It is with great sadness that I write this letter having learned that the House Fish, Wildlife and Parks committee is advancing HB224 and 225 which, if passed, will result in the torture and killing of more wolves and other wildlife species, some of whom are endangered species. These bills extend the trapping season and authorize the use of snares. During the 2019-2020 season, 293 wolves were harvested, 163 by hunting and 130 by trapping. I was present at both hearings and heard no sound justification for such measures. In fact I heard the opposite – science and statistics that show wolves contribute to a healthy ecological system. Mahatma Gandhi acutely observed the “the greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”
To the Committee Representatives who voted against these proposals, I thank you. To those who supported them, I invite you to review all the material presented and consider changing your position. To fellow citizens, please contact your Representative and urge them to oppose these bills.
Susan Kronenberger
Helena