake Schwaller had the privilege of joining fellow Montana hunters in thanking Senator Tester for his leadership and efforts in returning funding for... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues TX BHA Policy News - October 2023 10/24/2023 SB 1236 Recently, SB 1236 was passed by the Texas government. This new law removes the opportunity for hunters to use public riverbeds and streams for hunting as it bans using rifles and archery... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues RI Fishing Access at Risk in RIDOT Bridge Proposal 10/23/2023 This Tuesday, October 24th, RI’s Coastal Resources Management Council will meet to consider Application 2023-04-094, in which RI’s Department of Transportation outlines plans to rebuild the bike... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues A Hunter-Angler (Hell-Raisin’ & Habitat Savin’) Guide to Winning: Colorado BHA Examples (Browns Canyon & Camp Hale) 10/23/2023 From 2007-2015 I was privileged to serve on the Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) North American Board alongside some of the most dedicated hunter-angler-conservationists I’ve known, including... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Commission approves land purchase for new wildlife management area near Forsyth 10/20/2023 The first of what could be several land acquisitions by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks along the Lower Yellowstone River to improve public access was approved on Thursday. The Fish and Wildlife... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana hunters thankful for reversal on hunting education in schools 10/20/2023 BILLINGS — With the general rifle season set to kick off Saturday, Friday was cause for celebration for hunters like Evan Trewhella, who say that hunter safety taught in school is basically a rite... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Fish and Wildlife Commission votes to support purchase of Lower Yellowstone River property 10/19/2023 The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission unanimously voted today to approve the acquisition of a new wildlife management area proposed for the Lower Yellowstone River. According to Angie Grove,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues COMMENT NOW - The Fish Creek Watershed Draft Recreation Strategy 10/13/2023 Speak up for quality hunting and fishing opportunities and productive fish and wildlife habitat in the Fish Creek watershed. Deadline to comment is October 20th. Right now, Montana FWP is... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA comments on Fish Creek Watershed Draft Recreation Strategy 10/12/2023 *** Read the Fish Creek Watershed Draft Recreation Strategy and comment yourself. *** October 12, 2023 Randy ArnoldFWP Region 2 Supervisor406-542-5504rarnold@mt.gov RE: Fish Creek Watershed... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues MA BHA Opposes ‘Act Modernizing Firearms Laws’ 10/11/2023 Earlier this year Massachusetts Representative Michael Day (D-Middlesex) introduced HD4420 – An Act to Modernize Firearm Laws. This piece of legislation, which was both complicated and extensive,... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues Winecup Gamble Update: Post Meeting News 10/11/2023 BHA and our Nevada chapter continue to closely follow the moves of Kroenke Ranches and Western Land Group regarding the "yet-to-be-proposed" Winecup Gamble land exchange. Stan Kroenke, the 5th... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues Virtual Open House - Blue Mountain Forest Plan Revisions 10/10/2023 Do you hunt, fish, forage, or camp with your family on the Wallowa-Whitman, Umatilla, or Malheur National Forest? If so, it’s time for you to get involved! This summer, the US Forest Service... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues VIEWPOINT: Daines should stop playing games with Blackfoot Act 10/6/2023 Last month, Senator Tester’s Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act passed out of committee. The product of more than a decade, the BCSA enjoys the support of the majority (84%!) of Montanans. It’s... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CO BHA Letter Supporting the Vail Bighorn Sheep Initiative 9/30/2023 Please read the attached Colorado Chapter Letter in Support of the Vail Bighorn Initiative. To learn more about this vital Rocky Mountain Bighorn Herd and to support the Initiative please visit... Tags: Colorado Chapter, container
Media State Issues AFI Priority Landscape Camp 9/30/2023 Bouncing down a barren stretch of the Dalton Highway, known to Alaskans as the Haul Road, a bang and a thud emanating from the engine compartment of our van signaled that our hunting adventure was... Tags: AFI Featured Stories, Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Idaho BHA Supports Next Phase of Sawmill Canyon Project 9/29/2023 On Saturday, September 23rd, 16 volunteers gathered in the Pahsimeroi Valley to complete a phase of the Sawmill Canyon project for National Public Lands Day. The volunteers represented Idaho BHA,... Tags: stewardship blog, Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA 2023 Fall Newsletter 9/28/2023 It's the most wonderful time of the year! Like most of us here at Montana BHA, we expect many of you are spending as much time afield or on the water as possible this fall. With that in mind,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues MT BHA Comments on Dry Riverside Project in Flathead National Forest 9/28/2023 September 28, 2023 Gary BlazejewskiHungry Horse Ranger DistrictPO Box 190340Hungry Horse, MT 59919gary.blazejewski@usda.gov Re: Dry Riverside Project Dear Mr. Blazejewski, The Montana Chapter... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues East Crazy Mountain, Big Sky land exchanges advance with changes 9/28/2023 Acontentious land exchange on the eastern side of the Crazy Mountains and near Big Sky has been approved by the supervisor of the Custer Gallatin National Forest. The draft decision contains... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues New England BHA Supports Moose Research 9/28/2023 In collaboration with the University of New Hampshire's Wildlife Management and Modeling Lab (WMML) and New Hampshire Fish and Game, the New England Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA)... Tags: New England Chapter, New England
Media State Issues Forest Service Tentatively Approves Crazy Mountain Land Swap 9/28/2023 The U.S. Forest Service announced Wednesday that it has tentatively approved a land swap involving more than 15 square miles of land located in two Montana mountain ranges. The Custer Gallatin... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Rock Springs RMP Released 9/27/2023 Last month, the Rock Springs Bureau of Land Management field office released the long-awaited draft RMP. This draft lays out 4 alternative plans on how the Rock Springs field office will manage... Tags: Wyoming Chapter, container
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) Joins Colorado Wildlife Conservation Project (CWCP) Objection to Proposed Mad Rabbit Trails Project 9/26/2023 See the Colorado Chapter supported letter objecting to the Mad Rabbit Trails Project: Tags: Colorado Chapter, container
Media Chapter News State Issues "Trigger Warning" - Thoughts on NY Laws & Regs 9/26/2023 One of my favorite late-summer, early-fall rituals is sitting down with a cup of coffee and the latest New York state guide to hunting and trapping laws and regulations. I see this as the signal... Tags: New York Chapter
Media State Issues Southeast Chapter opposes construction impacts on Swan Creek WMA 9/19/2023 The Southeast Chapter of BHA, which represents members in Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana, is alarmed by the planned construction of a bridge through the Swan Creek Wildlife Management Area, a... Tags: policy blog, Southeast Chapter, habitat
Media Chapter News State Issues Wilderness in Virginia? Yes, that there is! 9/17/2023 Back in the spring I was fortunate enough to participate in a “fly-in” event in support of the LWCF Coalition at our Nation’s capital. You can read the blog post I published about that... Tags: policy blog, AFI Featured Stories, Mid-Atlantic Chapter, Capital News, Capital issues
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Volunteers Help Expand Elk, Deer & Bear Habitat in Northwest California 9/12/2023 On a hazy, smokey Friday evening in Humboldt county, BHA members and volunteers gathered at Mad River Brewing Company to toast to the upcoming B1 deer and bear season opener and to put finishing... Tags: stewardship blog, California Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues Lion vs Sheep 9/8/2023 For some, keeping a constant eye on game cameras and venturing deep into the backcountry is a break from their everyday lives. For Jeff and Vicki Davis, it is their lives. The Sierra Nevada... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Applauds Agreement to Retire Final Remaining Lease in the Badger-Two Medicine 9/7/2023 Late last week, news broke that the final remaining oil and gas lease in the Badger-Two Medicine was to be permanently retired! This area, US Forest Service lands adjacent to the Bob Marshall... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues PA Senate Action Diverts Game Fund Money, Puts Federal Wildlife Funding at Risk 9/7/2023 The Pennsylvania Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is disappointed in the actions taken in the State Senate August 30, 2023 when a last-minute amendment was added to HB 1300 that if... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, news
Media Chapter News State Issues Press Release for Hallelujah Junction Wildlife Area Public Land Planting 9/6/2023 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 6, 2023 The California Department of Fish & Wildlife and BHA plan to host a huge public land planting event and community gathering to restore winter range for mule... Tags: stewardship blog, California Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues Are hunters satisfied with Montana's elk management? A 5,800-person survey offers answers 8/31/2023 The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks recently released the results of two hunter surveys. One was sent to 5,000 residents and another to 800 nonresidents. The surveys asked questions... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Supports Falls Creek LWCF Project 8/30/2023 August 30, 2023 Chad BensonKootenai National Forest Supervisor31374 US Hwy. 2Libby, Montana 59923-3022 RE: LWCF Falls Creek Project Dear Mr. Benson, My name is Aaron Agosto, I am writing on... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Supports Crevice Mountain Acquisition 8/30/2023 August 30, 2023 Mary EricksonForest Supervisor USDA Forest Service – Custer Gallatin National Forest10 E. Babcock Bozeman, MT 59771 RE: Crevice Mountain Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Are Montanans really satisfied with elk management? 8/30/2023 Sharing the results of their Resident Elk Hunter Survey, FWP’s press release and summary tout that 73% of respondents "are satisfied with elk management." Given the contention around elk... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues 8/25/23 New Mexico State Game Commission Recap 8/28/2023 Friday August 25, 2023 Raton, NM All Commissioners were present: Attending in-person: Commissioners Tirzio Lopez (Vice Chair), Sharon Salazar-Hickey, Fernando Clemente, Ed Garcia Attending... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues Sportsmen: Elk Hunter Survey Doesn't Support FWP Claims 8/28/2023 A sportsmen’s group is questioning Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ interpretation of its recent elk hunting poll, particularly claims that most resident hunters are satisfied with current elk... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Illinois BHA and US Army Corps Create New 3D Archery Park 8/25/2023 The Illinois Chapter of BHA partnered with the US Army Corps of Engineers over the past year to development of a public 3-D archery trail at Lake Shelbyville in Central Illinois. Lake Shelbyville... Tags: stewardship blog, Illinois Chapter
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues I-8 Peninsular Bighorn Sheep Crossing Project 8/24/2023 News for Immediate ReleaseAug. 24, 2023Contact: Devin O'Dea, 415-246-5329, odea@backcountryhunters.org Wildlife Conservation Board Awards Multi-Million Dollar Grant to U.C. Davis for the... Tags: the campfire, press releases, California Chapter, habitat
Media Chapter News State Issues Texas BHA Represents Hunters & Anglers at TPWD Annual Hearing 8/24/2023 Austin, Texas – The Texas Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers was represented at the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) annual public hearing on August 23rd. John Sertel, Texas BHA... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Massachusetts Archery Deer Hunting Season Extension 8/22/2023 The Archery Deer Hunting Season Extension: Massachusetts BHA's Call for Change In the heart of Massachusetts, an important discussion has emerged surrounding the proposed extension of the archery... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues Are Montanans Really Satisfied with Elk Management? 8/22/2023 Montana FWP recently shared the results of their research gauging hunters' satisfaction with elk management in Montana. The survey was sent to 5,000 randomly selected resident hunters with half... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Maine's High Peaks Refuge Proposal 8/22/2023 For nearly twenty years, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers has sought to ensure North America's outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting. A vision for backcountry conservation and... Tags: New England Chapter, featured
Media State Issues Montana residents generally happy with elk, mule deer management, survey finds 8/18/2023 Elk hunting has been an emotional topic for some Montana hunters in recent years, with rallies on the Capitol steps, special conferences between differing interest groups and bills introduced in... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Under landowner proposal, 235K acres of BLM lands in northeastern Nevada could be privatized permanently 8/18/2023 Word has been spreading like wildfire about a sweetheart land deal being pushed by out-of-state billionaire landowner Stan Kroenke, a 3:1 land transfer that could result in public lands hunters... Tags: policy blog, Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Supports Wildcat WMA Acquisition 8/18/2023 August 18, 2023 Montana Fish, Wildlife & ParksAttn: Brett DorakPO Box 1630Miles City, MT 59301Brett.Dorak@mt.gov RE: Wildcat WMA Acquisition Dear Mr. Dorak, On behalf of the Montana Chapter of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Backcountry Hunters & Anglers: Mission, Issues & Actions (Triads) 8/17/2023 During May 2023 I crossed paths with Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) founder Mike Beagle in Denver, nearly four years after we last got together at a watering hole not far from Mike’s home in... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues New England BHA Funds Striped Bass Research 8/17/2023 For the last several years BHA’s New England Chapter has played a leading role in the organization’s advocacy efforts to recover and protect Atlantic Striped Bass, which have been supported by... Tags: New England Chapter, featured
Media Chapter News State Issues The Land and Water Conservation Fund benefits our nation, so let’s build on it 8/16/2023 The following article was first published by The Virginian-Pilot on 15 August 2023. It is an op-ed I wrote in support of an ongoing collaboration with the LWCF Coalition on behalf of Backcountry... Tags: policy blog, AFI Featured Stories, AFI Comms Channel, Mid-Atlantic Chapter, Capital News, Capital issues, lwcf
Media State Issues Montana BHA Supports Racetrack Creek Acquisition 8/16/2023 August 16, 2023 Lisa Timchak, Forest Supervisor Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest 420 Barrett Street Dillon, MT 59725 Re: Racetrack Creek 2025 LWCF-Funded Acquisition Proposal Ms.... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Defend Science-Based Bear & Cougar Management in New Mexico 8/16/2023 Currently the New Mexico State Game Commission is undergoing rulemaking for bear and cougar with a goal to, “Maintain sustainable bear and cougar populations and hunting opportunities throughout... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues ID BHA Requests Update on Elkhorn Riparian Exclosure Fences Project (Challis BLM Office) 8/15/2023 In December of 2021, a scoping letter was sent from the BLM Challis Field Office (CFO) to BHA, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Idaho Wildlife Federation, Idaho Department of Fish and... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues ID BHA Comments on Upper Snake East Travel Management Plan Draft Environmental Assessment 8/9/2023 Idaho BHA recently commented on a draft Environmental Assessment for the Upper Snake East Travel Management Plan. Read the full comments here. General Comments: Human population increases... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana Hunters Requests Improvements to Elk Hunting Access Agreements 8/7/2023 August 7th, 2023 Director Temple, Chair Robinson, Commissioners, Chair Beal - First, thank you for your continued efforts to improve the Elk Hunting Access Agreements. As you know, since the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Comments on 2023 EMP Draft 7/31/2023 July 31, 2023 Montana FWP Wildlife Division 1420 East Sixth Avenue Helena, MT 59620 RE: Montana BHA Comments on the 2023 Montana Statewide Elk Management Plan Draft Mr. Northrup, Mr.... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Guest View: Proposed elk plan goes in circles 7/27/2023 Nearly 20 years have passed since Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks last updated its Elk Management Plan (out for comment now). The new EMP has some good ideas, like reviewing the plan every five... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues NV BHA Comments on Washoe County Lands Proposal 7/26/2023 The Nevada Chapter of BHA recently commented on the Washoe County Lands Bill Proposal. This proposal is a significant improvement over previous proposals with far less land transfers and some... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues 7/21/23 NM Game Commission Recap 7/21/2023 Friday July 21, 2023 Albuquerque, NM Attending in-person: Commissioners Tirzio Lopez (Vice Chair), Sharon Salazar-Hickey, Fernando Clemente Attending Virtually: Commissioner Greg Fulfer Not... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues LETTER: North Dakota BHA Opposes State Trust Lands Completion Act (S. 1088) 7/21/2023 July 21, 2023 The Honorable Joe Manchin ChairmanSenate Energy and Natural Resources Committee 306 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable John Barrasso Ranking Member Senate... Tags: North Dakota Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act (S. 2149) 7/21/2023 July 21, 2023 The Honorable Joe ManchinChairmanSenate Energy and Natural Resources Committee306 Hart Senate Office BuildingWashington, DC 20510 The Honorable John BarrassoRanking MemberSenate... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues ID SH-21 Cervidae Peak Wildlife Overpass Project 7/20/2023 Idaho BHA is excited to see construction begin on the wildlife overpass across State Highway 21 near Lucky Peak. This project is a win for wildlife in Idaho, especially along a critical... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues FWP's New Elk Management Plan - What's in it? 7/20/2023 Montana's new Elk Management Plan is out for comment now. It's nearly 500 pages. So what's in it? Well, there are some things to like, for example, the raising of objectives - now called goals -... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Wildlife Accommodations for the Cougar Creek Bridge Replacement Project 7/20/2023 The Honorable Pete Buttigieg, Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave, SE Washington, DC 20590 Re: WCPP Discretionary Grant Letter of Support: Wildlife Accommodations for... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Wildlife Crossing Pilot Program 7/19/2023 Wednesday, July 19, 2023 The Honorable Peter ButtigiegSecretary, U.S. Department of Transportation1200 New Jersey Ave, SEWashington, DC 20590-001 RE: Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program Grant... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Pennsylvania BHA Legislative Update Summer 2023 7/19/2023 Legislative Update Our efforts in Harrisburg on behalf of our members continues. With the legislature moving into summer recess, here is an update on the bills we are following. Support SB 67... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, Events, news
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Wildlife Crossing Pilot Program: Missoula to Garrison 7/19/2023 Wednesday, July 19, 2023 The Honorable Pete Buttigieg, Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Ave, SE Washington, DC 20590 Subject: for Wildlife Crossing Pilot Program... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Wisconsin BHA Chapter Newsletter- July 2023 7/18/2023 Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments On Statewide Season-Setting Proposals 7/14/2023 July 14, 2023Dear Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks:On behalf of the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (MT BHA), please see the comments below regarding the statewide proposals... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues HB 3086 Passes 7/14/2023 In a monumental achievement, HB 3086, which restructures the ODFW Commission's selection map, has been passed with unanimous support in the House and near unanimity in the Senate. The hard work... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Support Colorado Outdoor Recreation & Economy (CORE) Act & Dolores River National Conservation Area and Special Management Area Act 7/12/2023 The Colorado chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers encourages the U.S. Senate (and then the U.S. House) to pass both S. 1634 (the CORE Act) and S. 636 (the Dolores River National Conservation... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues The Battle of Texas Public Lands 7/11/2023 How the growing population of Texas has ignited a fight for more public lands for Texans There’s something special about Texas that draws people here. People have always been magnetically pulled... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Chapter Newsletter Summer 2023 7/8/2023 “What if I made a bunch of money and die before I can spend it to buy the free time to fish?” – Jim Harrison, Field & Stream, February 2003 Hopefully you’re taking Mr. Harrison’s warning to heart,... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues BHA works with Idaho Trails Association and BLM on Spring Rehabilitation 7/7/2023 On May 20th, volunteers from Idaho Chapter BHA and Idaho Trails Association (ITA) worked together to rehabilitate a spring on BLM-managed public lands in the Owyhee Mountains. The spring near the... Tags: stewardship blog, Idaho Chapter, habitat
Media Chapter News State Issues Iowa BHA Helps Create More Public Land through Acquisition Projects 7/7/2023 In a state where less than 2% of the landmass is publicly accessible, and even less open to hunting and fishing, the Iowa Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers has identified a need to... Tags: Iowa Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments On Lolo National Forest Plan Revision 7/7/2023 July 7, 2023 Lolo National Forest Supervisor’s Office Attn: Amanda Milburn - Lolo Plan Revision 24 Fort Missoula Rd Missoula, MT 59804 SM.FS.LFNRevision@usda.gov Dear Ms. Milburn: Thank you... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Conservation licenses required for fishing access, wildlife management areas 7/6/2023 Starting July 1, people using Montana fishing access sites and wildlife management areas who don’t already have a conservation license with their fishing or hunting license are supposed to buy one... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA 2023 Summer Newsletter 6/30/2023 Summer has arrived! When we haven't been attending bow shoots, boots-on-the-ground stewardship projects, or chasing the salmon fly hatch, here’s what we’ve been up to since our last quarterly blog... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues TAKE ACTION: Support the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act! 6/27/2023 Tags: Montana Chapter, access, Montana action alerts
Media State Issues RI Shoreline Access Bills Become Law 6/27/2023 On Monday June 26, 2023 RI Governor Dan McKee signed H5174A & S417A, completing the legislative process for the pair to become State law. The Governor’s signature comes less than two weeks after... Tags: New England Chapter, policy blog, the campfire, Public Waters Access
Media Chapter News State Issues AZ BHA First Half Legislative Summary - June 2023 6/26/2023 We are halfway through the legislative year with our representatives back in session since June 12. As usual, many measures were introduced, but very few impactful items related to public-land... Tags: Arizona Chapter
Media State Issues Spring Policy Update from Idaho BHA 6/26/2023 The Chapter was busy with public comment periods this spring, sending in comments on a range of issues impacting our public lands, waters and wildlife. The BLM has continued to demonstrate the... Tags: Idaho Chapter, policy blog
Media State Issues Rhode Island: H5174A & S417A are headed to the Governor's desk! 6/26/2023 H5174A & S417A are headed to the Governor's desk! On June 15th, the RI House of Representatives voted to approve each, concurring with the RI Senate's approved version. This step represents a... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Improving and restoring pronghorn habitat in the Texas Panhandle 6/22/2023 2nd Annual Rita Blanca Fence Project and Chapter Campout Dallam County, Texas – The Texas Chapter of BHA held the 2nd Annual Rita Blanca Fence Project and Chapter Campout June 2-4. Initially... Tags: stewardship blog, stewardship, Texas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Alaska BHA Partners with Stream Watch Program to Mitigate Bank Erosion on the Famed Russian River 6/22/2023 Of the many things that I remember wanting as a young kid, but not among the few that I never obtained, living in Alaska was in the top two. Early in my military career and after garnering... Tags: stewardship blog, AFI Featured Stories, AFI Comms Channel, Alaska Chapter, stewardship
Media State Issues BLM Fence Prep Recap 6/21/2023 On Saturday, June 27th, Oregon BHA Members alongside staff from the USFS and BLM ascended on public lands bordering the Deschutes National Forest to prep fence line for future retro fitting. Brush... Tags: stewardship blog, Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog, habitat
Media State Issues Thinking about corner crossing in Montana? Read this first. 6/20/2023 In Montana, is Corner Crossing “unlawful,” “illegal,” or something else entirely? Across the country, the concept of “corner crossing” became the hottest topic in the hunting community when a... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Missouri BHA Weighs in on Closure of the Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge 6/14/2023 The Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most visited waterfowl hunting areas in the state of Missouri. This unique wetland complex has provided quality fish and wildlife habitat... Tags: Missouri Chapter
Media State Issues Built on a Conservation Foundation: Wyoming BHA's Success in Corner Crossing 6/13/2023 From a GoFundMe page that raised six figures and tireless lobbying at the Wyoming Legislature in 2023 to regular contact and determination in telling the story of public access in their state, the... Tags: the campfire, featured, Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues The Final Push – RI Shoreline Access 6/13/2023 The finish line is in sight! During the last several RI Legislative Sessions protecting and restoring access to Rhode Island’s shoreline has been a top priority, and the Rhode Island team has... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Proposed Jackson Mountain (CO) Mountain Bike Trail System Withdrawn 6/12/2023 (Hunters/Wildlife Advocates Applaud Decision) During the spring of 2022 Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Southwest Group Assistant Regional Director Alex Krebs got wind of a proposed... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Fiscal Shortfalls = Loss of Public Lands in Oklahoma 6/12/2023 Public Lands Lost Due to Fiscal Shortfalls A large expanse of public land in Southeast Oklahoma which has been revered as a “deer hunter’s paradise” and home to the last free-flowing stream in... Tags: Oklahoma Chapter
Media State Issues 50 landowners awarded free elk tags under hunting access program 6/10/2023 Fifty Montana landowners will be awarded 79 either-sex elk tags as an incentive to allow public hunters access to almost a half-million acres of land in the 2023 hunting season. The Fish and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Billings sportsmen weigh in on BLM public lands rule 6/4/2023 The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) — our nation's largest land management agency, tasked with overseeing 245 million acres across the country — manages public lands for a multitude of uses. But... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues FWP statement on corner crossing in Montana raises public land access advocates' hackles 6/1/2023 Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ deputy director has raised the hackles of some Montana land access advocates. A recent federal court ruling in Wyoming regarding public access at the corners where... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues The PUBLIC Lands Act 5/30/2023 Support the PUBLIC Lands Act - Take Action Today! The California Chapter of BHA has spent several years advocating for the passage of legislation that would have a monumental impact on rivers,... Tags: California Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues LWCF Coalition Fly-in with Capital Region Chapter and AFI 5/25/2023 Capital Region Chapter Vice Chair and Mid-Atlantic AFI Liaison Recently I had the opportunity to participate in a fly-in hosted by the LWCF Coalition in Washington, D.C. This is the second time... Tags: policy blog, AFI Featured Stories, AFI Comms Channel, Mid-Atlantic Chapter, Capital News, Capital issues, Capital BHA
Media State Issues 2023 Legislative Session Recap - Montana BHA 5/24/2023 Congrats! We made it through the 2023 Montana Legislative Session! Thanks to the tireless efforts from our chapter leaders, staff, and lobbyists in the Capitol - and more importantly thanks to... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on proposed Upper Thompson Conservation Easement. 5/24/2023 Montana BHA members are encouraged to weigh in on this proposal. Find more information and send in your own comments here. May 24, 2023 Leah Breidinger Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks 490... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Nevada Legislative Update - May 2023 5/22/2023 Hunters and wildlife conservationists scored two major wins in May by killing two bills which would have had significant negative impacts on the state’s hunting traditions and wildlife habitat.... Tags: policy blog, Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Kansas Chapter Chair heads to D.C. to speak up for LWCF 5/22/2023 By Kurt Ratzlaff Kansas BHA Chapter Chair The words “What the heck am I doing here?” rattled around in my mind several times during the 48 hours I recently spent in Washington DC. But there I was,... Tags: policy blog, Kansas Chapter
Media Press Releases State Issues Montana BHA and Partners Celebrate Bill that Defends Legal Public Access 5/19/2023 News for Immediate ReleaseMay 19, 2023Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org Montana’s House Bill 486 increases the fine 10X for illegally blocking public... Tags: policy blog, the campfire, Montana Chapter, press releases, public lands
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Big Spring Creek Conservation Easement Proposal 5/18/2023 Learn more and submit your own comments here. May 18, 2023 Sonja Andersen, Wildlife BiologistMontana Fish, Wildlife & ParksPO Box 938Lewistown, MT 59457sandersen@mt.govRe: Big Spring Creek... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments Re: Implementation of SB 280 - Bird Dog Training Licenses and Season Proposal 5/12/2023 Tags: Fair Chase, Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Judge Reverses Permits that threaten Bloody Run Creek 5/11/2023 May 1, 2023: Bloody Run Creek is a prime Northeast Iowa public trout stream in our state’s Driftless region. The Iowa Chapter of BHA has supported efforts to protect its trout, so great public... Tags: Iowa Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Petition to Conduct SB 442 Veto Override Poll with Partner Groups 5/8/2023 Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues Deschutes Mule Deer Inventory UPDATE: May 2023 5/5/2023 The Oregon Chapter of BHA wants to thank our supporters for your dedication, especially to those who were able to take the time to participate in last Thursday’s Planning Commission hearing -... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments in support of Marshall Mountain Community Forest and Mountain Park 5/4/2023 Kali Becher Open Lands Project ManagerMissoula County200 W. BroadwayMissoula, MT 59802 May 3rd, 2023 Re: Marshall Mountain Community Forest and Mountain Park Dear Ms. Becher: I am writing on... Tags: Montana Chapter, access, habitat
Media State Issues 2023 Idaho Legislative Recap 5/3/2023 The 2023 session of the Idaho Legislature is in the books, with formal adjournment taking place towards the end of March. As always, Idaho BHA paid close attention to legislation with the... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues Field to Table Backcountry Bistro: Montana BHA's 2023 Wild Game Cookoff Recipe 5/2/2023 Grilled Elk Steak and Morel Sandwich with Elk Tallow Twice-Fried Frites and a Montana Bush Pilot When I think of Montana and reflect on what it took for me to harvest an elk this year, I... Tags: Field to Table, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues TAKE ACTION: Fight Attacks on Federal Public Land & LWCF Funding! 5/1/2023 Tags: Montana Chapter, access
Media State Issues Take Action to lower license fees for non-resident students 5/1/2023 The Pennsylvania Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is tracking a lot of bills in Harrisburg this session, but one that has our particular attention is Senate Bill 344, authored by Senator... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, news
Media State Issues Hunting Ethically Is Good, Hard Work 5/1/2023 While hunting Rocky Mountain elk or mountain Merriam’s turkeys or any other wild game in southwest Colorado’s San Juan Mountains I generally endeavor to meet up with Colorado Backcountry Hunters &... Tags: Colorado Chapter, the campfire
Media Chapter News State Issues Striped Bass & ASMFC Spring Meeting 2023 4/28/2023 Back in 2022 every BHA Chapter from North Carolina to Maine – the entire footprint of the Atlantic Striped Bass range – advocated for conservation-minded priorities in Amendment 7 to the Striped... Tags: New Jersey Chapter, New England Chapter, New York Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on FWP Habitat Conservation Lease Program 4/27/2023 April 27, 2023 Montana FWP Wildlife Division Attn: Rick Northrup, Habitat Bureau Chief 1420 E Sixth Ave., P.O. Box 200701 Helena, MT 59620 406-444-5633 rnorthrup@mt.gov RE: Habitat... Tags: Montana Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on WSR and Wilderness Inventories in draft Lolo National Forest Plan 4/26/2023 April 26, 2023 Lolo National Forest Supervisor’s Office Attn: Amanda Milburn - Lolo Plan Revision 24 Fort Missoula Rd Missoula, MT 59804 SM.FS.LFNRevision@usda.gov Dear Ms. Milburn; Thank... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Shuts Down a Petition Attempting to Close Nearshore Fishing in California 4/25/2023 Fish & Game Commission voted unanimously to reject a petition that would have closed over 250 miles of nearshore fishing access in California's Central Coast. A petition before the Fish & Game... Tags: California Chapter, access
Media State Issues Podcasts BHA Podcast & Blast, Ep. 154: The Legal Fight Over Corner Crossing Comes to a Head 4/25/2023 The future of public access to public lands is being decided in Wyoming with the ongoing saga of the corner-crossing hunters and their legal travails. We all have a dog in this fight – and never... Tags: the campfire, Montana Chapter, Podcast
Media State Issues New York State Lead Ammunition Ban 2023 Legislation 4/24/2023 Assembly Bill A2084A (active currently for the 2023-2024 legislative session) prevents the use of lead ammunition in the taking of wildlife on state-owned lands and on lands contributing surface... Tags: New York Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues North Dakota BHA 2023 Legislative Roundup 4/24/2023 First and foremost, the reason for this blog is a sincere – and huge - THANK YOU!!! It’s been a long, arduous legislative session and we are overall happy with the way things have shaken out.... Tags: North Dakota Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Acreage Added to Preserve portion of New River Gorge National Park 4/19/2023 When the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve redesignation went into effect hunters were left holding the short straw as we were now permanently excluded from 4,385 acres of what was once... Tags: West Virginia Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues California BHA's Guide to Navigating a Full Fish & Game Commission Agenda 4/19/2023 The Fish & Game Commission meets this Wednesday and Thursday (4/19 & 4/20), and we hope you can show up to provide comments on some very important issues for hunters and anglers in... Tags: policy blog, California Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Florida BHA encourages hunting, recreation access in proposed USFWS Conservation Area 4/17/2023 The following comment was submitted 4-17-2023 to the USFWS regarding its proposed Southwest Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Area: To: United States Fish & Wildlife Service From: Florida... Tags: Florida Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Central Coast Heritage Protection Act Reintroduced 4/14/2023 BHA is once again rallying support behind the Central Coast Heritage Protection Act recently reintroduced by Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24). This legislation would add nearly 250,000 acres... Tags: policy blog, the campfire, California Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montanans Support SB 442 as Amended 4/13/2023 April 13, 2023 Montana State Capitol Building1301 E. 6th AvenueHelena, MT 59601 RE: Montanans Support SB 442 as Amended Dear Gov. Gianforte and Members of the Montana Legislature, Right now,... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues Podcasts BHA Podcast & Blast, Ep. 153: The MT Legislature, The Weed Tax, and The Conservationists 4/11/2023 Montana's legislature meets for only 90 days every two years, but the amount of work that goes into a single abbreviated session is mind-blowing. In just a few short months during its 2023... Tags: the campfire, Montana Chapter, Podcast
Media State Issues Q1 Newsletter from Montana BHA 4/11/2023 We’re entering the final stretch of Montana’s legislative session, which is where the majority of our time and focus has been this year. That said, there are things happening outside of Helena... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues HB 3086: UPDATE 4/10/2023 The progress of HB 3086, the river basin model for ODFW Commission structure, was unfortunately stalled early last week. The -4 amendment had enough votes to pass out of the House Agriculture,... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media Chapter News State Issues ArrowRifles During Archery Season in OK 4/7/2023 Do Arrow Rifles have a place in Archery Season? Legislation in Oklahoma that would allow an ArrowRifle to be used during Archery Season isgetting a lot of attention. Naturally, the groups... Tags: Oklahoma Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Wisconsin BHA Chapter Newsletter- Spring 2023 4/6/2023 Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana Citizen Elk Management Coalition members and sporting groups request veto of HB 635 4/5/2023 April 5th, 2023 Governor Greg Gianforte State Capitol 1301 E. Sixth Ave. Helena, MT 59601 RE: Montana Citizen Elk Management Coalition members and sporting groups request veto of HB... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: RE: Sportsman, Landowner, & Outfitter Support for SB 442, as currently amended 4/3/2023 April 3, 2023 MT Senate President Jason Ellsworth State Capitol 1301 E. Sixth Ave. Helena, MT 59601 RE: Sportsman, Landowner, & Outfitter Support for SB 442, as currently amended Dear... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Nevada BHA Weighs-in on Legislation Impacting Horse Management, Commission Make-up and Youth Opportunity 4/3/2023 The Nevada Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers has been actively engaged in Carson City this year on several pieces of key legislation. In addition to advocating for needed investments in... Tags: policy blog, Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues 2023 Oregon Legislative Tracker 3/30/2023 Bill: HJR 5-1 - Right to Fish, Hunt, and Forage https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2023R1/Measures/Overview/HJR5 Oregon BHA Position: Support as written or with the -1 amendment Current... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues Oregon's Adopt-A-Lek Program 3/30/2023 What is it? Oregon has a volunteer opportunity between hunting seasons in the high desert, in the state’s southeastern region. Oregon has one of the nation’s largest... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media Chapter News State Issues Cornwall Creek Flooding - Recreation Opportunity May be Lost 3/28/2023 Cornwall Creek Flooding may be a place known to you and for others not so much. To me, the Cornwall Creek Flooding is near and dear to my heart, my family having camped on its shores every winter... Tags: Michigan Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Montana sportsmen groups oppose HB 635 3/26/2023 Montanans have long fought to make sure that hunting is available for all, equitably, and not just reserved for the wealthy and well-connected. This is so important that when many of us agreed... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Defends Navigable Waters Rule and Secures Access in California 3/23/2023 Here in California we have a constitutional right to fish, and we have a right to access, hunt and fish the navigable waters of our state - for those waters are to be held in the public trust for... Tags: the campfire, California Chapter, access, Public Waters Access, stream access
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Co-Chair Receives Sigurd F. Olson Award 3/21/2023 The Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Sigurd F. Olson Award recognizes outstanding effort conserving rivers, lakes or wetland habitat. Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) Co-Chair Don... Tags: Colorado Chapter, policy blog
Media Press Releases State Issues Southwest Public Lands Permanently Conserved Via Antiquities Act 3/21/2023 News for Immediate ReleaseMarch 21, 2023Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org President Biden designates Avi Kwa Ame National Monument and Castner Range National... Tags: policy blog, the campfire, press releases, Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Iowa BHA Opposes SF516 3/19/2023 The Iowa BHA Chapter seeks to ensure our outdoor heritage of hunting, fishing, and trapping on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife. That vision depends on equitable access to habitat... Tags: Iowa Chapter
Media State Issues A Closer Look at HB 635: What do Montana Hunters Get Out of This? 3/18/2023 Update: On April 21st, Governor Gianforte sent HB 635 back to lawmakers with amendments. One of those was to triple the number of licenses given to nonresident landowners owning 2,500 acres. So... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: What’s good for prisoners may not be good for hunters 3/17/2023 In 2022, FWP established a new pheasant release program: “... which aims to engage youth in the sport of hunting, promote hunter success, and provide additional hunting opportunities for hunters... Tags: Fair Chase, policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Podcasts BHA Podcast & Blast, Ep. 151: Bill Avey, 40 Years in the Forest Service 3/14/2023 Retired Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest Supervisor Bill Avey is here to give us a clear view into the workings of the U.S. Forest Service – and what is arguably, for a public lands hunter... Tags: policy blog, the campfire, Montana Chapter, Podcast
Media Chapter News State Issues Utah Legislature Approves Funding for Wildlife Crossings 3/13/2023 A request for appropriation (RFA) called “Wildlife Highway Mitigation” was approved by the Utah Legislature in the 2023 Legislative Session budget. This funding request was for $20M of State funds... Tags: Utah Chapter, policy blog
Media Chapter News State Issues Minnesota BHA North Country Icebreaker (“Stoke The Fire,” But Don’t Burn Out!) 3/11/2023 While growing up in northern Minnesota we spent a lot of time at our grandparent’s house on Mille Lacs Lake, where (as you might expect) fishing was the primary pastime.[1] I was pleased to be... Tags: Minnesota Chapter, Minnesota events
Media Chapter News State Issues Legislation Introduced to Expand Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument 3/9/2023 I spent a portion of my childhood pursuing adventures on lands and waters within what is now known as the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument; however, the history of the land and its... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Fully Fund Wildlife Crossings and AB 112 3/9/2023 March 6, 2023 Dear Chairman Watts, Vice Chair Brown-May, Growth & Infrastructure Committee members, To ensure Nevada continues its leadership in protecting and maintaining wildlife migration... Tags: policy blog, Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues H.B. 208 Doesn’t Solve Stream Access Law Ambiguity 3/8/2023 This 2023 Legislative Session, H.B. 208 “Criminal Trespass Amendments” was passed. Sponsored by Rep. Scott Chew, H.B.208 assigns a defined penalty for wading and walking on stream beds and banks... Tags: Utah Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA '23 Mid-Session Recap 3/8/2023 We're ending transmittal break, the halfway mark of the 2023 legislative session. In the first 45 days, Montana BHA has provided testimony on and helped influence the outcomes of 39 individual... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Thornburgh Resort, Wrong Place, Wrong Time 3/6/2023 Given the serious shortcomings of Thornburg’s water mitigation model which can only be described as “best (and only) case” combined with Thornburg’s credibility damaged by their failure to make... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media Chapter News State Issues Another Dam in the Arkansas River? In Tulsa? Why? 3/3/2023 The Oklahoma chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers has joined several other local conservation organizations to raise concern at a proposition brought forth by the City of Tulsa to add an... Tags: policy blog, Oklahoma Chapter
Media State Issues Wildlife Loses Unless We Solve Conflict Between Landowners & Hunters 3/2/2023 This letter to the editor was originally published in Cowboy State Daily on Feb. 27, 2023. Dear Editor: Last hunting season, a story ran in the Cowboy State Daily of a bull elk wasting away on... Tags: the campfire, Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments on BLM Solar PEIS 2/28/2023 February 28th, 2023 Mr. Jeremy Bluma, Acting Division Chief National Renewable Energy Coordination Office BLM Headquarters 1849 C Street NW Washington, DC 20006 Submitted electronically at... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Dem's Bill Would Ensure Shed Hunters Can Be Prosecuted for Trespassing 2/27/2023 A bill in the House Fish, Wildlife and Parks Committee would add penalties for criminal trespassing while collecting antlers, sheds, or horns. Rep. Jill Cohenour, D-East Helena, is... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Ask your senator to support SB 406 2/26/2023 Montanans can’t get to 3.1 million acres of our public lands. If a neighbor wants to let us walk across their land to access public lands, they should be able to do so, encouraged to do so, and... Tags: Montana Chapter, access
Media State Issues Oregon Business and Conservation Interests Support Dedicated Funding for Oregon’s Imperiled Species 2/24/2023 Oregon Business and Conservation Interests Support Dedicated Funding for Oregon’s Imperiled Species We, the undersigned, support long-term, dedicated funding to prevent the decline of Oregon’s... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues Bill awards large nonresident landowners with big game combination hunting licenses 2/24/2023 Fifteen percent of the available big game combination licenses would be set aside for nonresidents owning a minimum of 2,500 acres under a bill designed to spread out hunting pressure and reward... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter, access
Media State Issues Reducing acreage requirement for landowners proposed in elk hunting bill 2/24/2023 For two years without success, Rep. Marty Malone, R-Pray, has attempted to draw a landowner preference tag to shoot cow elk on his property in the Paradise Valley. In the Montana Legislature on... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter, access
Media State Issues Public Lands Rally Draws Hundreds to Protect Popular Fund 2/24/2023 Few things can motivate Montanans to stand outside for close to an hour in below-zero temperatures like rallying to protect public lands. That’s what more than 200 people from around Montana did... Tags: Montana Chapter, access, habitat
Media State Issues OPINION: Don't Sell Our Hunting Heritage 2/23/2023 There are some forms of technology in hunting that come down to just personal preference. While others — the ones that adversely affect the experience for all hunters and jeopardize the public... Tags: Fair Chase, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Hundreds "Rally for Public Lands" at Montana State Capitol 2/23/2023 On Thursday in Helena, hundreds of people braved below-zero temperatures and snow showers to “Rally for Public Lands” at the State Capitol. This was the fifth legislative session that conservation... Tags: Montana Chapter, access, habitat
Media State Issues Public lands advocates rally, testify for outdoor access funding 2/23/2023 Nearly 500 public land advocates rallied in sub-zero temperatures on the steps of the Capitol Thursday to voice support for conservation funding and Montana’s constitutional guarantee of a clean... Tags: Montana Chapter, access, habitat
Media State Issues Forever no more? Bill seeks to restrict state’s access to perpetual conservation easements 2/22/2023 A broad assortment of industry groups, conservation nonprofits, ranching families and hunting and fishing access advocates on Tuesday testified in opposition to a bill that would impose term... Tags: Montana Chapter, access, habitat
Media State Issues Bill seeks landowner preference for bison tags as big hunting season continues outside Yellowstone 2/22/2023 Montana lawmakers on Tuesday afternoon heard testimony in favor of and against a bill that would allocate 15% of the state’s special bison hunting licenses to private landowners near Yellowstone... Tags: Fair Chase, Montana Chapter, access
Media State Issues Bill bans sale of public land trail camera images for hunting 2/22/2023 The sale of wildlife trail camera images and location trail data for hunting on public lands would be prohibited under a bill that was heard and quickly advanced from committee Thursday. House... Tags: Fair Chase, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues PUBLIC TESTIMONY: Letter to USACE on Willamette Valley Draft PEIS 2/21/2023 To: Nicklas Knudson, Project Manager U.S. Army Corps of Engineers From: Stephen P. Maher, SW Regional DirectorOregon Chapter, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (ORBHA) 14 February 2023... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues OPINION: Public property rights deserve protection 2/19/2023 The Hughes Creek Road in Ravalli County was illegally gated for decades. Landowners blocked the road with gates, threatening signs, and even machinery, essentially giving themselves exclusive... Tags: Montana Chapter, access
Media State Issues Lawmakers hear bill to increase fines for illegally blocking roads 2/17/2023 An effort long championed by access groups to increase fines for illegally blocking public roads made its return to the Legislature on Friday with a bill that could raise fines to up to $500 per... Tags: Montana Chapter, access
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports the Hannah Ranch Conservation Easement 2/16/2023 Montana BHA encourages you to learn more about this project and submit your own comments in support. The deadline is February 22nd. And if you'd like to see more projects like this funded in the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Libby lawmaker eyes legislative change to Lake Koocanusa selenium standard 2/16/2023 A Republican lawmaker from Libby on Wednesday spoke on behalf of a bill that seeks to strike the existing water quality standard for selenium in Lake Koocanusa and double the limit. Selenium is a... Tags: Montana Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues Bill would reduce hunting, fishing license costs for some nonresidents 2/16/2023 Some nonresidents would be eligible for lower-cost hunting and fishing licenses in 2024 under a bill presented to the Senate Fish and Game Committee on Thursday. Senate Bill 350 would... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: It’s time to put Montana hunters first 2/16/2023 Show us a resident hunter who doesn't think there are too many out-of-state hunters in Montana. We’ll wait. Truth is, this sentiment isn’t just from anecdotal observations from packed... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Protect Habitat Montana funds 2/16/2023 The secret is out. Everyone wants a piece of Montana. As property values skyrocket and taxes become increasingly burdensome, Montana’s landowners deserve every tool in the toolbox to protect... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter, habitat
Media Chapter News State Issues More good news on wildlife crossings in California 2/16/2023 The Brightline West high speed rail project plans to connect Los Angeles to Las Vegas along Interstate 15 and would have created a massive barrier to movement for desert bighorn sheep, mule... Tags: stewardship blog, California Chapter, stewardship, habitat
Media State Issues Sportsmen Decry Bill Removing Marijuana Tax From Habitat Funding 2/14/2023 Conservationists are amassing to oppose a Legislative bill that would go against voters’ wishes and permanently cut marijuana tax money out of Montana’s popular habitat acquisition program. On... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues Protecting Our Sporting Heritage 2/13/2023 Hunters are fired up in Montana right now. We’ve seen bull elk tags being given to large absentee landowners, an inability to address the crowding issues on the Madison River, hunting regulations... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Press Releases State Issues Montanans Rebuke Legislation to Limit Access and Habitat Funding 2/9/2023 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - 2/9/2023 Contact: Jim Klug, Business for Montana Outdoors: 406-581-6434 Frank Szollosi, Montana Wildlife Federation: 406-417-9909 Whitney Tawney, Montana Conservation... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter, press releases, public lands, habitat
Media State Issues AZ BHA Monitors Bill Aimed at Feral Horse Protections 2/8/2023 Bad legislation considered last year has reared its head again with the introduction of SB 1057. If passed, this legislation would give feral horses currently ravaging the Apache National Forest... Tags: Arizona Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Legislative Update - A Quarter of the Way Through 2/7/2023 We're just over one quarter of the way done with the 2023 Montana legislative session. A lot has happened the last five weeks, with even more on deck. Here's a quick recap showing what bills... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA statement on HB 372 2/6/2023 Montana BHA strongly supports the right of every citizen to hunt, fish and trap. This should come as no surprise. House Bill 372 seeks to reconstruct this right in our state's Constitution. While... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Public Comment Period Needed BEFORE Oil/Gas Development - We need Draft Rule 155-01-1 2/3/2023 Over a decade ago, the Oil and Gas Land Management Commission was created within the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to oversee oil and gas leases on public land in the Buckeye State. In the... Tags: Ohio Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana Sporting Groups Support for Conservation Funding from HB 701 (2021) 2/2/2023 February 2, 2023 Speaker of the House Matt Regier & Senate President Jason EllsworthState Capitol1301 E. Sixth Ave.Helena, MT 59601 RE: Montana sporting groups support for conservation funding... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter, public lands, habitat
Media Chapter News State Issues The Case of Mark Maynard vs. Sportsmen and Women Continues 2/2/2023 West Virginia sportsmen and women stand to lose more ground as the State Legislature moves forward. Senator Mark Maynard's new Outdoor Recreation Committee seems to have a singular mission in... Tags: West Virginia Chapter, OHV
Media Chapter News State Issues CONSERVATION GROUPS CALL TO SAVE PINE LOG WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA 1/31/2023 The Georgia Board of BHA would like to keep you updated on the efforts to save Pine Log WMA. If you are able to attend the Bartow County zoning meetings on Feb. 7th or Feb. 9th please do in order... Tags: the campfire, Southeast Chapter
Media State Issues HJR-5: The Right to Fish, Hunt, Harvest and Gather 1/31/2023 Oregonians have long demonstrated a deep love for the nexus between food and nature. Hunting, fishing, gathering, and foraging, are foundational to Oregonians' cultural identity, and it is... Tags: Oregon Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Striped Bass Addendum I 1/27/2023 Next week ASMFC Commissioners from up and down the east coast will convene in Arlington, VA for the Commission’s Winter Meeting. As part of this meeting, ASMFC’s Striped Bass Board is scheduled to... Tags: New England Chapter, New York Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues I-8 Peninsular Bighorn Sheep Crossing Project 1/25/2023 Winding double yellow lines twist and turn through a boulder strewn canyon of Interstate 8 close to the border with Mexico. A federally endangered Peninsular bighorn ram lays motionless on the... Tags: stewardship blog, the campfire, California Chapter, stewardship
Media Press Releases State Issues Roadless Protections for Backcountry Lands in Southeastern Alaska Restored 1/25/2023 News for Immediate ReleaseJan. 25, 2023Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org Roadless Areas in the Tongass National Forest offer irreplaceable big game habitat, host... Tags: policy blog, the campfire, press releases, Alaska Chapter, public lands
Media State Issues MT Legislature set to take up fish, wildlife issues 1/23/2023 Will fish and wildlife issues again be some of the most hotly debated issues of this session, or will the 68th Legislature be marked by more consensus-building and agreement for a state known for... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Why All Montanans Should Support In-Person Hunters Ed 1/23/2023 In Montana, new drivers are required to take an in-person driving test before being allowed to legally operate vehicles. As a high school teacher, I had to be visually observed and evaluated to... Tags: Fair Chase, policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues BHA Shows Up for Deschutes County 1/23/2023 BHA members waiting to present testimony at the 1/11/23 Deschutes County meeting. BHA Shows up for Deschutes County Goal 5, Wildlife Inventory Testimony January 11—Bend, Oregon BHA sportsmen and... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues Take Action for Fairfield Lake State Park 1/23/2023 Despite many efforts over the last few months by Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) Chairman Aplin, TPWD executive staff, and various legislators (including Chairmen Perry and King, Senator... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Kansas deer tag legislation bad for hunters and hunting 1/21/2023 Everybody knows there's no such thing as a free lunch, right? Yet there are some folks in the Kansas legislature who think that you don't understand that fact. They think that offering you free... Tags: Kansas Chapter
Media State Issues Weigh in on Bear Management as NJ DEP considers plan and regs 1/13/2023 New Jersey BHA is pleased that legal challenges to New Jersey’s 2022 bear hunt have been nullified, the hunt was held and sportsmen and women were able to pursue bears this season. There is... Tags: New Jersey Chapter, policy blog
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments on Helicopter Aerial Gunning in Limestone Hills 1/13/2023 January 13, 2023 Katie RediskeNEPA manager, Malmstrom AFB39 78th St. N.Malmstrom AFB, MT 59402341CES.CEIE.NEPAWork-Flow@us.af.mil Re: the Establishment and Operation of a Helicopter Aerial Gunnery... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues TAKE ACTION: Oppose North Dakota HB 1151 1/10/2023 UPDATE: 4/4/23- House Bill 1151 failed to pass with a Senate vote of 26 opposed, 21 in favor. Likely the most contentious bill of the legislative session for ND BHA, the bill passed the house but... Tags: policy blog, North Dakota Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments on Grizzly Bear Management Plan and EIS 1/6/2023 January 6, 2023 Wildlife Division Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks P.O. Box 200701 Helena, MT 59620-0701 fwpwld@mt.gov Re: Montana Grizzly Bear Management Plan and EIS To Whom It May... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Elk regulations top talks in Helena as 2 gatherings are planned 1/6/2023 Elk hunting is dominating discussions outside and inside the capitol this legislative session. On Jan. 14, eight organizations have announced a conversation concerning elk management at the... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Public invited to hear panel of stakeholders discuss state elk management Jan. 14 1/6/2023 The event is set for Jan. 14, the final day of the Montana Outfitters and Guides Association Winter Convention, from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Delta Colonial Hotel in Helena. It will include... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Beat the "Chicken Bill" in Ohio 1/6/2023 To be beaten in a game when you’re on the field and playing hard – that’s a defeat you can live with. To be beaten in a game that you didn’t even know had started – that’s just not fair. The... Tags: policy blog, the campfire, Ohio Chapter
Media State Issues OR Chapter Provides Testimony on Need for Updated Wildlife Inventory 1/5/2023 January 4, 2023 Deschutes County Commission PO Box 6005 117 NW Lafayette Ave. Bend, OR 97708 RE: Wildlife Inventory Update—Mule Deer Winter Range Inventory Maps Dear Commissioners, Adair,... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues OPINION: Commission Vice Chair Did the Right Thing 1/1/2023 Hunters agree on the need for things like quality habitat, large landscape conservation, and scientific management of our wildlife. But things get fiery when you start asking sportsmen about who... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments On Dry Riverside Project 12/23/2022 December 23, 2022 Scott Snelson Hungry Horse Ranger District PO Box 190340 Hungry Horse, MT 59919 Re: Dry Riverside Project Scoping Dear Mr. Snelson, The Montana Chapter of Backcountry... Tags: Montana Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA comments on the East Crazy Inspiration Divide Land Exchange Preliminary Environmental Assessment 12/21/2022 On November 9, 2022, the Custer Gallatin National Forest (CGNF) released public notice of a land exchange called the East Crazy Inspiration Divide Land Exchange. The preliminary environmental... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA: 2022 Year In Review 12/20/2022 Here's a quick(ish) recap of what Montana BHA was able to accomplish in 2022, and what's on our minds as we head into the new year: Policy Efforts Along with other sportsmen's groups, we took... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues MT BHA comments during December 22 Commission Meeting 12/20/2022 Montana BHA delivered the following comments to the Commission on December 20th, 2022: “Chair Robinson, members of the Commission… my name is Kevin Farron and I’m the coordinator for the Montana... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Field to Table Chimichurri Venison Chops 12/20/2022 I am lucky enough to live on enough land that I can hunt out of my back door. Most years, I take a white-tailed doe out there to help fill the freezer. Being able to drag a deer out whole... Tags: Field to Table, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Reject East Crazy Mountains land swap proposal 12/18/2022 Just like Holland Lake, the U.S. Forest Service is at it again — trying to pull a fast one on the public by putting forward a significant proposal that would negatively impact our public lands,... Tags: Montana Chapter, access, habitat
Media State Issues Drastic Changes to Quality Elk Hunting in District 313 Proposed 12/16/2022 For an outfit that has repeatedly stated their desire to simplify and improve public engagement, a proposed last-minute change in FWP’s hunting regs seems mighty rushed. Long after the biennial... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Pennsylvania BHA Legislative and Policy Roundup 2022 12/15/2022 The Pennsylvania Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers has had another busy year advocating for our members in Harrisburg. Our board members have regularly visited the capitol to meet with... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, policy blog
Media State Issues Public Land Hunters Object to Land Swap in Montana’s Crazy Mountains 12/13/2022 A local conservation group and the U.S. Forest Service have proposed a land exchange that would put an end to decades of confusion over where the public can access the Custer-Gallatin... Tags: Montana Chapter, access
Media Chapter News State Issues Camp Grayling Expansion in Michigan and Public Access 12/12/2022 Camp Grayling expansion may inhibit public land access Earlier this year, a proposal by the Michigan National Guard to more than double the amount of public lands it already leases from the... Tags: Michigan Chapter
Media State Issues Oregon Chapter Accomplishments 12/8/2022 The Oregon Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, led by our volunteer board, is dedicated to enhancing the health and access to our states wild lands, waters, and wildlife. Our commitment to... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues Opposing the East Crazies Land Swap: What You Need To Know 12/7/2022 We encourage you to comment on this proposal here by the December 23rd deadline. Only those who comment on this now will be allowed to comment further as the process proceeds. The USFS will... Tags: Montana Chapter, access
Media Press Releases State Issues BHA Files Legal Brief in Federal Court Supporting ‘Corner Crossing’ 12/7/2022 News for Immediate ReleaseDec. 7, 2022Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org Public access to adjoining public lands via corner crossing is demonstrably legal, BHA... Tags: the campfire, press releases, Wyoming Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues California BHA 2022 Policy Recap 12/5/2022 California BHA has been firing on all cylinders in 2022 not only with a record number of stewardship projects, but also on policy matters and advocating in the legislature. (link to a story map of... Tags: policy blog, California Chapter, container
Media Chapter News State Issues Anza Borrego Desert Helicopter Guzzler Replacement with US Marine Corps 12/2/2022 Tags: stewardship blog, AFI Comms Channel, California Chapter, stewardship
Media State Issues NJ BHA applauds return of bear hunt as part of management plan 11/29/2022 The New Jersey Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers supports the New Jersey Fish and Game Council's vote to amend the Game Code and adopt a new black bear management plan for 2022 that... Tags: New Jersey Chapter, policy blog
Media State Issues Montana Chapter 2022 Holiday Gift Guide 11/18/2022 Your Montana Chapter is extremely grateful for our business sponsors across the state that want to protect our access to our public lands and waters. This holiday season, we encourage you to shop... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Help Give Hunters & Anglers a Voice in New York DEC East of Hudson Unit Management Plan 11/18/2022 Take action now! The East of Hudson Unit Management Planning Team from DEC Region 3 recently released a Unit Management Plan for several state properties east of the Hudson river in the lower... Tags: New York Chapter
Media State Issues Montana - squeal on pigs! 11/17/2022 Feral swine (sometimes called wild pigs, wild boars, etc) spell trouble for Montana's wildlife and habitat. They're incredibly destructive, invasive and hard to control. In the 39 states they're... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Kentucky Public Land Hunting Etiquette - A Public Land User Story 11/8/2022 Public land hunting 101: Etiquette, Emergencies, and Education Public land hunting can be a rewarding experience. There are more than 85 Wildlife Management Areas in Kentucky, which provide... Tags: Kentucky Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: It's up to us to defend our hunting traditions 11/4/2022 Hunting season is here. Many hunters— including me — will head out this weekend in search of good times and a chance at harvesting Montana’s publicly owned game. While afield I’m often reminded... Tags: Fair Chase, policy blog, Montana Chapter, access
Media State Issues Montana Land Board Approves Purchase of Thousands of Acres of Prime Deer and Elk Habitat 11/1/2022 A recent vote by the Montana Department of Natural Resources & Conservation Land Board will set aside 5,700 acres of state-managed public land in the Big Sky State. The new public land will... Tags: Montana Chapter, access
Media Chapter News State Issues AFI Podcast Tour 10/31/2022 AFI Director Trevor Hubbs has been hitting the podcast network on a speaking tour for a few months garnering support for the program and building sponsor relationships. For a list of Podcast... Tags: Minnesota Chapter, New England Chapter, AFI Featured Stories, AFI Comms Channel, Montana Chapter, Michigan Chapter, Kansas Chapter, Wisconsin Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Kansas BHA Urges a "NO" Vote on HCR 5014 10/27/2022 On Election Day ballots will include Constitutional Amendment HCR-5014. Voting “Yes” for this amendment to our State Constitution would give the Kansas Legislature direct authority over the... Tags: Kansas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Passage of SB431 Pink Envelope Bill a Win for PA Hunters! 10/26/2022 The Pennsylvania Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers applauds the passage today of SB431. Now approved by the full legislature, the bill goes to Governor Tom Wolf, who has said he will... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, policy blog, Events
Media State Issues MT Land Board Acquires Large Property for Public Use 10/26/2022 The Montana Land Board has approved acquiring a new piece of land to become a Wildlife Management Area. In a four-to-one vote, the board acquired more than 5,000 acres, at the base of the Big... Tags: Montana Chapter, access
Media State Issues Weigh In On the Ambler Road By Nov 4 10/25/2022 Another chance to weigh in on the Ambler Road (Deadline: Nov 4) Calling all Alaskan hunters and anglers who value wilderness, caribou, and sheefish! An additional public comment period is open... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues FWP News: Partnership announced to promote hunter behavior 10/19/2022 HELENA – In Montana, good relationships between hunters and landowners are integral to our opportunities, lead to proper wildlife management and ensure that our hunting traditions... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OCTOBER '22 MONTANA ELK UPDATE 10/17/2022 It's 70 degrees today, rifle opener is on the horizon, fall colors are peaking and mountain snow is in the 10-day forecast! Things are changing rapidly in Montana, and elk management is no... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Land Board approves purchase of Big Snowy Mountains Wildlife Management Area 10/17/2022 The Montana Land Board on Monday approved the state’s purchase of a nearly 5,700-acre property in the Big Snowy Mountains north of Ryegate for a new wildlife management area. The board, made up... Tags: Montana Chapter, access
Media State Issues Hunting groups say Rosendale misfired on gun tax repeal 10/14/2022 Pro gun, anti tax. The candidate who takes those positions in a Montana election usually avoids a lot of criticism, but not this year. Hunting groups and the firearms lobby are displeased with... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments on 2022 Elk Management Scoping 10/14/2022 October 14, 2022 Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Attn: Wildlife P.O. Box 200701 Helena, MT 59620-0701 Re: 2022 Elk Management Scoping Comments Director Worsech: The Montana Chapter of... Tags: Montana Chapter, access, habitat
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on Madison River Work Group’s recommended changes 10/14/2022 October 14, 2022 Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission 1420 East Sixth Avenue P.O. Box 200701 Helena, MT 59620 RE: Madison River Work Group’s recommended changes Chair Robinson, Vice Chair... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments on Proposed Holland Lake Expansion 10/8/2022 October 7, 2022 Chris Dowling District Ranger Flathead National Forest All Units 650 Wolfpack Way Kalispell, MT, 59901 christopher.dowling@usda.gov Re: Proposed Holland Lake Expansion... Tags: Montana Chapter, access, habitat
Media Chapter News State Issues Getting High on Cleaning Up Trash 10/5/2022 On September 17th, the Kansas Chapter of BHA helped the Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) to clean up a marijuana growth operation at Perry Lake in Eastern Kansas. In 2014 the FBI along with a host... Tags: Kansas Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Fall '22 Newsletter 10/3/2022 Fall is in the air! Waterfowl is back, fall fishing is in full force, pheasant and rifle antelope begins this weekend, archery and upland seasons continue and some of us are already finding... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Field to Table Fried Heart Strips 10/3/2022 Heart is something my family always overlooked when I was growing up. Like many, we stuck to the classic cuts of meat and didn't utilize organ meat well. My husband changed that when he did a... Tags: Field to Table, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA comments on Elk Management Citizen Advisory Group Recommendations 9/30/2022 Just in time for peak rut, 15 elk-related recommendations were released for public comment from FWP on September 15th. Developed by FWP's hand-selected Elk Management Citizen Advisory Group, the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Proposed Holland Lake Lodge Expansion 9/30/2022 A proposed expansion to Holland Lake Lodge is proving quite controversial. The existing special use permit holders - along with POWDR, a large ski resort operation - are proposing to tear down... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Free Kalispell, Libby clinics to teach hunters how to collect their own CWD samples 9/20/2022 Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) is offering free clinics to teach hunters how to collect lymph node samples from animals to have them tested for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) as hunting... Tags: Montana Chapter, r3
Media Chapter News State Issues Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Rewards OHV Enforcement in Hesperus, CO 9/16/2022 HESPERUS, CO — Backcountry Hunters & Anglers recently issued a reward to a citizen who reported illegal OHV use on Colorado’s public lands. Law enforcement officers from the U.S. Forest Service... Tags: Colorado Chapter, the campfire, OHV
Media State Issues SEPTEMBER '22 MONTANA ELK UPDATE 9/15/2022 We're in the thick of it now! September is here and with each bugle that raises the hairs on our arms, we're reminded why elk and elk hunting are so important to us. So with that, here's an update... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Outdoor groups get stake in elk management lawsuit 9/15/2022 Last week District Court Judge Heather Perry granted a motion from a coalition of outdoor groups allowing them to intervene in a lawsuit filed by a property rights group charging Fish, Wildlife... Tags: Montana Chapter, access
Media State Issues Land deal will increase public access and benefit Shodair 9/12/2022 A plan that's over two years in the making is in its final step. Shodair Children's Hospital was given an almost 6,000-acre plot of land in the Snowy Mountains several years ago. They were given... Tags: Montana Chapter, access, habitat
Media Chapter News State Issues Camp Grayling Expansion in Northern Michigan 9/2/2022 Camp Grayling Expansion A recent proposal by the Michigan National Guard to more than double the amount of public lands leased from the state of Michigan is fast becoming a hot topic for... Tags: Michigan Chapter
Media State Issues Judge allows conservation groups to intervene in elk regulation lawsuit 9/2/2022 A Fergus County district court judge has granted the request of hunting and access groups to intervene in opposition to a lawsuit seeking to overturn Montana elk hunting regulations. Judge... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media Press Releases State Issues Montana Hunting and Conservation Groups Solidify Court Standing in Legal Defense of Elk Management 9/1/2022 News for Immediate ReleaseSept. 1, 2022Contact: Katie McKalip, BHA, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org Sonya Smith, MWF, 406-417-9909, sonya@mtwf.org District court judge... Tags: the campfire, Montana Chapter, press releases
Media Chapter News State Issues Southern California steelhead CESA listing 8/31/2022 It Is Time to Designate Southern California Steelhead as Endangered The story of southern steelhead is a story of concrete and progress, of the forces of human will over the balance of... Tags: policy blog, California Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Don't Forget What Happened Last Session 8/26/2022 Since the 2021 legislative session, there's been a lot of outcry from Montana hunters and anglers. Whether it's our discontent about repeated attempts to privatize elk, a disregard for scientific... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues KY Proposed Turkey Bag Limit Changes Affects Public Land Hunters 8/26/2022 Kentucky Discriminate Against Public Land Wild Turkey Hunters The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) has proposed changes to Spring wild turkey bag limits on public land... Tags: Kentucky Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Votes to Approve Controversial Pheasant Stocking Program 8/25/2022 The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Park (FWP) Fish and Wildlife Commission has voted to approve a controversial new pheasant stocking operation for select public lands in the state. The vote occurred... Tags: Fair Chase, policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Fish and Wildlife Commission approves Big Snowy Mountain land purchase 8/25/2022 In a unanimous vote, the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission on Thursday approved the purchase of 5,677 acres in the foothills of the Big Snowy Mountains, north of Ryegate. The measure must... Tags: Montana Chapter, access, habitat
Media State Issues Commission approves release of pheasants reared at Montana State Prison 8/25/2022 The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission on Thursday approved the release of up to 50,000 pen-raised pheasants annually onto wildlife management areas, adding a stipulation that wildlife managers... Tags: Fair Chase, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Fish & Wildlife August 2022 Meeting 8/22/2022 The Fish and Wildlife Commission is meeting on Thursday, and it's a doozy. Included in the agenda are pen-raised pheasant releases, further delaying outfitter caps on the Madison River, amending... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Time to kill FWP's pheasant stocking 8/22/2022 Checks and balances are a cornerstone of American democracy. This system of controls is also central to managing our fish and wildlife as a public trust resource in Montana. Here, our elected... Tags: Fair Chase, policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Chapter's Cast or Blast Summer Raffle! 8/22/2022 The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is proud to present a "Cast or Blast!" summer raffle! With two packages to choose from, you can snag tickets for one or both, if you're feeling... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments in Support of Upper Thompson Conservation Easement 8/17/2022 August 17, 2022 Rick Northrup Wildlife Habitat Bureau Chief FLP Program Mgr. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks 1420 East 6th Avenue PO Box 200701 Helena, MT 59620 Re: Upper Thompson Conservation... Tags: Montana Chapter, access, habitat
Media State Issues August '22 Montana Elk Update 8/16/2022 We've changed out our field tips and are tuning our broadheads. Archery elk season is just around the corner. Here's what we've been up to related to elk management, elk habitat and elk... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Supports Point of Rocks Acquisition 8/16/2022 August 16, 2022 Lisa Timchak - Forest Supervisor420 Barrett StreetDillon, MT 59725Lisa.timchak@usda.gov RE: Point of Rocks Acquisition On behalf of our roughly 3,000-dues paying members in the Big... Tags: Montana Chapter, access
Media State Issues OPINION: Daines playing DC politics 8/10/2022 My mother, a fourth-generation Montanan, regularly preached “leave it better than you found it.” Now that I’m a father who hunts and fishes on public lands and waters with my family, the reason... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments on Angling Restrictions and Hoot Owl Criteria 8/4/2022 August 4, 2022 Chair Robinson, Vice Chair Tabor, Commissioners Waller, Byorth, Walsh, Cebull & Lane Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks 1420 East Sixth Avenue P.O. Box 200701 Helena, Mt... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Mule Deer in Deschutes County 8/4/2022 By Suzanne Linford Deschutes county is a historical migratory corridor for Mule deer in central Oregon. They migrate in summer to the higher elevations of the eastern Cascades, and they migrate in... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues Mule Deer Take a Back Seat in Deschutes County 8/4/2022 As an avid hunter and conservationist living in Deschutes County for the last 10 years, I have seen firsthand the eye-popping decline in our mule deer herds. ODFW population estimates for the... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues Montana Is on the Brink of Destroying One of Its Most Successful Conservation Programs 8/4/2022 STEEN ANDREASEN is running out of options to keep his central Montana ranch in his family. The 54-year-old is raising his own two sons along with his two nephews on the 23,000-acre family place... Tags: Montana Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues OPINION: Hollow complaints on elk management 8/3/2022 Debby Barrett, former lawmaker from Dillon, is reprimanding Montana FWP for not using more tools to kill more elk in Montana. Pointing to her legislation from nearly 20 years ago, she... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Field to Table Cold Summer Noodles with Venison 8/2/2022 Cold Summer Noodles is a great field to table option for those who are harvesting their own meat and growing a lot of their own seasonal produce. The salad itself is cool and refreshing, plus... Tags: Field to Table, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Rhode Island BHA Joins 2022 Conservation Summit Panel 8/1/2022 Earlier this month Rhode Island’s Land and Water Partnership hosted its 19th annual Conservation Summit in Kingston, RI to hold workshops and discussions on the state’s most pressing conservation... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues A Voice of Reason - Salt River Feral Horse Management 8/1/2022 The following opinion article by Arizona BHA Legislative Director Jason Ceola follows the BHA's Policy Position on the need for science-based sustainably managed populations feral horse and... Tags: Arizona Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues UPDATE - Western Riverside National Wildlife Refuge Act 7/29/2022 Yesterday, Senator's Feinstein (D-CA) and Padilla (D-CA) introduced the Western Riverside National Wildlife Refuge Act, companion legislation to Rep. Calvert (R-CA) & Takano's (D-CA) H.R. 972 The... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments re: Delaying Implementation of Madison River Commercial Use Cap 7/28/2022 July 28, 2022 Chair Robinson, Vice Chair Tabor, Commissioners Waller, Byorth, Walsh, Cebull & Lane Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks 1420 East Sixth Avenue P.O. Box 200701 Helena, Mt 59620-0701 cc:... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho BHA Improves Trail Conditions in the Frank Church Wilderness 7/26/2022 Over the last two summers, the Idaho chapter has been improving trail access in the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. With financial support from Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG), National... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Highlights Thomas Creek Parcels for LWCF Acquisition to the Sanhedrin Wilderness 7/26/2022 Benefits to anadromous fish like steelhead trout, game species and species of special concern make the Thomas Creek parcels a valuable candidate for addition to the Mendocino National Forest's... Tags: California Chapter, access, public lands
Media State Issues Forest Management Bill to Reverse ‘Cottonwood Decision’ Clears Senate Committee 7/24/2022 Billed by Montana’s congressional delegation as a top forest-management priority, a measure to roll back a federal appellate court ruling known as the “Cottonwood Decision” has advanced through a... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana’s Controversial Pheasant Stocking Program Moves Forward 7/23/2022 Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks is moving forward with a controversial program to stock pen-raised pheasants on state-owned lands in an effort to recruit more hunters. FWP is now seeking final... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues July '22 Montana Elk Update 7/22/2022 For the most part, we know our draw results and our fall hunting plans are beginning to take shape. Even though we're six weeks away from archery opener, elk still dominate the news here in... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments On Final Pheasant Stocking Commission Approval 7/21/2022 July 21, 2022 Chair Robinson, Vice Chair Tabor, Commissioners Waller, Byorth, Walsh, Cebull & Lane Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks 1420 East Sixth Avenue P.O. Box 200701 Helena, Mt... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments In Support of Big Snowy Mountains WMA Acquisition 7/21/2022 July 21, 2022 Chair Robinson, Vice Chair Tabor, Commissioners Waller, Byorth, Walsh, Cebull & Lane Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks 1420 East Sixth Avenue P.O. Box 200701 Helena, Mt... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Privatizing Public Elk 7/21/2022 Photos: Erik Peterson "The movement for the conservation of wildlife and the larger movement for the conservation of all our natural resources are essentially democratic in spirit, purpose,... Tags: the campfire, Montana Chapter, Backcountry Journal, issues
Media Chapter News State Issues Oklahoma HB 3280 Dies In The Senate 7/21/2022 For the 3rd consecutive year the Oklahoma Legislature has attempted to limit public land percentages, while also trying to impose government overreach into the rights of private land owners. The... Tags: policy blog, Oklahoma Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments on Habitat Lease Conservation Agreements 7/21/2022 July 21, 2022 Chair Robinson, Vice Chair Tabor, Commissioners Waller, Byorth, Walsh, Cebull & Lane Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks 1420 East Sixth Avenue P.O. Box 200701 Helena, Mt... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues Bill overturning 'Cottonwood' decision advances 7/21/2022 With a temporary measure set to sunset next year, a bill that would permanently reverse an appellate court’s decision on when federal agencies must consult on endangered species advanced from a... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Pick or choose: Montana hunters lose 7/20/2022 FWP's elk advisory group has proposed many productive ideas regarding shoulder seasons, the hunt roster, new approaches to block management and improving hunter behavior. But their proposal to... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Reroute: Coalition appeals ruling over Crazy Mountains public access rights to Ninth Circuit 7/19/2022 A coalition of conservation and sporting groups are appealing a federal district court judge’s decision over public access rights in the Crazy Mountains, the organizations announced last... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Black River WMA: Digging Into Public Waterfowl Hunting in Arkansas 7/18/2022 Earlier this spring a concerned member contacted our board with a question about Dave Donaldson Black River Wildlife Management Area in Northeast Arkansas. With all the news and publicity... Tags: public lands, Arkansas Chapter
Media State Issues Comment now on Hudson Canyon sanctuary designation 7/18/2022 The Hudson Canyon sits roughly 100 miles offshore from New Jersey. Throughout history it has played an economic, environmental, commercial, and recreational role by providing pristine habitat for... Tags: New Jersey Chapter, policy blog
Media State Issues FWP pheasant stocking program moving forward, despite opposition 7/15/2022 Birds will soon hit the ground under a Fish, Wildlife and Parks program aimed at increasing the number of youth hunters by stocking pen-raised pheasants on state-owned land across Montana,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Press Releases State Issues Montana BHA Cheers USFWS Establishment of Lost Trail Conservation Area 7/13/2022 News for Immediate Release July 13, 2022 Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org Multi-use nature of Lost Trail property will conserve wildlife habitat and... Tags: policy blog, the campfire, Montana Chapter, press releases
Media State Issues PA BHA: Game Commission should oversee deer shooting operations 7/13/2022 The Pennsylvania Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers joins the National Deer Association in calling for the regulatory oversight of the 723 captive deer shooting facilities to be... Tags: Fair Chase, Pennsylvania Chapter, policy blog
Media State Issues American Prairie opens 9,300 acres of new Musselshell ranch to hunters this fall 7/13/2022 American Prairie has announced that access to 9,300 acres of its newly acquired ranch along the Musselshell River will be open to hunters this fall through the state Block Management... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments on MT FWP Proposed Habitat Conservation Lease Agreements 7/13/2022 July 13, 2022 Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks c/o Ken McDonald P.O. Box 200701 Helena, MT 59620 RE: Habitat Conservation Lease Agreements EA Dear Mr. McDonald, I’m submitting this letter... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Supports Mt. Haggin WMA Addition to Land Board 7/12/2022 July 12, 2022 Governor Gianforte Attorney General Knudsen Commissioner Downing Secretary of State Jacobsen Superintendent Arntzen CC: Secretary Christensen landboard@mt.gov RE: Willow... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA responds to 'pick your weapon/season' proposal 7/12/2022 FWP's elk advisory group deserves our thanks for their sincere, well-intended efforts to improve elk management in Montana. On July 7th, members forwarded a recommendation to 'pick your... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Montanans expect more from FWP 7/10/2022 With the former bureau chief of licensing and his 17 years’ experience now leading Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, we're left surprised and disappointed in how FWP's drawings and regulations have... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on River Highlands development 7/7/2022 July 7, 2022 Columbia Falls Planning Board Columbia Falls City Council c/o City Clerk 130 6th Street West, Columbia Falls, MT 59912 staalandb@cityofcolumbiafalls.com Columbia Falls Planning... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Why we want to keep elk public 7/1/2022 In their latest attempt to dismantle public elk hunting throughout the Big Sky State, the United Property Owners of Montana, a group representing wealthy, out-of-state interests and some resident... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues MT BHA Summer 2022 Newsletter 6/29/2022 The high country is beckoning and Hike to Hunt is in full force! Here's a summer update from your Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers! Q2 Recap Elk hunting in Montana is under... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Nation's Largest Private Landowner Closes Public Access due to Wildfire Risk 6/28/2022 Sierra Pacific Industries (SPI) is a forest products company that owns 2.3 million acres of land across California, Oregon and Washington. They are the largest private land owner in California... Tags: California Chapter, access
Media Chapter News State Issues W.VA. Monongahela National Forest Receives Funding 6/27/2022 West Virginia is beginning to feel the effects of the Great American Outdoors act with $6Million dollars going to help with deferred maintenance at the Monongahela National Forest! The money... Tags: policy blog, West Virginia Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues It's time to modernize PA's antlerless license system 6/26/2022 Whether by working to ensure walk-in-access to our favorite hunting spots or breaking down barriers to recruit new hunters, BHA PA strives to improve access and opportunity for hunters throughout... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, policy blog
Media State Issues Wildlife commission OKs free elk tags for 28 landowners under revised process 6/22/2022 Thirty-seven landowners will be awarded 47 free elk hunting tags only good on their property during this fall’s hunting season under a newly devised process, the Fish and Wildlife Commission... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Commission Comments June '22 6/22/2022 These comments were delivered on June 22nd during the Fish & Wildlife Commission meeting in Helena, MT. Madam Chair and members of the Commission, good morning, my name is Thomas Baumeister. I... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Field to Table A Montana Moment: Montana BHA's 2022 Wild Game Cookoff Recipe 6/21/2022 Elk Meatballs with Huckleberry-Jalapeno Jam and Labneh, Sauteed Morels and Wild Asparagus, Flathead Cherry and Huckleberry Crisp and a Midnight Forest Bourbon Cherry-Basil Smash Building... Tags: Field to Table, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Conservation groups, FWP disagree over defense against elk regulation lawsuit 6/19/2022 In the weeks following the filing of a lawsuit seeking to have Montana’s elk hunting regulations overturned, both the state and conservation groups have sought to oppose the litigation while... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues A Flood of Support for Father's Day 6/17/2022 As we head into Father's Day weekend, it's impossible to ignore all who are hurting in Montana right now due to this week's historic floods. Below is a list of gift ideas that will stoke out dad,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Recreation Rivers Public Scoping Process Begins 6/17/2022 On July 15th, the first of four public scoping workshops to determine changes to the Susitna Basin Recreation Rivers Management Plan was held in Talkeetna. There will be three additional public... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues June '22 Montana Elk Update 6/17/2022 We've been busy shooting our bows, hitting the rifle range, doing some preseason scouting and watching our freezers empty one package of elk steaks at a time. Elk are on the mind, and we're not... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Can prison-farmed pheasants save hunting? 6/16/2022 A spring day in the Bitterroot Valley’s Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge brings a cacophony of birdsong. The bugling of sandhill cranes, the familiar honking of Canadian geese, and the throaty... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Massachusetts Hunting Regulatory Amendments - Hunting Hours on WMAs & Small Game 6/14/2022 Take Action Now! For the past few months, we have been excited to share that MassWildlife will be moving forward on several of our regulatory priorities. These include ending hunting hour... Tags: New England Chapter, policy blog
Media State Issues Is Headwaters Legacy Act 'far-sighted' or 'federal overreach'? 6/10/2022 For the past two years, Sen. Jon Tester has led an effort to extend federal protections to some of the most loved free-flowing rivers and streams in Montana. If signed into law, Tester’s “Montana... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Endorses Petition to Restore Historic Fishing Access to Surf Beach 6/10/2022 The California Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers urges the California Fish & Game Commission to adopt the regulation change proposed by the city of Lompoc to modify the Vandenberg State... Tags: AFI Comms Channel, California Chapter, access, Public Waters Access
Media State Issues Why do we want to Keep Elk Public? 6/10/2022 1. Why did Montana hunting and conservation groups formally file to intervene in the lawsuit by United Property Owners of Montana? The coalition’s members – Montana-based hunting and... Tags: the campfire, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Private property group alleges FWP fails to manage elk; sportspeople seek to intervene 6/10/2022 A lawsuit alleging Fish, Wildlife and Parks is failing to manage elk seeks “a radical departure” from the law and from an earlier court decision about the status of wildlife in Montana, according... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Report: 8.3M acres of public land in limbo due to questions over legality of corner crossing 6/9/2022 Access to 8.3 million acres of public land in 11 western states is in limbo due to questions over the legality of crossing from one corner of public land to another, known as corner crossing. The... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Working together: New trail will open up thousands of acres of Bitterroot Forest lands 6/2/2022 It’s not every day when private, county, state and federal folks come together to open up thousands of acres of public access for hikers, bikers and horseback riders. On Sunday, many of those... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Avian influenza outbreak stirs concerns over Montana pheasant release 6/2/2022 As June arrives, the U.S. poultry industry is breathing a sigh of relief that the worst of the most recent outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) appears to be over. HPAI is a highly... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Vanishing Trails, Part 1: The Battle For One of the West's Most Beloved Mountain Ranges 5/31/2022 “Vanishing Trails” is a series of articles about prescriptive easements and public access in Montana. On October 21, 2021, during a Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources hearing, New... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues CO BHA Comments on Hidden Lakes Trail Proposal 5/27/2022 The attached letter authored by Colorado Chapter Leader Craig Grother and Policy and Government Relations Director John Gale was sent to the Telluride Mountain Club regarding mountain biking trail... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Coalition renews request for fisheries task force as drought worsens 5/26/2022 For the second year, a conservation coalition is asking Montana’s governor to create a task force to protect the struggling streams and fisheries of southwestern Montana. With the current drought... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues FWP advisory council spars over free landowner elk tags 5/26/2022 To reduce elk populations on private lands in Montana, landowners need to be given incentives to allow public hunters onto their property, Eric Albus said last week. “I want to see elk killed to... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Groups, businesses double down on request for cold water fisheries task force in Montana 5/26/2022 A coalition of conservation organizations and fly-fishing businesses are doubling down on efforts to compel Montana’s governor to form a cold water fisheries task force. Upper Missouri... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Game wardens seek information about illegal turkey killing 5/25/2022 Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks game wardens are seeking information on a person of interest suspected in illegally killing a turkey south of Roundup around 5:30 p.m. May 2. According to the game... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Tell the EPA to Protect Bristol Bay Permanently 5/25/2022 For decades, the Pebble Mine has loomed over Alaska’s Bristol Bay, threatening fish, wildlife, and the people that call this watershed home. In November, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)... Tags: policy blog, the campfire, Alaska Chapter, Public Waters Access
Media State Issues “Bulls for Billionaires.” Are Montana’s 454 Permits a Step Toward Privatizing the State’s Elk Herd? 5/23/2022 On the face of it, the deal that billionaire Dan Wilks got last fall from Montana’s Fish, Wildlife & Parks Department last fall was underwhelming. Wilks, the non-resident owner of one of Montana’s... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues MT BHA Responds to Reassignment of MT FWP's Wildlife Division Chief 5/20/2022 Earlier this week news broke that longtime FWP’s Wildlife Division Chief, Ken McDonald, has been “assigned different responsibilities.” This seems to fit a recent pattern of demotions,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Awarded $165K for Post-fire Rehabilitation and Connectivity in California 5/19/2022 The California Chapter of BHA is thrilled to receive over $165,000 in funding from the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation for our Hallelujah Junction Wildlife Area Post-Fire Rehabilitation and... Tags: stewardship blog, California Chapter, stewardship, habitat
Media State Issues Montana Property Owners File Lawsuit to Force FWP to “Remove, Harvest, or Eliminate Thousands of Elk” 5/17/2022 A lawsuit filed in April by a group of Montana property owners accuses wildlife officials of breaking a state law that requires elk populations to be maintained at sustainable levels, squandering... Tags: policy blog, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Bird flu discovered in wild turkeys for first time ever 5/16/2022 Wildlife managers across the country are wondering what’s next after a deadly strain of bird flu was discovered in wild turkey flocks for the first time ever. “Highly pathogenic avian influenza”... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Pheasant chicks hatching at Montana State Prison as state grapples with avian flu protections 5/12/2022 The first crop of pheasant chicks are hatching at Montana State Prison’s new rearing program, as wildlife managers offer assurances that safety measures are in place given the recent outbreak of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues 2022 Idaho Legislative Recap 5/10/2022 The Idaho Legislature officially adjourned on March 31, 2022, capping off an 81-day session. As in every year, multiple bills were introduced in the legislature during this session that... Tags: Idaho Chapter, policy blog
Media State Issues Colorado Chapter Engages on GPS Points Bill 5/6/2022 Senate Bill 22-169, "Sensitive Species Data And Public Records: Concerning the nondisclosure of sensitive species information under the "Colorado Open Records Act" is an important bill that will... Tags: Fair Chase, Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Timing of FWP's pen-raised pheasants plan is bad 5/6/2022 On April 18, FWP announced that a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus was detected in wild birds and at domestic poultry farms in Montana. In its cautionary release, FWP explained that... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on the 'Pheasant Release for R3' 5/5/2022 These comments were submitted in response to the proposal to release 'Pheasants for R3' in front of the Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission. You can learn more and comment yourself here. May 5,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Logan Shooting Area Clean Up 5/3/2022 The rain was coming down steadily during the drive from Belgrade to Logan on the morning of May 1, 2022. Not a downpour, but enough that it could make for a long day and possibly deter folks less... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Cleanup planned for state land near Logan 4/30/2022 State trust land by the Logan Landfill has become popular for recreational target shooting, but increasingly, users have left behind trash, spent shells and target waste. That’s why the Montana... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Staying Safe in Bear Country 4/28/2022 Quietly hiking up a steep section of trail, a loud crack of a branch broke the silence. "That’s a big animal," I thought. A rush came over me like a rocky mountain freight train as I quickly... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Fence Pull on the CMR 4/26/2022 MT BHAers are known to brave any kind of weather to get the job done for our public lands. Despite threats of rain, snow and howling winds, a small but mighty crew of eight dedicated public land... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Benefactors aid children's hospital with land donations; recreationists could also benefit 4/21/2022 In 1881, a 19-year-old Louis Shodair stepped off a stagecoach in Helena, a small mining community only two years older than him. He arrived with his mother, widowed when Louis was 8, to care for... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Free landowner elk permit process OK'd, deadline to apply moved back to June 1 4/19/2022 Citing a short timeline for notifying participants, the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission on Tuesday approved a deadline change and a new process for landowners to apply for free either-sex elk... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues FWP outlines proposed new policy for free landowner elk tags 4/13/2022 New guidelines and timelines for Montana landowners to apply for a free either-sex elk hunting tag will go before the Fish and Wildlife Commission for approval on April 19. Prior to that, the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Responds to '454' Program Changes 4/13/2022 We have long encouraged FWP to improve the 454 agreements, including most recently at March’s EQC meeting and in an oped published by one of our board members, Jake Schwaller. Some of our... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues March/April 2022 Wisconsin BHA Newsletter 4/13/2022 Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Supports Acquisition of Cornell Park FAS 4/12/2022 April 12, 2022 Jay Pape Regional Maintenance Manager 1400 South 19th Ave Bozeman, MT 59718 RE: Acquisition & Development of Cornell FAS Dear Mr. Pape, The Montana Chapter of Backcountry... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Alaska BHA Comments on USFS Cube Cove Restoration Proposal 4/12/2022 Whitewater Bay on Admiralty Island. Credit, USFS. In January of 2020 the United States Forest Service completed the purchase of 22,890 acres on Admiralty Island in the vicinity of Cube Cove.... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Wisconsin Positions on Wisconsin Conservation Congress 2022 Spring Questionnaire 4/11/2022 Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Help Legalize Sunday Hunting on Public Lands in South Carolina 4/5/2022 Ask your South Carolina State Legislators to support HB 4614; Sunday Hunting on Wildlife Management Areas. While Sunday hunting is legal on private land, hunters are still prohibited from hunting... Tags: public lands, South Carolina Chapter, Southeast Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA 2022 Q1 Newsletter 4/4/2022 The skwalas are out and we're just 11 days from turkey and black bear opener; spring is definitely in the air! As we wrap up the first quarter or 2022, here's a quick recap of what the Montana... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues 'No Net Loss' Bill Passes in Georgia: Keeps Public Lands Open for Hunting 4/4/2022 ATLANTA — On April 4, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp signed the No Net Loss bill, which amended Georgia law in order to prevent any net loss of acreage available for hunting on state-owned land... Tags: public lands, Southeast Chapter, Georgia Chapter
Media State Issues Location is Everything for EPLUS 4/4/2022 Fifth in a series Many private landowners in New Mexico with elk on their property are eligible to participate in EPLUS. Not all of them qualify – they first have to exhibit verifiable benefits... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Federal Issues State Issues Issue 4 4/4/2022 Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Aenean euismod bibendum laoreet. Proin gravida dolor sit amet lacus accumsan et viverra justo commodo. Proin sodales pulvinar sic tempor.... Tags: Access & Opportunity, Public Lands & Waters, Fair Chase
Media State Issues Judge upholds magistrate's findings on Crazy Mountain access dispute 4/1/2022 Crazy Mountain access proponents suffered another defeat on Wednesday after U.S. District Court Judge Susan P. Watters adopted “in full” a February ruling by U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J.... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Oregon Chapter Opposes Thornburgh Resort Proposal 3/31/2022 What's proposed? 1,425 dwelling units, including 900+ permanent, 425 overnight and 50 room Hotel. Three 18-hole golf courses 20 Acre water ski lake Ten-fold increase in vehicle traffic on Highway... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media Chapter News State Issues Feather River Closure Lifted in California 3/31/2022 Just a week and a half after BHA and partner organizations submitted a coalition letter (led by American Whitewater) to the Forest Supervisor for the Plumas National Forest, a 2 year long closure... Tags: California Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Compiles Scientific Data in Report to CDFW on Bear Ban Petition 3/31/2022 The following is a tremendous effort put forth by California BHA board member, Jonathan Fusaro, to compile a thorough report to CDFW regarding the HSUS petition to ban bear hunting in California.... Tags: California Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Water for Sheep 3/31/2022 Photo: Brian Schwab, SCBS BHA’s California chapter, Armed Forces Initiative and the Marines team up to save bighorn sheep BY EVAN NORDSTROM While the devastating fires of the Western... Tags: the campfire, AFI Comms Channel, Backcountry Journal, California Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Big Snowy Mountains WMA Acquisition 3/30/2022 To learn more about this proposal, read FWP's release here or the entire Environmental Assessment here; we encourage members to submit their own comments by emailing fwpregion5pc@mt.gov and using... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CA Bill SB865 to Increase Junior Hunting License Eligibility 3/28/2022 A junior hunting license offers young people the opportunity to participate in numerous high quality “apprentice” hunting activities offered by DFW and nonprofit wildlife conservation groups. By... Tags: California Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Take Action to Recover and Protect Atlantic Striped Bass 3/26/2022 In early May the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) will convene for their spring meeting, at which time we’re expected to see their Atlantic Striped Bass Board finalize Amendment... Tags: New England Chapter, the campfire
Media Chapter News State Issues Striped Bass Conservation: Amendment 7 Priorities 3/23/2022 UPDATE: Click here for a complete guide on how you can take action and protect the future of striped bass! In early May the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) will convene for... Tags: New England Chapter, New York Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Comments to EQC on 454 Agreements 3/22/2022 Montana BHA delivered comments via Zoom during March 22's Environmental Quality Council meeting regarding the Public Elk Hunting Access Agreements. Below are our comments, delivered by Montana BHA... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Massachusetts S.507 & S.508 Update 3/19/2022 The Massachusetts State Leadership Team was disappointed to learn that S.507, An Act Addressing Noise Issues of Migratory GameHunters Near Coastal Dwellings, accompanied with S.508, An Act... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues Forest Service defends cutting access to Mont. trails 3/18/2022 The Forest Service is defending a federal judge's decision last month that recommended the dismissal of a 2019 lawsuit by hunting and angling groups that accused the agency of failing to protect... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues New Pine Tree agreement benefits public and wildlife 3/18/2022 We didn’t really need a reason to celebrate on St. Patrick’s Day, but public land hunters in Arkansas can raise a toast to a long-term management agreement for the Pine Tree Research Station... Tags: the campfire, Arkansas Chapter, keepitpublic
Media State Issues Alaska BHA Comments on WSA21-01 3/16/2022 Public Hearing on WSA21-01 on Monday, March 21st from 3pm-6pm Alaska Time. Call: 1-800-779-2712 Passcode: 5653753 Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments on Proposed 2022/2023 Mountain Lion Regulations 3/16/2022 March 16, 2022 Wildlife Division Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks PO Box 200701 Helena, MT 59620-0701 fwpwld@mt.gov Re: Comments on Proposed 2022-23 Mountain Lion Regulations The Montana... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues TAKE ACTION: Let's Fix the 454 public elk hunting access agreements 3/16/2022 On March 22, the Environmental Quality Council (EQC) will meet to discuss the Contractual Public Elk Hunting Access Agreements, commonly knows as '454 agreements.' Made infamous last fall by... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Book Cliffs Highway Application Withdrawn 3/15/2022 Last week, in a 4-3 commissioner vote, the Seven County Infrastructure Coalition (SCIC) opted to withdraw its application from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to build a highway through the... Tags: Utah Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Support 'No Net Loss' in Georgia 3/11/2022 The Georgia Chapter supports the No Net Loss Bill currently working its way through the Georgia legislature. House Bill 1349 would amend the Official Code of Georgia Annotated to prevent any net... Tags: Southeast Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Let's fix the 454 public elk hunting access agreements 3/9/2022 Since the now-infamous program was discovered by wealthy, out-of-state landowners like the Texas-based Wilks Brothers, FWP's public elk hunting access agreements have become a point of great... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on BLM Dillon Field Office RMP Evaluation 3/7/2022 March 7, 2022 Amanda James, Field ManagerBLM Dillon Field Office1005 Selway DriveDillon, MT 59725 Re: Comments on BLM Dillon FO 15-Year RMP Evaluation Dear Ms. James: On behalf of roughly 3,000... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues MT BHA's 'Fill Your Freezer' Raffle Package 3/7/2022 The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers presents a 'Fill-Your-Freezer' raffle package! We're bringing you 75-85 pounds of delicious, grassfed, field-harvested, Montana bison, cut and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Supports Thompson Chain of Lakes Conservation Easement 3/4/2022 March 4, 2022 Chris Hammond | chammond@mt.govMontana Fish, Wildlife & Parks490 North Meridian RoadKalispell, MT 59901 RE: Montana BHA Supports the Proposed Conservation Easement for 113,000... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Show Your Support for Public Land Hunting and Fishing in Iowa 3/3/2022 Iowa hunters and anglers rely on quality public land hunting and fishing opportunities to sustain their outdoor traditions – and Iowa Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is dedicated to protecting those... Tags: Iowa Chapter
Media State Issues West Susitna Access Road 3/2/2022 UPDATE- AIDEA FILED FOR THEIR 404C PERMIT WITH THE ARMY CORP OF ENGINEERS ON MAY 24TH. ALASKA BHA WILL KEEP OUR MEMBERS APPRISED OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT! Alaska BHA recently asked... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues Loss of hunting or fishing access unacceptable at Delaware Water Gap 3/2/2022 The following is a joint statement by the Pennsylvania and New Jersey Chapters of BHA: The Pennsylvania and New Jersey Chapters of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers are dedicated to the protection of... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, New Jersey Chapter
Media State Issues Fight for Good Management of Kentucky's Fish and Wildlife 3/1/2022 Thank you, Sportsmen and Women of Kentucky! We had another big win this week when Representative Massey withdrew HB 395 as a show of good will in response to our efforts. Additionally, Senator... Tags: Kentucky Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Supports Mt. Haggin WMA Adjacent Land Acquisition 3/1/2022 March 1, 2022 Marina Yoshioka, Montana FWP Region 3 SupervisorMontana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks1820 Meadowlark LaneButte, MT 59701 RE: Acquisition of 829-Acre Parcel Adjacent to Mt. Haggin... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues February 2022 Wisconsin BHA Newsletter 3/1/2022 Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues Protecting the Rogue 3/1/2022 Photo provided by Dan Van Dyke,District Fish Biologist for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife On February 16th, the Oregon Chapter hosted Dan Van Dyke, the District Fish Biologist for the... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media Chapter News State Issues Support for Federal Appropriation for Adding Public Land in Vermont 2/23/2022 The VT State Team of BHA recently submitted comments to Senator Leahy, with copies to other state and federal decision makers, in support of a federal appropriation to add to United States Fish... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues Could closing four Mont. trails cut off access elsewhere? 2/23/2022 A federal judge issued a blow to hunting and fishing advocates in Montana on Friday, recommending the dismissal of a lawsuit that accuses the Forest Service of failing to protect public access to... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues SF 2312 and Iowa BHA: How We're Responding to an Attack on Public Access 2/23/2022 Iowa BHA continues to closely monitor the legislative progress of SF 2312 (formerly SSB 3134). The bill is a direct threat to the ability of the State to acquire more public land by implementing... Tags: Iowa Chapter
Media State Issues Federal judge sides with Forest Service in Crazy Mountains access lawsuit 2/22/2022 The federal magistrate judge considering a lawsuit over the Forest Service’s handling of access disputes in the Crazy Mountains has issued a preliminary order favorable to Forest Service... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho BHA supports the Priest River Project 2/22/2022 Idaho BHA has joined with a range of other conservation organizations on the Priest River Project. The Priest River remains a relatively unknown fishery in North Idaho, compared to its more... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments in Opposition to Pen-Raised Pheasant Releases 2/22/2022 Deb O’Neill Special Projects Director Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks PO Box 200701 Helena, MT 59620 doneill@mt.gov RE: Programmatic Pheasant Release EA Comments Dear Ms. O’Neill: The Montana... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues In Crazy Mountains lawsuit, judge recommends ruling against trail access advocates 2/21/2022 In a blow to public access advocates that has drawn national attention, a federal court judge has recommended ruling in favor of the Custer Gallatin National Forest and private landowners on the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Take Action in Massachusetts! 2/18/2022 Thanks to the hard work of the Massachusetts State Leadership Team and BHA’s Massachusetts membership, with the help of hunters, anglers, as well as other hunting and fishing organizations, we... Tags: New England Chapter, Massachusetts Chapter
Media State Issues Help Stop Legislation to Expand OHV Use on State Lands 2/17/2022 West Virginia Backcountry Hunters and Anglers needs you to stand up for our public lands! A series of bills have been introduced for a comprehensive motorized recreation program on our public... Tags: access, West Virginia Chapter, OHV
Media Chapter News State Issues Support HB 1147 and Year-round Hunting and Trapping of Raccoons and Possums 2/17/2022 The Georgia Chapter board supports Georgia House Bill 1147. This bill will allow for year-round hunting and trapping of raccoons and possums. These animals are notorious nest predators and... Tags: Southeast Chapter
Media State Issues Is Hunter Recruitment Really Hurting Hunting Opportunity in the West? Here’s One R3 Coordinator’s Take 2/16/2022 DJ and I rumbled down the dusty, wash-boarded road en route to where we planned to camp for the opening weekend of Montana’s rifle season. We passed glammed-out campers, generator-powered chest... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues 26 NGO's Band Together for Bear Hunting in California 2/15/2022 A resounding coalition of NGO's has rallied around the following letter from the Bear Management Subcommittee of the Hunting and Conservation Coalition. This thoroughly researched and... Tags: California Chapter, container
Media Chapter News State Issues California BHA Comments on Pathways to 30x30 2/15/2022 The California Natural Resources Agency recently released the draft "Pathways to 30x30" document and has solicited public comment. (From the Pathways to 30 by 30 draft) "In October 2020, Governor... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues 2022 West Virginia Legislative Session Update 2/15/2022 The 2022 West Virginia legislative session is at the halfway mark. We’ve been following the action to ensure that we can speak up for our chapter’s interests where needed. We have identified a... Tags: West Virginia Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues New England BHA Renews Legislation to Protect Rhode Island’s Wild Deer 2/14/2022 The New England Chapter of BHA has introduced legislation in the RI General Assembly that if passed would protect Rhode Island’s wildlife, and in particular our wild deer. Introduced by Rep. Scott... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments to Expand Hunting at Fort Peck 2/14/2022 February 14, 2022 US Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha DistrictOperations Division, Natural Resources Section1616 Capitol Ave.Omaha, NE 68102 RE: Scoping Comments Fort Peck Project Master Plan Dear... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA responds to 2022/23 season-setting regulations 2/11/2022 Here's a recap on some of the statewide season-setting proposals that were decided on during last week's Fish & Wildlife Commission meeting. Overall, we were pleased with some of the discussions... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Rhode Island Winter News 2/11/2022 With the Rhode Island legislative session in full swing and DEM’s hunting & fishing annual regulatory process right around the corner we’ve been working hard to ensure the voices of hunters and... Tags: New England Chapter, Rhode Island BHA
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Opposes Narrative Water Standards by MTDEQ 2/8/2022 February 8th, 2022 To Montana Department of Environmental Quality: Montana BHA on behalf of our 3,000+ dues-paying members continue to oppose the requested implementation of SB 358 via the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Maine Backcountry - Winter 2022 2/8/2022 Welcome to the inaugural edition of a quarterly update from Maine Backcountry Hunters and Anglers. Our goal is to provide highlights of current news on the policy front, preview coming events and... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Protect the Yanahli WMA 2/7/2022 Public wildlife management areas (WMAs) managed by the state agency are a valuable asset to Tennesseans and Tennessee’s rural economies, and Yanahli is one of the state’s most popular. Hunters... Tags: public lands, Tennessee Chapter, keepitpublic
Media State Issues Help Repeal Ban on Sunday Hunting on Public Lands in SC 2/7/2022 Tags: public lands, South Carolina Chapter, keepitpublic
Media State Issues Arkansas' Pine Tree Research Station Will Stay Open to Public Hunting 2/7/2022 A major victory for public lands hunting access was notched last week in the Arkansas Capitol as the attempted sale of the Pine Tree Research Station was closed down. "To put it succinctly,... Tags: the campfire, access, Arkansas Chapter, keepitpublic
Media State Issues Texas wildlife officials launch recovery initiatives for coastal fisheries after major 2021 winter storm 2/7/2022 Winter Storm Uri made headlines across the nation when it slammed into the State of Texas in February 2021. Unfortunately, the storm devastated our Texas coast, killing a minimum estimate of 3.9... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Maine 2021 Policy Roundup 2/7/2022 2021 was the first year of the biennial session of the Legislature and a busy one for the Maine BHA policy team. In addition to the big $40 million Land for Maine’s Future win, volunteers worked... Tags: New England Chapter, Maine
Media State Issues Montana elk season proposal approved to the disappointment of many 2/5/2022 Ending a chaotic public process lasting six months, the Fish, Wildlife & Parks commission voted in favor of several big changes to Montana’s elk and deer seasons, including limiting hunters to... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission adopts new elk hunting regulations — with amendments 2/4/2022 Hunters will have new regulations for taking elk in the 2022-23 seasons, but the changes won’t be as dramatic as earlier proposed with an amended and unanimously approved update Friday by the Fish... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Wildlife commission adopts elk regulation changes 2/4/2022 Elk regulations for the next two years are set following a marathon meeting of the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission on Friday that saw commissioners navigate widespread confusion and temper... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Clarity, finally, in the Crazy Mountains 2/4/2022 The long-simmering debate over public access finally had a hearing in court earlier this month. We take no joy in filing lawsuits; this is always our least preferred option to settle conflicts.... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues The Custer Gallatin National Forest’s new guiding doc 2/4/2022 After six years and tens of thousands of public comments, one of the largest and most popular national forests in the Northern Rockies has a new forest plan to guide its management for the next 15... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Controversial elk hunting regs on Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission agenda Friday 2/3/2022 If elk were dimwitted and equally distributed across Montana, setting rules for hunting them might be easier. But the ungulates can apparently figure out where to elude bullets and arrows, and in... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho BHA Comments on H0507 2/3/2022 On February 1, House Bill No. 507 was introduced by the Idaho House Resources and Conservation Committee. The bill pertains to archery equipment and would make it legal for lighted nocks and... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues 2022 Utah Legislative Session is Underway 2/3/2022 The Utah Legislative Session commenced January 18, 2022 and will extend through March 4, 2022. During this time, members of the Utah State Legislature convene to revise old or consider new state... Tags: Utah Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Opposes Proposed Bear Hunting Closure 2/2/2022 Stand up for black bear hunting in California! The Fish & Game Commission in California will be considering a petition (2021-027) to eliminate the open hunting season for black bear at the next... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Can Landowners Really Not Hunt Their Own Land? 2/2/2022 With all this madness surrounding elk management in Montana lately, and with likely more to come in the days ahead, we keep hearing the director at Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Hank Worsech,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues CWD on Oregon's Doorstep 2/1/2022 Photo Credit: Idaho Fish and Game Just four months from the addition of new rules to help prevent CWD from entering Idaho, the news that Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) had been found in western... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media Chapter News State Issues Arizona BHA Opposes Resolution That Would Put Habitat Conservation On the Back Burner 2/1/2022 Recently a proposed concurrent resolution has been introduced in Arizona (HCR 2024) that opposes a global initiative to conserve 30% of our land and water resources by the year 2030. Commonly... Tags: Arizona Chapter, public lands
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Opposes Adopting Lower Selenium Standards for Lake Koocanusa 1/27/2022 Montana State Legislature 2021 - 2022 Water Policy Interim Committee Members Attn: Jason Mohr, Legislative Staff Researcher RE: HJ 37: Study of selenium standard for Lake Koocanusa Dear Sen.... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues FWP to draft elk plan after elk season changes 1/27/2022 Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will draft a new elk management plan by fall, so some hunters question the need to pass such drastic season changes now. FWP leadership spent two days this week... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Insanity in the Crazies 1/27/2022 A potentially dangerous precedent is playing out in a federal district court in Montana, where hunters, anglers and public lands users of all stripes have launched a Hail Mary in order to protect... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Wisconsin BHA addresses package of 'Freedom Bills' 1/26/2022 Tags: featured, container, Wisconsin Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues January 2022 Wisconsin BHA Newsletter 1/26/2022 Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues 11 Ways BHA Chapters Are Working on Public Access to Your Public Lands & Waters Right Now 1/26/2022 Quality public hunting and fishing access consistently tops the list of issues outdoorsmen and women expect Backcountry Hunters & Anglers to help tackle. The need for recreational access only... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, the campfire, Montana Chapter, New Mexico Chapter, California Chapter, Wyoming Chapter, public lands, Oregon Blog, West Virginia Chapter, Mid-Atlantic Chapter, Tennessee Chapter, Capital News, Rhode Island BHA, Mississippi News
Media Chapter News State Issues CA Chapter Comments on Proposed Chumash National Marine Sanctuary Designation 1/25/2022 The following reflects the comments of the California Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers to NOAA regarding the proposed Chumash National Marine Sanctuary Designation. January 25, 2022 RE:... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho BHA submits comment letter on Harris Ranch LWCF Acquisition 1/22/2022 The Bureau of Land Management recently held a comment period for the potential acquisition of a 275-acre ranch in the Treasure Valley. The ranch was offered for sale to the BLM by the Alta... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues 2022/2023 Season Setting - Montana BHA Comments on Region 3 Deer and Elk Proposals 1/21/2022 January 21, 2022 Chair Robinson, Vice Chair Tabor, Commissioners Waller, Byorth, Walsh, Cebull & LaneMontana Fish Wildlife & Parks1420 East Sixth AvenueP.O. Box 200701 Helena, Mt... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Land Swap in the South Crazy Mountains Completed 1/20/2022 A land swap between the Forest Service and two ranches at the southern end of the Crazy Mountains has officially closed. The Custer Gallatin National Forest has completed the South Crazy Land... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues 2022/2023 Season Setting - Montana BHA Comments on Proposed Elk Regulation Changes 1/19/2022 January 19, 2022 Chair Robinson, Vice Chair Tabor, Commissioners Waller, Byorth, Walsh, Cebull & LaneMontana Fish Wildlife & Parks1420 East Sixth AvenueP.O. Box 200701 Helena, Mt... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues 2022/2023 Season Setting - Montana BHA Comments in Opposition to Eliminating 240-50 Mule Deer Wilderness Permit 1/19/2022 January 19, 2022 Chair Robinson, Vice Chair Tabor, Commissioners Waller, Byorth, Walsh, Cebull & LaneMontana Fish Wildlife & Parks1420 East Sixth AvenueP.O. Box 200701 Helena, Mt... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues 2022/2023 Season Setting - Montana BHA Comments in Opposition to Extension of Upland Bird Season 1/19/2022 January 19, 2022 Chair Robinson, Vice Chair Tabor, Commissioners Waller, Byorth, Walsh, Cebull & LaneMontana Fish Wildlife & Parks1420 East Sixth AvenueP.O. Box 200701 Helena, Mt... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues A Public-Access Lawsuit in Montana’s Crazy Mountains Claims Forest Service Is Catering to Private Landowners 1/19/2022 The U.S. District Court in Billings, Montana, convened yesterday to hear arguments in a lawsuit regarding public access to established hiking trails in Montana’s Crazy Mountains. The lawsuit—which... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Crazy Mountain access, trails dispute argued in federal court 1/19/2022 The Custer Gallatin National Forest’s rights to access historic trails in the Crazy Mountains “died” because landowners successfully blocked access denying the public for five years, Assistant... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Southeast Wins on Hunting Buffer 1/18/2022 In November of 2021 the Southeast Chapter was made aware of a proposed hunting buffer zone in Mississippi’s Malmaison WMA. This proposed rule was intended to limit access to the public hunting... Tags: Southeast Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Solving the insanity surrounding elk 1/10/2022 FWP Director Hank Worsech, when referring to the state of elk management in Montana, has repeatedly evoked a quote attributed to Einstein: “Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Fears Loss of Habitat & Opportunity from Horse Creek Hills Development 1/7/2022 As more people flock to Montana, the sprawl of development continues to push into wild places, while decisions on developments seem to be made with little foresight or considerations for our... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Poacher Busted For Killing Bighorn He Thought Was an Elk 1/7/2022 A Montana poacher has been fined more than $5,000 after illegally killing a bighorn ram that he says he believed was an elk. Harold Horine, 45, of Deer Lodge, Montana, shot and killed a mature... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues MT BHA Thanks Anaconda Business Pivotal In Repairing Hebgen Dam 1/6/2022 On November 30, 2021, an angler reported shockingly low water levels on the Madison to staff at Galloup’s Slide Inn near Quake Lake. What followed was a flurry of coordination and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA 2021 Year in Review 1/5/2022 2021 was a year of action. From the halls of the state capitol to the sagebrush steppe in southwest Montana, all the way from the remote trails of the Bob Marshall Wilderness to the comfort of our... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Pebble Mine: Perspective From a Lifelong Alaskan Hunter 1/3/2022 We are a family of hunters. As a child, I was taught to cherish, value and respect the animals we hunt and the environment in which they live. It was an easy lesson. My family's 40-acre homestead... Tags: the campfire, Alaska Chapter, public lands, Public Waters Access
Media State Issues Forces Clash Over Future of Iconic Elk Herds 12/22/2021 On Dec. 6, 2021, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks announced a proposal to restructure the way it manages some of the state’s most iconic elk herds. The proposal would open up a handful of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Clarifies R3 Efforts 12/21/2021 In a recent MeatEater podcast (Ep. 304), guest Dr. Matt Rinella suggested that the Montana Chapter of BHA has ceased efforts to recruit, retain and reactivate conservation advocates (R3). This is... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues American Prairie buys Musselshell ranch that BLM had eyed 12/21/2021 After a Bureau of Land Management purchase fell through in August, the nonprofit conservation group American Prairie stepped in to buy the 32,000-acre 73 Ranch along the Musselshell River. The... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Wildlife commission advances tentative elk hunting regulations; limited permit proposal dropped 12/16/2021 Following the withdrawal of a controversial proposal dealing with limited-entry elk permits, the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission on Tuesday advanced tentative regulations for the 2022 and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues ‘Firestorm’ of public comment leads FWP to rethink elk management proposals 12/15/2021 Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has backpedaled on a controversial elk management strategy after a public response that FWP Director Henry “Hank” Worsech described as a “firestorm.” Even after... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CA Chapter Advocates for Wildlife Overpasses in High Speed Rail Project 12/14/2021 The following reflects the comments of the California Chapter of BHA along with numerous hunting and environmental groups advocating for wildlife overpasses to be included in the Brightline West... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues FWP pulls back limited elk permit proposals ahead of commission meeting 12/13/2021 State wildlife managers will not move forward with a controversial proposal in eight hunting districts to eliminate limited-entry hunting permits for bull elk on private land in favor of general... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Elk management must return for all Montanans 12/13/2021 Elk hunting is everything to Montanans. We guard our vacation days with jealousy in anticipation of elk camp deep in the forests or Breaks country. We choose our sick days wisely and work hard for... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Hunters form statewide coalition to tackle elk management 12/13/2021 After almost a year of watching political decisions degrade some of Montana’s wildlife management, hunters have come together to see if public involvement still has the power to sway policy. Over... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Highland Mountains Bighorn Sheep Survey with MT FWP 12/12/2021 When FWP calls for help, Montana BHA volunteers answer! On Saturday, Dec. 11th, 24 volunteers from Montana BHA joined forces with 19 other volunteers from Montana Wild Sheep Foundation and... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA comments on FWP's proposed new, limited elk season structure 12/11/2021 December 11, 2021 Chair Robinson; Vice Chair Tabor; Commissioners Waller, Byorth, Walsh, Cebull and LaneMontana Fish Wildlife & Parks1420 East Sixth AvenueP.O. Box 200701 Helena, Mt... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues State commission considers changes to bull elk permits 12/10/2021 Hunters, anglers and others who enjoy spending time in the outdoors of Northwest Montana may want to consider taking a careful look at some of the proposals on the Montana Fish and Wildlife... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana FWP proposal privatizes elk hunting 12/7/2021 Once again, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is considering a proposal that would separate the 'haves' and the 'have nots' when it comes to elk hunting in Montana. If you recall, HB 417, introduced... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Western Arctic Caribou Herd Update 12/6/2021 Decline in Western Arctic Caribou Herd Abundance Calls for Unity and Problem Solving Important information regarding a decline in the Western Arctic Caribou Herd (WACH) was recently published by... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues Susitna Basin Recreation Rivers 12/6/2021 Stand Against Removal of Protections for Alaska's Sport Fishing Heartland The Susitna River and its tributaries are among the most popular and accessible waters for sport anglers in Alaska,... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Supports Two Archery Ranges In Flathead Valley 12/2/2021 Lone Pine State Park Archery Range EA Brian Schwartz (Lone Pine State Park Manager) Lone Pine State Park 300 Lone Pine Road Kalispell, MT 59901 RE: Lone Pine State Park Land Acquisition &... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Hunting for Sustainability Ramps Up Efforts in Montana 12/2/2021 BHA's Hunting for Sustainability program has its roots in Montana, so it's no surprise that the program has seen some of its most impactful achievements here. Working in tandem with the Collegiate... Tags: Montana Chapter, r3, Collegiate Program
Media Chapter News State Issues An Old Law Gets a New Look to Help Prevent CWD in California 12/1/2021 A few weeks ago, my flawless run as a law-abiding hunter and angler in the State of California came to an end. Now as someone who values conservation and takes fish and game laws in any state... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues The Ambler Road: A Threat to the Brooks Range Wilderness 12/1/2021 When I was young, my family and I were camped above the shore of Walker Lake preparing for a 10-day raft trip that would take us down the Kobuk River, to the village of Kobuk. Walker Lake sits... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Great news! Lac Qui Parle Land Sale Approved! 12/1/2021 The Minnesota state land exchange board just approved the sale of 80 acres of land owned by Jo’s Family Farm, LLC to the DNR today. This ends an over two year battle by the landowner to sell his... Tags: Minnesota Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues November 2021 Wisconsin BHA Newsletter 11/29/2021 Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Chapter 2021 Gift Guide 11/28/2021 With the holidays right around the corner, there's no better time to start planning. Support Montana businesses that are putting their public lands and waters first by checking out some must-have... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues TX BHA Provides Comment at August Commission Meeting 11/22/2021 Official Texas Chapter BHA Testimony provided to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission on August 25, 2021 by Chapter Chair, Grahame Jones. Joel Smith, Vice Chair added additional comments.... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media State Issues Time to Stand up for the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge 11/17/2021 A great opportunity to stand up for one of our nation’s outdoor treasures could face West Virginia’s Senator Manchin soon. No one can dispute the beauty of West Virginia’s mountains, rivers, and... Tags: the campfire, public lands, West Virginia Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CA Chapter Comments on Coastal Public Access Guidelines 11/16/2021 California BHA comments on the California Coastal Conservancy revised Coastal Access Project Guidelines. View the comment letter: Dear California Coastal Conservancy Board Members, I write on... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues EPLUS Outside the Primary Zone 11/15/2021 Fourth in a series To understand how a small number of landowners controls a third of the elk hunts in New Mexico, you have to start on the ground – where the elk are most concentrated versus... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments On Preliminary Scoping of Chip Creek Conservation Easement 11/1/2021 Gary Bertellotti (Region 4 Supervisor) Ryan Rauscher (Area Wildlife Biologist) rrauscher@mt.gov Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks 514 South Front Street, Ste C Conrad, MT 59425 RE:... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues BHA Awards Rebecca Romero Scholarships to Student Hunters 11/1/2021 Every fall, the University of Montana BHA club accepts applications for the Rebecca Romero Legacy Hunting award that covers the cost of a non-resident hunting license for out-of-state students... Tags: Montana Chapter, Collegiate Program
Media State Issues 2 more ranches given free bull elk tags for providing public access 10/28/2021 Despite the fact that Montana’s general rifle season is almost a week old, the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission approved two more public elk hunting access agreements for landowners during... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Opposes Refuge Waterfowl Habitat Acreage Loss for Admin Facilities 10/26/2021 To whom it may concern Northwest Montana Wetland Management District PO Box 6 Charo, MT 59824 FW6NorthwestMontanaWMD@fws.gov Re: Draft Environmental Assessment: New Northwest Montana Wetland... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues BHA Member Reports Illegal E-bike Hunters 10/26/2021 All Americans have a right to enjoy our public lands and waters – but no small minority has a right to damage those public treasures or ruin the experience of others enjoying the Great Outdoors.... Tags: Fair Chase, Idaho Chapter, OHV
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: MT Chapter Pint Night with Burch Barrel at Highlander Beer 10/22/2021 We had a blast at our Missoula Valley pint night meet-up on October 19, 2021. About 60 members joined us outside for beverages and pizza at Highlander Beer in Missoula. Thanks to everyone who came... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: John Owen FAS Clean Up At Stevensville Bridge 10/21/2021 River access sites across the state are getting more use than ever. Many are undeveloped or not built with this kind of traffic in mind. However, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks staff in Region 2... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Daines would add wilderness removal to Tester’s Blackfoot Clearwater bill 10/20/2021 Sen. Jon Tester is once again pushing to pass his Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act, but he’s getting little support from Montana’s other senator, Sen. Steve Daines. On Tuesday, the Public... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues October 2021 Wisconsin BHA Newsletter 10/19/2021 Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues WI BHA - Call for Volunteer Board Members 10/19/2021 The Wisconsin chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is excited to announce our 2021-22 Board Member Search. We are looking to grow and expand the mission of Wisconsin Public Land. We are... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues Montana fishing advocates, businesses call for river preservation task force 10/13/2021 For those wanting the state to take more action to preserve coldwater fisheries in southwestern Montana rivers, this summer demonstrated the need. But the governor has yet to heed their call for a... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Primary Zone is the heart of EPLUS action 10/13/2021 Third in a series Almost every state in the West has a private land hunting program for elk – Arizona being the exception – but it’s hard to imagine any program more complicated than EPLUS. We’ve... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues Confirm Kentucky BHA Member Brian Mackey to the Fish and Wildlife Commission 10/12/2021 We are very excited to announce that one of our very own Kentucky BHA members, Mr. Brian Mackey, has been appointed by the Governor to serve on the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Commission.... Tags: Kentucky Chapter
Media State Issues Managing Montana's elk wealth is causing heartburn for landowners, FWP and hunters 10/10/2021 Elk have become a political animal in Montana. For decades, predators like grizzly bears and wolves were the ones to incite political passion. Yet slowly, as elk populations have grown and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues MT BHA Auctions 3-Day Llama Packout Package 10/8/2021 The weight has been lifted! Experience hunting in Montana like never before! Thanks to a generous donation by Access WILD, the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is offering a... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Forest Service: Prescriptive easements on Crazy Mountain trails ‘likely non-viable’ 10/5/2021 A 2019 lawsuit brought by public land access advocates over the Forest Service’s handling of four disputed trails in the Crazy Mountains is nearing resolution, and the result could have national... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues MT BHA 2021 Q3 Newsletter 9/30/2021 "And all at once, summer collapsed into fall." - Oscar Wilde September - Public Lands Month - flew by this year! We hope you had ample opportunity to get out in the field to chase elk with your... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Landowner access agreements stir up commission, elk hunters 9/29/2021 Divisions among Montanans regarding how elk should be managed on private lands were center stage in a short Sept. 24 Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting. At issue was the commission’s approval... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: FWP issues trophy elk permits to Wilks brothers 9/28/2021 At last, the Wilks Brothers got what they wanted but money couldn’t buy: the guaranteed opportunity to hunt trophy elk on their ranch. In a hastily arranged Zoom meeting at 7:30 a.m. on Friday,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Mount Jumbo Public Lands Day Clean Up 9/28/2021 On September 25, National Public Lands Day, the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers worked with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and Tangle Free Montana to pull a half mile of... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Public Land Pack-Out with University of Montana BHA 9/22/2021 Missoula staff joined University of Montana BHA students for a public land pack-out on Lolo National Forest as a part of BHA's goal to pack out 10,000 bags of trash from public lands in the month... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter, Collegiate Program
Media State Issues EPLUS Could Be Up For Change in 2022 9/21/2021 (Second in a series) Most western states have a “private land” program for elk hunting, but New Mexico’s EPLUS – the Elk Private Land Use System – is arguably the most liberal landowner tag... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CA BHA Advocates for Sequoia NF Land Acquisition 9/17/2021 A letter to the District Ranger for the Sequoia National Forest regarding LWCF nomination for the Fay Creek Ranch Acquisition: September 14, 2021 Mr. Alfred Watson, District Ranger Sequoia... Tags: California Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Help Pennsylvania BHA Fight for Sunday Hunting 9/16/2021 Pennsylvania Backcountry Hunters and Anglers believes that restrictions on Sunday hunting are an impediment to reasonable hunting access, and we support the effort made by Senator Dan Laughlin... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter
Media State Issues FWP Recommends Acquisition of Forestland Near Columbia Falls For Bad Rock Canyon Wildlife Management Area 9/14/2021 After collecting and reviewing public input, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is recommending the acquisition of 772 acres of forestland along the Flathead River near Columbia Falls to protect... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Minnesota BHA Statement on Chronic Wasting Disease 9/13/2021 13 September 2021 Dear Chairman Hansen and Members of the Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy Committee, Thank you for the opportunity to provide written testimony on this issue.... Tags: Minnesota Chapter
Media State Issues Montana FWP director talks hunting regs, other changes at Bozeman meeting 9/8/2021 The director of Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks said in front of a fiery crowd in Bozeman that he is focused on simplifying deer and elk hunting regulations going into this year’s biennial... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Update on Atlantic Striped Bass Conservation from NE and NY BHA 9/5/2021 Earlier this year the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers New York and New England Chapters submitted comments on the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Public Information Document for... Tags: New England Chapter, New York Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Fire and Forest Service Closures in California 9/3/2021 The California Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, the voice for our wild public lands, waters, and wildlife in the Golden State, is closely monitoring the Forest Service District 5 decision... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Welcomes New Chapter Organizer 9/3/2021 Veronica Corbett has a degree in wildlife, fisheries and conservation biology and has spent the last decade working in natural resource management. Her experience includes tracking B-run steelhead... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Comments on Montana Trophy Outfitters Special Recreation Permit Amendment 8/31/2021 August 31, 2021 Courtney FrostBLM-Butte Field Office106 North ParkmontButte, MT 59701 RE: DOI-BLM-MT-B070-2019-0005-CX Dear Ms. Frost, This letter is in response to the request for public comment... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues U.S. Marine Corps Helicopters to Haul Water for Wildlife 8/31/2021 Photo credit: U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl Gabrielle Sanders With huge support from the United States Marine Corps, the California Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA), the... Tags: California Chapter, California Events
Media State Issues New Mexico Elk Tags – There Must Be A Better Way 8/31/2021 First in a series Elk, bighorn sheep, antelope and other big game species were drastically reduced or wiped out entirely by the time New Mexico became a state in 1912, due to a combination of... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues New FWP director talks public access, grizzlies in Northwest Montana 8/31/2021 New Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Director Hank Worsech discovered the passion of hunters, trappers and anglers from Northwest Montana at a meet-and-greet event last week in Kalispell. Worsech... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Elk shoulder season added in Paradise Valley; other shoulder seasons extended 8/26/2021 Hunters can participate in a new antlerless elk shoulder season in the Paradise Valley this winter after Montana officials voted to adopt it at a meeting last Friday. The Montana Fish and Wildlife... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana OKs emergency haying and grazing on more wildlife management areas 8/25/2021 Montana officials approved plans to temporarily expand emergency haying and grazing on various wildlife management areas in support of livestock producers affected by drought. The decision... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Governor Sisolak Signs Executive Order to Conserve Migration Corridors and Wildlife Habitiat 8/24/2021 Photo by Erich Dutchover The vast, open sagebrush country of Nevada is often overlooked by travelers passing through. Even long-time residents take this drab, grey-green desert shrub for granted.... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Indian Creek Weed Removal w/ the Great Burn Conservation Alliance 8/24/2021 Members of the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers recently joined forces with the folks at the Great Burn Conservation Alliance for a stewardship weekend deep in the Great Burn, a... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Trident Proposal for Payette Endowment Lands Rejected 8/24/2021 On August 10, the Idaho Department of Lands (“IDL”) notified Trident Holdings, LLC that the Trident proposal to exchange just over 20,000 acres of timberland in northern Idaho for a similar amount... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues CO BHA Public Comment – Jumbo Mountain Trail Management 8/24/2021 Public Comment – Jumbo Mountain Trail Management August 7, 2021 Thank you for this opportunity to provide comment on the Jumbo Mountain Trail plan. I’m submitting written comments on behalf of... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Good Things Come to Those Who Pick Up Trash 8/23/2021 I’m a better angler than hunter and I’m a better thinker than angler, but to be honest, I do not hold the bar very high for the latter. This ranking of skill probably has to do with the fact that... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Rhode Island BHA 2021 Policy Roundup 8/23/2021 2021 has been an interesting year, and while we did not host in-person events during the first half of the year the New England BHA team was hard at work standing up for the interests of hunters... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: State needs cold-water fisheries task force, plan 8/20/2021 Water in Montana has a tough job. It must irrigate our fields, float our boats, spin our turbines and brew our beers. It must also provide a home for fish and habitat for wildlife. As a result,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Good Luck on Sunday: Big Change for Public Land Hunters in NC 8/17/2021 Hunting season looks a lot different in North Carolina this year. For the first time in over 150 years, residents and visitors can hunt on Sundays on public lands across the state. While some... Tags: North Carolina Chapter
Media State Issues Alaska Subsistence Policy and WSA21-01 8/16/2021 For those people who had been planning a trip to hunt the incredible region of northwest Alaska, home to the Western Arctic Caribou Herd, they probably got wind of the proposal to close federal... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: 2021 Flathead Waters Cleanup 8/16/2021 As an appetizer for Public Lands Pack-Out month, members of the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers teamed up with the Flathead Rivers Alliance to clean up water and access sites in... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Grizzly Park Weeds & Trail Clear w/ BMWF 8/13/2021 During the first week of August, volunteers from the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers teamed up with the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation to clear trails and initiate treatment... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NM Game Commission Rejects 5 Non-Navigable Stream Certifications 8/12/2021 The State Game Commission stood up for everyday New Mexico anglers, boaters and others today and rejected attempts to shut down public access to five stretches of New Mexico streams. Meeting... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on Emergency Grazing & Haying on WMAs Proposal 8/6/2021 August 6, 2021 Rick Northrup, Habitat Bureau Chief Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks PO Box 200701 Helena, MT 59620 rnorthrup@mt.gov Re: EMERGENCY GRAZING AND HAYING LEASES ON SELECT FWP WILDLIFE... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues MT BHA member tip leads to illegal OHV use citation 7/29/2021 During the spring of 2020, Montana BHA life member Hannah Nikonow was hiking in an area she hunts quite a bit in the fall. She was surprised (and upset) to hear the whine of engines getting... Tags: Montana Chapter, OHV
Media State Issues Final Action Needed: Oregon BHA, Outdoor Groups, Ask for Your Support 7/28/2021 After months of close collaboration, Oregon BHA, Oregon Outdoor Council, Oregon Hunters Association and Traditional Archers of Oregon have reached consensus and submitted a letter urging the ODFW... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Kootenai Forestlands Phase II 7/27/2021 Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers PO Box 9257 Missoula, MT 59807 Kootenai Forestlands Phase II Conservation Easement Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Attn: Kris Tempel 490 N. Meridian... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OR BHA Contributes $10k to Minam River Access 7/27/2021 In June, the OR BHA Chapter board voted in support of a $10,000 donation towards Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and ODFW's efforts to purchase land to expand the Minam River Wildlife Area... Tags: the campfire, Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues Idaho BHA Joins New Group to Find Solutions for Payette Endowment Lands 7/23/2021 Update – Endowment Lands, and the formation of United Payette Ever since real estate developer Trident Holdings, LLC submitted a proposal to the Idaho Department of Lands in 2019 to acquire... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on Pheasant Stocking Proposals 7/23/2021 Montana Fish, Wildlife & ParksCommissioners: Lesley Robinson, Brian Cebull, KC Walsh, Pat Byorth and Pat TaborDirector: Hank Worsech1420 East Sixth AvenueHelena, MT 59620 Dear FWP Commissioners... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on Elk Shoulder Season Proposals 7/22/2021 July 21st, 2021 Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commissioners: Lesley Robinson, Brian Cebull, KC Walsh, Pat Byorth and Pat Tabor Director: Hank Worsech 1420 East Sixth Avenue Helena, MT... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on Muzzleloader Season 7/22/2021 July 22, 2021 FWP CommissionWildlife DivisionPO Box 200701Helena, MT 59620-0701 RE: MT-BHA Muzzleloader Season Public Comment Dear Commissioners, The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters &... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Comments on BLM Grazing Proposal 7/21/2021 Montana BHA provided the following comments verbally at a virtual Bureau of Land Management hearing on Wednesday, July 21st. Good afternoon, my name is Thomas Baumeister. I serve on the board of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Proposal would kill the wrong elk 7/21/2021 I have never heard an elk hunter or a Forest Service employee complain about too many elk on Montana's public lands. The persistent narrative of over-abundance is a private lands issue, not one of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Horse Prairie Fence Pull, July 17 7/19/2021 Early last year, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) launched a six-year study called the Montana Pronghorn Movement and Population Ecology Project with the goal of identifying migration... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues FWP wants feedback on public land elk shoulder season hunts 7/16/2021 Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is asking the public if elk shoulder seasons should expand onto additional public lands in some hunting districts. The agency issued a supplemental request for... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Alaska Roadless Habitat Conserved, Local Economies Boosted in USDA Plan 7/15/2021 MISSOULA, Mont. – Backcountry roadless lands in the Tongass National Forest, a public lands crown jewel in southeast Alaska, will see conservation safeguards restored and new measures put in place... Tags: the campfire, press releases, Alaska Chapter, public lands
Media Chapter News State Issues Wildlife Refuge Conservation & Recreation for the Community Act 7/15/2021 H.R. 972 The Wildlife Refuge Conservation & Recreation for the Community Act If you have ever been to Western Riverside County in Southern California, you might not believe that a 500,000 acre... Tags: California Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues New Hampshire BHA Leadership Team Comments on Bear Brook State Park Land Management Plan 7/14/2021 The New England Chapter’s New Hampshire State Leadership Team recently submitted final comments on Bear Brook State Park’s revised management plan. At nearly 10,000 acres, Bear Brook State Park... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Rhode Island BHA Oppose Aquaculture Lease that Threatens Hunting Opportunities 7/9/2021 In April of 2020, two Little Compton brothers applied for a lease to establish a commercial oyster growing operation in the tidal waters adjacent to Sapowet Marsh Wildlife Management Area in... Tags: New England Chapter, the campfire
Media State Issues NM Game Commission Awaits New Appointees 7/7/2021 State Game Commission member Gail Cramer, of Mayhill, unexpectedly resigned this week. It comes just months after the sudden death of Commissioner David Soules, of Las Cruces, which means Gov.... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Q2 Newsletter 7/1/2021 After carrying a heavy load this legislative session, Montana BHA was able to lighten our packs just a bit as we strode into summer. Here's a quick recap on what we've been up to and what's on... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Field to Table Wild Game Blue Cheese Burger 6/30/2021 As summer comes into view and the meat selection in the freezer gets a little sparse, we love to utilize ingredients we have on hand to create a recipe perfect for the warmer weather and some... Tags: the campfire, Field to Table, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Support PA Senate Bill 607 to allow Game Commission to regulate Sunday hunting 6/29/2021 The following is the text of a letter delivered this week to key Pennsylvania Senate lawmakers: Subject: Support of Senate Bill 607To: Leader Kim Ward, President Pro Tempore Jake Corman. The... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Trail Clearing with Wild Montana, June 18-20 6/25/2021 Last weekend (June 18th-20th) the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers teamed up with Wild Montana to clear trail in the Sapphire Mountains of western Montana. In two-and-a-half days,... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Sen. Jon Tester Introduces Bill to Protect 385 Miles of Rivers in State 6/24/2021 In June of 2021, Montana Sen. Jon Tester reintroduced the Montana Headwaters Legacy Act which aims to designate 385.4 miles of Montana's rivers as Wild & Scenic, nearly doubling the state's... Tags: the campfire, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Alaska BHA Helps Repair Pinnell Mountain Trail After Illegal Vehicle Use 6/24/2021 During the 2020 hunting season, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game increased the bag limit of caribou for the Fortymile caribou hunt to meet their harvest objectives. Possibly spurred by an... Tags: Alaska Chapter, OHV
Media State Issues Idaho Senate Bill 1211 6/23/2021 In April of this year, the Idaho Legislature introduced and passed Senate Bill 1211. The bill, which was signed into law by the Governor in May, relates to wolf management within Idaho and will... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Montana Cabin with a Cook | June 18-20, 2021 6/22/2021 In January 2021, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers hosted our first ever Winter Extravaganza, a 3-day live virtual event featuring stories, seminars, policy updates, fun competitions and an online... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CA Chapter Emphasizes Habitat Connectivity in 30x30 Discussion 6/21/2021 The California Chapter of BHA recently submitted a letter in collaboration with Wildlands Network, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and a number of other groups highlighting the... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Oregon BHA Supports Alternatives to ODFW’s 2022 Archery Elk Proposal 6/21/2021 In March of this year, representatives from your Oregon Backcountry Hunters & Anglers board were invited by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Archery Elk project team to discuss the... Tags: the campfire, Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media Chapter News State Issues 6/18/21 NMDGF Game Commission Recap 6/18/2021 In a move that surprised both sides in the acrimonious debate over stream access, State Game Commission Chairwoman Sharon Salazar Hickey has delayed the decision on closing portions of five... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: GAOA funds for the Custer Gallatin National Forest 6/17/2021 June 17, 2021 Mary Erickson, Forest SupervisorCuster Gallatin. National Forest10 East Babcock St.Bozeman, MT 59715 Re: Great American Outdoors Act funds for the Custer Gallatin National... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: La Valle Creek Fence Pull 6/16/2021 On June 12th, a soggy Saturday morning, ten Montana BHA volunteers teamed up with the four members of a longtime Montana ranching family to remove some unneeded and unruly fence. Montana BHA,... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Montana BHA 2021 Camp Cookoff 6/14/2021 One of our favorite events at BHA's annual Rendezvous is the Camp Chef Cookoff, where BHA members from across the country represent their local chapters and compete against one another for the... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Support hunting expansion on federal lands in New York, elsewhere 6/9/2021 Just over a year after the Department of the Interior (DOI) proposed to expand hunting and angling access on more than 2.3 million acres of public land, they're at it again, and we at NY BHA want... Tags: New York Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on 2021 Fish Removal Projects 6/3/2021 June 3rd, 2021 Dear FWP Commission – The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is a grassroot conservation organization with approximately 3,000 due-paying members across the state of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues NJ BHA: Support expanded opportunity at National Wildlife Refuges 5/27/2021 On May 4th, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced a proposal for new or expanded hunting and sport fishing opportunities for game species across 2.1 million acres at 90 national wildlife... Tags: New Jersey Chapter
Media State Issues NWR access plan includes more hunting at PA's Cherry Valley; Comment period open now 5/26/2021 Access to places to hunt is often referenced as one of the biggest challenges for current and aspiring hunters in Pennsylvania and nationwide. Sportsmen and women cited a lack of access as one of... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, news
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Ninemile Woodchuck Area Acquisition 5/24/2021 May 24, 2021 Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Land ManagementMissoula Field Office3255 Fort Missoula Rd.Missoula, MT 59804 Re: LWCF Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Ninemile Woodchuck Area Acquisition The... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues New Law Reignites Debate Over Money’s Role In Hunting Opportunities 5/17/2021 A last-minute addition to a Montana fish and wildlife bill signed into law on Friday reinvigorated a long-running debate over the role of money in hunting in Montana. House Bill 637 is sprawling;... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Southeast Chapter Supports LDWF’s Proposed License and Fee Changes 5/13/2021 On April 21, 2021, Representative Tony Bacala introduced House Bill 691 in order to implement a hunting and fishing license restructure. The restructure of licenses and fees would simplify the... Tags: Southeast Chapter
Media State Issues 2021 Montana Legislative Session Recap 5/13/2021 Congrats, Public Land Owners! We made it through the 2021 Montana Legislative Session! Thanks to the tireless efforts from our volunteer leadership team and paid lobbyists in the Capitol - and... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Debate over outfitter licenses continues past Montana Legislature 5/9/2021 As the dust settles after the 67th Montana Legislature, one thing is for certain: the debate over nonresident hunting licenses and the role of outfitting is far from over. Montana’s system for... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Hunters Request Governor Veto Outfitter Tags Bill 5/5/2021 May 5, 2021 Gov. Greg GianforteMontana State Capitol1301 E. Sixth Ave. Helena, MT 59601 RE: Sporting organizations request for veto of HB 637 Dear Gov. Gianforte, Our organizations collectively... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Letters: Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act cuts through partisan politics 5/5/2021 It’s easy to see why so many are fed up with modern politics and the “us versus them” rhetoric. Thankfully, a trip up the Blackfoot Valley puts this chaotic world into perspective with stunning... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues South Crazy Mountains land exchange OK’d 5/4/2021 It’s a small step that took years of work, but the south end of the Crazy Mountains will have two fewer sections of private land inholdings, allowing easier access to public lands. Under a... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Minnesota Judge Upholds Public Land Acquisitions 4/30/2021 The Minnesota Chapter of Backcountry Hunters applauds a decision this week by District Judge Thomas Van Hon, which affirms the private property rights of land owners to sell their land as they see... Tags: Minnesota Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on Elk Management Plan Guiding Principles 4/27/2021 April 27, 2021 RE: Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Comments on the Montana Elk Management Plan Guiding Principles Employees of FWP and Members of the Fish & Wildlife... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Never give up on defending Montana’s public lands 4/22/2021 Once again, the Rally for Public Lands at the State Capitol was proof that our public lands and outdoor way of life bind us. The numbers bear it out: 89% of Montanans visit public lands every... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CA Chapter Tackles Riparian Restoration in Sierra Foothills 4/21/2021 The California Chapter of BHA convened in the Southern portion of the Sierra Nevada mountains last Saturday to tackle a riparian restoration project in coordination with the Bureau of Land... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Hunting Bills Stall In The Legislature 4/21/2021 A debate over the role of money in deer and elk hunting in Montana has fizzled out in the Legislature. Senate Bill 143 would have created a $300 early drawing system for nonresident elk and deer... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Maine Sunday Hunting Update 4/20/2021 Maine is one of only two states in the US that has a complete ban on Sunday hunting. The Maine leadership team of the New England Chapter of BHA has been considering this issue and related Sunday... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues FWP 'clean-up' bill draws debate 4/16/2021 Legislation characterized by supporters as a “cleanup” bill for Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks to tweak language in several areas of law saw pushback from opponents this week who saw it as a... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: HB 637 is a mess of a 'clean-up' bill 4/16/2021 For a "clean-up" bill, House Bill 637 is a mess. On its face, HB 637 aims to clarify language found in existing laws. These non-substantive, clerical changes would be fine if the bill stopped... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Committee tables bill tapping hunting license dollars for wildlife crop damage 4/6/2021 A bill that would have tapped hunter license dollars to pay for elk damage to crops in areas well over population objectives and limited permits passed an initial vote in the House on Tuesday... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Take action and support Wisconsin's CWD disposal bill 4/6/2021 2021 Senate Bill 166 and 2021 Assembly Bill 151 is currently in front of the Wisconsin State Senate’s Natural Resources and Energy Committee. This bill mandates the Department of Natural Resources... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana Sporting Coalition opposition to HB 697 4/6/2021 April 6, 2021 Speaker Wylie GaltMontana State House of RepresentativesState Capitol1301 E. Sixth Ave.Helena, MT 59601 RE: Montana Sporting Coalition opposition to HB 697 Dear Speaker Galt and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Principles outlined to guide new elk management plan 4/1/2021 Change is coming to elk hunting in Montana. What form those changes may take and when they may be implemented are still uncertain, but a group of volunteers has outlined some guiding principles... Tags: Montana Chapter
Federal Issues State Issues Issue 1 4/1/2021 Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Aenean euismod bibendum laoreet. Proin gravida dolor sit amet lacus accumsan et viverra justo commodo. Proin sodales pulvinar sic tempor.... Tags: Access & Opportunity, Public Lands & Waters, Fair Chase
Media State Issues Tell your Legislators to renew the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund 3/31/2021 Since 1989, the Knowles Nelson Stewardship Program has been used to expand nature-based outdoor recreational opportunities and protecting environmentally sensitive areas. For the last 30 years,... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues Stand up for access and urge co-sponsorship of the Wisconsin railroad crossing bill 3/31/2021 For over 100 years hunters and anglers of Wisconsin were able to access some of the very best hunting and fishing in the state simply by walking directly across a set of railroad tracks. From De... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MTBHA comments in support of the Lower Musselshell River Acquisition 3/25/2021 March 25, 2021 Mark JacobsenBLM Eastern Montana/Dakotas District111 Garryowen RoadMiles City, MT 59301mjacobse@blm.gov RE: Lower Musselshell River Acquisition_EA_Public Comment Dear Mr.... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Sportsmen oppose HB 505, committed to addressing elk problems 3/24/2021 Dear Chair Fitzgerald and members of the House FWP Committee, Our organizations represent thousands of Montana hunters. We include statewide organizations and local sporting clubs who all care... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Sportsmen ask for veto on land board control over FWP easements 3/24/2021 A dozen sportsmen’s groups are asking Montana’s governor to veto a bill that would allow the state Land Board to veto conservation easements that would benefit hunters and wildlife. Last week, the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Policy Primer - UPDATE on Striped Bass Management 3/23/2021 NY BHA advocates for continuation of goals and objectives, with swifter management action by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) By Charles Witek Striped bass are one of the... Tags: New York Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Why Californians Should Support H.R. 803 "Protecting America’s Wilderness and Public Lands" 3/22/2021 The California Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers was amped to see the House pass a massive public lands package last month, H.R. 803, Protecting America’s Wilderness and Public... Tags: California Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Utah Joins Neighboring Western States in Prohibiting Baiting for Ungulates 3/19/2021 If you’re a hunter in Utah, you have likely heard of HB0295: Wildlife Modifications. The legislation, introduced by House Representative Casey Snider, ignited a wave of emotions and debate amongst... Tags: Utah Chapter
Media State Issues Montanans: Thank Legislators for Listening to Hunters 3/19/2021 Montana hunters finally have something to smile about this session! First, the big win on House Bill 505, which would have given 10 non-resident landowner-sponsored elk tags to landowners with... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Sportsmen request veto on SB 115 3/19/2021 March 19, 2021 Gov. Greg GianforteMontana State Capitol1301 E. Sixth Ave.Helena, MT 59601 RE: Veto request of SB 115 requiring state Land Board approval for conservation easements Dear Gov.... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues In a win for wild places, Army Corps denies resort plan in Pennsylvania 3/19/2021 In the spring of 2018, the Pennsylvania Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers joined a number of other groups to oppose a planned resort development at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers –... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter
Media State Issues The pandemic has underscored the value of public land 3/16/2021 By Matt Breton This piece was first published in VTDigger Last... Tags: New England Chapter, New England
Media Chapter News State Issues Rhode Island BHA works to clarify Public Trust Access to the Shore 3/15/2021 Rhode Island’s Constitution, Article 1 Section 17 states: “The People shall continue to enjoy and freely exercise all rights of fishery, and the privileges of the shore, to which they have been... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues 3/14 Hearing Update! NM Trapping Ban Likely to Pass 3/14/2021 Over the objections of thousands of individuals and organizations, including NMBHA, the proposed statewide ban on public lands trapping took a crucial step toward becoming law Sunday... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Maine BHA Policy Update March 2021 3/9/2021 In the first two months of 2021, the Maine BHA team identified over 75 bills introduced to the Legislature that could impact hunting and fishing, land conservation, and public access. As of March... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues Join NM BHA in Opposing the Public Land Trapping Ban 3/8/2021 An all-out ban on public lands trapping throughout New Mexico known as the “Wildlife Conservation & Public Safety Act” inched closer Friday night when the Senate Judiciary Committee voted in... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues 2021 Legislative Recap - Transmittal Break 3/4/2021 We're halfway through the legislative session, meaning it's time to catch our breath, lick our wounds, and get a clearer picture of where things stand. At this 45-day mark the non-revenue bills... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MTBHA supports reestablishment of native species in the North Fork 3/3/2021 March 3, 2021 John SlownEnvironmental Coordinator, US Forest ServiceLolo National Forestjslown@fs.fed.us Dear Mr. Slown, The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is a grassroot... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Montanans rely on Fish and Wildlife Commission for balanced management 3/2/2021 The Montana Senate rejected Andrew McKean’s application to continue his service on the Fish and Wildlife Commission by a 31-18 party-line vote, with all Democrats voting in favor and all... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues The Payette Lands Strategy and the Future of Idaho Endowment Lands 2/26/2021 The Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) released a draft strategy for 5,478 acres of endowment lands surrounding or within the city of McCall. Idaho's constitution mandates these lands be managed... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Legislators need to stand up for access rights 2/26/2021 How nice would it be to have exclusive access to thousands of acres of public lands? Deciding who gets to hunt these lands, fish these streams, hike these trails or enjoy the solitude — that all... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues New England BHA Continues Work to Prohibit Captive Hunting with Rhode Island Bill 2/8/2021 The New England Chapter of BHA recently introduced language in the Rhode Island General Assembly to prohibit captive hunting in Rhode Island. Introduced by Rep. Scott Slater (D – District... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Bad bill undoes hunting partnership between CSKT and non-tribal members 2/5/2021 For the hook and bullet community in Western Montana, the Flathead Reservation is a source of incredible opportunity. From backpacking and skiing in the Mission Range to pursuing waterfowl,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Colorado Wolf Statement 2/4/2021 The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation and the Public Trust Doctrine define fish and wildlife resources as the property of the people and managed by the state and federal agencies... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NM Public Land Trapping Ban Moves Forward 2/2/2021 A ban on trapping on public lands throughout New Mexico is a step closer after the Senate Conservation Committee today (Tuesday, Feb. 2) voted by a wide margin to approve it. Senate Bill 32, known... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Outfitter guaranteed hunting license makes hunting elitist 2/2/2021 Montana’s hunting opportunities are the envy of other Western states, in large part because we place a premium on equal opportunity, regardless of financial means. That’s why thousands of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Oppose the Repeal of Indiana’s State Regulated Wetlands Law 1/24/2021 Click here to take action! Up until about 200 years ago, nearly a quarter of Indiana was covered by wetlands. This productive landscape was vital to Native Americans, fur traders, explorers, and... Tags: Indiana Chapter
Media Press Releases State Issues Arctic Refuge Development Delayed Under Administration Order 1/22/2021 News for Immediate ReleaseJan. 21, 2021Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org Biden administration orders temporary moratorium on oil and gas development in the... Tags: the campfire, press releases, Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Lawmaker to Montana ranchers: You cannot be trusted 1/21/2021 “Cows not Condos” is a popular bumper sticker seen across Montana on everything from flatbed ranch trucks in Miles City to grocery getters in Missoula. The slogan captures one of the few... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues What's Next for the New River Gorge? 1/14/2021 Despite our efforts to educate lawmakers about the importance of the New River Gorge National River to hunters, we were unable to guarantee permanent protection for hunting access. As of last... Tags: West Virginia Chapter
Media State Issues Missouri BHA Joins Coalition in Defending Lindenlure River Access 1/14/2021 Historic use at the Lindenlure access site The Finley River is a 54-mile-long tributary of the James River, most of it flowing through Christian County, Missouri. It is a well known waterway used... Tags: Missouri Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Sometimes a Poor Notion - UT BHA Opposes Book Cliffs Highway 1/7/2021 Elk camp at the head of East Canyon. This area would be paved over if the highway becomes a reality. Once again, the Seven County Infrastructure Coalition (SCIC) has proposed to... Tags: Utah Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports Musselshell River FAS 1/6/2021 January 6, 2021 Montana FWP Region 5 Attn: Mark Ruggles 2300 Lake Elmo Drive Billings, MT 59105 RE: Riverside FAS Dear Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, The Montana Chapter of Backcountry... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Year in Review - 2020 12/23/2020 Places to safely recreate, to provide food for your family or to find much needed peace of mind – never have these wild places been more appreciated and valued than in 2020. And never has BHA's... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Field to Table Maple Turkey w/ Midnight Forest Bourbon Whiskey 12/23/2020 I read over a dozen recipes for wild turkey before setting out to cook my first one. The sentiments I found in some forums as to the dark meat being “not worth” preparing did not deter me, but... Tags: the campfire, Field to Table, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA encourages Land Board to approve Flathead Lake acquisitions 12/18/2020 Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers PO Box 9257 Missoula, MT 59807 Email: montana@backcountryhunters.org The Board of Land Commissioners The Montana Department of Natural... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues MT BHA Holiday Gift Guide - 2020 12/15/2020 We've made it easy for ya! Below are some must-have, hot-ticket gift ideas from many of the Montana-based brands and businesses who support our wild public lands and waters and all the work we do... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Big Win For Mule Deer Winter Range In Idaho! 12/14/2020 The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced they have decided not to pursue a plan to build a 15-mile mountain bike trail along Lucky Peak Reservoir. The proposed "Lakeview Trail" would... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media Press Releases State Issues U.S. Forest Service Drops Controversial Sections from Crazy Mountains Land Swap 12/11/2020 News for Immediate ReleaseDec. 11, 2020Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org USFS cited input from sportsmen and women as reason for change in course MISSOULA,... Tags: the campfire, Montana Chapter, press releases
Media Press Releases State Issues Businesses and Groups Unite to Advocate for Alaska’s Far North 12/7/2020 News for Immediate ReleaseDec. 7, 2020Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org The entities sent a letter to leaders in Congress and the administration urging them to... Tags: the campfire, press releases, Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports efforts to ban drones while fishing 12/1/2020 December 1, 2020Phil KilbreathFWP Enforcement DivisionP.O. Box 200701Helena, MT 59620-0701pkilbreath@mt.gov Dear Mr. Kilbreath: Montana has a long tradition of safeguarding the essence of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Utahns: We’re All Public Landowners 11/30/2020 Utah’s public lands attract residents and visitors from all over the world to explore our state’s many wonders and enjoy a variety of recreational activities. For newcomers, these landscapes may... Tags: Utah Chapter
Media State Issues Colorado Hunter Reports Illegal OHV Use, Forgoes Reward 11/23/2020 Troy Shenk and son with a dandy Colorado timber buck In late October, Colorado BHA member Troy Shenk took his 15-year-old son out for mule deer in the mountains outside Paonia. En route, Shenk... Tags: Colorado Chapter, OHV
Media State Issues Support Selenium Standards for Lake Koocanusa & the Kootenai River 11/16/2020 Water binds us all together, and in the case of northwest Montana, our community is living with the downstream effects of the upriver environment. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks found selenium... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Offers $1,000 Reward in Moose Poaching Case 11/12/2020 The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is offering a reward for $1,000 for information leading to a conviction in a recent moose poaching incident south of Lewistown. A cow moose was... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues BHA TN vs CWD Rules and Regulations 11/5/2020 Chronic Wasting Disease, commonly called CWD, is a disease in whitetail deer populations that is 100% fatal, detrimental to their population structure, the biological community as a whole, and... Tags: Tennessee Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA's Comments on Madison River Recreational Management Proposal 10/30/2020 October 30th, 2020 Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission1420 East Sixth AvenueP.O. Box 200701 Helena, MT 59620 RE: Madison River Recreational Management Proposed Rules and EA Dear Montana FWP... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Beyond the Cast 10/29/2020 Ohio BHA's Policy & Advocacy Committee hopes you follow our journey as we learn about the impacts of lead in hunting and angling, confront our own misconceptions about the subject, and consider... Tags: Ohio Chapter
Media State Issues Tester introduces bill to protect Montana rivers as wild and scenic 10/27/2020 By Helena Dore - October 28, 2020 - Originally published in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle GALLATIN GATEWAY — The Gallatin River snaked behind Montana Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Tester Tuesday... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Michigan Chapter Breaks Down Proposition 20-1 10/23/2020 The Michigan chapter of BHA is the voice for our wild public lands, waters, and wildlife in our great state and seeks to inform members on issues affecting our members as well as public lands and... Tags: Michigan Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports Missoula Access Project 10/22/2020 October 22, 2020 Leanne Marten Regional Forester U.S. Forest Service USFS Region 1 Cc: Carolyn Upton Forest Supervisor Lolo National Forest 26 Fort Missoula Road Missoula, MT 59804 Re: LWCF... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CWD In Tennessee: How Hunters Can Help 10/21/2020 CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease), which is virtually undetectable with the human eye, has been found in deer in Tennessee since 2018. Unlike Blue Tongue or Fibromas, CWD can persist in a herd without... Tags: Tennessee Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho chapter contributes $5,000 to wildlife friendly fence modification in high priority migration corridor 10/16/2020 If you purchased a raffle ticket for the Idaho BHA online raffle back in August, you helped the chapter contribute $5,000 to the County Line Wildlife Friendly Fence Project. This collaborative... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues Take action to preserve New Jersey bear hunt 10/16/2020 New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy recently called for an end to all bear hunting in New Jersey after the 2020 season. Murphy has already used his executive power to end bear hunting on all public... Tags: New Jersey Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports USFWS' Lost Trail Conservation Area 10/14/2020 Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & AnglersPO Box 9257Missoula, MT 59807U.S. Fish and Wildlife ServiceAttention: Vanessa Fields, Project PlannerEmail: LTRCA_comments@fws.govRE: Draft... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports site-specific selenium standards 10/13/2020 This article originally appeared in the fall 2020 issue of Backcountry Journal. BY RYAN BUSSE As a young man I once stood on a mountain ridge so beautiful that I now find it impossible to... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues National Public Lands Day 2020: BHA Assists BLM with Sagebrush Restoration Planting at Dedication Point, near Boise, Idaho 10/13/2020 On Saturday, October 3, twenty BHA volunteers assembled to assist the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) with planting sagebrush seedlings at Dedication Point near Boise, Idaho to help with an... Tags: Idaho Chapter, Collegiate Program
Media Press Releases State Issues Forest Service Moves to Open Development in Alaska Roadless Area 9/30/2020 News for Immediate ReleaseSept. 28, 2020Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org Despite overwhelming public opposition, Tongass National Forest’s salmon fisheries, big... Tags: the campfire, press releases, Alaska issues
Media Chapter News State Issues Public Land Partnership: Hoosier National Forest and Indiana BHA 9/25/2020 The Indiana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BHA), the voice for our public lands in the Hoosier state, is excited to announce a new volunteer partnership with the U.S. Forest Service... Tags: Indiana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Tester’s BCSA helps preserve our hunting heritage 9/24/2020 The Indiana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BHA), the voice for our public lands in the Hoosier state, is excited to announce a new volunteer partnership with the U.S. Forest Service... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Beyond The Shot 9/21/2020 Ohio BHA's Policy & Advocacy Committee hopes you follow our journey as we learn about the impacts of lead in hunting and angling, confront our own misconceptions about the subject, and consider... Tags: Ohio Chapter
Media State Issues Tester’s Blackfoot-Clearwater act gets brief hearing in Senate committee 9/16/2020 By Laura Lundquist - September 16, 2020 - Originally published in the Missoula Current The Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act has finally gotten a committee hearing, although not much... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Why Fight For Pine Tree — The History 9/16/2020 The battle to defend public access to the entire Pine Tree Research Station near Colt, Arkansas may seem at first glance to be a matter of merely local interest. Of the 11,850 acres on the... Tags: Arkansas Chapter
Media State Issues Policy Primer: ASFMC Initiates Amendment to Striped Bass Plan 9/15/2020 NOTE: The following is the first in an occasional series of "Policy Primers" from the NY BHA Policy Team. The purpose is to introduce you to topics and conversations that will shape your... Tags: New York Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports Somers Beach State Park acquisition 9/12/2020 September 12, 2020 Stevie BurtonMontana Fish, Wildlife & Parks490 N. Meridian RoadKalispell, MT 59901stevie.burton@mt.gov RE: Somers Beach Acquisition Draft Environmental Assessment The Montana... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Supports WMA Acquisition in Snowy Mountains 9/8/2020 September 8, 2020 Ashley Taylor, FWP Wildlife Biologist2300 Lake Elmo Dr.Billings, MT 59105 RE: Property Purchase to Establish Snowy Mountain WMA Dear Mrs. Taylor, The Montana Chapter of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues New River Gorge National Park & Preserve Designation Change 9/4/2020 The New River Gorge is unique among our nation’s wild places in that it has seen every facet of man. Native Americans travelled through its corridors and, legend has it, nicknamed it the “river of... Tags: West Virginia Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Public Lands Month 2020 Kickoff w/ FHF Gear & Burch Barrel 9/2/2020 To kick off Public Lands Month, the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers joined forces with FHF Gear, Montana FWP, and Burch Barrel to clean up the Erwin Bridge Fishing Access Site in... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Hunting group urges members to oppose proposed Crazy Mountain land swap 8/31/2020 By Brett French - August 31, 2020 - Originally published in the Billings Gazette Citing concerns about giving up access via historic forest trails, a Montana-based hunting group is encouraging... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Hunting, Conservation Groups Oppose Crazy Mountains Land Swap Proposal 8/27/2020 By Rachel Cramer - August 27, 2020 - Originally published at Montana Public Radio A group of hunting and conservation organizations say a proposed land swap and new trail in the Crazy Mountains... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho BHA helps Payette NF construct barriers on illegal motorized routes 8/27/2020 The Idaho Chapter of the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers partnered with the Payette National Forest on August 14 & 15 to construct a dozen barriers on West Mountain northwest of No Business... Tags: Idaho Chapter, OHV
Media Chapter News State Issues Action alert! The Michigan DNR needs your input on the 2021 Public Lands Strategy. 8/18/2020 $cweb(function(){ $cweb('#congressweb-action-158').congressweb({ url : '//www.congressweb.com/BHA/158', responsive : true }); }); Tags: Michigan Chapter
Media State Issues Take Action to Protect Critical Idaho Winter Range 8/14/2020 The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is proposing a mountain bike trail (Lakeview Trail) along the undeveloped southern shore of Lucky Peak Reservoir that would include sections of the Boise... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues Pendley's Past Remarks on Public Lands Catch Up with Him in MT 8/13/2020 By Eric Tegethoff - August 13, 2020 - Originally published in the Public News Service - MT HELENA, Mont. -- A chorus of voices is growing louder for the Trump administration to withdraw William... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Concerns re: Castle Mountain expansion of the Fording River coal mine 8/13/2020 Aug 13, 2020 Fording River’s Castle Mountain Coal Expansion To Whom It May Concern: British Columbia Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BC BHA) is the voice for wildlife and freshwater... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Assists Property Enrolled in Block Management 8/13/2020 Paradise Ranch and Giant Warm Springs in central Montana is a favorite swimming hole for locals in the summer, and the private ranch is enrolled in Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks' Block Management... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Amid Covid-19 Ohio BHA works to remove Wayne National Forest illegal dump site 8/11/2020 A limited number of Ohio BHA members congregated under the complicated web of COVID-19 restrictions to tackle a massive dumpsite in the Athens District of the Wayne National Forest. Prior to... Tags: Ohio Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Public access in Crazy Mountains requires long-term solutions, not one-sided land swaps 8/7/2020 By Sportsmen and Sportswomen Consortium - August 7, 2020 - Originally published in the Missoula Current Finally, after more than 80 years of disagreements, a combination of legal pressures and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Pine Tree Research Station Sale — Attacking Arkansas Hunters & Our Hunting Culture 8/6/2020 The waters flow through Arkansas as blood flows through our veins, and as such we are intrinsically tied to the water. They feed our crops, cut through the mountain valleys, and breathe life into... Tags: Arkansas Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: The need to pass the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act 7/30/2020 By David Clumpner - July 30, 2020 - Originally published in the Missoula Current On July 22, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Great American Outdoors Act, legislation that fully funds... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Why Keep the University of Arkansas Pine Tree Experimental Station WDA PUBLIC 7/29/2020 Our fight to keep the University of Arkansas Pine Tree Experimental Station WDA publicly accessible can be almost perfectly captured in the words of an 11 year old boy, who has known this place... Tags: Arkansas Chapter
Media State Issues Indiana BHA Upgrades Local WMA 7/28/2020 Indiana BHA members installing a kiosk at the new Veale Creek WMA As public landowners, we all enjoy the freedom that our local public lands have to offer. As a chapter, we feel that it’s our... Tags: Indiana Chapter
Media State Issues Kentucky Chapter Organizes WMA Cleanup 7/28/2020 The air was nearly as thick as the unified cause of the day. The forecast had called for a temperature around 90 with over 60% humidity, but by 8:30 AM cars began to park along the access road.... Tags: Kentucky Chapter
Media State Issues House passes Great American Outdoors Act; bill now awaits Trump's signature 7/23/2020 By Brett French - July 23, 2020 - Originally published in the Billings Gazette Legislation that would fully and permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund was passed by the U.S. House... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Supports Proposed Lost Trail Conservation Area 7/22/2020 July 22, 2020 U.S. Fish and Wildlife ServiceAttn: Ben Gilles922 Bootlegger TrailGreat Falls, MT 59404benjamin_gilles@fws.gov RE: Montana BHA Supports Proposed Lost Trail Conservation Area The... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Support the Great American Outdoors Act 7/20/2020 By Molly Elliott - July 20, 2020 - Originally published in the Flathead Beacon The Great American Outdoors Act would make targeted investments on our lands and waters On June 17, the U.S. Senate... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Time for House to pass Great American Outdoors Act 7/19/2020 By Rachelle Schrute - July 19, 2020 - Originally published in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle On June 17, the U.S. Senate passed the Great American Outdoors Act which is headed for a House vote on... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: The time is now for the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act 7/19/2020 By Ben Gabriel, Marne Hayess, John B. Sullivan III, Frank Szollosi, Becky Edwards, Scott Brennan and Jim Klug - July 19, 2020 - Originally published in the Missoulian Dear Sen. Daines, Passage... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports the Mattson FAS Property Acquisition 7/17/2020 July 17, 2020 The Montana Chapter of BHAPO Box 9257Missoula, MT 59807 Tony Powell, Region 1 FAS ManagerMontana Fish, Wildlife and Parks490 N. Meridian roadKalispell, MT 59901 RE: Mattson... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Everson Bench Conservation Easement 7/15/2020 Gary Bertellotti (Region 4 Supervisor) Sonja Andersen (Lewistown Wildlife Biologist) Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks 4600 Giant Springs Road Great Falls, MT 59405 RE: Everson Bench Public... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Idahoans- Lets get the Great American Outdoors Act across the finish line 7/14/2020 Pronghorn on lands conserved with LWCF funds in the Sawtooth Valley The Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) provides full, dedicated funding to the Land and Water Conservation Fund, along with... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues Building a Public Lands Legacy at Lost Trail 7/13/2020 By Tristan Scott - July 13, 2020 - Originally published in the Flathead Beacon Fish and Wildlife Service proposes conservation easement on 100,000 acres of prime hunting and timberland owned... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Field to Table Grilled Venison Orecchiette Stroganoff 7/8/2020 Stroganoff is one of those meals that just hits all the right notes: it's a comfort food from childhood that's a bit heavy and filling, leaving you in a wonderful food coma afterward. In an effort... Tags: the campfire, Field to Table, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Standard view: We must find a new generation of giants 7/5/2020 Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Keep Valley County Public Lands in Public Hands 7/3/2020 Photo from 1948 issue of Scenic Idaho Magazine Keep over 28,000 acres of currently accessible state land surrounding Payette Lake... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues NM BHA Opposes Dolomite Mine in Ibex Country 7/1/2020 NMBHA recently submitted comments opposing a planned dolomite mine on BLM land in the Florida Mountains – ground zero for New Mexico’s unique ibex hunt and adjacent to the Florida Mountains... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues 2020 Idaho Legislative Session Recap 6/26/2020 Idaho BHA – 2020 Idaho Legislative Session Recap The 2020 legislative session wrapped up in late March and we had several victories for hunters and anglers in the State of Idaho. Idaho BHA was... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues BHA Rewards Hunter who Reported Illegal Wilderness Helicopter 6/25/2020 Public lands sportsman submitted evidence of illegal access that resulted in the pilot’s conviction Backcountry Hunters & Anglers has issued a reward to John Morris, the Montana hunter who... Tags: Montana Chapter, OHV
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Montana BHA State Lands Cleanup 6/24/2020 On Tuesday, June 23rd, Leaders from the Montana Chapter of BHA hosted an outdoor BHA member meeting and state lands cleanup at a site targeted as a potential public shooting range. At this time,... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues U.S. Senate passes bill to fund LWCF and federal land maintenance 6/17/2020 By Laura Lundquist - June 17, 2020 - Originally posted in the Missoula Current With U.S. Senate passage of a significant public lands bill, it’s likely that the Land and Water Conservation Fund... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Federal appeals court upholds cancellation of Badger-Two Medicine oil, gas leases 6/17/2020 By Laura Lundquist - June 17, 2020 - Originally published in the Missoula Current An appeals court added one more chapter to a 38-year struggle when it ruled against an oil company that’s... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Celebrating 60 Years of the National Grasslands 6/16/2020 Photo by Jack Pieper For us prairie dwellers who lack the large mountain ranges and vast expanses of the Rocky Mountain West, June 20th will be a day to celebrate. It marks the 60th birthday... Tags: North Dakota Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA comments on BLM E-Bikes Proposal 6/9/2020 June 9, 2020 The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers PO Box 9257 Missoula, MT 59807 Andy Tenney, Division Chief, Division of Recreation and Visitor Services Bureau of Land... Tags: Montana Chapter, OHV
Media State Issues FWP Commission approves Bitterroot land purchase, OKs Placid Lake pike regs 5/29/2020 By Laura Lundquist - May 29, 2020 - Originally published in the Missoula Current An emergency kill order and some new Fish, Wildlife & Parks property and easements could benefit local fish... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Expanding Public Land Hunting Access in the Hoosier State 5/26/2020 Expanding Public Land Hunting Access in the Hoosier State By Rob Seilheimer Photo by Adam Perrry The Department of the Interior looks to keep its promise to expand hunting and fishing access on... Tags: Indiana Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho BHA comments on expansion of access to National Wildlife Refuges 5/22/2020 The Idaho Chapter recently sent a letter (included below) to the US Fish and Wildlife Service applauding the expansion of access to wildlife refuges in Idaho as per Secretarial Order 3347 and the... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues Kestrel Glassing Systems Becomes Official Chapter Sponsor of Idaho BHA 5/22/2020 The Idaho Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers officially welcomes Kestrel Glassing Systems as an official chapter sponsor! The Kestrel® monopod was born of the desire to outperform... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues E-Bikes & Elk: A Bad Combination 5/21/2020 A recent story in The Aspen Times (“Traditional cyclists, e-bikers clash over new trail rules across Colorado,” 5/17/20) included some observations from Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) State... Tags: Colorado Chapter, OHV
Media State Issues PA BHA: E-bikes appropriate for motorized routes only on public land 5/19/2020 The increased popularity of e-bikes has created new demand for areas to ride on public lands in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Chapter acknowledges that e-bikes, like other forms of motorized... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, OHV, news
Media Chapter News State Issues Help expand hunting on National Wildlife Refuges in New York 5/13/2020 Expand Access on Federal Lands in NYLast month, Interior Secretary David Bernhardt proposed expanding hunting and fishing opportunities across more than 2.3 million acres at 97 national wildlife... Tags: New York Chapter
Media State Issues MT BHA Encourages Lost Trail Conservation Easement 5/5/2020 May 5, 2020 Montana Fish, Wildlife & ParksKris Tempel, Habitat Conservation Biologistktempel@mt.gov490 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell, MT 59901 The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Nevada BHA Encourages Wildlife Crossing Development 5/4/2020 Each year in Nevada herds of bighorn sheep, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and elk migrate between their summer and winter ranges. This movement is critical to their survival as it allows wildlife... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Public lands unite us in most challenging times 5/1/2020 By Hilary Eisen, Ian Jones and Dane Rider - May 1, 2020 - Originally published in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle In the midst of a global pandemic, Montanans are able to responsibly find moments of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Hunting and fishing provide food security in the time of COVID-19 4/29/2020 Hunting and fishing provide food security in the time of COVID-19 But virus fears and travel restrictions could impact big game season in the fall. By Nick Bowlin - April 29, 2020 - Originally... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues New Mexico Stream Access Lawsuit Moves Ahead 4/21/2020 The state constitution says all waters in New Mexico belong to the public. In 1945, the state Supreme Court ruled that all waters should be open to the public for recreational use, provided the... Tags: New Mexico Chapter, stream access
Media Chapter News State Issues Ohio BHA urges responsible public lands use during health crisis 4/3/2020 Dear Ohio BHA Members, Over the last few days, many have found themselves nervously perusing different states’ fish and game websites to see what the latest responses are to the COVID19... Tags: Ohio Chapter
Media State Issues Field to Table Venison Tartare with Truffle and Lemon Zest 3/31/2020 Venison Tartare with Truffle and Lemon Zest By Montana BHA Life Member Corey Ellis What You'll Need 10oz finely diced, raw, quality venison or antelope (backstrap, tenderloins or rump meat... Tags: Field to Table, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Take Action: Nez Perce-Clearwater Forest Plan Revision 3/31/2020 Our Idaho neighbors are currently undergoing a Forest Plan revision for the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest. Last written in 1987, this plan is overdue for some guidance, and will guide the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Nez Perce-Clearwater Comments 3/31/2020 March 31, 2020 The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & AnglersPO Box 9257 Missoula, MT 59807 Zach Peterson – Forest PlannerNez Perce-Clearwater National Forest903 3rd StKamiah, ID... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Spring 2020 Kentucky Chapter News 3/27/2020 Above: Green River National Wildlife Refuge The Kentucky Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers is proud to report that on November 22nd, the nation’s 568th national wildlife refuge, Green... Tags: Kentucky Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports FAS on West Fork Bitterroot 3/26/2020 March 26, 2020 Sharon Rose Comments Coordinator, Region 2 Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks 3201 Spurgin Rd Missoula, MT 59804 shrose@mt.gov Re: C. Ben White Memorial Fishing Access Site Dear... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Minnesota BHA thanks Govenor Walz for Speaking-up for the BWCA 3/24/2020 On March 10th Minnesota DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen submitted a letter to the U.S. Forest Service requesting a completed mineral withdrawal study regarding the impacts fish and wildlife if a... Tags: Minnesota Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Supports Thompson River FAS 3/24/2020 March 24, 2020 Ryan Kreiner, Fisheries BiologistMontana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks5427 HWY 200Thompson Falls, MT 59873rkreiner@mt.gov Re: Thompson River Fishing Access Site Dear Mr.... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues The Ohio Chapter weighs in on Forest Managment in Wayne National Forest 3/23/2020 In a recent blog post, we highlighted the Ohio Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers participation in the Wayne National Forest's Forest Plan Revision process - it is a lengthy process of... Tags: Ohio Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Ohio BHA weighs in on Wayne National Forest comment period 3/23/2020 The Wayne National Forest is currently in the process of revising its Forest Plan that has been in place since 2006. Now in the assessment phase, the Forest Service is soliciting input from... Tags: Ohio Chapter
Media Publications State Issues Colorado State Trust Land Access Report and Access Guide 3/12/2020 Last fall, Colorado state agencies opened 100,000 acres of Colorado state trust land to hunters and anglers to kick off the 2019 hunting season. In 2020 we are looking forward to gaining public... Tags: Colorado Chapter, publications
Media Chapter News State Issues Kansas Chapter Leads Habitat Project with KDWPT 3/11/2020 On February 29, 2020, 15 volunteers from Kansas BHA and the general hunting community joined Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) at Perry Wildlife Area for the chapter’s... Tags: Kansas Chapter
Media State Issues FWP recognizes Block Management Program cooperators 3/10/2020 FWP recognizes Block Management Program cooperators - March 10, 2020 - Originally posted by Montana FWP Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Region 7 took the opportunity in February to recognize the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues New England BHA Introduces Legislation to Prohibit Captive Hunting in Rhode Island in 2020 3/6/2020 During the 2019 legislative session, the New England Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers opposed captive hunting at three committee hearings in the Rhode Island General Assembly.... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues Chronic Wasting Disease’s Potential Economic Impacts 2/29/2020 By Maggie Dresser - February 29, 2020 - Originally published in the Flathead Beacon CWD is already altering hunters’ habits since its detection in Montana in 2017, and there are worries in the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Park County Court Cases Testing Boundaries Of Public Access, Private Property Rights 2/28/2020 By Rachel Cramer - February 28th, 2020 - Originally published at Montana Public Radio March 1 kicks off the new license year for Montana hunters, many of whom will rely on public land to punch... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Keep New York's Environmental Protection Fund Dedicated to Conservation Projects 2/26/2020 Since 1993, New York’s Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) has served as one of the most important sources of funding in the state for public land and water conservation projects that enhance... Tags: New York Chapter
Media State Issues Trump Budget Proposes Cuts to LWCF Funding, National Parks 2/20/2020 By Tristan Scott - February 20, 2020 - Originally published in the Flathead Beacon Montana leadership promises full funding even as president’s budget includes 97% cut in spending on Land and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Vermont Public Land Owners gather before vote on town forest sale 2/20/2020 February 15, 2020, Brandon, VT- Vermont members of BHA, along with a few new friends, met to celebrate public lands at Red Clover Ale Co. There were tales of turkeys, tracking bucks, big brown... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Chapter supports Federal Bills to expand public access 2/19/2020 The California policy committee recently submitted a letter of support for the legislative bill Protecting Unique and Beautiful Landscapes by Investing in California (PUBLIC) Lands Act (S. 3288).... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Nevada Chapter encourages public comments in Washoe County 2/18/2020 Our NV state Chapter is actively engaged with the Truckee Meadows Land Management Act (https://www.landsbill.org/). This Act includes proposals for both public land disposal and protection in... Tags: Nevada Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues More timber harvest, grazing in new BLM plan 2/16/2020 By Patrick Reilly - February 16th, 2019 - Originally published in the Missoulian. The Bureau of Land Management lands near Missoula will be open to more logging and grazing should a new... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Great Lakes Conservation Bill Passes House, Needs Support in Senate 2/14/2020 For many sportsmen and women, the Great Lakes is more than just a body of water that contains some amazing hunting and fishing opportunities. The Great Lakes are a piece of the Midwestern soul.... Tags: Ohio Chapter
Media State Issues Chapter submits comments on Truckee Meadows 2/14/2020 Dear Ms. Rodriguez and Congressional staffers, A belated thank you for the gift of your time in hosting the Truckee Meadows Public Lands Management Act all-day stakeholder discussions last month... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Support for Northwest California 2/11/2020 Anyone who has spent time in the vast expanses of public land in Northern California can attest to the richness of the landscape. From the ancient redwoods of the coasts to the sprawling... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on the Horsefly Vegetation Project 2/10/2020 February 10, 2020 The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & AnglersPO Box 9257 Missoula, MT 59807 Carol Hatfield, District Ranger Belt Creek- White Sulphur Springs Ranger District 204... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Sign Up to Advocate for Minnesota Conservation Funding 2/7/2020 The state chapter is organizing a day at the state Capitol for members to meet with legislators on Tuesday, March 3rd. The governor has proposed a bonding bill that includes a major commitment to... Tags: Minnesota Chapter
Media State Issues Appeals Court Decision Advances Stream Access Case in Colorado 1/31/2020 On January 23rd, Colorado river users received welcome news from 10thCircuit Court of Appeals by allowing a lawsuit to proceed between fisherman Roger Hill, landowner Mark Warsewa and the State of... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues NC Sunday Hunting Survey 1/29/2020 For five nights in February, North Carolina hunters will have their best shot ever at moving the needle on Sunday hunting on publicly-owned lands in the state. Since 1869, these lands have been... Tags: North Carolina Chapter
Media State Issues Protecting Nevada's Wildlife Heritage 1/27/2020 Published in the Reno Journal on 1/23/2020 https://www.rgj.com/story/opinion/voices/2020/01/23/nevada-must-take-steps-protect-our-wildlife-heritage-mero/4554158002/ As a native Nevadan, there’s... Tags: Nevada Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues Montana BHA Comments on Bitterroot Elk Habitat Objectives 1/22/2020 January 22, 2020 The Montana Chapter of BHAPO Box 9257Missoula, MT 59808montana@backcountryhunters.org406-926-1908 Forest Supervisor Matthew AndersonBitterroot National ForestAttn: Forest Plan... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Speak Up for Reasonable Elk Management in Montana 1/13/2020 The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is deeply concerned about the manner in which Elk Shoulder Seasons (ESSs) are being used to manage elk in Montana. The Shoulder Seasons were... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on Elk Shoulder Seasons 1/13/2020 January 13, 2020 The Montana Chapter of BHA PO Box 9257Missoula, MT 59808 Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commissioners: Shane Colton, Richard Stuker, Tim Aldrich, Pat Byorth and Logan... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports W-Bar Conservation Easement 1/10/2020 January 10, 2020 The Montana Chapter of BHA PO Box 9257Missoula, MT 59808 Montana FWP Attn: Brandi Skone P.O. Box 1630 Miles City, MT 59301 bskone@mt.gov Re: W-Bar CE Comment To the Dedicated... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Fish, Wildlife and Parks commission rejects hovercraft on Bitterroot River 1/6/2020 By Laura Lundquist - January 6, 2020 - Originally published in the Missoula Current Locals on fishing rafts, kayaks and inner tubes won’t have to dodge hovercraft on the Bitterroot River and a... Tags: Montana Chapter, OHV
Media State Issues OPINION: Celebrating public lands with a cold one 1/3/2020 By Land Tawney and Marc Pierce - January 3, 2020 - Originally published in the Missoulian The next chapter of the conservation movement has arrived, and it comes in a can. Highlander Beer’s Public... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA's Follow-Up Comments on Pryors Travel Management 1/2/2020 January 2, 2020 The Montana Chapter of BHA PO Box 9257 Missoula, MT 59808 Dave Lefevre, Field Manager dlefevre@blm.gov Jennifer Alexander, Outdoor Recreation Planner jalexander@blm.gov BLM... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Weyerhaeuser land sale shows importance of LWCF, public access 12/30/2019 By Julie Mackiewicz - December 30, 2019 - Originally published in the Missoula Current In the last minute of shooting light on one of the last days of the 2019 hunting season, I took the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA & others comment on the Tendoy Project EA 12/30/2019 Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Hovercraft petition for rivers comes before FWP Jan. 6 12/27/2019 By Eve Byron - December 27, 2019 - Originally published in the Missoulian Jim Crews’ petition to allow hovercraft to operate on the Bitterroot and Clark Fork rivers through Missoula year-round is... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Nevada Chapter's Statement on Sen. Cortez Masto's legislation to protect the DNWR 12/20/2019 Earlier today the Nevada delegation led by Sen. Cortez Masto (D-NV) introduced the Desert National Wildlife Refuge and Nevada Test and Training Range Withdrawal and Management Act (S. 3145). The... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on the Pryors Travel Management Plan 12/19/2019 December 19, 2019 The Montana Chapter of BHA PO Box 9257 Missoula, MT 59808 Jennifer Alexander Outdoor Recreation Planner jalexander@blm.gov BLM Billings Field Office5001 Southgate... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Elk shoulder seasons are ineffective. It's time to think outside the box 12/19/2019 By Thomas Baumeister - December 19, 2019 - Originally published in the Missoulian Montana has a lot of elk — 134,557, to be more precise. Elk are part of our state’s identity and we’re better for... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Backcountry Journal Central Oregon: The Frontlines of Wilderness Access 12/17/2019 By Tristan Henry In Oregon’s scenic Central Cascades, the undulating terrain that bisects east from misty west has drawn growing crowds of backcountry travelers, summer after summer. Here,... Tags: Backcountry Journal, Oregon Chapter, summer 2019
Media State Issues LETTER: Tendoy White Pine Project Deadline Extension Request 12/17/2019 Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Michigan Adds Over 2000 New Acres of Public land! 12/17/2019 This October, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources agreed to purchase the Storey Lake property in Otsego and Charlevoix counties in the North East Lower Peninsula. This win for Michigan... Tags: Michigan Chapter
Media State Issues Weyerhaeuser agrees to sell Montana timberland 12/17/2019 By Seaborn Larson - December 17, 2019 - Originally published in the Missoulian U.S. timber giant Weyerhaeuser Company on Tuesday announced it has agreed to sell its Montana timberland to a private... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Opinion: AZ BHA Thanks Sen. McSally for Supporting LWCF 12/16/2019 Some of my favorite traditions involve spending time outside with my family in the great outdoors. We make annual trips to places all over the state. We love to chase elusive trout in pristine... Tags: Arizona Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Elk Shoulder Season Evaluation Needs Best Science Available 12/12/2019 December 12, 2019 Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Attn: Commissioner Aldrich;Commissioner Byorth; CommissionerStuker; Commissioner Brower; Commissioner Colton; Director Wiliams; Wildlife Division... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho BHA sponsors youth fly fishing club 12/11/2019 On Tuesday December 10th, Idaho BHA Chapter sponsored a meeting of the local Boise youth fly fishing club, the Woolly Buggers. Idaho BHA was represented by Ted Koch (Idaho BHA Region 1 Rep) and... Tags: Idaho Chapter, r3, news
Media State Issues Texans Vote to Increase State Parks Funding 12/10/2019 In a show of support for the wild places and history of Texas, voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 5 at the polls earlier this month — dedicating much needed funding to parks and historical... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Understanding Access on Arizona's State Trust Lands 12/9/2019 Bella, my German Wirehair Pointer, and I quartered through the thick grass cover, prickly pear cactus, yucca, and a few pinon and juniper in search of Arizona’s renowned Gambel's quail. We were... Tags: Arizona Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Winter 2020 Tennessee Chapter News 12/1/2019 The Tennessee Chapter officially kicked off in style with a pint night tour across the state in July. Land Tawney joined Josh Kaywood for the tour, stopping in Knoxville, Chattanooga, Memphis and... Tags: Tennessee Chapter
Media State Issues Hunters Lose Access in SLO's Closed-door Decision 11/28/2019 Waterfowl hunters in the Rio Grande Valley lost a small but important hunting area this week after the State Land Office (SLO) closed it to public access – perhaps in violation of the SLO lease... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues Sunday hunting now legal on three days in Pennsylvania 11/27/2019 Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf ushered in a new era today in the Keystone State when he signed into law a bill that will allow pursuit of deer and other species on three Sundays starting in the... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, news
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Responds to Hovercrafts 11/25/2019 Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers PO Box 9257 Missoula, MT 59807 November 25, 2019 Montana FWP Commission Helena, Montana Dear Chairman and Commissioners Re: Petition to... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues California Legislation Would Bolster Hunting and Fishing Opportunities 11/20/2019 Popular opinion of California may be dominated by the cultures permeating from Hollywood and Silicon Valley, but hundreds of thousands of acres of public land border all of our major cities. Three... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Eastern Montana man arrested in illegal killing, wasting of bull elk 11/18/2019 November 18, 2019 - From Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks - Originally published in the Montana Standard A 23-year-old Roundup man was arrested Friday in the poaching of three trophy bull elk in... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Tell Senator Daines to Reject Pendley 11/15/2019 Join BHA in urging Senator Daines to #RejectPendley $cweb(function(){ $cweb('#congressweb-action-128').congressweb({ url : '//www.congressweb.com/BHA/128', responsive :... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Speak up again to keep Hawn's Peninsula wild and public 11/13/2019 The Pennsylvania Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers is committed to speaking up for hunting and fishing access and habitat for wildlife and fish. In June 2018, the Pennsylvania Chapter... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, news
Media State Issues NJ BHA calls for restoration of bear hunt, supports North American Model of Conservation 11/12/2019 The New Jersey Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers believes in science-based wildlife management and preserving the integrity of hunting and fishing heritage in New Jersey. The ban on bear... Tags: New Jersey Chapter
Media State Issues #BHAvsCWD 11/11/2019 It’s time for the #BHAvsCWD Challenge. Since CWD was first detected in Tennessee in 2018, the disease has spread to at least four counties. To help combat CWD, @bhatennessee is hosting a giveaway... Tags: Tennessee Chapter
Media State Issues BHA and Game Commission team up for live Q &A on chronic wasting disease 11/8/2019 In response to a slew of questions from members about chronic wasting disease in the Keystone State and the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s (PGC) CWD Draft Management Plan, the PA Chapter of... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, news
Media State Issues Wyoming Chapter Sees Win in Medicine Bow-Routt NF 11/7/2019 The Wyoming Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers saw a new development recently in a longstanding struggle over public lands with a Casper-area landowner. Richard Bonander, president of... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues Senate Bill Could Reopen Fort Keogh Boat Ramp 11/4/2019 Despite growing uncertainty for the prospects of a 2020 appropriations deal, the U.S. Senate just passed a bill with a measure that effectively sidesteps the bureaucratic nightmare impeding access... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Rewards Off-Road Vehicle Enforcement in Colorado 10/31/2019 News for Immediate ReleaseOct. 31, 2019Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org The Colorado Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers recently issued two rewards to... Tags: Colorado Chapter, featured
Media State Issues House Vote another win in quest to hunt on Sundays in PA 10/31/2019 Pennsylvania hunters are another step closer to enjoying expanded Sunday hunting after legislation to allow hunting on three Sundays passed the state House of Representatives overwhelmingly in... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, news
Media State Issues Advocate for Regulated Hunting in Florida's Black Bear Management Plan 10/31/2019 Tags: Southeast Chapter, Take Action
Media State Issues Hunters, anglers question Crazy Mountain land swap 10/30/2019 By Michael Wright - October 30, 2019 - Originally published in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle Meanwhile, the Forest Service has tried to make some progress. This summer, it began work on the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues In defense of brook trout 10/25/2019 In Defense of Brook Trout By Nick DelVecchio, BHA Member Pennsylvania has been blessed with treasure troves of natural resources. Over the decades, prosperity and wealth has been owed to the... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, issues
Media Chapter News State Issues Make a Call to Repeal Sunday Hunting Ban 10/24/2019 Pennsylvania hunters are closer than ever to being able to hunt on Sundays. Senate Bill 147, sponsored by Senator Dan Laughlin, would expand opportunities for Pennsylvania hunters by providing... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter
Media State Issues South Crazies Land Exchange Proposal 10/24/2019 The US Forest Service has recently proposed a land exchange in Montana's Crazy Mountains called the “South Crazy Mountain Land Exchange.” This proposal would swap privately owned sections with... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on Proposed Land Exchange in Crazy Mountains 10/24/2019 October 24, 2019 Mary Erickson, Forest SupervisorCuster-Gallatin National ForestP.O. Box 130Bozeman, MT 59771 RE: Proposed South Crazy Mountains Land Exchange Dear Supervisor Erickson, The... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Backcountry Journal Saving Coni Island 10/24/2019 South of the Brooks Range in northern Alaska there still exists intact ecosystems that remain largely unchanged except by forces of nature. This is one of the largest public land wild areas left... Tags: Backcountry Journal, Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues The Missouri Black Bear 10/23/2019 Missouri hunters may now have the opportunity they haven’t had since the early 19th century: putting bear meat on the table. This will be a huge resource for all Missourians who hunt. I marvel at... Tags: Missouri Chapter
Media State Issues Nevada Chapter submits letter to Clark County 10/21/2019 The Nevada Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers have partnered with a coalition of conservation groups in Southern Nevada to submit a letter regarding the Clark County Land Bill procedure. The... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Eastern Chapters unite behind bill to support Chesapeake Bay restoration 10/21/2019 The New York, Pennsylvania and Capital Region Chapters weighed in to support S. 2591, a bill to enable the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service to assist local stakeholders to expand conservation and... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, New York Chapter, Mid-Atlantic Chapter, Capital News, Capital issues, Capital Region, issues, Mid-Atlantic Events
Media Press Releases State Issues Alaska Roadless Habitat Opened to Logging, Development 10/16/2019 News for Immediate ReleaseOct. 16, 2019Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org Prime big game habitat and fisheries left vulnerable as administration exempts Tongass... Tags: the campfire, press releases, Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues CO BHA Member Reports Illegal OHV Use 10/10/2019 On September 14th, a BHA member and Denver resident was preparing for the opening day of Colorado’s muzzleloader season by scouting one of his most reliable spots when he witnessed a truck parked... Tags: Colorado Chapter, OHV
Media State Issues OPINION: Support Montana Headwaters Security Act to protect wild, scenic rivers 10/9/2019 Originally published in the Missoulian I am the son, grandson and great-grandson of timber men and ranchers in the Flathead Valley. My family came to Montana in the '30s to capitalize on the vast... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Protect Hunting and Fishing Opportunities in the Rio Grande Watershed 10/4/2019 The U.S. Forest Service is currently in the process of developing plans that will direct the management of more than 3 million acres of your National Forest lands in Northern New Mexico for the... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports the Elbow Lake dam removal 10/4/2019 Montana FWP Region 2Attn: Elbow Lake Dam Removal3201 Spurgin Rd Missoula, MT 59804 To Whom it May Concern: The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers appreciates the opportunity to... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on Mud Creek project 10/4/2019 The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers has significant interest in the Mud Creek project as well as the proposal to amend elk security guidance. We wish to be notified of any... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues The Decline of Indiana's Ruffed Grouse 10/1/2019 Have you ever heard a ruffed grouse drumming? It's primeval: as it calls for a mate, it beats a slow rhythmic thrumming that spins up, the drumming too fast to count. You feel it in your own chest... Tags: Indiana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Re-open Fort Keogh boat ramp access 9/28/2019 Originally published in the Billings Gazette For decades, the USDA at Fort Keogh allowed hunters, anglers and other recreationists access to the only decent boat ramp on the Lower Yellowstone... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Backcountry Hunters & Anglers: Daines, Gianforte must insist on full funding for LWCF 9/25/2019 Originally published in the Missoula Current Last month, Sen. Steve Daines visited the City Club in Missoula to chat with constituents about issues important to Montanans. A priority issue to... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Access in Montana’s Crazy Mountains a big concern 9/25/2019 Originally published in the Great Falls Tribune For those willing to hoof it long distances on foot, Montana’s Crazy Mountains offer solitude, rewarding views and dozens of alpine lakes full of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Texas Conservation Projects Stand to Benefit from LWCF 9/25/2019 US Department of Interior announces $170.6 Million in grants to support state parks and outdoor recreation through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Texas outdoor recreation and... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media State Issues SB 316 helps ensure access to public lands 9/13/2019 The godfather of the North American Model of Conservation, Aldo Leopold, once said, “To those devoid of imagination a blank place on the map is a useless waste; to others, the most valuable part.”... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on Flathead River CRMP 9/12/2019 Flathead National Forest / Glacier National ParkAttn: Comprehensive River Management Plan for the Flathead River650 Wolfpack WayKalispell, MT 59901 September 12, 2019 To Whom It May... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act is Model Montana Method 9/10/2019 Originally published September 10th, 2019 on www.missoulian.com The Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act (S. 1765) represents the best of Montana politics: collaborative, consensus-based policy... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on Redd Bull Project 9/8/2019 Superior Ranger DistrictLolo National ForestSeptember 8th, 2019 Subject: Redd Bull Project To the Redd Bull Project Leader: The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers thanks the U.S.... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Reward for info about poached elk in Mussellshell County bumped up to $3,000 9/8/2019 by Mike Kordenbrock Originally published on September 8th 2019 on www.billingsgazette.com The reward has increased for information leading to a conviction in cases involving trophy bull elk... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Speak Up to Stop Elk Poachers 9/8/2019 Originally publish September 8th, 2019 on www.billingsgazette.com Four bull elk were recently illegally gunned down in Musselshell County and left to fester in the August heat. The repulsiveness... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Uphold Hunting and Fishing Opportunities in the Carson and Santa Fe National Forests 9/3/2019 Our national forests play host to a wide variety of users, not least of whom are sportsmen and women. Totaling nearly 190 million acres across the United States, national forests are critical to... Tags: New Mexico Chapter, priority landscapes
Media State Issues OPINION: Montana’s unique rivers deserve unique protection 8/25/2019 Originally published Aug 25th, 2019 on www.bozemandailychronicle.com As the owner of Montana Angler Fly Fishing, it’s easy to see how rivers impact my business and my life. They are the source of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues 'The stoke level is high': Missoula nonprofit, brewery team up for public lands-themed beer 8/22/2019 Originally published Aug 22, 2019 on www.missoulian.com Amid the controversy surrounding a Trump administration official’s stance on selling public lands, a local nonprofit is partnering with a... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Governor Issues Executive Order to Protect Migration Corridors 8/21/2019 Photo Credits: Good Bull Outdoors In August, Gov. Jared Polis gave sportsmen and women a tool to protect migration corridors in Colorado. BHA welcomes this executive order (EO), and we thank the... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Bridge Rebuild w/ the USFS 8/20/2019 On August 10th, eight Montana BHA members from Regions 1 and 2 joined forces with the Montana Conservation Corps and the US Forest Service to rebuild a bridge at the West Fork of the Swamp Creek... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Chapter co-hosts volunteer day at Table Mountain 8/14/2019 The Nevada Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers teamed up with Friends of Nevada Wilderness and Back Country Horsemen of America to host a 3 day volunteer event in the Table Mountains last... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues The Bureau of Land Management’s New Acting Director Proves the Fight for Public Lands Has Just Begun 8/14/2019 Originally published on www.mensjournal.com by J R Sullivan William Perry Pendley, the new acting director of the Bureau of Land Management, wants to dismantle the very agency that he’s... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues White Pine County Silver State OHV Trail 8/13/2019 The Nevada Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers has been involved with the issue of the Silver State Trail (SST) since 2004 when we submitted comments on the Lincoln Co. SST proposal,... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Chapter Calls for Hunting & Fishing Mentors and Mentees 8/12/2019 The California chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers is excited to announce the launch of a new mentoring program designed to help provide guidance to members interested in learning the... Tags: California Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Forest Legacy Program to Add 1,200 Acres to Ohio’s Shawnee State Forest 8/8/2019 The largest block of public forest in Ohio is soon to be 1,200 acres larger! The strategic acquisition, to be purchased through the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Legacy Program, would provide... Tags: Ohio Chapter
Media State Issues SPEAK UP FOR BLM PUBLIC LANDS NEAR MISSOULA 8/6/2019 Some of the best hunting and fishing habitat in NW Montana is found within public lands and river corridors managed by the Missoula Bureau of Land Management Field Office. If you've ever fished or... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Montana BHA Battles Invasive Weeds at Summit Trailhead 8/5/2019 On Saturday, seven public land owners went to town on some invasive weeds at the Summit Trailhead off of the Marias Pass! The effort was in collaboration with our friends at the Bob Marshall... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Montanans won’t suffer fools gladly — especially when it comes to our public lands 8/4/2019 Originally published in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle Montanans are not fools. Hunters, anglers and outdoorspeople, we know how to spot a wolf – especially when they are in wolf’s clothing. New... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana conservationists decry ‘illegal’ appointment of new BLM director 7/31/2019 By Laura Lundquist - July 31st, 2019 - Originally published in the Missoula Current Montana conservationists and sportsmen are pushing back against what they see as an illegal move to assign a... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on Shoulder Seasons 7/31/2019 July 31, 2019 Montana Fish, Wildlife & ParksCommissioners: Shane Colton, Richard Stuker, Tim Aldrich, Pat Byorth and Logan BrowerDirector: Martha Williams1420 East Sixth AvenueHelena, MT... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Conservation groups cry foul at new acting leadership for BLM 7/30/2019 By Patrick Reilly - July 30th, 2019 - Originally published in the Missoulian Montana conservation groups are describing the Bureau of Land Management’s new acting director as a threat to public... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: Great Bear Wilderness Trails Project Recap 2019 7/30/2019 Volunteering for a few hours at an event - that's impressive and greatly appreciated. But volunteering an entire week of your summer to improve trails on our public lands? Now THAT deserves an... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Oil and Gas Industry Attorney Tapped as BLM Head 7/29/2019 By Tristan Scott - July 29, 2019 - Originally published in the Flathead Beacon A coalition of conservation and sportsmen groups on July 29 denounced the hiring of William Perry Pendley as the new... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues EVENT RECAP: MT BHA tackles fencing project at Dome Mountain 2019 7/29/2019 The BHA volunteer fencing project on the Dome Mountain WMA was a big success! A number of public land owners rolled up their sleeves on a beautiful Saturday to help our friends at Montana Fish,... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Report Details Millions Needed For Conservation, Recreation 7/26/2019 By Nicky Ouellet - July 26, 2019 - Originally published on MTPR.org Montana’s working lands, wildlife, state parks and trails face tens of millions of dollars in unmet funding needs, according to... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Conservation, sportsmen’s groups urging Senate for wildlife crossings in funding bill 7/26/2019 By Laura Lundquist - July 26th, 2019 - Originally published in the Missoula Current More structures like the Animals Bridge on Highway 93 north of Missoula are needed to help wildlife safely... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues WY Chapter Donates $3,000 to Access Yes 7/26/2019 The Wyoming Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers presented the Wyoming Game and Fish with a check for $3000 in support of the Access Yes Program. The check was presented at the July... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues A Conservation Focus in Ohio’s Recently Signed Budget Bill 7/24/2019 On July 17th, Gov. Mike DeWine signed a budget bill into law that includes a number conservation victories which the Ohio Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers has been fighting for since... Tags: Ohio Chapter
Media State Issues Texas Court Rules in Favor of Hunters, Wild Deer 7/23/2019 Texas Court Decision Reaffirms Public Ownership of Wildlife in Peterson v. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department et al. The Texas chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers participates in supporting... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues California Chapter supports Federal Conservation Bills 7/22/2019 The California Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) recently sent a letter of support of Congresswomen Judy Chu’s (D-CA) San Gabriel Mountains Foothills and Rivers Protection Act (H.R.... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports Eastern Montana LWCF acquisition 7/19/2019 July 19, 2019 John MehlhoffState DirectorMontana/Dakotas State OfficeBureau of Land Management5001 Southgate DriveBillings, MT 59101 RE: Montana BLM Musselshell River Access Acquisition - LWCF... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Colorado Parks & Wildlife Votes to Expand Public Access to 500,000 Acres of State Trust Land 7/18/2019 Last Thursday afternoon in Walden, Colorado the Colorado Board of Land Commissioners unanimously approved a motion to allow seasonal hunting access to an additional 500,000 acres of Colorado state... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports Phase II of Kootenai Project 7/17/2019 July 17, 2019 Mr. Rick Northrup Wildlife Habitat Bureau Chief, FLP Program Mgr Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks1420 E 6th AvenueP.O. Box 200701 Helena, MT 59620 RE: Forest Legacy, Kootenai... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Talking Points for the Lewistown RMP 7/17/2019 Some of the best mule deer and elk hunting in Montana is at risk of being negated by oil and gas development. Unless the BLM hears from public land owners, 650,000 acres of public lands in Central... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Enforce public access rights in the Crazies 7/14/2019 By John B. Sullivan III - July 14, 2019 - Originally published in the Billings Gazette In June, a coalition of Montana-based conservation groups, including the Montana Chapter of Backcountry... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Texas BHA Supports Sporting Goods Sales Tax Constitutional Amendment 7/9/2019 The Texas chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) supports a constitutional amendment dedicating the Texas Sporting Goods Sales Tax to state & local parks On November 5, 2019, Texans will... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Chapter Supports Northwest California Bill H.R. 2250 7/8/2019 The California Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) recently authored a letter of support for Congressman Jared Huffman’s (D-CA) Northwest California Wilderness, Recreation, and Working... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA requests reciprocal DNRC access easement 7/8/2019 July 8, 2019 Mr. John E.Tubbs Director, Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation 1539 11thAve PO Box 201601 Helena, MT 59620 Dear Mr. Tubbs: Our organization, the Montana... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Our public lands are worth fighting for 7/7/2019 By The Bozeman Daily Chronicle Editorial Board - July 7, 2019 - Originally published in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle The war on access is becoming the defining public lands issue of the 21st... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Groups ask judge to block trail work in Crazies 7/2/2019 By Michael Wright - July 2, 2019 - Originally published in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle A coalition of conservation groups wants a federal judge to block construction on a new trail in the Crazy... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA comments on Apex Solar proposal 7/1/2019 July 1, 2019 Tim EganManager DNRC Dillon Unit840 N. Montana Street Dillon, MT 59725 Mr. Egan – The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (MTBHA), representing more than 3,000... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Custer Gallatin National Forest keeps moving goalposts on public access in the Crazy Mountains 6/26/2019 By Kathryn QannaYahu - June 26, 2019 - Originally published in the Missoulian In 2015, a hunter experiencing attempted obstruction in the Crazies wrote to U.S. Sen. Steve Daines, who then wrote... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Arizona BHA Policy Recap 6/24/2019 The 54th session of the Arizona legislature concluded this May, and, thanks to the engagement and perseverance of hunters, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts across the state, our voices were... Tags: Arizona Chapter
Media State Issues Nevada Chapter celebrates the passing of AB 84 6/19/2019 This month Governor Sisolak signed into law AB 84, this Conservation Bond Program provides for the issuance of state general obligation bonds to protect, preserve and obtain the benefits of the... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues California Chapter leads backpacking class, Hike to Hunt in San Gabriel Mtns. National Monument 6/19/2019 Backcountry Hunters and Anglers’ members have a passion for backcountry recreation. Still, they have a wide range of experience when it comes to backpacking, and incorporating hunting or... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Veto Funding for Deer Farms, Protect Wisconsin's Wild Deer 6/17/2019 On June 11, the Wisconsin Joint Finance Committee approved the allocation of $100,000 in hunter license dollars to deer farms in a poorly-considered and scientifically-unsound attempt to study the... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Crazies lawsuit is about respect for property rights — public and private 6/16/2019 By John Sullivan III - June 16, 2019 - Originally published in the Montana Standard. As Americans, we should be passionate about property rights – for both private land owners and public land... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Darby Creek Watershed: Cause for Concern 6/14/2019 -Gabriel Karns, Policy and Legislation co-chair of Ohio Backcountry Hunters & Anglers What Ohio may lack in stunning mountain vistas or endless rolling plains of native grasslands, the Buckeye... Tags: Ohio Chapter
Media State Issues Oklahoma BHA Applauds Acquisition of 7,602 Acre San Bois Wildlife Management Area 6/13/2019 Oklahoma is over 96% privately owned land, ranking 45th out of the 50 states for the smallest percent of land mass dedicated as public land. The challenges hunters and anglers face here go well... Tags: Oklahoma Chapter, public access
Media State Issues Montana BHA Monitors Spotted Dog WMA Grazing 6/13/2019 Leaders from the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (Montana BHA) and the Anaconda Sportsmen Club joined FWP personnel on June 12 to observe the grazing that had begun three days... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports transfer of 13,000 acres to BLM 6/13/2019 Missoula Field Office, Bureau of Land Management(406) 329-3914 | BLM_MT_Missoula_fo@blm.gov June 13, 2019 SUBJECT: BLM's proposed purchase of up to 13,000 acres of Montana Forests lands extending... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Smith River: California’s and Oregon’s Largest Wild & Scenic River 6/12/2019 This article originally appeared in the Spring 2019 issue of Backcountry Journal. By Matthew Clark Photo by Sunny Capper Along the Oregon/California border the mountains rise up straight... Tags: California Chapter, Oregon Chapter, priority landscapes, Collegiate Program, Smith River
Media State Issues Groups sue Forest Service over access issues in Crazy Mountains 6/11/2019 By Brett French - June 11, 2019 - Originally published in the Billings Gazette In an attempt to force the Custer Gallatin National Forest to assert a claim to public access on four Crazy Mountain... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Groups sue Forest Service over trails in the Crazies 6/11/2019 By Justin Post - June 11, 2019 - Originally published in The Livingston Enterprise Four conservation groups sued the U.S. Forest Service on Monday over public access to four trails in the Crazy... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Press Releases State Issues Montana BHA Takes Legal Action Against USFS over Public Access in Crazy Mountains 6/10/2019 News for Immediate ReleaseJune 10, 2019Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org Coalition contends that the Forest Service is abdicating its duty to uphold and defend... Tags: the campfire, Montana Chapter, press releases
Media State Issues Groups sue over trail access in Crazy Mountains 6/10/2019 By Michael Wright - June 10, 2019 - Originally published the Bozeman Daily Chronicle A coalition of conservation groups has sued the U.S. Forest Service over public access to trails in the Crazy... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Supports the Kootenai Forest Lands Conservation Easement 6/10/2019 Kris Tempel ktempel@mt.gov Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks 490 North Meridian Road Kalispell, MT 59901 RE: Montana BHA Supports the Kootenai Forest Lands... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Custer Gallatin USFS Forest Plan Revision Comments 6/6/2019 Forest ServiceAttn: Forest Plan RevisionCuster Gallatin National Forest10 E. Babcock, P.O. Box 130Bozeman, MT 59771 June 6th, 2019 To Whom It May Concern: The Montana Chapter of Backcountry... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues New England BHA Continues Effort to Prohibit Captive Big Game Hunting in Rhode Island 5/31/2019 Back in February, the New England Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers weighed in on H5130 – Canned Hunting Prohibited. In principle, we supported the push to prevent importing big game... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Ohio BHA Adopt a Trail and Cleanup Initiatives 5/30/2019 Earlier this year, Ohio BHA kicked off a multipronged habitat and service initiative that will span the entire state. The plan is to lead and coordinate several different projects that allow BHA... Tags: Ohio Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Sporting Coalition Applauds HB 265 Veto 5/24/2019 May 24, 2019 The Honorable Steve BullockGovernorMontana State CapitolP.O. Box 200801Helena, MT 59620-0801 RE: Coalition thank you for veto of HB 265 Dear Gov. Bullock, Our organizations that make... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Argali joins as Idaho BHA chapter sponsor 5/22/2019 The Idaho chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is excited to announce that Argali has become a chapter level corporate sponsor. Argali sells outdoor gear for backcountry hunters via an online... Tags: Idaho Chapter, news, issues
Media State Issues Montana governor forms panel to assess, plan for state’s forests 5/21/2019 By Michael Wright - May 21, 2019 - Originally published in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle Montana’s governor has formed a council to examine the state’s forested lands and plan for the future of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Jackson Spring Cleanup on the Bridger Teton National Forest 5/20/2019 This spring, Wyoming BHA Chapter volunteers initiated a long-term effort to help clean up garbage and abandoned property from recreational shooting on public lands in the Jackson Hole area. The... Tags: stewardship blog, Wyoming Chapter, stewardship
Media State Issues BLM plan opens public lands near Missoula to resource extraction 5/20/2019 By Laura Lundquist - May 20, 2019 - Originally published in the Missoula Current. The Bureau of Land Management wants to open protected lands near Missoula and across the state to multiple-use... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues PA Crew Leads Ongoing Cleanup at Delaware Water Gap 5/15/2019 Pennsylvania Chapter volunteers have been working with National Park Service staff to form the “Riparian Habitat Protection Team” within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Team goals... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter
Media State Issues MT BHA 2019 Legislative Recap 5/14/2019 Our first session engaging in the Montana Legislature with the help of a lobbyist was a successful one.While Montana BHA’ers have engaged in state legislative sessions in the past, this added... Tags: Montana recap, Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Ohio BHA Testifies on AEP ReCreation Land 5/14/2019 Testimony of the Ohio Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers on the House Finance Subcommittee on Agriculture, Development and Natural Resources meeting on FY 20/21 related to ODNR Organization:... Tags: Ohio Chapter
Media State Issues New England BHA, Local Groups Collaborate for Stream Bank Restoration Project 5/13/2019 Along the banks of the East Branch of the Passumpsic River in East Burke, VT, members of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers joined the ranks of Trout Unlimited, Connecticut River Conservancy, Burke... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Named 'Chapter of the Month' April 2019 4/27/2019 BHA now has Chapters in 39 states and 2 Canadian provinces, with more coming soon. Each one of these is kicking some serious tail in the name of our wild public lands, waters & wildlife. When one... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Colorado Sportsmen Back Conservation Easement Program (HB 1264) 4/26/2019 A much needed piece of bipartisan legislation (HB 1264) which would reauthorize Colorado conservation easement tax credit and improve transparency of the program is currently making it's way... Tags: Colorado Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues Help Stop Public Land Sale & Raid on Public Land Funding in Missouri 4/25/2019 Several bills in the Missouri legislature would force the sale of public lands and jeopardize conservation funding by redirecting revenues from Missouri's conservation sales tax away from our... Tags: Missouri Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: PAL Act increases access without infringing on property rights 4/24/2019 By Sen. Mark Blasdel - April 24th, 2019 - Originally published in the Helena Independent Record Being an avid sportsman, I have strong convictions that one of the greatest blessings of living in... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Companion Legislation Reintroduced to Expand San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, Wilderness and Wild & Scenic Protections 4/24/2019 UPDATE: By Justin Bubenik, California Chapter Co-Chair Shortly after "Expanding Wilderness on the Fringe of the Concrete Jungle" was posted in late March, Senator Harris (D-CA) and Representative... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Oregon BHA Fights Misguided Legislation of Elk Management 4/23/2019 The west has seen a rash of legislation attempting to expand the ability of private interests to manage elk herds. Instead of deferring to the biologists, land managers and agencies tasked with... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog
Media State Issues Hunters push back on cattle grazing in Spotted Dog Wildlife Management Area 4/22/2019 By Laura Lundquist - April 22, 2019 - Originally published in the Missoula Current Controversy continues to hound Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ management of the Spotted Dog Wildlife... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues CDFW Proposes New Fishing Regulations 4/22/2019 The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) recently released a proposed set of changes to the state’s inland trout fishing regulations in furtherance of the Department’s Inland Trout... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT Chapter Applauds & Supports Hunting Access near Garrison 4/22/2019 Randy Arnold, Regional SupervisorMontana Dept Fish Wildlife and ParksSpurgin Road, Missoula, MT Re: Securing Public Hunting Access in Perpetuity on the Graveley Ranch Conservation Easements The... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Oregon BHA Opposes Bill to Privatize Wildlife (S 0301) 4/19/2019 Take a minute to join Oregon BHA in urging your legislator to help stop the privatization of wildlife and public hunting opportunity in the state. Tags: Oregon Chapter
Media State Issues Nevada Chapter Update on Policy Issues in State 4/17/2019 The Nevada chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers has been busy since the start of the state’s legislative session. Sportsman and women from across the state have been deeply involved with the... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Wisconsin Chapter urges action on biennial budget 4/5/2019 The 2019-21 budget process is underway, and we need you to make your voice heard. The Wisconsin Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers was extremely disappointed to find out Gov. Evers chose to... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues New England Chapter Continues Campaign Against Rhode Island Bill 4/2/2019 On March 19, the New England Chapter submitted written testimony to the House Environmental and Natural Resources Committee urging the rejection of Bill H5849, which would allow private shooting... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues Public access is worth fighting for 3/29/2019 By Ryan Busse - March 29, 2019 - Originally published in the Missoulian On Aug. 10, 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt established the Crazy Mountain Forest Reserve and declared that it should be... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Opponents Fear MT Sage Grouse Bill Tips Scales for Development 3/28/2019 By Eric Tegethoff - March 28, 2019 - Originally published in the Public News Service HELENA, Mont. – Conservation groups in Montana are hoping state lawmakers can work out the details on a bill... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on Spotted Dog WMA Grazing 3/25/2019 Randy Arnold, Regional SupervisorMDFWPSpurgin RoadMissoula, MT 59804 Dear Randy: Re: SDWMA Grazing The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers welcomes the opportunity to comment on the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Letter: Let’s Celebrate Public Lands Day in Arizona 3/22/2019 It is not often that a bill moves through the legislature with such widespread and bipartisan support as HB 2271, which would establish the first Saturday in April as Public Lands Day throughout... Tags: Arizona Chapter
Media State Issues Chapter formulates plan to support AB 84 3/20/2019 In 2001, Nevada’s voters approved state bonds for the Conservation & Resource Grant Program. The program has been vital in protecting and improving Nevada’s natural environment, cultural... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues New England BHA Opposes Legislation Allowing Big Game Hunting in Rhode Island Shooting Preserves 3/20/2019 The New England Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is dedicated to ensuring that fair chase ethics that guide hunters from coast to coast persist and continue to influence both new and... Tags: New England Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Bill to help Game Commission acquire lands on target 3/19/2019 The Pennsylvania Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers applauds two pieces of legislation authored by state Rep. Mike Turzai of Allegheny County aimed at increasing the Pennsylvania Game... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter
Media State Issues Intertwined in fate of sagebrush 3/19/2019 By Shelby Stier - March 19, 2019 - Originally published in the Missoulian. The beautiful and vast landscapes of Montana are hard to describe with words. Although, if you look out your window... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Expanding Wilderness on the Fringe of the Concrete Jungle 3/19/2019 Representative Judy Chu and Senator Kamala Harris have each introduced companion legislation in the House and Senate aimed at further protections and expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains... Tags: California Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues WI BHA Applauds the Bipartisan Sponsorship of CWD Management Act from Wisconsin Delegation 3/19/2019 The Wisconsin Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers applauds U.S. Representatives Ron Kind (D-WI) and Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI) for introducing the Chronic Wasting Disease Management Act. ... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues Protect Habitat Montana, vote no on HB265 3/18/2019 By Justin Schaaf - March 18, 2019 - Originally Published in the Billings Gazette Montana’s 30-year-old conservation program, Habitat Montana, is currently under attack – again.Last year,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Outdoor Coalition Seeks New Funding Ideas For Conservation, Maintenance Of Public Lands 3/18/2019 By Nicky Ouellet - March 18, 2019 - Originally published at Montana Public Radio. A coalition of wildlife, conservation and outdoor recreation business groups has launched an effort to find ways... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Thank you to Montana's delegation 3/14/2019 By Christian Appel and Hannah Nikonow - March 14th, 2019 - Originally Published in the Missoulian. As public land owners, we’re ecstatic and proud to see all three members of Montana’s... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues MT Sporting Groups Support ALS Funding 3/11/2019 March 11, 2019 Rep. Carl Glimm & Rep. Nancy Ballance ChairsHouse Appropriations CommitteeHouse of RepresentativesState CapitolHelena, MT 59620 Re: House Bill 10 Dear Chair Balance & Glimm, We, the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Toston Dam Area Land Acquisition 3/6/2019 Bureau of Land ManagementButte Field Office106 N. ParkmontButte, MT59701 To Whom it is Concerned, I am writing this letter to give the support of the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters &... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Nevada Chapter gets involved in Desert National Wildlife Refuge 3/5/2019 Military Land Expansion into a National Refuge in Southern Nevada Every American citizen should respect and value the role that our military personnel and training facilities play in providing... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Help reopen Fort Keogh fishing access with Friday fundraiser 3/3/2019 By Matt Rinella - March 3, 2019 - Originally published in the Billings Gazette Several years ago, an important Yellowstone River access site on Fort Keogh was closed due to vandalism. While the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Mid-session Montana Legislative Updates 3/1/2019 It's been a fast and furious few months, and we now find ourselves at the halfway mark of the Montana legislative session. We've been in the halls of the Capitol lobbying every day since the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana BHA Supports Reintroduction of Sharptailed Grouse 2/28/2019 February 28 2019 Chris HammondMontana Fish, Wildlife & Parks490 North Meridian RoadKalispell, MT 59901 Re: Sharp-tailed Reintroduction Environmental Assessment To: Chris Hammond The Montana... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Rhode Island BHA Opposes Canned Hunts, CWD Threat 2/25/2019 As recently as last summer, we’ve seen egregious attempts to exploit a legal flaw in Rhode Island to push for the development of the state’s first high fence captive big game hunting facility.... Tags: New England Chapter, blog
Media State Issues OPINION: Make Fine Match Crime of Gating Public Lands 2/23/2019 By Joe Perry - February 23, 2019 - Originally published in the Billings Gazette As far as real estate deals go, illegally gating a public road in Montana is about as cheap as it gets. Under... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues PA BHA Statement on CWD Research 2/22/2019 The Pennsylvania Chapter of BHA recognizes that Chronic Wasting Disease in deer is a real threat that demands real management solutions, including more research. Any claims to have already found a... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, news
Media Chapter News State Issues Minnesota Lac qui Parle County Commissioners reject DNR land purchase 2/20/2019 On Feb. 19, the Lac qui Parle County Board of Commissioners voted to reject the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ proposed acquisitions of 2 parcels totaling 240 acres. These... Tags: Minnesota Chapter
Media State Issues Nevada Chapter comments on Fallon expansion 2/19/2019 On February 14th the Navy located outside of Fallon, Nevada closed its comment period regarding its military expansion. The chapter understands that as our military technology increases to meet... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues California Desert Bill included in S.47 2/19/2019 On February 12th, the Senate overwhelming passed the Natural Resources Management Act (S. 47), a landmark conservation public lands package in a 92-8 vote in support of the measure. The highlight... Tags: California Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Utah Chapter Campaigns for Hunters at Sage Grouse Summit 2/15/2019 The Utah Sage Grouse Summit, recently renamed the Utah All Lands-All Hands Summit, took place this week in downtown Salt Lake City. The Utah Chapter of Backcountry Hunter & Anglers was in... Tags: Utah Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Supports Grant Funding for Bridge Improvements 2/15/2019 Febrauary 15th, 2019 Chris HericksBeaverhead/Deer Lodge NF5 Forest Service Rd.Ennis, Mt 59729 Dear Mr. Hericks: I am writing this letter to give the support of the Montana Chapter of Backcountry... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Minnesota Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Applauds Rep. Jamie Becker-Finn’s Introduction of Comprehensive Plan to Address Chronic Wasting Disease 2/15/2019 On February 11th, the Minnesota Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers welcomed the introduction of Rep. Jamie Becker-Finn’s Comprehensive Plan to Address Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)... Tags: Minnesota Chapter
Media State Issues Coalition says Forest Service isn't ensuring access in Crazy Mountains 2/14/2019 By Karl Puckett - February 14, 2019 - Originally published in the Great Falls Tribune. A coalition of groups says private landowners are illegally blocking public trails in the southern Crazy... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues BHA Fights for Public Access in Montana's Crazy Mountains 2/13/2019 Today, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers and a coalition of conservation-based groups submitted a letter to the U.S. Forest Service summarizing the groups’ concerns over public access in the Crazy... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues NY BHA Supports Full Funding for Environmental Protection Fund 2/12/2019 Since 1993, New York’s Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) has served as one of the most important sources of funding in the state for public land and water conservation projects that enhance... Tags: New York Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Finding a path forward for our wild backyard 2/9/2019 By Christian Appel - February 9, 2019 - Originally published in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle You have the chance to help determine the future of our wild backyard for the next 30 years. We are... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana Sporting Coalition opposes HB 265 2/5/2019 Feb. 5, 2019 The Hon. Rep. Bob BrownChairman, House Fish, Wildlife and Parks Committee State Capitol1301 East Sixth Ave.Helena, MT 59601 Dear Chairman Brown and members of the House FWP... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Big game location data should not be sold 2/5/2019 By Jock Conyngham - February 5th, 2019 - Originally published in the Montana Standard. Like other Montanans, I earn my food through hard work. I spend each fall and winter in pursuit of big game,... Tags: Montana Chapter, featured
Media State Issues Idaho Couple Defends Road Closure, Reports Illegal Use 2/5/2019 On the morning of Oct. 19, 2018, Crystal and Justin Sandy were following a herd of elk in a large basin near the Salmon-Challis region of Idaho when they witnessed a white Toyota pickup operating... Tags: Idaho Chapter, OHV, blog
Media State Issues OPINION: Bill to allow crossbow hunting for elderly, disabled is bad idea 2/3/2019 By Greg Munther - February 3, 2019 - Originally published in the Montana Standard. When I began bowhunting six decades ago, I could not have predicted the colossal advances in the technology we... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana Chapter financially supports USFS stream crossing 2/1/2019 February 1, 2019 Attn: Mikey Church Recreation Staff Assistant Lolo National Forest,Plains/Thompson Falls Ranger Districtp: 406-826-3821 x4319michaelchurch@fs.fed.us 408 Clayton St. Plains, MT... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Sportsmen and Women Unite in Court Case Challenging State Ownership of Louisiana Lake 2/1/2019 News for Immediate Release Feb. 1, 2019 Contact: Katie McKalip, BHA, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org Rebecca Triche, LWF, 225-362-9007, rebecca@lawildlifefed.org John Devney, Delta,... Tags: press releases, Southeast Chapter
Media State Issues Legislation would outlaw selling info on big game locations 1/31/2019 By Tom Kuglin - January 31, 2019 - Originally published in the Independent Record. Legislation that would prohibit the sale of information about the location of trophy game animals promotes fair... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues North Dakota BHA Opposes Public Land Transfer 1/23/2019 North Dakota Representatives have introduced a bill (HB 1428) that could jeopardize traditional public hunting, fishing, camping and hiking access on over 400,000 acres of public land, including... Tags: North Dakota Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NM BHA Speaks Out Against Game Protection Fund Redirection 1/22/2019 Once again there is an attempt brewing to transfer money ($500k this time) from the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) to the State Parks Division. This has been proposed multiple... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MONTANA SPORTING COALITION OPPOSES HB 161 1/22/2019 Jan. 22, 2019 Rep. Bob Brown, Chairman House Fish, Wildlife and Parks Committee Montana Legislature State Capitol 1301 E. Sixth Ave. Helena, MT 59601 Dear Chairman Brown and Committee... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Utilizing the "Nevada Way" 1/22/2019 The Nevada Chapter takes great pride on using our sportsman voice to protect wild public lands, water and wildlife. The chapter has been keeping a close eye on the developments happening in both... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Chapter works with Congress on Desert Protection 1/22/2019 Throughout last year, the California Chapter was been involved in working with Representative Cook and Senator Feinstein on their California Off-Road Recreation and Conservation Act (H.R. 857) and... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Bill Proposes Limiting Citizen Input On FWP Decisions 1/22/2019 Wildlife and hunting advocacy groups are protesting legislation that they say will reduce public input on wildlife management decisions in Montana. When the state makes decisions related to fish... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Missouri Politics Leave Public Lands Closed 1/17/2019 Just before leaving office in 2017, Jay Nixon, Missouri’s 55thgovernor, spearheaded the purchase of land for the establishment of four public parks in the southern half of the state. Ozark... Tags: Missouri Chapter
Media State Issues Large Crowd Descends on State Capitol for Public Lands Rally 1/14/2019 By Myers Reece - January 14, 2019 - Originally published in the Flathead Beacon. Roughly 2,000 people packed into the state capitol in Helena on Jan. 11 for a raucous rally in support of public... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Montana’s public lands are worth celebrating and defending 1/8/2019 By Ryan Busse, Maggie Carr, Shane Doyle and Mary Hollow - January 8, 2018 - Originally published in the Billings Gazette. We invite you to join us at noon on Friday in the Capitol... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Graveley-Warm Springs Conservation Easements 1/7/2019 January 7th, 2019 Greg MullenNatural Resource Damage ProgramNRDP@mt.gov (406) 444-0205 Re: Graveley-Warm Springs Conservation Easements Funding To: Greg Mullen and relevant parties, The... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Garrity Mountain WMA Addition 1/5/2019 January 5th, 2019 Sharon RoseRegion 2 MTFWP Comment Coordinator3201 Spurgin RoadMissoula, Montana 59804shrose@mt.gov To Ms. Sharon Rose: The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Buxbaum-Boulder Creek Ranch Public Access 1/5/2019 January 5th, 2019 Sharon RoseRegion 2 MTFWP Comment Coordinator3201 Spurgin RoadMissoula, Montana 59804shrose@mt.gov To Ms. Sharon Rose: The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Beaverhead Recreation Working Group to Meet in Dillon 1/4/2019 January 4, 2019. Originally published in theHelena Independent Record Feedback on Wolverine Creek Road changes during the 2018 hunting season and game warden’s enforcement update are just... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Public Lands Make Montana Great; Rally Planned at State Capitol 1/4/2019 By Connie Keogh - January 4, 2019 - Originally published in the Missoula Current. Conservation of our public lands is critical to our quality of life. I am grateful to have been able to live and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Industrial Mining Advances in Boundary Waters Watershed 12/21/2018 News for Immediate ReleaseDec. 20, 2018Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org Interior Department moves ahead with renewal of controversial mining leases upstream... Tags: Minnesota Chapter, press releases
Media State Issues OPINION: Montana delegation can save LWCF 12/11/2018 By John Sullivan - December 11, 2018 - Originally published in the Billings Gazette. Earlier this month, George H.W. Bush was laid to rest beside his wife of 73 years, Barbara. The legacy of our... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho Sportsman Does the Right Thing for Wildlife and Habitat 12/7/2018 Earlier this fall, an Idaho hunter pursuing antelope in a coveted special draw unit took a stand in support of fair chase and legal access of our public lands. Josh S. was chasing pronghorn with... Tags: Idaho Chapter, OHV, blog
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Hunter Rewarded for Reporting Illegal OHV Use on Public Lands 12/5/2018 On the opening day of Colorado 3rd rifle season, a Centennial State resident and his family took a stand for secure wildlife habitat and fair chase and reported two vehicles illegally parked in an... Tags: Colorado Chapter, OHV
Media State Issues Meagher County ranch proposes $7.5M land sale to U.S. Forest Service 12/4/2018 By Laura Lundquist - December 4, 2018 - Originally published in the Missoula Current. Montanans often say they want more and better access to public land, but are state and county leaders willing... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Comments on the Upper Clark Fork River Basin Restoration Plan 12/1/2018 December 1, 2018 Natural Resources Damage ProgramP.O. Box 201425Helena, MT 59620-1425nrdp@mt.gov Re: The Montana Natural Resources Damage Program’s Upper Clark Fork River Basin Aquatic and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Into the field: Mentoring new hunters and keeping a legacy alive 12/1/2018 By Heather Fraley - December 1, 2018 - Originally published in the Missoulian. PHILIPSBURG — It was pitch-black outside the car's window. A few inches of night-before snow blanketed the ground,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues MT Groups Push for Land & Water Conservation Fund in Lame-Duck Congress 11/28/2018 By Eric Tegethoff - November 28, 2018 - Originally published in Public News Service. HELENA, Mont. - Groups in Montana and nationwide are urging Congress to reauthorize and fully fund the Land and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Holiday Gift Guide 11/26/2018 Happy Holidays from the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers! We're here to offer you some online holiday gift ideas that directly support BHA, either with a built-in kickback to BHA... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA weighs in on Strawberry Butte Frontcountry Trails Project 11/26/2018 November 26, 2018 Heather DeGeestHelena District RangerHelena National Forest280 Skyway DriveHelena, MT 59620 Subject: Strawberry Butte Front-country Trails Project Dear Ranger DeGeest: I’m... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Ravalli commission moves on from Green Decoy issue 11/23/2018 By Perry Backus - November 23, 2018 - Originally published in the Ravalli Republic. The Ravalli County commission has decided to forgo its request for a state investigation of funding sources from... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues California Chapter joins in R3 Initiative 11/19/2018 This past October, the California chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers joined a group of California sportsman organizations and dozens of other stakeholders to review the first draft of the... Tags: California Chapter, r3
Media State Issues Sportsmen: Wyoming wilderness bill would endanger our traditions 11/19/2018 Wyoming’s hunting and fishing traditions depend on the conservation of quality habitat and wildlife on our public lands. Unfragmented and undisturbed backcountry lands often represent the most... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues Wyoming BHA Sponsors 1st Annual Youth Antelope Hunt 11/19/2018 This November the Wyoming Chapter sponsored a youth antelope hunt near Casper. The event was organized in partnership with local businesses, guides, and organizations, and marks the first... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues From Grand Marais to Montana, Tom Healy tries to make a difference 11/9/2018 Lots of folks on the North Shore know Tom Healy. A master of timber framing, he has been involved with North House Folk School in Grand Marais since its beginning. Although he moved to Whitefish,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Pass the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act 11/8/2018 By Gerhardt Soeffker - November 8, 2018 - Originally published in the Missoulian. Where I live, near the Blackfoot River, those of us who ply a stick and arrow have been pursuing bugling elk and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana Sportsmen concerned for future of Badger-Two Medicine 10/30/2018 October 30, 2018 The Honorable Ryan Zinke US Department of the Interior Washington, DC 20515 Re: Sportsmen and the Badger-Two Medicine Dear Secretary Zinke, The undersigned... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Vote public lands and waters. 10/30/2018 Here in Missoula County, sportsmen and women have it pretty darn good. But that’s no accident, and it’s no longer a secret. As more people figure out how wonderful our community is, our towns will... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Florida Pint Night Tour 10/18/2018 Last week was a wild ride through south and central Florida covering Miami, Jupiter, Tampa and Orlando. The trip illuminated not just the diversity of Florida’s landscape but more importantly the... Tags: Southeast Chapter
Media State Issues Wolverine Creek Road ready for rifle season with new camping rule 10/17/2018 By Susan Dunlap - October 17, 2018 - Originally published in the Montana Standard. With rifle season starting this Saturday, a campground at Wolverine Creek Road in southern Beaverhead County will... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues New England Chapter supports new requirements to make it harder to sell or transfer state land in Connecticut 10/16/2018 Connecticut hunters and anglers have long enjoyed the privilege of practicing their craft in the public lands and waters of their home state. The State Forests, Wildlife Management Areas, State... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana Sporting Coalition encourages Land Board to remove uncertainty from proposed conservation easements 10/15/2018 Oct. 15, 2018Montana State Land Board1539 Eleventh Ave.Helena, MT 59601 Dear Montana Land Board members, The Montana Sporting Coalition is comprised of a dozen hunting and angling organizations... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues 2018 New Mexico Midterm Election Candidate Questionnaire 10/11/2018 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers members in New Mexico will vote in several crucial elections in 2018 that will ultimately affect hunting, fishing, wildlife management and public lands in our state.... Tags: featured, New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT Chapter supports additions to the Canyon Creek WMA 10/9/2018 October 9, 2018 Montana Fish Wildlife & ParksHelena Area Resource OfficeAttention: Canyon Creek WMA AdditionsP.O. Box 200701Helena, MT 59620 Subject: Cartan and Palmquist Additions to the Canyon... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT Chapter supports 442-acre acquisition along Rocky Mountain Front 10/5/2018 Lewis and Clark County Commissioners316 North Park Ave Rm 345Helena, Montana 59623 Kyle Weaver, CEORocky Mtn Elk Foundation5305 Grant Creek RoadMissoula, MT 59808 Dear Commissioners and Mr... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Montana welcomes public land lovers, rejects Bundys 10/3/2018 By Tom Healy - October 3, 2018 - Originally published in the Independent Record. What kind of Flathead Valley do we want to call home? In the not-so-distant past, we became an unwilling host to... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Big Hole wrong place for oil and gas development 10/2/2018 By Hunter Stier - October 2, 2018 - Originally published in the Missoulian. I’m one of thousands of Montana sportsmen who celebrate and champion North America's outdoor heritage by hunting and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Wisconsin 2018 Midterm Election Candidate Questionnaire 10/1/2018 Wisconsin Backcountry Hunters & Anglers members will vote in several crucial elections in 2018 that will affect hunting, fishing, and the management of wildlife and public lands, including... Tags: featured, Wisconsin Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado 2018 Midterm Election Candidate Questionnaire 9/25/2018 Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers members will vote in several crucial elections in 2018 that will affect hunting, fishing, and the management of wildlife and public lands. One of the most... Tags: Colorado Chapter, featured
Media State Issues CO Chapter Comments on Trail Development Plan in Western CO 9/24/2018 Colorado Parks and Wildlife September 19, 2018 State Trails Program 13787 US... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Wisconsin's new CWD rules under threat 9/24/2018 “In any moment of decision, the best thing to do is the right thing, the next best thing to do is the wrong thing, and the worst thing that you can do is nothing.” – Theodore Roosevelt For too... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: People triumphed over politics at East Rosebud Creek 9/23/2018 By Lauren Miller - September 23, 2018 - Originally published in the Billings Gazette. These days it is increasingly difficult to find issues that unite individuals and groups from different... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Public Lands Day: Volunteers help clean addition to Fish Creek wildlife area 9/22/2018 By Laura Lundquist - September 22, 2018 - Originally published in the Missoula Current ALBERTON – Some new state land is now ready for public recreation, thanks to some enthusiastic... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Supports Existing Bitterroot Travel Plan 9/15/2018 Objection Reviewing OfficerBitterroot Travel PlanUSDA Forest Service26 Fort Missoula RoadMissoula, MT 59804 Appeals-northern-regional-office@fs.fed.us OBJECTION The Montana Chapter of Backcountry... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues New York BHA speaks up for LWCF 9/14/2018 On Sunday, September 30th the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), one of our country’s most successful outdoor conservation tools, is set to expire and BHA needs you to take action to prevent... Tags: access, New York Chapter, news, lwcf, issues
Media State Issues Public lands are Montana’s latest wedge issue. What’s behind the rhetoric, and how is it shaping the debate? 9/11/2018 By Alex Sakariassen - September 6, 2018 - Originally published in the Missoula Independent Last spring, a billboard appeared in the Bitterroot Valley. It featured six pissed-off-looking locals... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Stop trying to block public access in eastern Montana 9/7/2018 By Justin Schaaf - September 7, 2018 - Originally published in the Missoulian. This fall, hunters will have access to an additional 20,000 acres of pristine mule deer and antelope habitat,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Restore Hunting in Castle Mountains National Monument 9/6/2018 In February 2016, 20,920 acres of public lands east of the Mojave National Preserve were designated under the Antiquities Act as the Castle Mountains National Monument. Diverse outdoor... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Is it September yet? 8/30/2018 The New York Chapter has been active on many fronts. In March the board hosted several pint nights, including two incredibly well attended events in Brooklyn and Ithaca. Our Catskill rendezvous at... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Black Gap WMA Expansion 8/24/2018 TPW Commission Votes In Favor of 16,000 Acre Expansion of Black Gap Wildlife Management Area August 24, 2018 On Thursday, August 23rd, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission voted to begin the... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT Chapter Comments on Big Hole Oil & Gas Leases 8/22/2018 August 22nd, 2018 Attn: Tom BarrettNatural Resource SpecialistNorth Central Montana District Division of Oil and Gas1220 38th Street NorthGreat Falls, MT 59405406-791-7766tjbarrett@blm.gov Dear... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues GMUG Wilderness Evaluation Comment Period 8/22/2018 Right now the Forest Service is evaluating backcountry landscapes within the Grand Mesa Uncompahgre and Gunnision National Forests (GMUG) for wilderness suitability - to determine which... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues LWCF Project at Risk: Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and the Ice Age Trail, Wisconsin 8/21/2018 Wisconsin is one of America’s great outdoor states, with one of the nation’s highest rates of participation in hunting, fishing, wildlife watching and outdoor sports. The state abounds in outdoor... Tags: access, Wisconsin Chapter, lwcf
Media State Issues LWCF Success Story: Koochiching-Washington National Forest Legacy Conservation Area, Minnesota 8/21/2018 Almost equidistant between International Falls, Hibbing and Grand Rapids lies a wide expanse of privately owned working forestland within a patchwork of state and other public lands. The area –... Tags: Minnesota Chapter, access, lwcf
Media State Issues LWCF Success Story: John Day River, Oregon 8/21/2018 The John Day River is born of the snows in the high Blue Mountains in northeastern Oregon and flows northwest to the Columbia River through some of America’s most isolated and intact sagebrush... Tags: Oregon Chapter, access, lwcf
Media State Issues LWCF Success Story: Whitewater Bay, Alaska 8/21/2018 Many people call the Tongass National Forest “America’s Salmon Forest” because so much of the pristine freshwater that feeds the vast salmon spawning grounds of Southeast Alaska originates in the... Tags: Alaska Chapter, access, lwcf
Media State Issues LWCF Project at Risk: Admiralty Island National Monument lands 8/21/2018 While the acquisition of the 160 acres at Whitewater Bay on Admiralty Island was a tremendous win for public access and public land management, crucial gaps remain in the Admiralty Island National... Tags: Alaska Chapter, access, lwcf
Media State Issues LWCF Project at risk: “B2B,” Montana 8/21/2018 In the mountains just east of Missoula, Montana, in and around the Lolo National Forest, lie 6,140 acres of private lands owned by a timber company that has allowed public access for hunting,... Tags: Montana Chapter, access, lwcf
Media State Issues LWCF Success Story: Tenderfoot Creek, Montana 8/21/2018 If there is one single project in the Rocky Mountain West that achieves every possible goal of the Land and Water Conservation Fund, it must be the acquisition of lands that guarantee access to... Tags: Montana Chapter, access, lwcf
Media State Issues LWCF Success Story: Black Canyon of Gunnison Gorge, Colorado 8/21/2018 The Land and Water Conservation Fund is crucial to the future of public lands, public access and the booming recreational economy of Colorado. Near the community of Montrose, a seemingly minor... Tags: Colorado Chapter, access, lwcf
Media State Issues LWCF Success Story, Valles Caldera National Preserve, New Mexico 8/21/2018 If a single landscape can embody the true wonder of the Land of Enchantment, it is the Valles Caldera National Preserve, in the Jemez Mountains of north-central New Mexico. The caldera is the... Tags: New Mexico Chapter, access, lwcf
Media State Issues LWCF Success Story: Brule-St. Croix Legacy Forest, Wisconsin 8/21/2018 The Brule-St. Croix Legacy Forest is a working landscape of the American heartland, 67,205 acres of forest and water with a long history of logging, snowmobiling, hunting and fishing, far from... Tags: access, Wisconsin Chapter, lwcf
Media State Issues LWCF Success Story: Rensselaer Plateau, New York 8/21/2018 The Rensselaer Plateau in eastern New York state holds the state’s fifth largest stretch of forestland, surprising in its vastness of more than 100,000 acres. Wildlife abounds, with game species... Tags: access, New York Chapter, lwcf
Media State Issues LWCF Project at Risk: Hood River Forest and Fish Conservation Plan, Oregon 8/21/2018 The Hood River Forest and Fish Conservation Project is a plan to conserve 19,772 acres of working forestlands in Hood River County, Oregon, one of the fastest growing counties in the state. The... Tags: Oregon Chapter, access, lwcf
Media State Issues LETTER: BHA comments on Helena/Lewis & Clark Forest Plan Revision 8/20/2018 August 18, 2018 Deb EntwhistleForest Plan Revision Team LeaderHelena/Lewis & Clark National Forest2880 Skyway DriveHelena, MT 59602 Subject: Helena/Lewis & Clark Forest Plan Revision Dear Deb... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Wilderness study areas talk aimed at gathering more public input, House candidate Williams says 8/16/2018 By David Erickson - August 16, 2018 - Originally published in the Missoulian. The future use of Wilderness Study Areas was the topic of a lively discussion at a roundtable in Missoula Wednesday... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana groups urge Gianforte for more public input on wilderness study areas, disagree on how 8/16/2018 By Tom Lutey - August 16, 2018 - Originally published in the Billings Gazette. LEWISTOWN — Wildlife groups are urging U.S. Rep. Greg Gianforte to gather more public opinion before moving ahead... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana Chapter Supports Lolo Trails Landmark Project 8/10/2018 August 10, 2018 Leanne MartenRegional ForesterU.S. Forest ServiceUSFS Region 126 Fort Missoula RoadMissoula, MT 59804 Re: LWCF fiscal year 2020 Lolo Trails Landmark Project To Leanne Marten, The... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana beer and outdoor recreation go together, group says at Billings brewery 8/9/2018 By Brett French - August 9, 2018 - Originally published in the Montana Standard. Touring the state to elevate the conversation about Montana’s recreation economy, Rachel VandeVoort hosted a... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Governor Mead can Shape the Future of a historic Migration Corridor Right Now 8/7/2018 Backcountry Hunters and Anglers would like to thank Governor Mead for his efforts to help conserve the Red Desert to Hoback Mule Deer Migration Corridor. Through the use of SO 3362 Governor Mead... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho BHA submits comments to USFS supporting re-opening of access point for hunters 7/28/2018 Idaho BHA co-signed a letter to the North Fork Ranger District of the Salmon-Challis National Forest (SCNF) regarding the Hoodoo Airstrip Maintenance Project. The Hoodoo airstrip is an existing... Tags: Idaho Chapter, access, news
Media Chapter News State Issues Wisconsin BHA supports new CWD restrictions within the state 7/23/2018 On May 2nd Governor Walker announced new efforts to combat CWD within the state of Wisconsin. CWD is a legitimate threat to our hunting heritage in Wisconsin. These included three main steps to... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues WIBHA - Action Alert - Help Protect Wisconsin's Roadless Areas 7/20/2018 In October 2017, the Natural Resources Board amended the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest master plan to include a proposal to open more forest roads for motor vehicle access. ... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Hammond pardons unpardonable 7/20/2018 By Matt Rinella, Justin Schaaf and Nick Siebrasse - July 20, 2018 - Originally published in the Missoulian. U.S. Rep. Greg Gianforte hailed President Trump’s decision to pardon Dwight and Steven... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Stand up for the Land and Water Conservation Fund 7/19/2018 By Mateen Hessami - July 19, 2018 - Originally published in the Montana Standard. I am the outgoing president of the University of Montana’s Backcountry Hunters & Anglers college club, which was... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Conservation groups, foundation adopt a trailhead 7/12/2018 By the Independent Record - July 12, 2018 - Originally published in the Independent Record. Conservation groups, foundation adopt a trailhead On Monday, June 25, two public land and conservation... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Backcountry group shares tails and trails 7/5/2018 By Justin Harris - July 5, 2018 - Originally published in the Sanders County Ledger. It is not a "wilderness group," but their interest in the continued reasonable use of wild lands is second on... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Daines' about-face on LWCF bad for Montana 7/3/2018 By Ivy Fredrickson - July 3, 2018 - Originally published in the Independent Record. The Land and Water Conservation Fund uses offshore oil and gas revenues, not taxes, to fund fishing access... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho BHA submits comments to BLM regarding wildlife security in the Boise foothills 7/2/2018 Idaho BHA submitted comments to the Boise District office of the BLM regarding the Four Rivers Resource Management Plan (RMP). Idaho BHA encouraged the Boise BLM District to thoroughly evaluate... Tags: Idaho Chapter, habitat, news
Media State Issues OPINION: Which is it, Sen. Daines? You say one thing and do another 6/29/2018 By Jared Farsier - June 29, 2018 - Originally published in the Montana Standard. As a parent, there are few things more rewarding and enjoyable to me than taking my kids outdoors. My wife and I... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Take action to preserve hunting and fishing on Hawn's Peninsula 6/28/2018 The Pennsylvania Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers is committed to speaking up for hunting and fishing access and habitat for wildlife and fish. We are therefore opposed to a plan by a... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, news
Media State Issues MT Chapter Supports the Forest Legacy Lost Trail Conservation Project 6/27/2018 Rick NorthrupMontana Fish, Wildlife and Parks1420 East 6th AvenuePO Box 200701Helena, MT 59620-0701 RE: Forest Legacy Lost Trail Conservation Project Dear Mr. Northrup: The Montana Chapter of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Montana Chapter Supports Responsible Beaver Trapping Regulations 6/27/2018 Martha Williams, DirectorMontana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks1420 East 6th AvePO Box 200701Helena, Montana 59620 Director Williams: We would like to respond to the recent beaver... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues California prepares comments for Mojave National Preserve's Water Management Plan 6/21/2018 While the California Chapter has been busy planning Pint Nights and staffing booths at various outdoor events. The chapter has also been working on providing comments and recommendations to our... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Your Voice Was Heard - Thank You 6/19/2018 Today the Laramie County Commissioners voted unanimously 5-0 against the two petitions to vacate (eliminate the public right-of-way) for two county roads (highlighted in green and pink in the map... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Bad Public Lands Bills Pass Michigan House and Senate 6/19/2018 Michigan public lands bills SB302, SB303, and HB4475 have passed the state house and senate. SB302, and 303 and HB4475 now move to Governor Snyder's desk. The Michigan Board has submitted a... Tags: Michigan Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Bighorn Observation Volunteers Needed Colorado BHA 6/19/2018 Project Lead: SW Colorado BHA Regional Director Dan Parkinson DVM docdanp@gmail.com 970-759-0545 Why? Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, the highly valued and... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Posewitz' life story recounts joys of ethical hunting 6/17/2018 By Rob Chaney - June 17, 2018 - Originally published in the Missoulian. Ever wonder why Interstate 90 takes such a winding route along the St. Regis River as it climbs toward Lookout Pass on the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho BHA submits comments to BLM regarding motorized use in Owyhees 6/16/2018 Idaho BHA Habitat Watch coordinator Dan Herrig and Habitat Watch volunteer Larry Callister worked together to submit comments to the Owyhee Field Office of the BLM regarding the Silver City Travel... Tags: Idaho Chapter, OHV, habitat, news
Media State Issues OPINION: Montana Land Board must do its job 6/15/2018 By John Sullivan - June 15, 2018 - Originally published in the Billings Gazette. Montanans are paying close attention to decisions made by our elected leaders before we head to the polls this... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Your Voice Is Needed: Public Land Access at Stake in Wyoming 6/15/2018 We need your help. Two petitions have been sent to the Laramie County Commissioners to vacate (eliminate the public right-of-way) for two county roads (highlighted in green and pink in the map... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues FWP Commission approves $900K Fish Creek land deal 6/14/2018 By Laura Lundquist - June 14, 2018 - Originally published in the Missoula Current. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks intends to capture a few more squares of the property checkerboard that makes up... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues The Importance of Protecting the Red Desert to Hoback Mule Deer Migration Corridor 6/14/2018 Earlier this month Wyoming BHA member Erik Kramer weighed in on the importance of the Red Desert to Hoback Mule Deer Migration Corridor and the current proposed lease sale parcels located within... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues POPULAR PARK-FUNDING PROGRAM SET TO EXPIRE 6/12/2018 The ballfields, wildlife habitat, trails and other amenities created through the Land and Water Conservation Fund serve communities all over the nation. “There’s not a person in rural Montana, not... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Public-Land Owners: A Photo Portfolio of the Hunters and Anglers Fighting For Our Greatest Resource 6/11/2018 By Maggie Hamilton - June 11, 2018 - Originally published in the Field & Stream. Maggie Hamilton grew up in northern Wisconsin, and most years she still makes it back home to hunt opening weekend... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: The Smith River: A truly Montana experience, thanks to LWCF 6/4/2018 By Corey Ellis and Julie Mackiewicz - June 4, 2018 - Originally published in the Missoulian. This spring we were fortunate enough to spend five days floating the stunningly scenic Smith River. It... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Public Spotlight: Caddo-LBJ National Grasslands 5/30/2018 Welcome to the Public Spotlight, a series of articles from Texas BHA highlighting public lands and waters throughout the Lone Star state. Join us as we talk public lands with the stewards... Tags: Texas Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT Chapter Supports Purchase of the Buxbaum-Boulder Creek Conservation Easement 5/25/2018 May 25, 2018 Greg MullenNatural Resource Damage ProgramPO Box 201425Helena, MT 59620 Re: NRDP Funding Recommendation For the Purchase of the Buxbaum-Boulder CreekConservation Easement To Greg... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Colorado BHA Report: Impacts of Off-Road Recreation on Public Lands Habitat 5/21/2018 The Colorado chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) has been hearing from an increasing number of hunters, anglers, public land managers and others about the detrimental impacts of... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues University of Montana art student shows photography exhibit on public lands 5/12/2018 By Keila Szpaller - May 12, 2018 - Originally published in the Missoulian. Maggie Hamilton's subjects look like they could step right out from their portraits, and they look the viewer in the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Sheep Balls, Barnacles, and a Whole Lot of Backstrap: Welcome to the Country’s Greatest Wild Game Cookoff 5/9/2018 By T. Edward Nickens - May 9, 2018 - Originally published in Field & Stream, Montana excerpts below: At the 2018 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Rendezvous in Boise, Idaho, thousands of outdoors... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues 2018 New Mexico Primary Candidate Questionnaire 5/8/2018 New Mexico Backcountry Hunters & Anglers members will vote in several crucial elections in 2018 that will affect hunting, fishing, and the management of wildlife and public lands, including... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues Arizona BHA Gives Overview of Misguided House Bill 2210 5/8/2018 HB 2210 was introduced to the Arizona House earlier during the 2018 legislative session and passed out of committee on a 5 to 3 vote. This bill was met with large opposition by sportsmen and... Tags: Arizona Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT Chapter Supports Clark Fork Public Access 4/30/2018 April 30, 2018 NRDPPO Box 201425Helena, MT 59620 Subject: DCC and CFR Ranches To Whom it May Concern: The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is a statewide organization with 1,800... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Nonprofits work to reopen popular river access after garbage, damage force closure 4/27/2018 Nonprofits work to reopen popular river access after garbage, damage force closure By David Erickson - April 27, 2018 - Originally published in the Missoulian. A popular river access point on the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Public Waters Access Bill Fails in the State Legislature 4/20/2018 News for Immediate Release April 18, 2018 Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org Legislation would have guaranteed public access to some tidal waters located above... Tags: press releases, Southeast Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA Weighs in on the Scratchgravel Hills Recreation Area Management Plan 4/19/2018 April 19, 2018 BLM – Butte Field OfficeAttention: Brad Colin106 N. ParkmontButte, MT 59701 Subject: Scratchgravel Hills Recreation Area Management Plan (RAMP) Dear Brad: I’m writing... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Horse Creek easement offers public access where it’s needed most 4/7/2018 By Justin Schaaf and Dr. Matt Rinella - April 7, 2018 - Originally published in the Billings Gazette. On April 16, the Montana State Land Board is expected to vote on providing hunters permanent... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA opposes granting mining claim holder motorized access in Inventoried Roadless Area (IRA) 4/3/2018 April 3, 2018 Michael Welker, District RangerTownsend Ranger District415 South Front StreetTownsend, MT 59644 Subject: Teddy Bar 1 Project Dear Ranger Welker: I’m writing this letter... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues BHA Supports GA Outdoor Stewardship Act 3/23/2018 On March 22nd BHA officially endorsed Georgia's Outdoor Stewardship Act. Southeast Board Member, Chris Jenkins said "the Act positions the state of Georgia as a true leader in conservation, and... Tags: Southeast Chapter, Georgia Chapter
Media State Issues Nevada BHA Comments on Proposed Removal of Wilderness Protections on Desert National Wildlife Refuge 3/21/2018 The Nevada Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on the draft LEIS for reauthorization and expansion of the Nellis Test and Training Range... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues Backcountry Journal From Backcountry Journal: Crazy Business 3/21/2018 Image courtesy of Don Thomas Readers and BHA members outside of Montana may have never heard of the Crazy Mountains, although that is likely to change. One of Montana’s dozen isolated “island”... Tags: the campfire, Montana Chapter, Backcountry Journal, featured, media
Media State Issues LETTER: Montana BHA supports FWP's proposal to expand Fish Creek Wildlife Management Area 3/18/2018 March 18th, 2018 Sharon RoseRegion 2 MTFWP Comment Coordinator3201 Spurgin RoadMissoula, MT 59804 To Ms. Sharon Rose: The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers supports the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Pennsylvania BHA Statement on Sunday Hunting 3/8/2018 The Pennsylvania Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is a nonprofit group that seeks to ensure preservation of Pennsylvania’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting,... Tags: Pennsylvania Chapter, access
Media Chapter News State Issues Action Alert! Michigan Public Lands at Risk 3/6/2018 What do you get when you make it harder for the DNR to acquire public land and easer for the DNR to sell public land? Less public land. And in a death of a thousand small cuts, that’s exactly... Tags: Michigan Chapter
Media State Issues BHA's Land Tawney Speaks to the Importance of the Boundary Waters 2/27/2018 With The more than 1 million acres of Wilderness in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness at risk from large scale sulfide-ore copper mining proposals, BHA's Land Tawney Speaks about the... Tags: Minnesota Chapter, priority landscapes, video, BWCA
Media Chapter News State Issues Tell Governor Walker to protect waterway access and veto AB 599 2/26/2018 Last week the Wisconsin state house and senate passed AB 599. AB 599 prevents the DNR from declaring a stream a navigable waterway if a private landowner has dammed that stream. The Wisconsin... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Approach to sage grouse conservation hurts Montana’s people, economy 2/4/2018 By Justin Schaaf - February 4, 2018 - Originally published in the Ravalli Republic. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke long has long claimed to be a “Roosevelt Republican.” He has said time and again... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Ravalli County Commissioners need to hear from you 2/3/2018 At the end of 2017, Senator Steve Daines quietly introduced legislation that would remove protections from nearly a half-million acres of public lands in Montana. If this bill passes, it'd be... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Action Alert - Wisconsin Water Access 2/1/2018 As you may have already heard, there is currently a bill proposed that would limit public use of navigable waterways. AB 599/ SB 506 prevents the DNR from declaring a stream a navigable waterway... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter
Media State Issues Help Us Preserve Public Access into the Crazy Mountains 1/24/2018 There is a public access battle raging in the Crazy Mountains and we need to hear from you.Have you or your family ever ventured into Crazy Mountains? Whether it is was for hunting, fishing,... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Montana rancher stands up for public lands 1/21/2018 By Nick Seibrasse - January 21, 2018 - Originally published in the Ravalli Republic. The fringe element that wants to steal our shared national heritage – the lands and waters and fish and... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Press Releases State Issues Public Lands Sportsmen Rally Against Bundy Event 1/21/2018 Montana members of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers attend anti-public lands conclave featuring lawbreaking Nevada rancher Cliven Bundy PARADISE, Mont. – Backcountry Hunters & Anglers members from... Tags: the campfire, Montana Chapter, press releases, keepitpublic
Media Chapter News State Issues Top 10 Reasons To Stop Twin Metal’s Sulfide Mining Proposal (Help Protect Northern Minnesota’s Waterways, Watersheds and Wildlife From Twin Metal’s Proposed Sulfide-Ore Mine) 1/18/2018 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the sportsmen’s voice for our wild public lands, waters and wildlife. And the Minnesota chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) has been fighting to... Tags: Minnesota Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Minnesota Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Public Lands Pint Night Draws Record Crowd 1/17/2018 The Minnesota chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) hosted BHA CEO/president, Land Tawney, for a public lands Pint Night at Unmapped Brewing Co. in Minnetonka on Thursday, January 4.... Tags: Minnesota Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Ten-Plus Things YOU Can Do To Help The Backcountry (Ways to Get Involved with Minnesota BHA) 1/17/2018 1) Volunteer to assist with the Minnesota DNR’s Adult Learn-to-Hunt program—contact Minnesota BHA Hunting/Fishing Mentorship Coordinator, Ben Peña (68wmedicbp@gmail.com), for additional... Tags: Minnesota Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho BHA Opposes the Bonner County Natural Resource Plans 1/12/2018 Dear Bonner County Board of Commissioners, The Idaho Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers would like to thank you for the opportunity to comment on the proposed draft Bonner County Natural... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Volunteer Signage and Bighorn Observation Program 1/10/2018 Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) members are privileged to hunt, fish and otherwise recreate on public lands in southwest Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, often in the Weminuche... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Comments on CPW Non-Motorized Recreational Trail Grant Application Process 1/10/2018 Comments on CPW Non-Motorized Recreational Trail Grant Application Process State Trails Committee State Trails Program 13787... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Press Releases State Issues Hunting for Sustainability: BHA’s Collegiate Program Creates New Hunters 1/10/2018 News for Immediate ReleaseJan. 9, 2018Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org BHA and partner Boone and Crockett Club give students knowledge and skills to start... Tags: Montana Chapter, featured, press releases, r3, Collegiate Program
Media State Issues Stimson transfers land to Lolo Forest near Beavertail 12/29/2017 Stimson transfers land to Lolo Forest near Beavertail By ROB CHANEY - December 29, 2017 - Originally published in the Missoulian A land transfer has moved 640 acres of former timberland near... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Hope for natural resource policy in new year 12/27/2017 GUEST COLUMN: Hope for natural resource policy in new year By KEVIN FARRON - December 27, 2017 - Originally published in the Missoulian. In Montana, the holidays are a time to spend with... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: Daines WSA bill is one-size-fits-all 12/27/2017 LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Daines WSA bill is one-size-fits-all BY JOHN SULLIVAN - December 27, 2017 - Originally published in the Missoulian U.S. Sen. Steve Daines surprised Montanans by introducing... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues OPINION: It’s time to pass the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act 12/21/2017 LETTER TO THE EDITOR: It’s time to pass the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act By JOHN SULLIVAN and HANNAH NIKONOW - Dec 21, 2017 - Originally published in the Missoulian It should come as no... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Support Public Water and Access in Louisiana 12/21/2017 Tags: Southeast Chapter, stream access
Media Chapter News State Issues New Mexico BHA Action Alert: Public Stream Access in Crosshairs 12/15/2017 New Mexico anglers know all too well that the Land of Enchantment has precious few fishable streams, and that many sections of those rivers and streams are closed to the public. What most anglers... Tags: New Mexico Chapter, stream access
Media State Issues THE RIO GRANDE NATIONAL FOREST NEEDS TO HEAR FROM YOU! (Comments are Due December 29) 12/9/2017 Comments for wildlife and habitat protection on the Rio Grande National Forest The Rio Grande National Forest is remote, wild, and largely undeveloped. In 2015, monitoring found that hunting and... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge: The Epitome of Remoteness 12/8/2017 As an avid elk hunter in Idaho and Wyoming, I often marvel at how elk country, even when very close to cars and civilization, can feel wild. Entering a tight, timbered canyon, especially when elk... Tags: the campfire, Alaska Chapter, priority landscapes
Media Chapter News State Issues Coloradans rewarded for reporting illegal off road travel on public lands 12/6/2017 Recently two concerned Coloradans documented violations by off road vehicle users that helped law enforcement officers uphold laws intended to promote solitude, conserve public lands and waters,... Tags: Colorado Chapter, OHV
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado State Trails Grant Program Comments Needed 12/5/2017 The Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) Trails Program (i.e., State Trails Grant Committee) distributes millions in grants to user groups and federal agencies in Colorado for trail development each... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Colorado Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Team-Up with Pike National Forest (USFS) to Protect Habitat & Access 12/5/2017 In Colorado, and on public lands nationwide, ATV/OHV overuse and abuse is increasingly impacting big game (and other wildlife) habitat and related watersheds for trout and other aquatic species.... Tags: Colorado Chapter, the campfire
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Sportsmen Urge Senate to Reject Plan to Drill Arctic Refuge 11/14/2017 News for Immediate ReleaseNov. 14, 2017Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org Sportsmen Urge Senate to Reject Plan to Drill Arctic Refuge As Senate considers opening... Tags: press releases, media, Alaska issues, Alaska news, Alaska BHA
Media Press Releases State Issues Public Access to Sabinoso Wilderness Achieved 11/10/2017 News for Immediate ReleaseNov. 10, 2017Contact: Katie McKalip, 406-240-9262, mckalip@backcountryhunters.org Public Access to Sabinoso Wilderness Achieved Public lands sportsmen among loudest... Tags: press releases, access, news, media, New Mexico issues
State Issues The Fight for Access to New Mexico's Sabinoso Wilderness Continues 8/25/2017 Until very recently sportsmen and women had given up on hunting the elk, deer, turkey and even Barbary sheep that inhabit the Sabinoso Wilderness in northeastern New Mexico. Managed by the... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Press Releases State Issues Public Access to Sabinoso Wilderness Achieved 8/10/2017 LAS VEGAS, N.M. – Public lands sportsmen and women are celebrating as a deal is inked that will open the Sabinoso Wilderness in northeastern New Mexico to the public for the first... Tags:
Media Press Releases State Issues Alaska Sportsmen Criticize Public Lands Seizure Bill 5/19/2017 ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Backcountry Hunters & Anglers’ Alaska chapter is levying criticism against a bill being considered by the state legislature that would enable the state’s seizure of all... Tags: press releases, Alaska issues
Media Press Releases State Issues Oregonians Applaud as Frank and Jeanne Moore Wild Steelhead Bill Advances in U.S. Senate 3/30/2017 PORTLAND, Ore. – A bill that would conserve more than 100,000 acres in Douglas County, Oregon, took another step forward today as it passed out of the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural... Tags: press releases, Oregon Issues
Media Press Releases State Issues BHA Commends Effort to Keep Elliott State Forest Publicly Accessible 3/20/2017 SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is commending a decision by the Oregon state legislature to consider a bill that could keep the Elliott State Forest under state... Tags: press releases, keepitpublic, Oregon Issues
Media Press Releases State Issues Iconic Oregon Public Lands Would be Conserved in New Legislation 3/1/2017 WASHINGTON – Approximately 100,000 acres of Oregon public lands backcountry – including riparian wildlife habitat and a unique steelhead fishery – will be permanently conserved if legislation... Tags: press releases, Steelhead Sanctuary, Oregon BHA, Oregon Issues
Media Press Releases State Issues Oregon State Land Board Votes to Sell Elliott State Forest 2/15/2017 82,000-plus acres of prized fish and wildlife habitat to be privatized; public access a question mark under future ownership SALEM, Ore. – Despite widespread support from sportsmen,... Tags: featured, press releases, keepitpublic, Oregon BHA, Oregon Issues
Media Press Releases State Issues U.S. House Reignites Effort to Save LWCF 1/12/2017 Bill introduced today would permanently reauthorize popular, effective conservation program WASHINGTON – Bipartisan legislation introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives this morning would... Tags: press releases, access, lwcf, Pennsylvania Issues, Arizona issues
Media Press Releases State Issues BHA Urges Innovation to Keep Elliott State Forest Publicly Accessible 12/20/2016 Following state land board decision to postpone the Elliott’s sale, sportsmen speak up on behalf of Oregon’s oldest state forest KEIZER, Ore. – Oregon hunters and anglers are commending a decision... Tags: featured, press releases, keepitpublic, Oregon BHA, Oregon Issues
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Boundary Waters Mining Leases Denied, Sportsmen Celebrate 12/15/2016 Massive sulfide-ore copper mine would have jeopardized the region’s fish and wildlife, outdoor opportunities; leases were strongly opposed by sportsmen ELY, Minn. – Public lands sportsmen today... Tags: press releases, Minnesota, Minnesota news, Minnesota Issues
Media State Issues Sportsmen Welcome Movement to Conserve Colorado's Thompson Divide 11/17/2016 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers commends the recent decision by the Bureau of Land Management to safeguard high quality undeveloped habitat in Colorado's Thompson Divide by cancelling controversial... Tags: Colorado Chapter, priority landscapes, habitat
Media State Issues Jewels of the North Umpqua: Frank Moore and the Wild Steelhead of Steamboat Creek 11/16/2016 The following BHA feature film showcases the 104,000 acre Steamboat Creek watershed that BHA is working to protect as the Steamboat Creek Wild Steelhead Sanctuary, in partnership with Trout... Tags: featured, Oregon Chapter, priority landscapes, video, Steelhead Sanctuary
Media Publications State Issues Infographic: Legislation Honors Two Oregon Icons 11/3/2016 Oregon BHA is working to advance legislation that would permanently protect more than 100,000 acres of public lands within the Steamboat Creek Watershed. Learn more about this unique steelhead... Tags: featured, Oregon Chapter, priority landscapes, publications, Steelhead Sanctuary
Media State Issues Montana BHA opposes I-177 10/14/2016 VOTE NO ON I-177 Montana Citizens Initiative 177 proposes a general outlawing of trapping on public lands in Montana. We believe that trapping is one of the many opportunities for the citizens of... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Wisconsin BHA's Position on State Land Sale 10/12/2016 The Issue:The latest phase of state lands proposed for sale by the state of Wisconsin would result in the direct loss of 1,344 acres of high quality public hunting, fishing and recreational... Tags: Wisconsin Chapter, keepitpublic
Media State Issues Colorado BHA Comments on White River Field Office TMP 9/28/2016 Re: Comments on Travel and Transportation Management RMP Amendment for WRFO Bureau of Land ManagementWhite River Field Office220 East Market StreetMeeker, CO 81641 Dear Sir/Ma’am: Below you will... Tags: Colorado Chapter, habitat
Media State Issues Help Wyoming BHA Stop the Proposed Bonander State Land Exchange 9/6/2016 Sign the petition to stop the Bonander Land Exchange. Details: 1,040.67 acres of state land in the Cow Creek drainage of the Laramie Range are proposed to be traded for 295 acres in the Black... Tags: Wyoming Chapter, keepitpublic
Media State Issues THE FRANK MOORE WILD STEELHEAD SANCTUARY 9/6/2016 On Sept. 23, 2016, Rep. Peter DeFazio of Oregon announced the introduction of H.R. 6129, a House companion bill to Sens. Ron Wyden’s and Jeff Merkley’s Frank Moore Wild Steelhead Sanctuary... Tags: Oregon Chapter, priority landscapes, Steelhead Sanctuary
Media State Issues Sportsmen Agree Mountain Bikes Don't Belong in Wilderness 8/31/2016 In the U.S. we are blessed with a wide variety of public lands. We can hunt elk and bighorns in the high Rockies, antelope and muleys on the Great Plains, and whitetails in the Eastern woodlands,... Tags: Colorado Chapter, habitat, issues
Media Chapter News State Issues Arizona BHA Leads OHV Signage Project to Protect Habitat & Access 8/11/2016 The Arizona BHA Chapter received a grant from the Arizona Sportsmen for Wildlife Conservation (AZSFWC) to help fund production of 200 aluminum trailhead signs, a full page ad in next season’s Elk... Tags: Arizona Chapter, OHV, issues
Media State Issues Colorado BHA Comments on CO Parks & Wildlife Trails Strategic Plan 7/13/2016 July 13, 2016 To Whom It May Concern: Please accept this letter as public comment pertaining to the DRAFT 2016-2026 Statewide Trails Strategic Plan on behalf of Colorado Backcountry Hunters &... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Wyoming BHA Comments on Shoshone National Forest Travel Management Plan 7/1/2016 The following comments were submitted in regards to the Shoshone National Forest Travel Management Plan on behalf of Wyoming BHA. Please accept our comments on the draft Shoshone National Forest... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues Maintaining Gunnison County’s Habitat and Longstanding Hunting and Fishing Traditions 6/24/2016 “Leave it as it is. The ages have been at work on it and man can only mar it.”– Theodore Roosevelt The secret’s been out for quite some time, Gunnison County is a sportsmen’s paradise, boasting... Tags: Colorado Chapter, priority landscapes, habitat
Media State Issues Rico-West Dolores Travel Management Plan 6/7/2016 Help us protect the Rico/West Dolores region in the San Juan National Forest (SJNF) from excessive motorized trails while safeguarding these 245,000 acres of the Dolores River watershed for... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Frank Moore Steelhead Sanctuary: A BHA Interview with Senator Ron Wyden 5/27/2016 Join Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon and BHA Northwest Coordinator Brian Jennings for a conversation about the proposed 104,000-acre Frank Moore Steelhead Sanctuary (S. 1448) along Oregon's famed North... Tags: Oregon Chapter, priority landscapes, Steelhead Sanctuary
Media State Issues Video: Veteran & Conservationist Frank Moore 5/25/2016 BHA is currently working to protect the 100,000 acre Steamboat Creek Watershed, through legislation that was recently introduced by Senator Ron Wyden in recognition of legendary conservationist... Tags: Oregon Chapter, priority landscapes
Media State Issues Flush in the Wild Film Highlights Need to Protect the Boundary Waters 5/25/2016 Follow this story of a veteran and BHA member that found reprieve from PTSD through his time in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. This film was produced by Minnesota BHA Board Member, Mark Norquist... Tags: Minnesota Chapter, priority landscapes, BWCA
Media State Issues Fish Out of Water Film Showcases Boundary Waters Canoe Area 5/25/2016 The following is a three-part video series produced by Minnesota BHA Board Member, Mark Norquist in collaboration with Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters. In this film, three chefs from the Twin... Tags: Minnesota Chapter, priority landscapes, BWCA
Media State Issues OPINION: New Improved Bitteroot Travel Management Plan 5/23/2016 A recent Montana BHA Letter to Editor Highlights why this newly approved travel plan, while certainly not perfect, is better for Montana hunters and anglers, elk and trout... Elk and trout don't... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Op-Ed: Michigan Traditions of Hunting, Fishing and more at Risk in State Land Bills 5/17/2016 The following is an Op-Ed written by Kyle Burleson. Kyle Burleson is the education committee chair of the Michigan Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, formed to promote access to public... Tags: Michigan Chapter
Media State Issues Top 5 reasons why transferring our public lands to state ownership is a terrible idea. 4/28/2016 1. States manage their lands to make money, not to provide opportunities for recreation. 2. States can’t afford to manage our public lands and would be forced to either raise taxes (a... Tags: New York Chapter
Media State Issues MN BHA: Thank You Governor Dayton for Protecting the BWCA 4/27/2016 March 9, 2016 Governor Dayton, The MN Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers thanks you for your leadership in opposing the proposed Twin Metals sulfide-ore copper mine at the edge of the... Tags: Minnesota Chapter, priority landscapes, BWCA
Media State Issues An Open Letter to the Staff, Board, Members, and Supporters of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers 4/27/2016 By BHA's 2016 Aldo Leopold Award Winner, Mark Heckert I am humbled and deeply appreciative of the honor of the Aldo Leopold Award you have given me for my actions in defense of our public... Tags: Oregon Chapter, Oregon Blog, keepitpublic
Media Chapter News State Issues Action needed: Senate must advance important energy bill 4/27/2016 Senate leaders have cleared a path forward for passage of the first comprehensive energy bill in almost a decade. But your help is vital in getting it across the finish line! The Energy Policy... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues Nevada BHA leads fight against guided helicopter hunts in the Ruby Mountain Wilderness 4/27/2016 The following letter was submitted by Nevada BHA to the Elko County Planning Commission, stating BHA's opposition to an exemption that would allow guided helicopter hunts in the Ruby Mountain... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues Alaskans Who Value the Outdoors Should Oppose HB 115's Unconstitutional Land Grab 4/27/2016 On Feb. 5, the bill HB 115 (better known as The Alaska Sovereignty Act) advanced to the Judiciary Committee. Sportsmen and other Alaskans who care about our outdoors must unite in opposing it. The... Tags: Alaska Chapter, issues
Media State Issues BHA Statement on Cancellation of Badger-Two Medicine Leases 3/17/2016 MISSOULA, Mont. – Backcountry Hunters & Anglers today praised an announcement by the U.S. Department of the Interior that one of the last remaining oil-and-gas drilling leases in the Badger-Two... Tags: Montana Chapter, public lands, habitat, issues
Media Chapter News State Issues Unlocking Landlocked Public Lands 3/14/2016 Each year, America’s 40 million hunters and anglers contribute $200 billion to the national economy, and support millions of American jobs. Hunting and fishing aren’t mere pastimes, they are... Tags: Alaska Chapter, access, Michigan Chapter, public lands, issues, media, British Columbia Chapter
Media State Issues Expanding Public Access on Colorado's State Trust Lands 3/14/2016 The state of Colorado currently provides public hunting and fishing access on a mere 20 percent of its state trust lands, or approximately 480,000 of 3 million acres. This represents the lowest... Tags: Colorado Chapter, access, public lands, issues, media
Media Chapter News Press Releases State Issues Colorado BHA Op-Ed: Transferring Federal Public Lands to States Bad for Hunters and Anglers 3/11/2016 As a big game hunter who (like over 90% of Colorado sportsmen) hunts public lands, the recent push by some elected officials and big-industry groups to transfer our federal public lands to state... Tags: Colorado Chapter, press releases, public lands, issues, keepitpublic, media
Media State Issues Minnesota BHA: Thank You Governor Mark Dayton for Protecting the BWCA 3/9/2016 For years, Minnesota BHA has been working hard to protect the world-renowned fisheries and backcountry habitat from proposed mines in and around the Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness Area. On March... Tags: Minnesota Chapter, public lands, priority landscapes, issues
Media Publications State Issues The Elliot State Forest: Keep it Public! 3/4/2016 Oregon’s 82,500-acre Elliott State Forest is well known by sportsmen and women for the coveted public access it provides to high quality hunting and fishing. Roosevelt elk, blacktail deer and... Tags: Oregon Chapter, access, Oregon Blog, issues, publications
Media Chapter News Publications State Issues Conserving Greater Sage Grouse: A Sportsmen's Priority 3/4/2016 Tags: Arizona Chapter, habitat, publications, media, sage grouse
Media State Issues Sportsmen Praise Badger-Two Medicine Action 3/4/2016 Montana hunters and anglers are thanking Sen. Jon Tester, the Department of the Interior and the Blackfeet Tribe for their continued commitment to conserve some of the finest big game habitat and... Tags: the campfire, Montana Chapter
Media Publications State Issues Sportsman Report: Our Public Lands are Not for Sale 2/19/2016 This report details how the proposed transfer, or sale, of America’s federal public lands would negatively affect sportsmen and women in the United States. A growing number of western state... Tags: featured, Alaska Chapter, issues, publications
Media Press Releases State Issues BHA Statement on Arrest of Cliven Bundy 2/11/2016 MISSOULA, Mont. - In the wake of the arrest in Oregon of Cliven Bundy, a Nevada scofflaw and leader of a movement to seize public lands from the American people, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers... Tags: press releases, Oregon Chapter, public lands, Oregon Blog, issues, keepitpublic, media
Media State Issues Background on the Durfee Hills Land Exchange 7/2/2015 The BLM has consistently determined that exchanging the Durfee Hills from the public domain is, "not in the best interest of the American people." Yet, the relentless push by the Wilks brothers to... Tags: Montana Chapter, keepitpublic
Media Press Releases State Issues Oregon BHA Spearheads Efforts to Ban Drones for Hunting 5/1/2015 SALEM, Ore. – Proponents of fair chase hunting are celebrating a success in the Beaver State as the Oregon Senate advances legislation that would ban the use of drones for hunting and... Tags: Fair Chase, press releases, Oregon Chapter, issues, media, drones
Media Press Releases State Issues BHA Advances Wyoming Effort to Ban Drones, Aircraft in Hunting 3/31/2015 Wyoming Game & Fish Department considering new rule to prohibit both manned and unmanned aircraft for scouting and hunting A sportsmen-led campaign to uphold fair chase hunting in Wyoming is... Tags: Fair Chase, press releases, Wyoming Chapter, issues, drones
Media State Issues Public land becomes epicenter in state fight 3/23/2015 Critics of the governor's intent to increase timber harvesting and divert its revenues worry about a shift in how forests are managed.Nestled between Moosehead Lake and Baxter State Park are... Tags: New England Chapter
Media State Issues O & C Legislation: Congratulations on Maintaining the Status Quo 1/5/2015 By Ed Putnam, Co-Chair, Oregon Backcountry Hunters & AnglersWell, Senator Wyden’s O&C Lands Bill failed to hop a ride onto a Defense spending package that’s steaming through Congress on its way to... Tags: Oregon Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Sportsmen Welcome Conversation about Protecting Berryessa Snow Mountain 12/19/2014 Napa, Calif. – Backcountry Hunters & Anglers today welcomed the Interior Secretary and Under Secretary of Agriculture to California for a public meeting about the opportunities to protect... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Hunters and Anglers Support Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument 12/18/2014 *For Immediate Release* Hunters and Anglers Support Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument By J.R. Young On December 19, 2014 officials from the Obama Administration held a public meeting... Tags: California Chapter
Media State Issues Wyoming BHA Speaks-up for Clean Water in the Backcountry 10/16/2014 October 12, 2014Dear Mr. Frederick:Backcountry Hunters and Anglers has recently become aware of your decision to lower water quality protection standards regulating the amount of E.coli bacteria... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues Protecting Our Public Lands 10/15/2014 The following article, by Tim Brass, was originally published in the October/November issue of the Outdoor Writers Association of America's Outdoors Unlimited Magazine. "We have fallen heirs to... Tags: public lands, Wisconsin Chapter, issues, keepitpublic, media
Media Chapter News State Issues Hunters Don't Need Exceptions to the Rules 9/5/2014 Research clearly shows that off-trail motorized use can have significant impacts on fish and wildlife habitat. Thus I am struck by the fact that the Arizona Game & Fish continue to advocate for... Tags: Arizona Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Arizona BHA Comments on Tonto Travel Management Plan 9/4/2014 September 4, 2014 RE: Comments from Arizona Backcountry Hunters & Anglers on Tonto National Forest Travel Management Plan Neil Bosworth, Forest Supervisor, Please consider the following... Tags: Arizona Chapter, OHV
Media Chapter News State Issues New Mexico BHA Weighs-in on Gila Travel Management Plan 6/13/2014 Dear Secretary Vilsack,On behalf of the undersigned organizations representing thousands of New Mexican sportsmen and women, we are writing to express our strong support for the recent Gila... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues New Hampshire Drone Petition 6/10/2014 A PETITION TO THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE NEW HAMPSHIRE FISH AND GAME DEPARTMENT AND THE NEW HAMPSHIRE FISH AND GAME COMISSIONDate: February 1st, 2014Brandon Corey EllisCo-Chair Board of... Tags: Fair Chase, New England Chapter, media, drones
Media State Issues BHA Opposes, HR4272: Forest Access in Rural Communities Act 5/29/2014 A letter expressing our concerns...Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is a national conservation organization that was founded around a campfire in Oregon by a group of passionate sportsmen who saw a... Tags: Oregon Chapter
Media State Issues Oregon BHA to ODFW: Drone Ban for Hunting & Scouting Needed 5/20/2014 5/16/14Mr. Roy Elicker, DirectorOregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 4034 Fairview Industrial Drive SE Salem, OR 97302Dear Mr. Elicker:Backcountry Hunters & Anglers was formed here in Oregon ten... Tags: Oregon Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Resolving Public Land Disputes: There is a Better Way 5/12/2014 By BHA Board Member, Jay Banta of Torrey, Utah The flaring disputes in southern Utah about the appropriate uses of public land highlights one of the very reasons Backcountry Hunters & Anglers was... Tags: Utah Chapter, OHV
Media Chapter News State Issues Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Condemns Illegal ATV Protest in Utah 5/10/2014 PRESS STATEMENT Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, Utah Chapter Friday, May 9, 2014 Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, including its Utah Chapter, condemns the illegal ATV protest ride at Recapture... Tags: Utah Chapter, OHV
Media State Issues Idaho BHA Restores Wildlife Habitat on Craig Mountain 5/6/2014 On May 3, 2014, 18 Idaho BHA volunteers gathered near the confluence of the Salmon and Snake Rivers north of Hell's Canyon to restore habitat in the Craig Mountain Wildlife Area - an area the... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Banning Drones for Hunting - A letter from New Mexico BHA 5/5/2014 September 20, 2013To: New Mexico Game & Fish CommissionFrom: New Mexico Chapter, Backcountry Hunters & AnglersIssue: ... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues Thank You to Bureau of Land Management: Seasonal Wildlife Closures 4/24/2014 Mr. Snyder,Wyoming Backcountry Hunters & Anglers would like to express our thanks and support of the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) decision to implement temporary road closures on Steamboat... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues Thank You Letter: Temporary Closures on Pole Mountain 4/21/2014 Medicine Bow-Routte Forest Supervisor Frank Romero, Wyoming Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, would like to express our support of the temporary road closures put in place on Pole Mountain. We have... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues WY BHA Appeals Shoshone National Forest Plan 4/15/2014 The following is an objection letter to the Draft Shoshone National Forest Plan that was recently filed by Wyoming BHA. Shoshone Forest Plan (SFP), Daniel Jiron, Rocky Mountain Regional... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho BHA Position Statement - Henry's Fork Basin Study Final Report 3/4/2014 The Idaho Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers recognizes the importance, and the challenges, of balancing our state's water needs - for business and residential purposes, recreation, and... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues Wyoming Sportsmen's Alliance Hails Passage of G&F Funding Bill 3/4/2014 CHEYENNE – More sportsmen's dollars will be used for wildlife-related programs with the passage of a bill Friday to allow the Wyoming Game and Fish Department to receive state funds for two key... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues Comments on the Bureau of Reclamation and the Idaho Water Resource Boards Draft Henrys Fork Basin Study 3/4/2014 The Henry Fork Basin Study (HFBS) discusses future water management options that have significant potential negative impacts to Wyoming wildlife. While the HFBS discusses impact to fisheries and... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho BHA Defends Cervid Disease Testing of Domestic Elk 2/18/2014 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... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media Press Releases State Issues Letter: OHV Commission Ethics Issues 2/18/2014 February 15, 2014 Dear Governor Sandoval, I am writing on behalf of the Nevada Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BHA) concerning a current ethics issue related to the OHV Commission... Tags: press releases, Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: MT BHA Asks Governor Bullock To Ensure Sage Grouse Protections Supported By Science 2/6/2014 Dear Governor Bullock Re Montana Sage Grouse Habitat Conservation Strategy The 350 members of Montana Backcountry Hunter and Anglers include many well informed hunters who are concerned about the... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Action Alert: Big Impacts to Big Game Habitat at Stake 2/5/2014 The following is a letter submitted by members of NM BHA to the Cibola National regarding a proposal to permit intensive military operations in otherwise relatively undisturbed backcountry... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues BLM accepts second round of comments on lease of BLM lands to Oregon Parks and Recreation Department 1/21/2014 By Jon Pampush, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers Condon, Oregon: On January 13, The Bureau of Land Management hosted a meeting to accept a second round of comments concerning a proposed lease of... Tags: Oregon Chapter
Media State Issues Sportsmen Applaud Drone Ban in Colorado 1/10/2014 DENVER, COLORADO — Sportsmen from Colorado and beyond today applauded the state of Colorado for moving to protect traditional, fair chase hunting by curbing the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Defending Fair Chase: Banning Drones for Hunting or Scouting 1/8/2014 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Systems (commonly called “drones”) are increasingly important in the military and have high potential to contribute to the fields of wildlife biology, search-and-rescue,... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Standing with BHA & The Sportsman's Pledge 10/28/2013 Several months ago it came to light that traditional bow hunters are the fastest growing segment of BHA’s membership. My own interest in shooting my long-neglected recurve bow had been... Tags: Utah Chapter, keepitpublic
Media Chapter News State Issues Book Cliffs Get Three-Year Reprive 9/20/2013 The Utah School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration (SITLA) announced today it would give a three-year reprieve to a controversial lease it planned to issue in the Book Cliffs. An... Tags: Utah Chapter, priority landscapes
Media Chapter News State Issues Prized hunting and fishing area leased to oil and gas 8/26/2013 Book Cliffs leasing blindsides sportsmen, threatens to derail protection efforts Sportsmen expressed dismay Monday after learning that the Utah School and Institutional Trust Lands (SITLA) Board... Tags: Utah Chapter, priority landscapes
Media State Issues The West Mountain Wildlife Management Area 8/14/2013 This was a letter wrriten to Doug Morin on behalf of the New England BHA Chapter:Dear Mr. Morin:We write on behalf ofthe New EnglandChapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA). Backcountry... Tags: New England Chapter, media
Media State Issues NV BHA Comments on Predator Management Plan 8/1/2013 August 1, 2013 To: Jack Robb, Chair, Wildlife Commissioners & Michael McBeath, Chair, Wildlife Damage Management Committee Re: Predator Management Policy & Predator Management Plan Dear,... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues Members Urged to Attend Grand Bargain Meetings 7/25/2013 The upcoming meetings regarding the Grand Bargain Land Exchange Initiative are an important opportunity for members to speak-up for Utah’s backcountry fish and wildlife habitat, and sporting... Tags: Utah Chapter, priority landscapes
Media State Issues Wyoming BHA Partners with Forest Service to Curb Illegal Motorized Use 7/12/2013 (LARAMIE, Wyo.) July 12, 2013 – The Wyoming Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers has partnered with the Medicine Bow National Forest to restore habitat degraded by illegal Off Highway Vehicle... Tags: Wyoming Chapter, OHV, habitat, issues
Media State Issues Idaho BHA goes to Washington DC to Fight for Habitat and Public Access Funding 6/21/2013 This week, Idaho BHA member Derek Farr (pictured) will be traveling to Washington DC to express support for the Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). LWCF is a critical source of funding for... Tags: Idaho Chapter, access, lwcf, issues
Media Chapter News State Issues Letter: Overwhelming Sportsmen Support for Columbine Hondo Wilderness Area 6/3/2013 New Mexico BHA has been working to build on the already-overwhelming breadth of support among sportsmen who agree that the Columbine Hondo Wilderness Study Area should be permanently protected as... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues New Mexico Sportsmen Support Wilderness Protections in Rio Grande del Norte National Monument 5/21/2013 The following is a joint press release submitted by NM BHA, NM Wildlife Federation and Trout Unlimited in support of legislation that would provide permanent wilderness protection in two areas... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues NV BHA Supports AB 345: Science-based Predator Management Funding/Plans 5/21/2013 To the Nevada State Senate Committee on Natural Resources:Senate members Ford, Manendo, Segerblom, Goicoechea and SettelmeyerRe: AB 345 (re: management of wildlife)From: Karen BoegerBoard member,... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues WY BHA Supports Non-Motorized Designation on Snake River 5/21/2013 The following is a letter that was to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department on behalf of Wyoming BHA, in support of the proposed non-motorized designation on the Snake River. Dear Commission... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues LETTER: Ban Drones for Hunting in Montana 5/9/2013 May 9, 2013 To: Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Commission From: Montana Chapter, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Issue: Regulating Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Systems (Drones) in... Tags: Montana Chapter
Media State Issues Help Protect Bristol Bay 5/3/2013 As you may have heard the next chapter in the Bristol Bay Pebble Mine dilemma is unfolding and we need you (and your friends) to take a minute to provide comments on the proposal. Here’s what’s at... Tags: Alaska Chapter
Media State Issues WY BHA Opposes Transfer of Public Lands 5/3/2013 Position Statement: WY BHA Opposes Transfer of Public Lands During the last Legislative Session in Wyoming, HB228 was passed. Sponsored by House Representative David Miller of Riverton, this bill,... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media Chapter News State Issues NM BHA Supports Wilderness Designation of the Columbine-Hondo WSA 4/30/2013 Located in Taos County just East of the recently-designated Rio Grande del Norte National Monument (242, 555 acres), is a section of wild country that has long been recognized by sportsmen for its... Tags: New Mexico Chapter
Media State Issues Conserving Backcountry Habitat in the Wyoming Range 4/17/2013 Background For years, sportsmen have been working to protect backcountry habitat in the Wyoming Range from fragmentation and large-scale oil and gas development. And for years, sportsmen have led... Tags: Wyoming Chapter
Media State Issues UPDATE NV BHA Opposes AB 293: OHV Overhaul 4/5/2013 April 3, 2013Dear Chairman Carillo and Committee members,Backcountry Hunters and Anglers is a national non-profit conservation organization of outdoor enthusiasts who prize the tradition,... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues ACTION ALERT: HB 278 and HB 336 - Sportsmen asked to pay for livestock loses 3/28/2013 The followingGood morning,To follow up on the ISCAC Action Alert I need to bring your attention to the2 bills that are being ramrodded through the end of thelegislative session without YOUR input.... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues NV BHA Speaks-up for Public Stream Access, Supports AB 396 3/28/2013 To the Nevada State Assembly Committee on Natural Resources, Agriculture and Mining: Assembly members Daly, Aizley, Carrillo, Cohen, Healy, Swank, Anderson, Ellison, Hansen, Livermore and... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues NV BHA Defends Trapping, Opposes SB 213 3/28/2013 The following is testimony given by NV BHA in defense of legal, scientifically-led trapping regulations in Nevada.To the Nevada State Senate Natural Resources Committee: March 27, 2013Senators... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues NV BHA Weighs-in on Horse Management Plans 3/26/2013 To the Nevada State Senate Natural Resources Committee:Senators Ford, Manendo, Segerblom, Settelmeyer and GoicoecheaRe: Senate Joint Resolution #1 (wild horses)From: Karen Boeger, Backcountry... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues NV BHA Opposes AB 293: OHV Overhaul 3/26/2013 AB 293 makes numerous negative changes to Nevada's off-highway vehicle registration system, including limiting law enforcement, exempting many types of vehicles and reducing the size of the... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues NV BHA Defends Bear Hunting, Opposes SB 82 3/26/2013 NV BHA has been working hard to defend the hunting of bears in the state and to fight legislation which would prohibit the hunting of all bears in the state. BHA supports wildlife management that... Tags: Nevada Chapter
Media State Issues Proposed BWCA land exchange is a bad deal 9/4/2012 During September of 1901, Vice President Theodore Roosevelt unexpectedly (but prophetically) became America’s 26th president, and during his tenure as commander-in-chief, Roosevelt personally... Tags: Minnesota Chapter, priority landscapes, BWCA
Media Chapter News State Issues Utah Chapter News 6/29/2012 Utah Chapter NewsMonday, June 18, 2012 Utah BHA held its first Chapter “Rendezvous” near Strawberry Reservoir in the foothills of the Uinta Mountains the first weekend in June. Margo Taylor... Tags: Utah Chapter
Media State Issues And Now for Some Good News in Conservation… 6/28/2012 Meanwhile, back on the home-front, a coalition of sportsmen and conservation groups scored-big by winning a lawsuit which challenged plans for irresponsible oil and gas development on Bureau of... Tags: Colorado Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho BHA Comments on proposed mineral sampling in the Mallard-Larkins Pioneer Area 5/24/2011 To: Rick Brazell Forest Supervisor Clearwater National Forest 12730 Hwy 12 Orofino, ID 83544Dear Mr. Brazell,Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is a national group of outdoors-people who cherish the... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues Idaho Issues of Concern 5/24/2011 Elimination of all cross country travel by ATV's on public land (BLM, USFS, State (IDL)). The IDFG must retain its ability to regulate ATV use as an aid to hunting. Non-motorized regulations... Tags: Idaho Chapter
Media State Issues Coalition supports DNR's OHV plans 5/5/2011 A coalition of Duluth-based hunting, angling and outdoor groups has formally endorsed the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources' plans to manage off-highway vehicle use on public lands by... Tags: Minnesota Chapter, OHV