Sportsmen Target Reform in Lansing

LANSING, MICH - Sporting and conservation groups from across the state took time away from fall hunting season to gather under the state capitol dome with state lawmakers for the annual "Sportsmen's Day at the Capitol." As both legislative chambers began a hectic week of budget negotiations, Lt. Governor John Cherry reminded attendees about the importance of conserving and enhancing Michigan's natural resources in order to build upon Michigan's rich outdoor heritage and capitalize on the economic vibrancy hunting and fishing bring to the state's tourism economy.

Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) Executive Director Erin McDonough said that the event was timely as both the Lt. Governor and legislature continue to independently work on plans that will combine the state's resource managing agencies. "While the state's unfortunate economic woes have required our elected officials to take a hard look at saving state resources through restructuring, MUCC views this process as a key opportunity to rebuild a foundation for the conservation, wise use and management of Michigan's tremendous natural resources," said McDonough. "While simply combining departments will not lead to effective solutions, MUCC is committed to working with Lt. Governor Cherry and state lawmakers to make sure science, not politics continues to dictate resource management. However, a new shift toward managing our natural resources through a service-based philosophy and developing a strategy for long-term funding are new priorities that we are encouraging lawmakers to consider."

On Tuesday, President Barack Obama also proclaimed that Saturday, September 26, 2009 will be "National Hunting and Fishing Day," when Michigan will kick-off its early two-day youth deer hunting season.