WHEREAS, after three decades of decline, the number of licensed hunters in Louisiana began to increase in 2007; and
WHEREAS, Louisiana has been recognized as the second leading state in terms of increased hunter participation nationwide; and
Whereas, a limiting factor in recruitment of new hunters is the availability of places to hunt; and
Whereas, for waterfowl hunting particularly, it is a challenge in many parts of the state to find a productive hunting spot within a reasonable drive of home; and
Whereas, for the past several years, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has leased private lands for managed public dove shooting; and
Whereas, it may be feasible to lease private lands for managed public duck and goose hunting similar to the manner in which LDWF provides public dove shooting opportunities on private land.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Louisiana Wildlife Federation commends the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission for their efforts to increase hunter participation in Louisiana.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Louisiana Wildlife Federation urges the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to assess the unmet demand for public waterfowl hunting opportunities in each region of the state and, based on these findings, explore the feasibility of leasing private land for managed public waterfowl hunting, similar to the department’s program of leasing private land for public dove shooting.
Adopted by the Louisiana Wildlife Federation in Convention Assembled, February 24, 2013 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
The Louisiana Wildlife Federation is a statewide conservation education and advocacy organization with more than 8,500 members and 25 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.