The Backcountry Hunters and Anglers are taking a stand FOR federal lands and wildlife preserves. They’ve posted an op-ed in Outdoor Life magazine roasting the militia and politicians for their reluctance to condemn the takeover the reserve
But the issue goes far beyond Malheur. Bundy’s gang could have as easily targeted the bighorn-and-elk rich Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge in Montana, or the urban waterfowlers’ mecca of Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge outside Washington D.C. Or your favorite refuge.
While many mainstream politicians have distanced themselves from the Bundy’s tactics, too many share his distaste for public lands,. Presidential candidate Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., said he sympathized with the desires to reduce the public estate, but said it should be done “ within the law.” Meanwhile, Rep. Rob Bishop, R-Utah, has tried to shackle the Land & Water Conservation Fund, the 50-year-old program that provides funds for purchasing lands for habitat conservation and outdoor access.
This standoff could last a while, the political fallout even longer. Sportsmen have much to lose in the crossfire.
Backcountry members say this is nothing more than an attempted land grab by Bundy and his supporters for their own private gain.
Watch Backcountry Hunters and Anglers shred the militia signage covering the original Malheur Wildlife Refuge sign and explain why that particular refuge is so critical, not only to migrating birds, but for the entire ecosystem in North America:
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