Field Reports: Bill would target limping elk bulls
HUNTING – Sen. Kirk Pearson (R-Monroe) has introduced a bill in the Washington Legislature that would allow licensed hunters year round to shoot bull elk that are limping where hoof rot is occurring.
The chair of the Natural Resources and Parks Committee said he sponsored SB 5474 to spur the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to do more to solve the disease issue that’s been plaguing West Side elk.
Such a law would result in a “substantial” reduction of the state’s herds, Anis Aoude, department Game Division Manager, said at a legislative committee hearing this week.
“I guarantee every large bull elk in Washington will develop a limp,” said Mark Smith during public comment.
Safari Club plans 35th annual fundraiser
HUNTING – The Inland Empire Chapter of Safari Club International has scheduled a “Hunters First Banquet” next month to benefit local conservation, humanitarian and education projects, organizers say.
The 35th annual event will feature dinner, games, silent auction, raffles, door prizes and a live auction on March 4 at the Mirabeau Park Hotel, 1100 N. Sullivan Rd. in Spokane Valley.
“About 70 percent of the funds raised are used to fund local projects,” said member Tom Allen.
Projects boosted by the fundraiser include annual scholarships to forestry and biology students at Eastern Washington University, University of Idaho and Washington State.
The local club’s Sportsmen Against Hunger program has gathered and donated 5,000 pounds of wild game to needy families, Allen said
“We support and host many disabled hunter programs and contribute financial support to Washington and Idaho fish and game departments for wildlife recovery programs, anti-poaching and educational events,” he said.
For years, the SCI chapter has supported the Spokane Fish Hatchery and guided tours to more than 2,000 school children a year, he said.
A “New Shooters Day” for kids, moms, or anyone wanting to learn how to participate in the shooting sports is one of the club’s popular social events.
Order forms for banquet tickets are online at huntersfirst.org or call Brian Nutley, (509) 844-3005.