A Note from our Executive Director
As an avid wildlife enthusiast and conservationist, I have always been deeply passionate about ensuring the success and survival of the diverse species that call Wisconsin home. From the wolves to the bears, cranes, and blue butterflies, Wisconsin and the entire Western Great Lakes are blessed with abundant wildlife. It is deeply troubling to witness the senseless killings of wildlife by a small minority of trophy hunters who disregard the delicate balance of our ecosystems and the importance of coexisting with wildlife.
The past decade has seen extreme laws and policies that have threatened the well-being of our natural heritage, leading to the persecution of endangered species and the destruction of their habitats. As we enter 2024, it is clear that change is imperative.
The influence of special interest groups in hunting, extractive industry, forestry, and agriculture have overshadowed the broader values of coexistence and environmental stewardship, not to mention putting human lives at stake. The public’s awareness of the fragility of biodiversity and the impacts of climate change on wildlife and ecosystems has grown significantly. It is no longer a matter of theory or even denial, but a pressing reality that demands action.
Our legislators, whether constrained by power dynamics or vested interests, have often failed to address these critical issues. The lack of effective measures to prevent chronic wasting disease (CWD), the expansion of hound hunting, and the relaxation of hunting regulations have cast a dark shadow over our natural heritage. It is evident that these decisions are out of alignment with the public’s values and the urgent need to protect our wildlife and their habitats.
It is time for a paradigm shift towards policies that embrace coexistence and peaceful cohabitation with wildlife. The 2024 landscape must be one where the needs of wildlife and the conservation of our ecosystems take precedence over narrow, short-term interests. There is no room for complacency or indifference when it comes to wildlife.
We are at a pivotal moment where the public’s passion for outdoor recreation and recognizing our interconnectedness with nature have reached unprecedented levels. This transformation in values demands reevaluating our approach towards wildlife, moving away from reactionary and exploitative practices and embracing a future characterized by mutual respect and responsible stewardship of our environment.
The time has come for our legislators to champion fair and balanced policies that reflect the public’s priorities and the urgent need to protect our wildlife. We must advocate for policies that raise the ethical standards set only by sport hunters, even with widespread public opposition. Much of the policy we need is common sense that the hunters have not been able or willing to self-regulate. We MUST strengthen efforts to combat CWD, ban toxic substances such as lead, and limit the expansion of recreational fishing, hunting and trapping that pose risks to wildlife populations, habitats, and the rest of us.
Furthermore, there is a critical need to address the excessive influence of special interest groups and ensure that sound, science-based conservation practices guide our policies. This requires reevaluating wildlife management practices and a commitment to enacting laws that prioritize the well-being of our wildlife and the inclusion of the vast majority of mutualists.
As we strive for meaningful change, it is imperative to engage in open dialogue, educate elected officials, and foster collaborative efforts with our legislators. Together, we can advocate for policies that promote ethical and sustainable wildlife management, safeguard biodiversity, and ensure a future where wildlife thrives alongside human communities.
In our advocacy for wildlife protection, we recognize the importance of public awareness and community engagement. Educating and mobilizing fellow citizens is vital in ensuring the success of our efforts. By working hand in hand with legislators, we aspire to implement educational programs and community initiatives that foster a greater understanding and appreciation for our wildlife and the natural world. Through these endeavors, we aim to garner widespread support for wildlife protection and conservation efforts across the state and party lines.
This year, our Wildlife Day at the Capitol event presents us with a significant opportunity to engage with our legislators and advocate for meaningful change. Together, we can build bridges that lead to the enactment of policies that prioritize wildlife protection and conservation. We are power.
Through open dialogue and cooperative efforts with our legislators, we can establish a framework that prioritizes the preservation of our natural heritage, protects endangered species, and promotes ethical and sustainable practices in wildlife management.
I firmly believe that by fostering strong relationships with our legislators, we can pave the way for a future where wildlife protection is a shared priority. Only this shared commitment to wildlife protection will pave the way for a better, more sustainable, compassionate future for all inhabitants of Wisconsin. Together, we can do this!
Our most cherished Wildlife Day at the Capitol event presents a unique opportunity for us to come together and advocate for the issues that are closest to our hearts. Whether that is protecting endangered species or addressing the impact of climate change on wildlife, this is our chance to make a real difference. This year, the focus can be on any wildlife issue that holds personal significance to you!
With our help, you will formulate your story, build an ally in your legislator and let them know that you VOTE WILD. Our voices will have an even greater impact as we discuss the importance of wildlife conservation and the need for legislative action.
We’ll be here to help you every step of the way! With online trainings, plus interactive online ZOOM discussions, our mission is to make sure you feel informed and prepared. Before engaging with your legislators, we’ll teach you how to research their stance on wildlife conservation and any relevant legislation they have supported or introduced. This will help you understand their perspective and tailor your conversation accordingly.
Furthermore, the event will feature an exciting variety of guest speakers and lunch at a new meeting venue. There will also be a social gathering with live music the night before, providing a wonderful opportunity for you all to break the ice and build connections with other like-minded individuals.
Please join us for Wildlife Day this year, and take advantage of this opportunity to champion the wildlife issue closest to your heart. Your presence and passion will make a difference in shaping the future of wildlife conservation laws and policies.
We look forward to seeing you at Wildlife Day at the Capitol and working together to make a positive impact on the future of wildlife conservation!
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