WHEREAS, approximately eighty percent (80%) of Louisiana’s coastal marshes and ninety percent (90%) of its forests are privately owned, and
WHEREAS, much of this land is managed for wildlife, both terrestrial and aquatic, by the landowners in consultation with biologists and foresters, and
WHEREAS, many of these landowners provide access to portions of their properties not currently under lease restrictions when permission is requested and conservation laws are observed, and
WHEREAS, it behooves the wildlife conservation community to acknowledge and respect the private property rights of landowners, and
WHEREAS, many current wildlife management areas that provide public hunting and fishing opportunities are owned by private landowners, and
WHEREAS, a collaborative effort between the public and private sector, in conjunction with conservation organizations, will ensure Louisiana’s claim as the “Sportsman’s Paradise”.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Louisiana Wildlife Federation (LWF) calls upon the state of Louisiana to acknowledge the private landowners’ contribution to wildlife by including this acknowledgement in various publications such as the “Louisiana Conservationist” and “Watermarks.”
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the LWF will work with the State on appropriate language for this acknowledgement.
Adopted by the Louisiana Wildlife Federation in Convention Assembled, March 11, 2012 in Covington, Louisiana.
The Louisiana Wildlife Federation is a statewide conservation education and advocacy organization with more than 10,000 members and 26 affiliate groups. Established in 1940, it is affiliated with the National Wildlife Federation and represents a broad constituency of conservationists including hunters, fishers, campers, birders, boaters, and other outdoor enthusiasts.