BALLOT: Vote no on HJR2

I am distressed that many Idaho citizens are unaware of measure HJR2 appearing on November’s ballot. HJR2 has an interesting history but suffice it to say, it was pushed through legislation as an “emergency” and now we are faced with a bill that most haven’t heard of.

HJR2 would amend Idaho’s constitution to protect our rights to “fish, hunt and trap.” At first glance you may be disturbed that you will lose your right to catch that salmon you want in your smoker. Let me assure you this is NOT the case! RIGHTS TO HUNT, FISH AND TRAP are not under attack.

With the worst economy I’ve ever seen I don’t want my tax dollars spent on frivolous cases of personal recreation. Our constitution protects our rights as human beings, to free speech and religion, not hobbies.

Using these methods as a “preferred means of managing wildlife” ties the hands of wildlife agencies. Only time, science and imagination can determine what tools may be available in the future.

I’m also no proponent of trapping. My family hunts and fishes but we are part of the 90 percent of Idahoans that do not trap. Trapping is antiquated and torturous and is too easily the answer to all predator problems. We are capable of offering more solace and humanity to the animals we come in conflict with.

I’m most alarmed by how unsafe our public lands are becoming! Pets, endangered species, and even humans are being injured and sometimes killed by traps.

I’m voting “NO” on HJR2!

LESLY NIXON

Sagle