WHEREAS, litigation in the 1960's resulted in an interpretation that all waters connected and maintained at the same level are considered to be one body of water; and
WHEREAS, this interpretation has resulted in several small lakes that are connected and are controlled at the same level being declared one single body of water; and
WHEREAS, sometimes this results in this "declared single body of water" being larger than 300 acres; and
WHEREAS, both limited and unlimited water skiing has been introduced on these bodies of water either by acquiescence or state regulation even though singly none of the connected bodies of water amount to 300 acres; and
WHEREAS, recreation such as water skiing can be dangerous and damaging to the environment on nodes smaller than 300 acres; and
WHEREAS, water management may require that these connected bodies of water be considered one body of water.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 22, 1980, in Seymour, Indiana herby strongly urges the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to redefine their term of a single body of water for recreational purposes; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that opportunity be given to the bona-fide property owners on such bodies of water to petition for or against water skiing according to present Indiana boating Laws, Title 14: Article 1, Sec. 24. 
WHEREAS, private land continues to be posted "No Trespassing, Hunting, and Fishing" thereby limiting the available private land for recreational opportunity; and
WHEREAS, the present cost of acquiring land by state and federal government for these purposes is prohibitive thereby increasing the use of available land both public and private; and
WHEREAS, these increased pressures on the available public and private lands result in a lowering of a quality outdoor experience; and
WHEREAS, private landowners frequently site landowner liability as one reason for "posting" their land;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 20-22, 1980, in Seymour, Indiana, hereby urges the General Assembly of the State of Indiana to investigate legal means whereby the landowner liability can be limited thereby alleviating the inhibiting factor of liability; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if a suitable means of alleviating landowner liability be found that the General Assembly enact legislation to encourage the private landowner to open his land for recreational use.
WHEREAS, the Department of Interior has undertaken a fifteen year wetlands acquisition and lease program in the southern portion of the State of Michigan; and
WHEREAS, many wetland areas found in northern Indiana and in southern Michigan were formed by the same geological process at about the same period of time thereby making these areas part of the same ecosystem; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Interior has inspected these wetlands associated with this ecosystem in northern Indiana and found them to be worthy of preservation; and
WHEREAS, this ecosystem forms a significant and valuable waterfowl production area.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 20-22, 1980, in Seymour, Indiana, strongly urges the Department of Interior to follow an ecosystem approach when acquiring and leasing wetlands; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Department of Interior initiate a similar wetlands acquisition and leasing program in Indiana as soon as funds become available.
WHEREAS, illegal trapping can be cut down by requiring identification of the trapper be affixed to each trap;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 20-22, 1980, in Seymour, Indiana urges the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to require that all traps be identified with the trappers individual identification.
WHEREAS, currently the opening day for trapping fox in Indiana opens one month earlier than does trapping for raccoon; and
WHEREAS, too many raccoon are caught during this period of time resulting in the death of the raccoon; and
WHEREAS, the raccoon pelt is not prime during this early part of the season.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 20-22, 1980, in Seymour, Indiana urges the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to establish the opening day for trapping fox and raccoon as the same.
WHEREAS, hunting and fishing regulations vary from state to private property; and
WHEREAS, new regulations require wide public exposure and correct interpretation; and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to inform all hunters and fishermen of these regulations.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 20-22, 1980, in Seymour, Indiana, hereby urges the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to strengthen their information and education program to hunters and fishermen.
WHEREAS, the conservation/environmental community represents a substantial and interested portion of the population; and
WHEREAS, this interest has been ably demonstrated through the actions and activities of the many conservation/ environmental groups functioning in Indiana; and
WHEREAS, previously little has been done to include conservation/environmental interests on the various boards and commissions charged with conducting state business.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 20-22, 1980, in Seymour, Indiana, strongly urges the Governor of the State of Indiana to exercise his authority when appointing members to these boards and commissions by choosing viable conservation/environmental interests as members; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the General Assembly be requested to include provisions in the appropriate items of legislation requiring that conservation/environmental interest be represented on the newly created boards and commissions; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the recommended criteria for choosing the viable conservation/environmental interests includes a member recommended by:
1. a state-wide conservation/environmental organization chartered as a not-for profit corporation in the State of Indiana; and
2. with a membership of at least 2000; and
3. maintaining a bona-fide affiliation with a national conservation/environmental organization.
WHEREAS, Dingell-Johnson Federal Air to Fisheries legislation, approved by the U.S. Congress in 1950, levies a 10% tax on most fishing tackle items; and
WHEREAS, the 266 million dollars collected to date has greatly improved fishing opportunities and knowledge of fisheries resources by providing funding for: 38,000 acres of new fishing water; renovation of thousands of acres of substandard waters; 3,210 water recreation access sites; 643 fisheries research projects and thousands of technical fisheries reports; and
WHEREAS, the fishing tackle industry was instrumental in the original passage of the Dingell-Johnson legislation which it continues to support; and
WHEREAS, states have voiced a very critical need for greatly increased fisheries management and research funding; and
WHEREAS, the recreational boat and motor industry with annual new u nit sales volume in excess of 2 billion dollars is exempt from the excise tax despite the fact that Dingell-Johnson expenditures have vastly improved the boating opportunity and boating sales; and
WHEREAS, it has long been established that fishing is the primary use of recreational boating equipment; and
WHEREAS, the use of boats and motors greatly increase the vulnerability of fisheries resources to fishermen exploitation thereby increasing the need for expanding and protecting those resources.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 20-22, 1980, in Seymour, Indiana hereby urges that the U.S. Congress amend and expand the Dingell-Johnson Act to require a 3% Federal manufacturer's excise tax on all new recreational boats (except sailboats, kayaks, and hydroplanes) which are 25 feet or less in length, all outboard motors and all boat trailers with the resulting funds to be administered under the same terms and by the same U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service organization as administers the present program.
WHEREAS, the Department of Natural Resources has extended the Trout Season in streams through December 31 st ; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Natural Resources has had a Labor Day Weekend planting at Salamonie Reservoir the past two years.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 20-22, 1980, in Seymour, Indiana hereby urges the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to consider extending trout plantings to other inland streams in the late summer or early fall.
WHEREAS, various outdoor activities such as birdwatching, hiking, canoeing, picnicking, and camping have been termed nonconsumptive uses of the environment; and
WHEREAS, in reality these uses can, and oftentimes do, have a disruptive influence on the flora and fauna of the area where the activity takes place; and
WHEREAS, these disruptive influences may have an even greater adverse impact on the ecosystem than the more conspicuous so-called consumptive uses because the latter are normally controlled whereas the former uses are not; and
WHEREAS, these implied nonconsumptive uses are difficult to control because of their individualistic nature.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 20-22, 1980, in Seymour, Indiana hereby urges the industries which supply the equipment used in these activities, the organizations and associations that represent these users, and the governmental units responsible for managing the affected natural resources to cooperate in an educational effort aimed at making participants in these activities aware of the consequences of their actions.
WHEREAS, the Indiana Conservation council, Inc. (ICCI) Board of Directors passed by majority vote at the April 11, 1981 board meeting at Zionsville, Indiana that the name of the organization be changed to Indiana Wildlife Federation (Inc.), and
WHEREAS, ICCI has a branch bearing the name Indiana Wildlife Federation Endowment, and
WHEREAS, on all current ICCI stationary ICCI is referred to as Indiana Wildlife Federation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that those attending the ICCI annual meeting convened this day June 27, 1981 at South Bend, Indiana act that the ICCI henceforth be named the Indiana Wildlife Federation (Inc.).
WHEREAS, hunting and fishing regulations vary between state controlled and private property; and
WHEREAS, new regulations need to be made known, as well as correctly explained to all sporting people, including resident and nonresident hunters, fishermen, the people selling licenses, and other involved law enforcement people;
WHEREAS, the information needs to be available both at the time of purchasing the license and prior to the opening date of any season; and
WHEREAS, this is especially important when a discretionary order changes a "taken for granted law", such as the non-resident raccoon hunting and Indiana's reciprocating law regarding non-resident raccoon hunting.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 27, 1981, in South Bend, Indiana requests the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to increase its information program as much as possible to provide sporting people with accurate and concise information on all Hunting and Fishing Regulations.
WHEREAS, the opening day for trapping fox, coyote, and skunk in Indiana opens one (1) month earlier than does trapping for raccoon; and
WHEREAS, to many raccoon are caught during this period of time resulting in injury and death to the raccoon even if they are released; and
WHEREAS, the raccoon pelt is not prime at this time of year; and
WHEREAS, the fox pelt is not prime at this time of year either, although it is saleable; and
WHEREAS, fox trappers in other areas of the country that have colder climates successfully trap fox in snow and frozen ground; and
WHEREAS, the same opening date for all trapping of furbearers except the beaver would help Conservation Officers with enforcement problems
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc. in annual meeting assembled June 27, 1981, in South Bend, Indiana requests the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to have all trapping seasons except beaver begin at the same time in mid November.
WHEREAS, the extraction of minerals from waterways has historically been detrimental to fisheries and wildlife resources, stream aesthetics, and public recreation values as well as to the riparian habitat; and
WHEREAS, state and federal governmental agencies hold the responsibility and capacity for protecting these resources in the best interests of the public, utilizing their authorities in various laws, rules, and regulations; and
WHEREAS, the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc. is dedicated to ensuring that natural resources are properly protected and managed for the benefit of all the people.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 27, 1981, in South Bend, Indiana, hereby expresses its opposition to the issuance of any leases or permits for dredging or other methods of extracting minerals from or adjacent to public waterways unless, after proper public notice for solicitation and consideration of public views, the applicants can demonstrate that the proposed activity and/or operation is fully in the public's best interest and any environmental damage can and will be mitigated.
WHEREAS, groundwater supplies represent an important source of water for human use, especially for drinking water, and maintenance of wildlife habitat; and
WHEREAS, water which has been removed from the ground is seldom returned to the ground, but is usually used once and drained into the nearest body of moving water; and
WHEREAS, little attention is usually paid to means of returning used groundwater to the ground, and construction and paving annually render thousands more acres unfit to absorb precipitation and thus add to the groundwater supply, and
WHEREAS, groundwater levels are declining in several areas of the state.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 27, 1981, in South Bend, Indiana, hereby expresses its urgent concern about the declining levels of the state's groundwater supplies and requests the following at the state, regional, and national levels:
1. Funding for publicizing studies to determine the rate of decline of groundwater levels and the probable causes of that decline.
2. Recommendations, which will indicate ways both to conserve and to replenish groundwater including reforms in water pricing.
3. Implementation of these recommendations by the public and private sectors.
WHEREAS, the existing energy and minerals shortage has increased pressure for extracting energy and minerals from public lands, and
WHEREAS, extraction of energy and mineral resources often results in destruction of wildlife habitat by water pollution, human encroachment, air pollution, disposal of toxic materials, and timber removal, and
WHEREAS, some U.S. laws permit the extraction of minerals and energy without regard to the consequences of such extraction, and
WHEREAS, some proposed laws and regulations, apparently in haste to extract energy and minerals from the public lands, further abridge necessary resources protection, and
WHEREAS, many of the public lands on which energy and mineral extraction is proposed offer important wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 27, 1981, in South Bend, Indiana, hereby urges the federal government and the State of Indiana to prudently approach energy and mineral extraction to ensure that wildlife and recreation will not be unnecessary sacrificed in a rush to extract energy and minerals from the public lands.
WHEREAS, the so-called "Sagebrush Rebellion", which advocates the transfer of ownership of certain categories of federal land to the states and to private interests, has received increased momentum in recent months, and
WHEREAS, many states continue to push for the enactment of legislation intended to divest the federal government of the public lands, and
WHEREAS, legislation is expected to be introduced in the 97 th Congress to accomplish the above purpose, and
WHEREAS, these lands are highly valued resources which merit scientific management of a scope and quality beyond the monetary capabilities of state governments and private interests, and
WHEREAS, the expenditure of federal funds for range, watershed, and fish and wildlife management on the public lands far exceeds the revenue produced from them and it would be a financial burden on the states to maintain current management levels, and
WHEREAS, existing laws provide for these lands to be retained in federal ownership for multiple use management for the benefit of all U.S. citizens, and
WHEREAS, the pursuit and taking of the fish and wildlife on the public lands is a tradition which should be preserved and protected for the perpetual enjoyment of the American people.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 27, 1981, in South Bend, Indiana firmly believes that the only way to assure access to the fish and wildlife resources on the public lands and for proper management of their habitats is to retain them in federal ownership; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the ICCI continues to oppose the large scale transfer of federal lands to the states and to private interests as advocated by supporters of the Sagebrush Rebellion.
WHEREAS, the species of sunfish known as Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass have come under high pressure from fresh water fishermen in Indiana; and
WHEREAS, these species of fish are an important form of recreation and their numbers and size loss have been put under extreme pressure, and due to these pressures serious problems have resulted in their populations, and size distribution in our inland freshwater lakes;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 27, 1981, in South Bend, Indiana hereby urge the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to implement a study on the bass and, if study results warrant a restricted season on bass, the ICCI recommends the implementation of a bass season in the State of Indiana.
WHEREAS, lakes and streams in which the public has trust, title, or equity are often closed to the public because of lack of public access, and
WHEREAS, lack of public access prohibits and denies the use of these publicly owned waters for such desirable recreational activities as fishing, boating, hunting, and trapping, and
WHEREAS, there is a great need for our State of Indiana to make these waters assessable to the public and supply a clean definition of the law governing navigable waters.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 27, 1981, in South Bend, Indiana, hereby urges the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana and the State Attorney General Office to pursue a vigorous public access program on our rivers and streams, and we urge the Attorney General Office to render a clear definition of the law pertaining to the riparian rights and users right on our rivers and streams.
WHEREAS, the rabbit is an important game animal in Indiana; and
WHEREAS, Indiana is a state that experiences extreme climatic differences between north and south; and
WHEREAS, these climatic differences account for differences in breeding/birthing times for rabbits; and
WHEREAS, rabbits in northern Indiana breed and give birth much later than rabbits in the southern part of the state; and
WHEREAS, hunting rabbits in northern Indiana through the month of February will not significantly harm the reproduction of the species;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOVLED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 27, 1981, in South Bend, Indiana hereby urges the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to extend the rabbit hunting season through the month of February in the northern part of the state.
WHEREAS, wildlife habitat decreases each year, while hunting pressure increases; and
WHEREAS, this is especially evident in regards to raccoon hunting where the increase in the price of hides creates an ever increasing number of hunters; and
WHEREAS, this could help Conservation Officers with enforcement problems in the area of river floating and shining from a motor driven conveyance; and
WHEREAS, a bag limit would also discourage hunters who are out solely for the money to be made and not the sport;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 27, 1981, in South Bend, Indiana in an effort to maintain the raccoon population suggests the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana establish a daily bag limit on raccoon taken by hunters. The daily bad limit to be two (2) raccoons per hunting license, and four (4) per hunting party.
WHEREAS, it is becoming extremely difficult for hunters to find private landowners willing to let hunters hunt suitable property, and
WHEREAS, more and more farm land is under intensive tillage and removed from the hunting base, and
WHEREAS, a public access program, such as Michigan now has, would increase private lands available to hunters, and
WHEREAS, if these areas were positioned in areas where there is a proven access problem hunters could use these areas by paying a prescribed fee as determined by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Conservation Council, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 27, 1981, at South Bend, Indiana, recommend that the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana investigate the feasibility of establishing such a program in Indiana, and if deemed feasible, to enter into a similar program as soon as possible.
WHEREAS, the rabbit is an important game animal in Indiana, and
WHEREAS, Indiana is a state that experiences extreme climatic differences between north and south, and
WHEREAS, these climatic differences account for differences in breeding and birthing times for rabbits, and
WHEREAS, rabbits in the northern portion of the state breed and give birth much later than the rabbits in the southern part of the state, and
WHEREAS, hunting rabbits in northern Indiana through the month of February would not significantly effect the reproduction of the species.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled June 19, 1982, in Indianapolis, Indiana, hereby suggests the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana conduct a study to determine the biological impact of extending the rabbit hunting season thru the month of February in the northern part of the state, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if the study shows that no detrimental effects would occur that the Indiana Department of Natural Resources give serious consideration to extending said season.
WHEREAS, the species of sunfish known as largemouth and smallmouth bass have come under pressure from fresh water fisherman in Indiana, and
WHEREAS, these species of fish are an important form of recreation and their numbers and size loss have come under extreme pressure, and due to this pressure serous problems have resulted in their populations, and size distribution in our inland lakes.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled June 19, 1982 in Indianapolis, Indiana, hereby urges the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to conduct a study on the bass, and if the study warrants, the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. recommends the implementation of a bass season in the State of Indiana.
WHEREAS, the fish and wildlife resources of the State of Indiana are regarded as an invaluable part of our national heritage, and
WHEREAS, conservation of our fish and wildlife resources includes enforcement of regulations as well as management, and
WHEREAS, enforcement of our fish and wildlife regulations is vested in the Division of Law Enforcement of the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana, and
WHEREAS, poaching of fish and wildlife is an increasing problem in Indiana as well as other states, and
WHEREAS, poaching is detrimental to the landowner-farmer-sportsman-hunter relationship, and
WHEREAS, citizen education about poaching would be a significant benefit to all.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled June 19, 1982 in Indianapolis, Indiana, hereby strongly urges the General Assembly and the Division of Law Enforcement of the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to develop a program to combat poaching, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a fund; derived from the sale of fishing, hunting, and trapping licenses, be maintained for the payment of rewards to the individual who supplies the information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of those individuals who violate state and/or Federal fish and wildlife regulations.
WHEREAS, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources has the duty to provide access to our lakes and streams for the citizens of this state, and
WHEREAS, Lake Wawasee, Indiana's largest natural fresh water lake, has no public access directly on the lake, and
WHEREAS, an area known as the Lake Wawasee State Fishing Area on the old Fish Hatchery site is an ideal location for such a facility, and
WHEREAS, no adverse or ill effects would come to the lake, its residents or the environment by constructing a public access boat launch at this site.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled June 19, 1982 in Indianapolis, Indiana requests the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to install a public launching facility on Lake Wawasee for use by the public.
WHEREAS, twenty (20) percent of the earth's fresh water is in those five (5) inland seas known collectively as the Great Lakes, and
WHEREAS, approximately thirty (30) percent of the population of the United States and fifty (50) percent of the population of Canada live on the Great Lakes Basin, and
WHEREAS, a major portion of the industry and manufacturing capacity of both the United States and Canada is located in the Great Lakes Basin, and
WHEREAS, there is an increasing demand for water to meet agricultural, industrial, and municipal water requirements in the Great Lakes watershed, and
WHEREAS, the waters of the Great Lakes are a major source of fish for food and a major provider of outdoor recreation on this continent, and
WHEREAS, the Great Lakes are a major surface transportation waterway benefiting the national economy, and
WHEREAS, the Great Lakes watershed provides water to generate a substantial amount of the electrical power now used by the populace and industry of the United States and Canada, and
WHEREAS, there are reports of new plans to divert substantial quantities of water from the Great Lakes watershed to western watersheds, these diversions being additional to current water uses, and
WHEREAS, the level of the Great Lakes is subject to significant natural fluctuations which may be altered by diversion of water with detrimental and unpredictable ecological consequences.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled June 19, 1982 in Indianapolis, Indiana, is opposed to any plan to divert water from the Great Lakes watershed to points outside the watershed for any purpose.
WHEREAS, the need to preserve our wetland resources is necessary for wildlife, flood protection, and the overall benefits given to our natural world, and
WHEREAS, in recent years unwise drainage practices, river alterations, and wetland drainage have had adverse effects on our environment, and
WHEREAS, large scale flood destruction to private property and municipal property has occurred because of the lack of preservation of wetland areas within our watersheds, and
WHEREAS, the unwise use concentrates the amount of water which is handled by our rivers and streams, and
WHEREAS, preservation of these small wetland areas are a vital resource for wildlife, and serve as excellent storage facilities for water run off, and
WHEREAS, the benefits of these areas would far outweigh their cost, not only aesthetically but also on the basis of their control of flood water, and
WHEREAS, the landowners of this state who own these areas in fee title should not be subjected to restrictions without just compensation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled June 19, 1982 in Indianapolis, Indiana, urges the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to develop and implement a Water Bank Program which would aggressively attempt to lease and where feasible purchase these small but vital wetland tracts.
WHEREAS, the mourning dove is a recognized game bird in thirty-four (34) states throughout the United States, and
WHEREAS, Indiana has a huntable population of these game birds, and
WHEREAS, it is the duty of the Department of Natural Resources to aggressively pursue any opportunity of this type which would not be detrimental to the resources, and
WHEREAS, the hunting of this game bird should be allowed on state properties where the sportsmen have bought and paid for the land, and
WHEREAS, the Director of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources has the power to declare a season on this game bird by setting a season through the discretionary order process, and
WHEREAS, the hunting of this game bird would provide Indiana sportsmen an opportunity to harvest a plentiful resource which is otherwise lost to natural causes, and
WHEREAS, it has been shown that the controlled hunting of doves in other states has no detrimental effects on their population.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 19, 1982 in Indianapolis, Indiana, hereby requests the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana and the Director of the Department of Natural Resources to establish a season for hunting doves on state properties where sport hunting is now permitted.
WHEREAS, the licensed hunters, trappers, and fishermen have a granted right to pursue and enjoy the harvest of our wildlife resources within the legal limits of the law, and
WHEREAS, the controlled harvest of wildlife has positive effects on control of wildlife population which otherwise would be wasted to natural causes of death, and
WHEREAS, the sportsmen of Indiana support and maintain areas for the maintenance of optimum habitat for both nongame and game species alike by purchasing the necessary licenses and stamps and imposing taxes on the equipment they use in which the funds directly benefit wildlife, and
WHEREAS, the recreation opportunities of hunting, trapping, and fishing are beneficial in that they provide an opportunity to be in closer contact with our natural world and its processes, and
WHEREAS, hunting, trapping, and fishing are excellent sources of food and in the case of trapping provide considerable sources of economical benefits, and
WHEREAS, increasing harassment by unknowing and ill informed individuals and groups hamper and interfere with sportsmen and in some cases endanger their lives and that of the sportsmen.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled June 19, 1982 in Indianapolis, Indiana, hereby urges the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana and the State Legislature to formulate legislation forbidding anyone from interfering with the lawful pursuit of wildlife where it be by hunting, trapping, or fishing in the State of Indiana.
WHEREAS, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources is charged with providing high quality habitat for the sportsmen of Indiana, and
WHEREAS, recently the Gumz Duck Hunting Club is being offered for sale, and
WHEREAS, this area would provide an outstanding edition to the Kankakee Fish and Wildlife Area, and
WHEREAS, the preservation of this area is vital to the waterfowl resources which use the Kankakee River Basin.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled June 19, 1982 in Indianapolis, Indiana, hereby requests the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to immediately request the necessary acquisition funds for the Gumz property, and immediately begin the process of acquiring this parcel of property.
WHEREAS, the fish and wildlife resources of the State of Indiana are regarded as an invaluable part of our heritage, and
WHEREAS, the fish and wildlife resources are regulated by the Division of Fish and Wildlife of the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana, and
WHEREAS, non-resident licenses fees are escalating out of proportion with respect to resident licenses fees, and
WHEREAS, undue restrictions are being placed on non-residents who are holding valid non-resident licenses, and
WHEREAS, these unrealistic non-resident license fees and regulations are prohibiting non-resident fish and wildlife opportunities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled on June 4, 1983, in Columbus, Indiana hereby urges the Division of Fish and Wildlife of the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana and the General Assembly of the State of Indiana to develop reciprocal fish and wildlife regulations and license fees with Indiana's bordering states, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the confusion which exists with the non-resident fish and wildlife regulations would be clarified for all.
WHEREAS, the Stablex "Sealosafe" process which relies in part upon fixation or solidification of waste is technology with a history of failure; and
WHEREAS, toxic and hazardous materials, which are included in this waste residue will leach and migrate, posing a serious threat to health and the environment; and
WHEREAS, identical and similar proposals in a number of other localities throughout the nation have been rejected; and
WHEREAS, disposal of hazardous wastes in landfills is the least acceptable method of dealing with these materials; and
WHEREAS, any location which poses a threat to ground and surface waters, such as flood plains in Allen County, or of treatment within structures located in such areas is especially disadvantageous; and
WHEREAS, fixing wastes so that they are no longer accessible prevents one from recovering materials at a later date additionally depleting natural resources; and
WHEREAS, a center for waste treatment would tend to increase the amount of traffic transporting hazardous materials through Allen County, thus posing increased risk of accidental spills, and would serve as a regional magnet for hazardous materials, greatly amplifying the threat to health and the environment; and
WHEREAS, favorable economic impacts are minimal with few employees requiring large scale public law enforcement, administrative costs, and security problems; and
WHEREAS, certified appraisal has shown these methods of hazardous materials management will significantly depreciate surrounding land values; and
WHEREAS, this technology which utilizes the volume of material to be disposed is much greater than that of income wastes, thereby greatly shortening the life of any disposal area; and
WHEREAS, any secondary reuse or marketing of the final treated material is currently prohibited by law, any secondary use in construction poses threats of leachate in drainage ditches, waterways, and well water; and
WHEREAS, a very serious problem in this county is the handling and disposal of industrial wastes, heavy metals and hazardous wastes. We will address this problem and offer alternative solutions, and voice our opposition to any proposed siting of Stablex Corporation or similar companies in Allen County, Indiana, or wherever, the technology of the "sealosafe" process, and the final disposition of a fixation material.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 4, 1983, in Columbus, Indiana, hereby opposes the establishment of a treatment of and or disposal facility by utilizing hazardous treatment and or disposal along the lines proposed by Stablex Corporation.
WHEREAS, public lands are obtained and maintained for the mutual benefit of all the citizens of Indiana; and
WHEREAS, H.B. 1850 has made it possible for the Governor of the State of Indiana to transfer public lands for the ultimate use of the private sector, without due consideration by the appropriate holding commissions.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 4, 1983, in Columbus, Indiana, hereby urges the Governor of the State of Indiana and the General Assembly of the State of Indiana to follow existing Indiana Code Numbers 4-16-1-1 through 4-16-1-4, published 1982, pertaining to any and/or all transfers of land owned by the people of the State of Indiana.
WHEREAS, Indiana has several licenses, such as fishing, hunting, trapping, and various stamps; and
WHEREAS, these licenses and stamps lack information on fishing, hunting, and trapping regulations.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled on June 4, 1983, in Columbus, Indiana hereby requests the Division of Fish and Wildlife of the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to consider a passbook type license which will provide space for all licenses and stamps, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the passbook type license should include the basic regulations, thus ensuring the sportsman would have regulations in their possession.
WHEREAS, hunters and trappers in the field are not easily identified while in pursuit of their sport; and
WHEREAS, landowners and tenants would like to identify who is hunting and trapping on the property; and
WHEREAS, presently, landowners and tenants must approach the hunter and trapper for identification purposes, sometimes ending in a confrontation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled on June 4, 1983, in Columbus, Indiana hereby requests the Division of Fish and Wildlife of the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to study and implement a hunter and trapper identification system which affixes a tag on the back of an outer garment, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the tag should be readily visible at a distance of one hundred (100) feet.
WHEREAS, the National Fish Hatchery System and the Cooperative Fisheries Units of the Fish and Wildlife Service of the Department of Interior represent important cooperative efforts among federal and state agencies to provide valuable fishery products, recreational opportunities, and technical expertise unavailable from other sources; and
WHEREAS, the National Fish Hatchery System and Cooperative Fisheries Units have made considerable contributions to the understanding and management of fishery resources throughout the United States, and
WHEREAS, the State of Indiana, is lacking a National Fish Hatchery or Cooperative Fisheries Unit within its boundaries, has directly benefited through assistance from these programs and their personnel in managing fishery resources within the State of Indiana, and
WHEREAS, the Fish and Wildlife Service of the Department of Interior is using its administrative discretion to close all warmwater and coldwater National Fish Hatcheries serving the Midwest in general and Indiana in particular, and
WHEREAS, the Fish and Wildlife Service of the Department of Interior is using its administrative discretion to discontinue or convert to block grant status all Cooperative Fisheries Units in the Midwest, and
WHEREAS, the Fish and Wildlife Service of the Department of Interior is pursuing these major program reductions despite strong support for the National Fish Hatcheries and Cooperative Fisheries Units in the United States Congress and state fish and game agencies.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled on June 4, 1983, in Columbus, Indiana, herewith recognizes, appreciates, and supports the contributions of the National Fish Hatchery System and the Cooperative Fisheries Units to the enhancement of our natural resources and their associated recreational opportunities; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Fish and Wildlife Service and the Secretary of the Interior is urged to reverse its present plans for Fiscal Year 1983 regarding the National Fish Hatcheries and the Cooperative Fisheries Units and to budget adequate funds and personnel positions for Fiscal Year 1984 and thereafter and that Congress and the President of the United States appropriate funds for continued operation of these programs at their full staffing level for existing National Fish Hatcheries and Cooperative Fisheries Units.
WHEREAS, the Indiana hunting regulations, permit deer to be harvested with muzzle loading rifles and shotguns; and
WHEREAS, there are many original black powder cartridge rifles suitable for deer hunting; and
WHEREAS, replica black powder cartridge rifles are being reproduced for original black powder cartridges; and
WHEREAS, there are several black powder cartridges capable and suitable for deer hunting.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled on June 4, 1983 in Columbus, Indiana hereby requests the Division of Fish and Wildlife of the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to amend the deer hunting regulations to permit the use of original and replica black powder rifles designed for original black powder cartridges and lead bullets.
WHEREAS, wetlands provide necessary and productive habitat for fish and wildlife resources, reduce flooding and recharge groundwater, trap water pollutants, control erosion, and provide education and aesthetic benefits; and
WHEREAS, Indiana has lot over one (1) million acres of wetlands since statehood, about 80% of the original wetland area, and continues to lose wetlands each year through flood-plain development, drainage, and filling; and
WHEREAS, only about three thousand (3,000) acres of wetlands in twelve (12) areas are now in state ownership for the benefit of all Indiana citizens; and
WHEREAS, approximately $1.6 million were appropriated by the 1983 General Assembly for clearing and snagging projects which may adversely impact wetland areas; and
WHEREAS, no dollars were appropriated by the 1983 General Assembly for state acquisition of wetlands.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 9, 1984 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, hereby urges the 1985 General Assembly to consider and appropriate adequate funds to continue acquiring under state title and through lease valuable wetland areas.
WHEREAS, nature preserves provide permanent protection against alteration by man of important natural area for their scientific, perceptive, recreational, educational, scenic, and aesthetic values; and
WHEREAS, over 90% of Indiana's high quality natural areas present in the 1930's are now destroyed and 50% of sites known to have high natural quality in 1970 are now degraded; and
WHEREAS, out of three (3) million acres of original prairie, only 700 acres in widely scattered remnant areas exist today and virgin forest is virtually gone, as are bur oak savannas once common in northwest Indiana; and
WHEREAS, approximately 25,000 acres of cypress slough are now represented by remnant stands of only 650 acres, of which no acres have been protected as Nature Preserves; and
WHEREAS, the State of Indiana has acquired only 14 acres as Nature Preserves since the Division of Nature Preserves was established in 1967 and about half of the states 70 dedicated Nature Preserves were already owned by various Divisions of the Department of Natural Resources prior to establishment of the Division of Nature Preserves; and
WHEREAS, in the past 4 years, only $35,000.00 have been appropriated for Nature Preserves acquisition, yet $1.6 million were appropriated in 1983 for river clearing and snagging projects, some of which is being spent in areas of high natural quality; and
WHEREAS, no dollars were appropriated by the 1983 General Assembly for state acquisition of Nature Preserves, yet as much as $10 million may be needed to purchase and maintain some 72 remaining natural areas.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 9, 1984, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, hereby urges the 1985 General Assembly to consider and appropriate adequate funds to continue acquiring under state title, or through dedication, valuable high quality natural areas as Nature Preserves.
WHEREAS, the toll free telephone to the Indiana House of Representatives and the Indiana Senate are expressly for the use of the people of the State of Indiana; and
WHEREAS, these telephone liens are only maintained from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday through Friday, except when the Indiana General Assembly is in session; and
WHEREAS, some constituents cannot make telephone calls, from work, during these hours.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 9, 1984, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, hereby urges the General Assembly of the State of Indiana to adopt extended telephone hours thus making the toll free telephone service available to all Indiana constituents; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the suggested extended telephone service hours are 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the General Assembly of the State of Indiana appropriate adequate funds for the extended telephone service.
WHEREAS, Hunter Education teaches first aid, hunter ethics and responsibility, firearms history, safe firearms handling, marksmanship, archery, wildlife management and identification, game care, and survival; and
WHEREAS, many young people do not receive the proper training; and
WHEREAS, presently Hunter Education is a voluntary program administered by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources; and
WHEREAS, Hunter Education certification is mandatory in most states to purchase a hunting license.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 9, 1984, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, hereby urges the General Assembly of the State of Indiana to appropriately fund and enact a mandatory hunter education certification program.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, this program apply to hunters who have not reached their seventeenth (17 th ) birthday.
WHEREAS, Indiana has a healthy and sustainable deer population; and
WHEREAS, Indiana has a regulated deer harvest with firearms which includes both shotgun and muzzle loader; and
WHEREAS, several hunters purchase both a shotgun and muzzle loader license; and
WHEREAS, it is reported hunters are taking deer on both licenses which is illegal.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled on June 9, 1984, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, hereby urges the Department of Natural Resources and General Assembly of the State of Indiana to adopt a single firearm deer license.
WHEREAS, lead poisoning in waterfowl results from waterfowl ingesting lead pellets while feeding in fields, lakes, and wetlands where lead shot has been used for waterfowl hunting; and
WHEREAS, the ingested lead pellets are dissolved into soluble lead salts, enter the blood stream, disrupt digestion and the production of hemoglobin, and cause severe weight loss, anemia, degeneration of the heart and liver, and eventually death; and
WHEREAS, even the ingestion of one (1) lead pellet could be fatal, and contaminated waterfowl that do not die as a direct result of the lead poisoning are highly susceptible to other fatal diseases and predation; and
WHEREAS, it is currently estimated that 2 to 3 percent (approximately 2 million) of our nations waterfowl population dies from lead poisoning each year, and 3 year study conducted by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources showed that 9.6 percent of the water fowl sampled from Indiana waterfowl harvests had ingested lead or steel shot; and
WHEREAS, the number of lead pellets will continue to accumulate and increase in density, especially in areas with hard bottoms, and thus increase waterfowl susceptibility to ingesting lead pellets in future years; and
WHEREAS, steel shot is not toxic to waterfowl, does not cause shotgun barrel damage in modern shotguns, and has proven to be effective as lead shot within normal shooting ranges for bagging waterfowl; and
WHEREAS, the 3 year study conducted by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources showed a reduction in the number of waterfowl ingesting lead shot when steel shot regulations were imposed; and
WHEREAS, the use of non-toxic shot in areas where waterfowl tend to concentrate will substantially reduce the number of waterfowl affected by lead poisoning.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled on June 9, 1984 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, recognizes the importance of utilizing non-toxic shot as a means of protecting our waterfowl resources from undue lead poisoning, and supports the non-toxic shot regulations presently imposed on waterfowl hunters by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, any simplification or reduction in the present regulations, allowing for a more liberal use of lead shot for waterfowl hunting, would seriously threaten Indiana's ability to provide quality waterfowl hunting for future generations.
WHEREAS, hunters and trappers in the field are not easily identified while in the pursuit of their sport; and
WHEREAS, some landowners would permit hunting and trapping if the individuals were easily identifiable; and
WHEREAS, some landowners and tenants would like to identify who is hunting and trapping on the property; and
WHEREAS, presently, landowners and tenants must approach the hunter and trapper for identification purposes, sometimes ending in a confrontation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled on June 9, 1984 in Fort Wayne, Indiana hereby requests the Division of Fish and Wildlife of the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Indiana to study and implement a hunter and trapper identification system which affixes a tag on the back of an outer garment; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the tag should be readily visible at a distance of 100 feet.
WHEREAS, many cities and towns have enacted laws to control firearms; and
WHEREAS, these laws are detrimental to the law abiding citizens of Indiana; and
WHEREAS, these laws curtail sporting opportunities, recreational times, and beneficial hobbies.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled on June 9, 1984, in Fort Wayne, Indiana hereby urges the General Assembly of the State of Indiana to enact a firearm law pre-emptive to the State of Indiana.
WHEREAS, it is a national priority to help control non-point pollution of our waters; and
WHEREAS, these waters are regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources; and
WHEREAS, the runoff into these waters is controlled by the Indiana Stream Pollution Control Board and the Indiana Statutes that govern the county drainage boards; and
WHEREAS, the elimination of non-point pollution is not possible under the present statutes; and
WHEREAS, the technical assistance through the Soil Conservation Service is now available to eliminate much of this non-point pollution, particularly pollution from soil erosion and sedimentation, and this assistance is already funded with present revenues; and
WHEREAS, there is no enforcement or penalty provision in the present state or federal statutes; and
WHEREAS, there are no provisions under current statutes for water quality testing on a state wide basis for non-point pollution; and
WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of state government to provide those measures of public protection basic to human survival.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled on June 9, 1984, in Fort Wayne, Indiana hereby urges the General Assembly of the State of Indiana to recognize the need to eliminate non-point pollution; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the adoption of the following measures will help to eliminate non-point pollution.
WHEREAS, wetlands provide necessary and productive habitat for fish and wildlife, reduce flooding and recharge groundwater, trap water pollutants, control erosion, and provide educational and aesthetic benefits; and
WHEREAS, Indiana has lost over one million acres of wetlands since statehood, about 80% of the original wetland area, and continues to lose wetlands each year thru flood-plain development, drainage, and filling; and
WHEREAS, the need to protect our wetland resources is necessary for the overall benefits given to our natural and economic well-being and recognizing that these benefits far outweigh their cost.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 14, 1986 at Pokagon State Park, Angola, Indiana, hereby urges the 1987 General Assembly to consider and pass legislation to provide for a plan for the preservation, management and protection of Indiana's vital wetlands.
WHEREAS, there have been repeated attempts, such as the infamous Morton Grove, Illinois ordinance, to ban the possession and legitimate use of handguns; and
WHEREAS, handguns are now legal for the taking of small game and furbearers in the State of Indiana; and
WHEREAS, the addition of handguns for deer would illustrate just another legitimate use of this firearm in combating the "anti" philosophy; and
WHEREAS, the legalization of handguns for deer hunting would provide many additional hours of outdoor recreation for Hoosier sportsmen and sportswomen, plus much-needed license monies for wildlife management.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 14, 1986 at Pokagon State Park, Angola, Indiana urges the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to assist in furthering the cause of law-abiding Hoosier handgunners by including handguns of the revolver type and of the appropriate caliber (e.g. 357 jag., or larger for smokeless powder or 44 caliber or later for black powder) as legal means for taking deer during regulated times and areas so designated by the Department.
WHEREAS, this Nation is losing its basic wealth, the topsoil, at the alarming rate of more than 3 billion tons annually because of wind and water erosion; and
WHEREAS, the State of Indiana is losing its topsoil at a rate of more than 100 million tons annually; and
WHEREAS, such of this eroding soil, with attached agricultural fertilizers and pesticides, is finding its way into the State's public waters, causing significant water quality deterioration and damage to fisheries and wildlife resources.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled June 14, 1986, at Pokagon State Park, Angola, Indiana, urgently requests the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to pursue full funding during the 1987 General Assembly to implement the recommendations of the Indiana Governor's Soil Resources Study Commission's final report, T By 2000 .
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Indiana Wildlife Federation recommends that the Indiana Department of Natural Resources target personnel and funds into (1) research on total effects of sedimentation on fish and wildlife communities, (2) areas with severe erosion, and (3) watersheds where public lakes and streams are being damaged.
WHEREAS, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources have created a salmon fishery on the St. Joseph River in both Michigan and Indiana; and
WHEREAS, these fish will provide quality recreation to sport fisherman both young and old and from other areas all across Indiana and Michigan generating funds for the local economies; and
WHEREAS, the support of this program will depend on dollars from the sporting community; and
WHEREAS, the legal pursuit of these fish will pose no danger to private property or the citizens of the area.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 14, 1986 at Pokagon State Park, Angola, Indiana requests the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and the Natural Resources Commission prevent and not allow any closing of any portion of the St. Joseph River to sportfishing unless it can be proven that the sportfishing is biologically unsound and is a threat to the resource of those who are using the resource according to the rules and regulations set forth by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation opposes any special local or county salmon or trout fishing permit for using this resource.
WHEREAS, Indiana is blessed with many rivers, streams and their related watersheds; and
WHEREAS, these rivers and streams and related habitats provide homes for countless species of wildlife including two endangered species such as the Indiana Bat and the American Bald Eagle; and
WHEREAS, these areas provide flood relief during seasonal high water periods; and
WHEREAS, due to the fact that alteration and destruction of these areas by man degrades and destroys fish and wildlife habitat, destroys fishery quality, reduces recreational use and causes problems for users of the rivers or streams farther down in their related watersheds; and
WHEREAS, in many cases the value of the fishery and recreational pursuits are not given the attention they deserve due to the lack of a staff person within the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to study such areas.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 14, 1986 at Pokagon State Park, Angola, Indiana, hereby requests the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to create a position within the Division of Fish and Wildlife to work specifically on rivers and streams and their related habitats and develop a plan to protect the fish and wildlife resources these areas abound with.
WHEREAS, sportsmen are facing an unexpected adversary; and
WHEREAS, this adversary is the growing animal rights movement; and
WHEREAS, this movement is becoming bolder using Hunting, Fishing and Trapping harassment tactics against law abiding citizens; and
WHEREAS, an Anti-harassment Bill (Senate Bill No. 456) was introduced in the last session of the Indiana Legislature; and
WHEREAS, said bill passed the Rules and Legislative Procedure Committee with a favorable do pass; and
WHEREAS, said bill did not receive any action in the Natural Resources Committee due to the short session.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 14, 1986 at Pokagon State Park, Angola, Indiana hereby urges that the Indiana Legislature pass Anti-harassment Laws in the 1987 legislative session.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation urges Senator John Augsburger to re-introduce Senate Bill 456 of 1986 or a similar bill. We strongly urge the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to strongly support this bill.
WHEREAS, poaching is becoming an ever increasing problem; and
WHEREAS, many judges are suspending sentences or levying light fines for poaching violations; and
WHEREAS, many poachers feel much safer having a valid license in their possession; and
WHEREAS, this license can be used as an excuse for being afield while poaching; and
WHEREAS, the State of Colorado uses a License Suspension Point System which calls for suspension of Hunting, Fishing or Trapping License Privileges, for up to 3 years, upon the accumulation of 20 points in any consecutive 5 year period.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 14, 1986 at Pokagon State Park, Angola, Indiana hereby strongly urges that the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and the Indiana Legislature, if necessary, work together to create a Hunting, Fishing and Trapping License Suspension Point System in Indiana.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation suggests that Article 6 of Title 33 of the Colorado Revised Statutes be used as a guide.
WHEREAS, the Patoka River Bottoms wetland area is one of the last remaining hardwood wetland bottoms habitats remaining in the Midwest and supports a wide variety of fish and wildlife; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has begun the feasibility study for the creation of the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge; and
WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of Indiana that the refuge be created and this habitat be preserved for future generations.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting June 13, 1987 give it's full support for the creation of the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge and that IWF aggressively convey this position to all government and private agencies and interested parties that IWF is in full support of this new National Wildlife Refuge.
WHEREAS, the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. has been opposed to past stream and river clean-up projects that would destroy fish and wildlife habitat and are not cost effective; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Turkey Creek Clean-up project proposed by the Elkhart County Drainage Board and the Kosciusko County Drainage Board will have negative impact on wetland resources in the project and instream silt removal will have a negative impact on the fish and wildlife resources along the stream course and will not be cost effective and proof has not been provided by the applicants that the project will provide a cost/benefit ratio.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting June 13, 1987 immediately take a position opposing the project and convey this position to the appropriate parties and encourage the applicants to develop a project that will protect the natural recourses along the proposed project.
WHEREAS, Midwest Foundry Company (MFC) of Coldwater, Michigan plans to move some of or all of its operations to Hudson, Indiana; and
WHEREAS, MFC has applied for a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit from the Indiana Department of Environmental management (IDEM) to discharge into navigable waters one discharge of 0.058 MGD per day of noncontact cooling water and a variable amount of stormwater from, its proposed facility, into Conrad Ditch, via an underground storm sewer, in Steuben County, Indiana; and
WHEREAS, usage of this much water could have an adverse affect on the water table; and
WHEREAS, the Federal Clean Water Act declares "it is national policy that the discharge of toxic pollutants in toxic amounts be prohibited", and the national goal is "zero" pollutant discharge to our waters; and
WHEREAS, MFC has had a history of pollution violations in Michigan; and
WHEREAS, the IDEM has stated that the MFC did dump foundry sludge in 1983-84 near lake George without a permit; and
WHEREAS, NFC had a valid permit to dump foundry sludge in Michigan at that time; and
WHEREAS, MFC records stated that the toxic pollutants in said sludge were within IDEM regulations; and
WHEREAS, the Edglo Laboratories test made for the Lake George Association showed the toxic pollutants to be far over the IDEM regulations; and
WHEREAS, Conrad Ditch empties into high quality fishery water (State Stocked Trout Water); and
WHEREAS, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the foundry site at Hudson, Indiana was made only on the basis of Phase I (Finishing and Distribution) of the project; and
WHEREAS, the Governor has stated the Phase II (Core Molding) is a virtual certainty; and
WHEREAS, Phase III (Casting Operations) are also a possibility; and
WHEREAS, the applied for permit does not state if the permit will be modified if Phases II & III are established and if the public will be notified by public notice, have a public hearing or only a comment period; and
WHEREAS, MFC has destroyed a wetland, of ½ to ¾ acre, during preliminary construction; and
WHEREAS, MFC refuses to admit to same; and
WHEREAS, the majority of the residents of Hudson, Indiana are opposed to MFC locating in Hudson; and
WHEREAS, the Clean Water Act under Section 302 states: "Whenever in the judgment of the Administrator, discharges of pollutants from a point source of group of point sources, (would threaten fish, wildlife, recreation and public drinking water supplies), effluent limitations shall be established to attain and maintain" water quality assuring these uses;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 13 & 14, 1987 at Turkey Run State Park, Marshall, Indiana urges the IDEM not to approve any permit for MFC until an EIA has been made which includes not only Phase I but also Phases II & III; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the IDEM should not issue any permit until MFC agrees to construct a "zero" discharge on the noncontact cooling water so that no water is discharged into the waters of Indiana; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that parking lot and roof run off be collected into a holding pond to serve as a control for non-source pollution; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that any permit issued must place "effluent limits" on oil & grease, temperature and flow so that the foundry, the IDEM, the EPA and the public will know if and when the foundry is out of compliance; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the permit require testing of cooling water for heavy metals at least monthly for continuous 24 hour monitoring.
WHEREAS, the decision as to whether to hunt or not to hunt is a personal matter; and
WHEREAS, the decision as to which day or days to hunt on is also a personal matter; and
WHEREAS, hunting is one of the few activities where one does not have to compete with others to have an enjoyable outdoor experience; and
WHEREAS, there is no biological reason to legislate as to which days of a week, during the open hunting season, hunting is allowed; and
WHEREAS, some individuals and organizations have tried to have ordinances and laws passed to outlaw hunting on Sunday.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting assembled on June 13 & 14, 1987 at Turkey Run State Park, Marshall, Indiana opposes any attempt to outlaw hunting on Sunday or any other day solely at the whim of or the personal preference of any individuals or organizations without sound biological reasons.
WHEREAS, the State of Indiana is one of only twelve states not requiring Mandatory Hunter Education; and
WHEREAS, the IDNR has stated that it would remain neutral, in the legislature, on the subject of Mandatory Hunter Education; and
WHEREAS, information obtained by the IWF leads it to believe that the director of the IDNR and the director of the Fish and Wildlife Division of the IDNR lobbied heavily, sometimes using statements of doubtful validity, to keep Mandatory Hunter Education from becoming a reality in Indiana;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 13 & 14, 1987 at Turkey Run State Park, Marshall, Indiana will no longer support any further requests for increases, by the IDNR, of any existing hunting, fishing or trapping licenses or stamps until the IDNR actively supports Mandatory Hunter Education.
WHEREAS, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has been unable or unwilling to explain where or for what purpose some of Indiana's portion of the Duck Stamp monies have been used; and
WHEREAS, the IDNR stated it would consult with the Indiana sportsmen and the Indiana Wildlife Federation (IWF) before deciding where or how the out-of-state portion of the Duck Stamp monies are to be used; and
WHEREAS, the IDNR did not do so; and
WHEREAS, the IDNR has signed a new ten year agreement for this portion of the Duck Stamp monies; and
WHEREAS, the IWF has not been shown evidence that the Bird Habitat Stamp money is being used totally for its intended purpose.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 13 & 14, 1987 at Turkey Run State Park, Marshall, Indiana will not support any license increase requests until a detailed accounting of all license and stamp monies is made available to the public.
WHEREAS, the United States Forest Service has been working on the Hoosier National Forest Plan since 1978; and
WHEREAS, a final plan has not been adopted, and
WHEREAS, many hours of diligent work has been input by professionals such as wildlife biologists, foresters, botanists, recreation specialists, engineers, silviculturists, soil scientists, and others; and
WHEREAS, continued debate and input from preservationists and other anti-management groups will only further fragment the effective management of the Hoosier National Forest; and
WHEREAS, taxpayers and sportsmen provide the finances for the responsible natural resources management.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc. in annual meeting on June 11, 1988 at Clifty Falls State Park, Madison, Indiana hereby supports "in general" the 1985 Hoosier National Forest Plan with incorporation of the recommendations of the wildlife Panel Review.
WHEREAS, the wetlands of Indiana and the nation are being lost at an alarming rate; and
WHEREAS, without strong measures to prevent it, this massive loss will continue; and
WHEREAS, there is a resurgence of the public's awareness of the value of protecting those remaining wetlands;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 10-11, 1989 at Clifty Falls State Park, Madison, Indiana urges the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other appropriate state and municipal agencies to develop an action oriented wetland protection agenda and overall restoration and protection goals.
WHEREAS, the media and certain legislators, both state and federal, whether by design or by error, are redefined the designation "Assault Rifle"; and
WHEREAS, the "Assault Rifle" is "A military small arm, usually of rifle configuration, with selective switch that allows semiautomatic and full automatic firing." (Steindler's New Firearm Dictionary, Stackpole Books, 1985); and
WHEREAS, the "Semiautomatic Firearm" is "A rifle, pistol, or shotgun which fires one shot when the trigger is depressed; the trigger must be released and then depressed again to fire another shot." (Sporting Arms of the World by Ray Bearse, An Outdoor Life Book, 1976); and
WHEREAS, assault rifles are classed as machine guns in Federal Law; and
WHEREAS, the importation and sale of assault rifles has been temporarily banned; and
WHEREAS, any semiautomatic firearm that can be readily converted to full automatic is also classified as a machine gun under Federal Law; and
WHEREAS, the law provides that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms certify each model of semiautomatic firearm as not being readily convertible before permitting its importation and sale; and
WHEREAS, Los Angeles Police Department Firearms Unit expert James Trahin testified before the California State Assembly that in his 12 years in the unit, the L.A.P.D. had not come into contact with a single semiautomatic version of the AK-47 that had been converted to full automatic;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 10-11, 1989 at Clifty Falls State Park, Madison, Indiana hereby opposes any legislation or laws, state, federal or municipal, which ban the use of semiautomatic firearms by law-abiding citizens.
WHEREAS, the present national administration has nominated James Cason for U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary for Special Services; and
WHEREAS, this position would put him in charge of the Forest Service and the Soil Conservation Service; and
WHEREAS, many conservation groups consider Mr. Cason a "rigid ideologue" and an "acolyte of James Watt;" and
WHEREAS, Cason was formerly deputy assistant secretary for lands and minerals at the Interior Department; and
WHEREAS, while at the Interior Department, Cason pressured the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to change a draft report in order to keep the spotted owl off the endangered species list; and
WHERAS, he also undermined congressional efforts to reform oil shale patent laws; and
WHEREAS, he attempted to block the U.S. Forest Service from publishing its oil and gas leasing regulations; and
WHEREAS, he led Interior Department efforts to allow states to determine whether miners have valid existing rights to mine coal in national parks, wildlife refuges, and wilderness areas; and
WHEREAS, Cason was instrumental in passing regulations that cut federal coal royalties by allowing mining firms to deduct taxes and other expenses before calculating their royalty payments; and
WHEREAS, currently no senator, not even his home-state senators from Oregon, Mark Hatfield (R) and Bob Packwood (R) have greed to sponsor James Cason; and
WHEREAS, the National wildlife Federation has voiced opposition to this appointment; ("Conservation 89", Vol. 7, No. 4, May 10, 1989).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Indiana Wildlife Federation, Inc., in annual meeting assembled on June 10-11, 1989 at Clifty Falls State Park, Madison, I
