HB 5225 will help to ensure scientific approach to resource and wildlife management I introduced legislation last week to modify the process for appointments to the Natural Resources Commission (NRC). HB 5225 proposes baseline requirements for the individuals nominated by the governor. The bill would require a general knowledge of the fish and wildlife population in Michigan. It also states that a member of the Natural Resources Committee cannot hold another state, county or municipal elected or appointed office. The Natural Resources Commission (NRC) is a seven-member body whose members are appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. It was established in 1965 to assist in the oversight and development of the policies of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Its mandate was dramatically expanded in 1996 with the adoption of Proposal G. This proposal vested in the NRC the exclusive authority to regulate the taking of game. The powers of the NRC were further expanded last year with the passage of Senate Bill 288, which granted the NRC the authority to designate game species within the State of Michigan. The appointment of members to our state’s NRC simply requires submission by the governor. There are no base level qualifications and no requirements for members to be hunters, fishers, researchers or have any scientific or wildlife background. It is of great importance that those who oversee our natural resources and game species have a background that is germane to their duties.
Posted on: Wed, 29 Jan 2014 02:41:53 +0000
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