PFSC’s 2007 Fall Convention

Game & Trapping Committee

Holiday Inn East

9-8-07

Game & Trapping Committee: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Report given by Chuck Lombaerde, Committee Chairman

Dr.Walt Cottrell, PGC Veterinarian, made a presentation on CWD. He reviewed objectives, current knowledge, trends, risk factors and amplification of risk factors of this disease. To prevent the introduction of CWD, he spoke about a parts ban. Another way to reduce the risk of a CWD outbreak is eliminating feeding deer; feeding is not needed. Why do people feed deer? What is reality, by feeding deer are we trying to domesticate wild deer. By feeding deer, we are bringing deer together in large numbers; this can do great harm to this resource, through spread of this disease.

Wisconsin has spent $30 million since 09/2002 on CWD. This state is teaching us what could happen in PA if we are not careful.

The 2005 annual report from Colorado Division of Wildlife confirms that:
"In the absence of effective management intervention, we currently project local extinction of population over periods of several decades."

He also spoke about Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease [EHO] and a proposal to produce weekly news releases on testing/mortality. There is no practical way of controlling this disease. The only chance at controlling this disease is limiting where deer congregate.

Next, Carl Roe, Executive Director PGC, reported on the upcoming Deer communication sessions going on across the Commonwealth. He discussed rifle ranges and possibly consolidating them. He mentioned the possibility of requiring a PA hunting license to use the ranges. He also spoke about lead remediation programs for these ranges. Then, Executive Director Roe reported on the Citizens Advisory Councils (CAC). He asked for any questions the committee may have

Rob Sexton, US Sportsmen’s Alliance, reported on what’s being done to stop the proposed Dog Kennel Regulations. He asked everyone present to call their Senators and Representatives to tell them you do not support these regulations.

Ed Perry updated us on the pending legislation of 1800 acres of land along Spring Creek in Centre County. This is the Rockview property. He stated the PGC should have this land, not PSU.

Michael Barton gave a presentation on "Wind Energy." He provided the group with educational information on developing wind energy. NE PA has the greatest potential for development of wind energy. One requirement of providing wind energy is the need for 2400'-2500' mountains with an average wind speed of 15 mph the entire year. He also talked about the avian & bat studies done before sites are built, along with studies on endangered species such as the Allegheny Woodrat, rattlesnake etc. Wind mills can not be put within 2 miles of nesting eagles.