Sponsor Statement for SCR 2

SCR 2 is a simple resolution. If the policies it advocates were implemented, the State of Alaska would go a long way toward solving the subsistence dilemma by managing wildlife for abundance.

A shortage of wildlife will not be solved by determining who may have a preference regarding harvest. Our state constitution is very explicit on this issue. Article VIII, Section 3 states "Wherever occurring in their natural state, fish, wildlife and waters are reserved to the people for common use".

Our constitution also mandates that fish and game resources be managed on the principle of sustained yield. The current administration has failed to implement an intensive management program that will ensure an abundance of wildlife. Attempting to manage complex wildlife populations by only addressing human use will not work. Alaskans currently harvest less than three percent of the harvestable surplus, an amount so small that it is statistically insignificant.

An abundance of fish and wildlife for all Alaskans is the only practical solution to the subsistence impasse. Present policies only perpetuate shortages. An abundance of wildlife is what the people of Alaska need, want and demand. Plentiful populations are good for consumptive users, wildlife viewers, photographers and tourists.

SCR 2 calls on the administration to do everything possible to implement management based on abundance.