Sfwmd Gov. Brd. To Vote On Sta Hunting 7/12

[N. Cook]

The SFWMD Governing Board Meeting will be in Miami at the Commission Chambers, Miami City Hall, 3500 Pan American Dr. at 9 AM on July 12.

Two items are on the "Consent" list of interest to us. The most important is the authorization of STA hunting on STA 1 W, 5 and 3/4. The second is the establisment of SMALL GAME HUNTING AREAS on several parcels of District land not now open......these are some of the properties UW-F requested be reviewed seeking better dove hunting opportunities for the urban hunters who have been shut out of so many nearby places to go.

Since the WRAC has approved the two items it is expected the Governing Board will "rubber stamp" them.

HOWEVER....there is a PUBLIC COMMENT period. I will speak in "thanks" to the staff and STA managers for their agreement to hunting....the goodwill and positive publicity the hunting brings to the District..etc....etc.

This is a good time to get a few minutes in front of those who determine a lot about our hunting opportunities from Orlando to the Keys....
Hope to see some of the Miami folks on the "Speakers List"!!!!

[N. Cook]

Both motions passed without further discussion. I was able to speak for both issues, including thank yous to the staff etc.

Side conversations as usual very important at these events. Very positive vibes from the Board. Mike Collins even mentioned the rice has been put in STA 1 W. Met with Tracy, who manages the STA program, and she had very favorable comments, including support for expansion. This is a turn around from her earlier feelings and earned by the good conduct of hunters. Lets keep that up!!!!

I was also able to get in a comment on STA 2 and the need for access from Rt. 27 to be looked at before the 07/08 season.

[novaalex]

Thanks Newton. I have been totally out of touch lately with family obligations and I definitely appreciate your help in my backyard. Any more specifics as far as the approval for hunting in S.Dade. Email me if you can!

[N. Cook]

I was speaking with Nick Wiley, FWC Hunting Director. today. There is an important gathering this week of FWC and SFWMD staff, including Fred Davis, on what to do about Gardner/Cobb and the Kiss. Chain of Lakes....including moving the "NO WHATEVER" signs back toward the high water meander line to increase public access.....This issue was a UW-F item raised at various meetings and seems to be moving along. We have been encouraging the FWC to be more agressive with the WMDs. The FSCA group has been very strong on this issue as well. We support a PUA type arrangement for the areas involved.

A number of the UW-F 2006 projects are going well to date.....thanks to all who make the meetings and contribute.