Cougs and Bears with dogs is back!

[12244]

http://www.kgw.com/news-local/storie....2acd3bc5.html

I think it should NOT say '"Kill with dogs" thats wrong, someone call. S/B "Hunt with dogs"

Looks like the gov will sign it, before we loose any kids to cougar attacks.

Who has the dogs and needs a rifleman or more? I know some guys coming back from OIF/OEF that would love to go out shooting cougars and bears.

[Mad Mikey]

This is good news!

IMO the header to the story was written that way on purpose.

Doesn't suprise me a bit coming from a PDX/Salem, or any West side news source for that matter.

I'd like to see the NEO re-write of that! though

Anyone have the run-down of who voted for and against?

[rimrock]

"The bill passed in the Senate with strong bipartisan support and heads to Gov. Ted Kulongoski, who has indicated he will sign it."


I nearly did fall out of my chair when the KGW article said Ted would sign it. Great news indeed

[Limbhanger]

Originally Posted by Mad Mikey

This is good news!

IMO the header to the story was written that way on purpose.

Doesn't suprise me a bit coming from a PDX news source.

I'd like to see the NEO re-write of that! though

I emailed them and let them know that the way they wrote it does not reflect the intent of the bill accurately to the public..........time to down boys we are on a roll !!!

[12244]

OK. Thanks Ted.

How is a cat field dressed and prepped for tablefare? I think I have some old directions on skinning.

[Limbhanger]

Originally Posted by KevinsDriftboat

OK. Thanks Ted.

How is a cat field dressed and prepped for tablefare? I think I have some old directions on skinning.

Are you calling me Ted?........as in Ted Nugent...... , or did you think my name was Ted or what ?

[12244]

The Gov and the Uncle!

[ehunter]

How come they always quote the Peta guys yes this a real trophy hunt oh brother,,:frown:

Originally Posted by KevinsDriftboat

The Gov and the Uncle!

[scubaseth]

I am not getting to happy until its a for sure thing and I see the dog hunters out there!

Scuba

[HOGGEMIN]

well if this passes might have to get a couple dogs to go with my buddys already 12 dogs. Release the hounds guys.

[Art Vandeley]

This is great to hear.

[pathfinder]

Alot of huners will be happy, I'm happy if it's a for sure thing,i just can't stand the thought of so many cats out there and all the danger kids, joggers and stick fickers have been in when they passed that bill back then,let one of there kids or grand kids get dragged off,see how they feel.............................................. ................

[toas243]

Tell me I`am not dreaming

[Cornbread]

Once this goes through how do I find a guide with dogs to book a hunt with ASAP?

[Bonita]

This subject was hot about a year and a half ago on ifish, and I let slip that I had heard this rumor from an 'official' source... Glad to hear it's finally going to be on paper!

...guess I didn't let all that slip before

Originally Posted by Bonita

The info they've been gathering has lead to the likelihood of hound hunting for cougars being re-established (hopefully soon). Sure it's inconvenient to turn in the info, but remember that each office has one district wildlife biologist, and he's probably got a lot of other things going - since cougar season is year round, they can't really set up check stations or something similar.

[Limbhanger]

Originally Posted by Cornbread

Once this goes through how do I find a guide with dogs to book a hunt with ASAP?

No can do. This is only authorizes ODFW to utilize "volunteer agents" for planned removal instead of paying agents. There will be no regular hunting with hounds. It only a tool for ODFW to save money.

[wapiteaser]

My guess is that ODFW may ask hound hunters to register and compile a list through out the state. These hunters will probably have their background checked for violations and stuff and put on call. You can bet there will be some strict regulations for those that do hunt. I don't think anyone should be able to guide and make money off this proposal. It should be used for population control only. I think ODFW will still use the already paid Government hunters that are doing it now before they let anyone else hunt.

[BlacktailBowhunter]

Originally Posted by Limbhanger

No can do. This is only authorizes ODFW to utilize "volunteer agents" for planned removal instead of paying agents. There will be no regular hunting with hounds. It only a tool for ODFW to save money.

You were right C-man, it passed.

The anti's lies and cannon fodder didn't work.

This does not over turn Measure 18 guys. You cannot use dogs to hunt cougars in OREGON.....

ODFW can use volunteer agents and that is all that this did, but that is great news, because it will save approximately 250K bienium that is every two years.

The practice since Hardy Meyers did his opinion in 1999, has been for ODFW to hire Federal Trappers or rent their dogs. This will allow very lucky and carefully selected hunters to hunt cougars with ODFW staff in tow.

They will use these volunteers to manage the cougars as spelled out in the cougar plan.

This only makes sense that it passed and those that opposed it are idiots that can't seperate reality from fact, and buckle under the pressure of emotional animal rights activists, and in my opinion have n business being in politics or responsible for legislation.

[StevenB]

I think this is a great start in the right direction.

[SImudBogger]

this is the first step. good things will happen in the future because if this.

[sliverslinger]

Originally Posted by SImudBogger

this is the first step. good things will happen in the future because if this.

Yes things will be better, I may actually fill a bear tag.

[Opportunist]

Glad to hear it! I wish I owned some cougar hounds!

[Cornbread]

Bummer. It is a great thing they are passing this law but I have wanted to shoot a cougar over hounds with my long bow since I was a kid. Guess I'll still have to wait.

[Lucky Guy]

Did anybody else hear the OPB coverage on this story yesterday? Jeez, they are usually good on their facts and reporting but this story was just crap - overturns measure 18, more cougars killed, changes management plan, blah blah blah. I just wrote them about it and if anybody else heard it and has time to email them we should call them out on it.

[Limbhanger]

Originally Posted by Lucky Guy

Did anybody else hear the OPB coverage on this story yesterday? Jeez, they are usually good on their facts and reporting but this story was just crap - overturns measure 18, more cougars killed, changes management plan, blah blah blah. I just wrote them about it and if anybody else heard it and has time to email them we should call them out on it.

Here is the OPB article........



Bill Allows For Increased Cougar Hunting
By Rob Manning
PORTLAND, OR 2007-06-08 Oregon senators approved a bill Friday giving the state fish and wildlife department more leeway to kill cougars. It's illegal in Oregon for most people to kill cougars and black bears, though that appears to be changing. Supporters say the bill is simply a clarification of who's allowed to hunt cougars, under a ballot initiative voters approved in 1994. Eugene-area Democrat Vicki Walker says the bill reverses the voters, and avoids broader issues.

Vicki Walker: "It avoids the tough questions this body should be addressing related to the weakness to the cougar management plan and instead expands the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife's authority to implement that plan while overturning the will of the voters who have twice voted for."

Alan Bates: "The will of the people of Oregon was to allow the pursuit of cougars under these conditions. The language of the measure clearly states that."

That's Ashland Democrat, Alan Bates. The measure wound up passing the Senate easily, 19 to 8. It's already passed the House, but representatives will have to agree with senate amendments. Wildlife protection advocates say the bill would facilitate a management plan to kill hundreds of cougars. They're hoping Governor Kulongoski will veto it, if it reaches him.

[Limbhanger]

Here is the letter I sent to OPB......

To Whom It May Concern:
In reference to the article written concerning the passage of the Agent Use Bill 2791, there are some inaccuracies in your reporting. First of all, it is NOT illegal for most people to hunt Cougar and Bear in Oregon. Cougar and Bear tags are sold over the counter due to robust and growing populations. It is only illegal for hunters to pursue cougars and bears with hounds, or over bait. This does not change in any way and does not infringe on Measure 18.
HB 2791 does not affect anything in regards to the number of problem cougars or bears that will be removed.
This bill specifically authorizes the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife to utilize VOLUNTEER agents instead of paying 100,000 dollars per year on hired agents for the same service. How many opportunities in our lifetime are we going to have that allow for saving money or virtually eliminating a portion of government spending by introducing common sense strategies and programs.
Opposing this bill shows a blatant disgregard for Oregons wildlife and responsible government spending. This bill is truly a win win situation for the state of Oregon.
In the future, it would be nice to see a more thorough job of fact gathering before putting subject matter such as this in front of the public. I expect much more from a local organization such as OPB where critical wildlife issues are concerned. We need to report the facts accurately and leave out the emotion when it comes to decisions facing our wildlife and wildlife management in Oregon.

[HOGGEMIN]

Originally Posted by sliverslinger2001

Yes things will be better, I may actually fill a bear tag.

This has nothing to do with bear it only pertains to cougar.

[Hound Hunter]

I'm happy seeing Oregon heading in the right direction, I hope Washington will follow. Save me trips to ID and CA.

[jager]

Thats too bad them cougers were just starting to thin out the Californians

[Old Soldier]

I think it is time to look at the real success and who made it happen. A large part of the credit goes to Al Elkins the OHA lobbyist!!!! The next ones are those of you that wrote you Senators and Representatives or testified at the hearings or both.

All the rest of the hunters should take this as a lesson and get involved in the process. It just shows that if hunters get involved and testify and write letters and e-mails the way the Anti's do then we can make a difference. Now I hope Ted K. signs the bill. So write him and tell him it does not roll back Measure 18 as some hunters think and some Anti hunters want everyone to beleave. If you read below you will see what I am talking about. So do not think you can book a hunt. This is to replace the agents ODFW has had to pay to "take" animals for the past few years. It is all about saving hunter dollars and giving the few with dogs that will be called upon to "take" these animals an opportunity to volunteer. The animal does not go to the hunter when he/she acts as an agent.


It is a good day for hunters!!!!




What HB 2971A Does

As you know currently in order for ODFW to use someone to conduct bear and cougar work they cannot appoint them as an agent but must hire them as a full time employee. It is the belief of ODFW that they do not have the authority to appoint agents. This bill gives them the authority to do so.

What HB 2971A Does Not Do

It does not change the provisions of Measure 18. The bill does not change the Cougar Management Plan. The bill does not allow for the sport hunting of Cougars.

[12244]

Nice one Limbhanger!

We should all contact local reps or Salem and make sure to get it signed. I dont care where I shoot a cat, as long as its a nuisance, put me down on the list to call.

[mpmax]

I'll bet the "list" of volunteer agents will be long enough that if one were to qualify for the status it could take years to get the call. As far as out-right hound hunting, this bill didn't do it.

PS...Since when are politicians concerned with "the will of the Voters"?

[Critr Gitr]

Originally Posted by Limbhanger

Here is the OPB article........



Bill Allows For Increased Cougar Hunting
By Rob Manning
PORTLAND, OR 2007-06-08 Oregon senators approved a bill Friday giving the state fish and wildlife department more leeway to kill cougars. It's illegal in Oregon for most people to kill cougars and black bears, though that appears to be changing. Supporters say the bill is simply a clarification of who's allowed to hunt cougars, under a ballot initiative voters approved in 1994. Eugene-area Democrat Vicki Walker says the bill reverses the voters, and avoids broader issues.

Vicki Walker: "It avoids the tough questions this body should be addressing related to the weakness to the cougar management plan and instead expands the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife's authority to implement that plan while overturning the will of the voters who have twice voted for."

Alan Bates: "The will of the people of Oregon was to allow the pursuit of cougars under these conditions. The language of the measure clearly states that."

That's Ashland Democrat, Alan Bates. The measure wound up passing the Senate easily, 19 to 8. It's already passed the House, but representatives will have to agree with senate amendments. Wildlife protection advocates say the bill would facilitate a management plan to kill hundreds of cougars. They're hoping Governor Kulongoski will veto it, if it reaches him.

FYI contact info .....

" http://www.leg.state.or.us/walker/ Please feel free to contact me with your thoughts or concerns about the issues facing Oregonians. You may contact me via email at: sen.vickiwalker@state.or.us or by phone at (503) 986-1707 "

Alan Bates. "http://www.leg.state.or.us/bates/ "

[Limbhanger]

Thanks, I dropped Vicki a line.......

[Bonita]

Originally Posted by Limbhanger

Thanks, I dropped Vicki a line.......

ME TOO!

I would like to be able to say that I am surprised by this, but it is SO typical of Vicki Walker. Time and again I have seen her spouting off on the news about some issue and just sounding like a fool. I've even had her show up in person on my doorstep campaigning and seen the same act in person. Unbelievable!

[mpmax]

You haven't lived till you get Peter Courtney on your doorstep...he hasn't been back.

[gottafish]

I like this line of OPB artical

It's illegal in Oregon for most people to kill cougars and black bears, though that appears to be changing. Supporters say the bill is simply a clarification of who's allowed to hunt cougars, under a ballot initiative voters approved in 1994.

Reading that they make it sound like no one can kill them now. what a bunch of wankers

[Matthewc]

Why is it that when im hunting cougar or bear for that matter, I never seem to run into these so called problem animals, so I can shoot one and eat it fer dinner? Honestly I have been waiting for a long time for one to try to eat me, so I can fill my tag or die trying? Hope they do not thin out too many of them until I fill my personal mission to be totaly stupid/insane and stick-flick one old world style eeerm I mean bowtech style. My no fear approach could get me killed I reckon but thats what I call real hunting. Send me your problem animals PLEASE! I will not charge either!

Heehee

[Abalone]

Who let the dogs out


Ruff Ruff............

[Lucky Guy]

I received this reply from Rob Manning at OPB today.

[FONT=Geneva][SIZE=+1][COLOR=#000000][COLOR=#000000][FONT=Geneva]"Thanks for your comment. Your response and that of another listener is leading us toward a clarification or correction of the story. There was at least one detail that was not accurately represented in the story, and we're working on fixing that. Thanks again, for bringing the problem to our attention.

If you have further questions, I would encourage you to direct them to our news director, Morgan Holm. His number is (503) 293-1975.

Regards,

Rob Manning
OPB Radio News
office: (503) 293-4004
cell: (503) 702-1264"




I wrote the following in response:

Rob,

I thought more about the original story and your response to my email.

If one is going to report on a change in a state law, it seems only reasonable that the story should state precisely and accurately what change is made to the law. Your original story did not state the actual change made to the law, and any follow up should do so.

The use of dogs to hunt and destroy cougars that pose a threat to people or livestock was included in the original ballot measure as approved by Oregon citizens. As I understand it, this bill does not change the ballot measure so far as the numbers of cougars permitted to be killed as part of the cougar management plan, nor does it change the level of threat or damage a particular cougar must represent before ODFW may approve the use of dogs to eliminate that particular cougar. The bill changes the law to permit ODFW to use qualified private citizens instead of paid professional hunters where a cougar has been determined to be a danger to people or livestock. This change has no effect on the cougar management plan other than to save the state >$100,000 per year. The money saved by this change - while not alot in comparison to the overall state budget - will nonetheless be available to increase support for other conservation efforts while having NO impact on the cougar management plan other than to reduce its implementation costs.

Thanks,

Glenn Brown

ps I am aware that many people find this a grisly business, and that your listeners include many who are opposed to any killing of wild animals, including cougars. I believe that is all the more reason to accurately report on issues like this one that are likely to trigger emotional responses in your listeners.



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[CombinationLicense]

Lucky Guy - Your response to OPB is right on target and accurately summarizes the details surrounding HB 2971. The misinformation put out by the people opposed to the bill was so effective that the media, general public and even some hunters believe that it overturned Measure 18. Kudos for setting the record straight with OPB. They might not listen but they will know that we are watching.

"CL"

[Bonita]

Originally Posted by CombinationLicense

Kudos for setting the record straight with OPB. They might not listen but they will know that we are watching.