I can't believe so many still are unaware of the systems that are already in place.
We do not need to auction any tags to raise funds and we do not need to involve any third party tag pimps.
We have in place the Habitat Partnership Committee. This body takes 100% of the revenues from the few tags that are currently being sold and allocates the funds to project requests from the thirteen local HPC's. The G&F oversees the project to insure the funds are spent properly and the work is consistent with the project plan. There is a project audit upon completion and all is open to the public. The local HPC's are made up of local volunteers and submit requests from entities such as the Arizona Elk Society, the Arizona Desert Bighorn Sheep Society and volunteer groups that are unaffiliated. Everything we need is already in place with full transparency. The HPC meetings are open to the public and subject to the Open Meeting Law. The local HPC meetings are also open to the public and accept your input.
AZSFWC could participate in the system if they so choose. However they would not be able to use any of the proceeds for purposes other than stated in the approved project proposals. The purpose of HB2072 is to generate income for AZSFW, AZSFWC and the outfitters serving the tag buyers. There is nothing in HB2072 that would improve on the HPC process or add to the benefit of wildlife.
If more revenue is needed for more projects, we can initiate a statewide habitat improvement stamp, much like CO. The one thing I would propose different from CO is that every license holder be required to buy one, not just those succesful in the draw. A $25 habitat stamp would raise over $3 million per year with almost zero cost to the state. That is much more than what AZSFWC is willing to negotiate with G&F under HB2072.
Also, the Game & Fish Commission has started the Sportmens Constituent Group which will have its first meeting on March 22 from 6-9PM at the G&F headquarters. The purpose of this group is to get direct input from "non-affiliated" sportsmen, people that do not belong to any club or organization. Input will be accepted from clubs and organizations only as time allows.
What more could we ask for? Its a low overhead system with complete transparency and input from all stakeholders. Most importantly, it does not start us down the slippery slope of privatizing big game hunting in AZ.
I'm asking everyone to please support our Game & Fish Commission, Game & Fish Department, the Habitat Partnership Committees (both state and local) and the Sportsmens Constituent Group. This is the stated direction of the commission to prevent AZSFWC and any other similar organizations from gaining a foothold in the legislature. ANY BILL in any form will transfer control from the Game & Fish Commission to the legislators and the influence of lobbyists. We do not need to open that can of worms.