We know. Reading the news can sometimes be depressing. But we’re here to keep you updated on some of the good news that’s happening in both conservation and the hunting and fishing world. Keep reading for a little emotional boost. (And if you hear of a good news story in your neck of the woods, please let us know about it!)
Public Lands Sell-off Proposal Removed from Congressional Budget Bill
Following an enormous outcry from millions of hunters, anglers and other public lands advocates, Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), withdrew his proposal to sell-off 2 to 3 million acres of public lands from the Senate budget reconciliation bill. Earlier this year, House leaders also had to remove a sell-off provision because of fierce opposition. Public lands advocates rightfully celebrated this news, while also realizing they must remain vigilant. Sen. Lee has vowed to continue his pursuit to sell what he calls “underutilized” federal lands. In response, Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) warned that “those already plotting to go after our public lands another way: Don’t. Unless you like losing.”
Photo above shows public lands champions rallying in Santa Fe, NM in June.
Conservationists save Okefenokee Swamp from Strip Mine
Hunters, anglers and other conservationists in Georgia are relieved that The Conservation Fund has purchased the land and mineral rights of nearly 8,000 acres adjacent to the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. Twin Pines Minerals had hoped to develop a strip mine for titanium dioxide on the land, which would have had devastating impacts to fish and wildlife that live in the refuge.
The conservation group reportedly bought the land from Twin Pines for $60 million. The Okefenokee refuge spreads across 396,000 acres of swampland and is the largest wildlife refuge east of the Mississippi River. It’s home to unique fish, wading birds, red-cockaded woodpeckers, black bears, bobcats and alligators.
Photo source, New Georgia Encyclopedia
Pennsylvania’s Sunday Hunting Ban Repealed
Hunters in Pennsylvania will now be allowed to hunt on Sundays. Gov. Josh Shapiro repealed an “outdated” ban on Sunday hunting and gave the Pennsylvania Game Commission the power to manage hunting seasons. The hunting ban had been part of several “blue laws” that promoted Sundays as a day of rest.
Steve Smith, executive director of the Pennsylvania Game Commission said lifting the ban was long overdue. “It’s a ban that was an obstacle to how we could manage wildlife.” Gov. Shapiro said the new policy creates more recreational opportunities and potentially boosts revenue from new hunting license sales.
A big shout-out to Artemis ambassador Gabriele Rolland for sharing this important news on Artemis social media just after the bill was signed.
