A GREAT REFORM LAW IN OKLAHOMA 



ON MARCH 28, 1917, Governor R. L. Williams of Okla- 

 homa signed two new game and fish laws, which repre- 

 sent nothing more nor less than a sweeping reform in the 

 wild life laws of Oklahoma. During the years 1915 and 

 1916, the citizens of Oklahoma became thoroughly conscious 

 of the fact that the wild life laws of the state were seriously 

 defective, and that the game of the state was rapidly vanish- 

 ing. The new laws represent changes for the better that 

 mark the beginning of a new era, and the news will be 

 gratifying to every citizen of the state most concerned. 

 Incidentally, the new acts may be set forth as an example 

 to many other states that we could name if time permitted. 



Briefly summarized, the things accomplished are as 

 follows : 



State game sanctuaries. — "The State Board of Public Af- 

 fairs is authorized to purchase or acquire not less than four 

 game preserves, either from individuals or the United States 

 government, and to acquire title to such preserves in the 

 name of the state of Oklahoma." For the purpose of ac- 

 complishing this, the State Treasurer returns to the State 

 Board of Public Affairs the sum of $94,197.10 borrowed 

 from the game protection fund in 1913, for use in the con- 

 struction of the new Capitol building. 



It is provided that these four preserves "shall be acquired 

 in different portions of the state, so as to be maintained as 

 places not only to propagate and preserve game animals and 

 birds, but also to serve as places of refuge for the same." 

 Naturally, all hunting is strictly forbidden on those 

 preserves. 



The act, approved March 28, provides that "It is hereby 

 made the duty of all sheriffs, deputy sheriffs, constables, 



