March - 2011

It is hard to believe that another banquet is just around the corner. This has been a tough year for coyote hunting in our area, snow has been deep and tracks have been few. Hopefully this last month will give us a few more chances to get the dogs on some long and successful chases.

There are a number of things happening that will be addressed in greater length by Chuck by I would like to touch on a couple of issues. First we have our bill in both houses of the legislature that addresses the "dogs under the reasonable control of its owner while engaged in hunting". We need everyone to call their assembly person and express your support of A03296. Please be sure to stress that your concern is not only about receiving a citation but also about what can happen to your dog. This bill is currently stuck in the Encon-committee so we need broad base support from across the state. The second issue is The Field Trial on wild game. I have been assured that when the new permits are issued this year that, youths and out of state trialer will no longer be at risk at any sanctioned event sponsored by a recognized registry. The last item is the new local laws being adopted by local municipalities that deal with the responsibility to license dogs. I am hearing that pure breed licenses are no longer being offered in some towns and that the fees are all over the board. If you have concerns with what has happened in your area please obtain a copy of your local law and send me a copy. Senator Cathy Young has agreed that if it is inconsistent across state she will try to address the issue.

Lastly, I would like to ask every member to try and sign up one new member prior to our banquet. The more members the louder our voice is when we speak in Albany. See you at the banquet.