137 



sectors of the interested and affected public during the course 

 of its deliberations. I understand the International will help 

 the Service seek relevant data and information on the practice of 

 manipulating natural vegetation to attract waterfowl for hunting 

 purposes. Subsequent to receiving these recommendations and 

 other information, the Service will publish a proposed rule with 

 findings prior to the 1997 hunting season. 



The Service is committed to a fair and objective review of this 

 potential baiting issue. Hunters and non-hunters alike have a 

 critical interest in what we are discussing here today and their 

 concerns must be factored into the final regulations. 



That concludes my prepared Statement . I appreciate the 

 opportunity to testify before this Committee today. 



