Speech to Arizona Game and Fish Commission

Arizona Game and Fish Commission Hearing to Ban Wildlife Killing Contests. The outcome was a victory; a ban on these contests was passed.

Good morning Mr. Chairman and Commission members.

It brings me no joy to be here to discuss something so vile as wildlife killing contests. I believe that it is safe to say that if this issue was brought to the public for a vote, wildlife killing contests would stand as little chance as the wildlife being decimated for points and prizes.

Commissioner Davis has cited the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, pointing out the Model’s creed that you do not profit off the hunting of wildlife.

These contests unquestionably fail the Model’s conservation principles. And these weekend gatherings invariably involve a lust to slaughter for cash and prizes, or perhaps dinners, drinks, side bets or anything else that also fails wildlife held in public trust.

As the North American Model states, QUOTE “Strong leadership and concerted efforts on the part of wildlife professionals will be required to make the case that wild places are important, and that wildlife needs to be protected for one and all, as posited by the Public Trust Doctrine.” END QUOTE

The only thing worse than the public’s perception of these gruesome events are the events

themselves. The way to end that perception is to pass a rule that effectively ends these contests. Yet some seem hellbent to defy the Commission, stating directly on the AZ Game and Fish Facebook page QUOTE “Trust me, if they ban the contests we will still hold them.” END QUOTE Any such defiance by a few would be a stain on all.

Resolutions passed in various Arizona counties do not a law make. But they do send a message. And they do matter. But maybe what matters most here today is the reputation of the hunter who truly believes in ethics, fair chase and respect for wildlife. Killing contests fail on all counts.

I ask the Commission to pass and enforce this proposed rule.

Thank you.

(Written and delivered by Don Scott to the AZ Game and Fish Commission)