195 



The Honorable Don Young 

 May 20, 1996 

 Page Two 



differences in both habitats and hunting activities around the country. Many of us who regularly 

 participate in migratory bird management programs have been involved in discussions of the need to 

 modify some of the wording in 50 C.F.R., Part 20.21 which deal with baiting regulations. The 

 established process for changing these regulations is through open public dialogue initiated through 

 Federal Register Notices, with orderly comment periods and processes for exchange of information. 

 These are the same processes which allow appropriate setting of migratory bird hunting regulations 

 on an annual basis. That public process was opened by the Service on Friday, March 22, 1996. This 

 is the legal process we think should be used to consider any changes in regulations. It is open to 

 everyone on an equal basis. 



The International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies presented testimony that a 

 committee is being formed to ensure wide professional input into consideration of any changes that 

 need to be made. The intent is to continue to provide for positive and effective law enforcement as 

 necessary, to help sustain the resource. An equally important objective is to provide the hunting public 

 clear language and clear regulations which allow them to enjoy the migratory bird resource with full 

 understanding of the laws. We urge you to allow the process, which is already begun, to run its 

 course, and let professional managers and citizens provide the direction for the Fish and Wildlife 

 Service to proceed. 



We have extensive experience with migratory bird hunting programs, land management related 

 to them, past baiting and feeding controversies, and the existing processes for adjusting regulations 

 to assure both protection and management of the migratory bird resource. If we can be of help to you 

 with additional perspectives on these issues, please call on us. 



Sincerely, 



Rollin D. Sparrowe 

 President 



RDS/ksl 



