The California Fish & Game Commission met March 3, 2010 in Ontario, CA. The USARK delegation included: President Andrew Wyatt, Director Gary Bagnall and Senior Advisor George Osborne. Many USARK supporters were also in attendance: Loren- LLL Reptiles, Ramy- Reptile Super Show, Mike- CalZoo, Jay- Prehistoric Pets and many others. USARK led a very successful challenge to head off potential regulatory damage to our California Members.
On the agenda were two items important to the Reptile Nation:
1. Considering Action to Ban all Non Native Frogs and Turtles.
2. Receive Public Testimony RE adding entire genus Heloderma to Restricted Species List.
USARK used their proven strategy of hiring professional consultants, engaging members and staff, testifying in person, utilizing the press and motivating massive grass roots action. IT WORKED!…. AGAIN!
Click here to read the testimony presented by USARK President: http://www.usark.org/uploads/CA%20Fish&Game%20Testimony.pdf
Click here to read USARK Press Release: http://www.bizjournals.com/sacramento/prnewswire/press_releases/national/California/2010/03/02/DC63999
Actions Taken By CA Fish & Game Commission:
Agenda Item 12- Resolution On Non Native Turtles and Frogs- The Commission hereby directs the Department of Fish and Game to cease issuing importation permits pursuant to Section 236 of Title 14 for any live non-native turtles or frogs. (Research, Herpetoculture and the pet trade are EXEMPT)
This will only effect Turtles and Frogs for food markets. The other option was to add Turtles and Frogs to Section 671 of Title 14 Restricted Species List. This is still under consideration and would be much more problematic.
Agenda Item 14- Receipt of public testimony on Proposed Amendments To Sections 671, 671.1, 671.7, AND 703, TITLE 14, CCR, RE: NEW RESTRICTED SPECIES PERMITS AND REQUIREMENTS. (expanding to include entire genus Heloderma)(Note: Additional public testimony is scheduled for the April 8, 2010, meeting in Monterey. The adoption hearing is scheduled for the May 5, 2010 meeting in Stockton.)
The Commission clarified the adoption hearing date as May 5, 2010. As this agenda was to receive public testimony only, the Commission took no further action.
USARK wants to thank the concerted efforts of many members of the Reptile Nation in stopping what could have been a devastating change in California regulation. We have the power to decide our own future. Thank you again to everyone who participated! This will NOT be the last time. Join Us… Protect Your Rights!
