THE OREGON SPORTSMAN 



VALUE OF GAME TO THE STATE. 



The American Field published a very interesting article on 

 December 5 under the title, "Game Legislation in Missouri." 

 The article contained so many good points concerning the value 

 of game to any state that the main part of it is here reproduced. 



"It has been conceded that wild game belongs nor, to the 

 individual, but to the state. Fish and game come under state 

 regulation and protection. Now, we find the federal law reaching 

 out to protect migratory wild fowl as they pass from one state to, 

 or through, another state from one feeding ground to another. 



"The legislatures of over forty states will meet this winter 

 and will consider game legislation. In most of the states an 

 attempt will be made to eliminate the differences that exist 

 between state and federal regulations. 



"The purpose and intent of all these laws, whether state or 

 federal, is to protect the 1 game from the sure extermination that 

 otherwise awaits it, by allowing only a limited time each year, 

 known as the 'open season,' when shooting or hunting is per- 

 mitted, and especially with reference to all fish or game being 

 taken or hunted during the spawning or breeding season. 



Public Sentiment. 



"Where public sentiment recognizes the wisdom of the prin- 

 ciple of game preservation, the laws are respected, not through 

 force or fear, but every one in the community takes special care 

 that game is only taken in a lawful manner, and only during the 

 open season, and not to exceed the bag limit. The long and un- 

 checked wanton destruction of all game in this country, as is 

 strikingly exemplified in the total extermination of the wild 

 pigeon, and almost total destruction of deer, turkey and prairie 

 chickens, has finally brought about the natural reaction that has 

 resulted in the present activity in the state and federal measures 

 to protect wild game. 



"Where such protection has been given it has been rewarded 

 by showing a bountiful increase in game after a few years of 

 'closed season.' 



"There is no sport that has as large a following as that of 

 hunting and fishing. Thousands may gather to see the home team 



Fag*e twelve 



