WHEREAS, there is an immense existing and potential influence of the hunting and fishing public in matters affecting the maintenance of habitats and natural biotas; and
WHEREAS, there is a rapid rise of anti-hunting sentiment in other sectors of the public, which is exploited by the news media, in dramatizing and thereby polarizing opinion on the issue; and
WHEREAS, the scientific investigation and management by game biologists continues to provide basic biologic information regarding the harvested species and insures survival for the enjoyment of the non-hunter as well as the hunter;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the American Society of Mammalogists inform the Federal, Provincial and State Governments of its deep concern regarding the recent increase in protests against legitimate hunting activities; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the American Society of Mammalogists reaffirm its belief that the maintenance of hunting opportunity can help to perpetuate wildlife populations and wildlife habitats, and to preserve healthy populations of animals for the enjoyment of all.