Sfwmd Wrac 9/2 Meeting Canceled

[N. Cook]

UNFORTUNATELY THE STORM HAS CAUSED THE CANCELLATION OF THE WRAC MEETING THIS THURSDAY. THIS MEETING HAD THE PROPOSAL FOR THE ADDTIONAL HUNTING ON THE STAS SCHEDULED FOR PRESENTATION TO THE WRAC FOR A VOTE TO SEND IT TO THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS. HOPEFULLY IT WILL BE RESCHEDULED IN TIME FOR THE EXPECTED BOARD OF GOVERNORS VOTE ON SEPT. 8. NEWTON

[novaalex]

Newton that is just what we didn't need! I hope that we can reschedule in time. It would be very beneficial to all of us to get this stuff hammered out already. Do you think this is going to affect the finalization of the quota system for the STA's also!

[N. Cook]

I spoke with Steve....we are not too happy with the final system....it will have a phone in, computer sign up, or a personal visit to a tax office on a set date and time to apply.....first come first serve....you will get the date and afternoon or morning hunt available for you (named) and a partner (unnamed) when you "get in".....and only one hunt per STA per person signing up per year. (be sure your hunting partners get spots!!!!) Ripe for all sorts of confusion...

The old excuse "our computers can only do it this way".

Also, the SFWMD staff did not want to increase the number of pairs above 25.

HOWEVER, we must not just raise ****, after all we did get two STAs open and morning and afternoon hunts. Plus walk-ins for no shows and replacements. 2000 hunters or more plus last year's 500.

The pattern of two steps forward...one backward, is bureacacy at its best....we will do better next year! I will express our thanks for what we have gained....our misgivings about the reservation system which does not get the "urgency" out and willingness to cooperate for a better system next year whenever the meeting occurs. Newton

[uncle D]

Newton's correct.

UW has worked hard to achive the opening of another STA. The availability to hunt them twice as much as last year.

I think it is a GREAT VICTORY!

Working out the regs will take time, but let's not forget where we were 5 years ago. NOT EVEN A THOUGHT.

Look at the accomplishments in 4 years.

Shotguns for Early Teal on WMAs
Better relationships w/ FWC, USFWS and the water mangt. dists.
More hunting areas w/ STA and Small Game Areas

We got the FWC to recognize that hunting should be promoted better.

I feel that we influenced the FWC and USFWS to better manage waterfowl areas.

I'm sure that there is much more that I forgot and there is much more for UW to do.

We all know this and with the continued efforts from dedicated fellas, UW will continue to be respected.

So put another feather in the UW hat, because the work and efforts done for the STAs is most certinally a victory.

Duke

[novaalex]

Newton thanks for all that you've done I appreciate the new opportunities and look forward to helping all of us increase access!

[eddy]

Thank you Newton for all your hard work.....

[godvlman]

makes me glad to be a member....!!! Good work!!