Attention, Wildlife Warriors!
Only 8 days remain in the South Dakota legislative session, and we need your help on a critical issue: SB 173, the “landowner-on-own-land” antlerless elk bill.
Here’s the situation:
- This bill excludes the public from applying for elk licenses, limiting access to a valuable hunting opportunity.
- It lacks scientific justification, potentially impacting the overall elk population and hunting pressure.
- Existing depredation rules already allow landowners to manage elk populations as needed.
- Wildlife belongs to all of us, and public access ensures proper management and benefits the state’s economy.
What you can do:
- Contact House Agriculture Committee members: Urge them to DEFEAT SB 173.
- Hearing date: Tuesday, February 27th, 7:45 PM.
- Contact them here: https://sdlegislature.gov/Session/Committee/1002/Detail
- Spread the word: Share this alert with fellow sportsmen and sportswomen.
- Stay informed: Follow SDWF for updates: https://sdwf.org/
Other Updates:
- HB 1228 (pink hunting gear): Headed for Senate approval on Monday, with strong support.
- HB 1119 (habitat conservation plate): Likely to pass the Senate on Monday.
- Appropriations & pipelines: Focus of the final session days.
Remember: Your voice matters! Contact your legislators and oppose SB 173. Let’s protect public access to our shared wildlife heritage!
Together, we can make a difference!
Support the Federation with a donation by clicking here!
South Dakota Wildlife Federation
P.S. Share this alert and encourage others to contact their legislators!