For his last hurrah before departing office, outgoing U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) Director Daniel Ashe released USFWS Directors Order 219, expanding the use of nontoxic ammunition and fishing tackle. Dallas Safari Club (DSC) objects to the Order, and condemns the decision as it targets our hunting and fishing heritage.
“This action flies squarely in the face of long and constructive tradition of states working in partnership with the Service to effectively manage fish and wildlife resources,” stated Nick Wiley, President of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. “The Association views this Order as a breach of trust and deeply disappointing.”“We agree wholeheartedly with Mr. Wiley and consider the surprising, last minute actions of Mr. Ashe to totally politically motivated,” said Ben Carter, DSC executive director. “We will implore the new administration to swiftly abolish Order 219 and return to joint decision making based on scientific merit.”
DSC will appeal to the new leadership at the Service and support the states’ joint jurisdiction and control of wildlife management.