Alaska Chapter SCI
PO Box 770511
Eagle River, AK 99577
(907) 980-9018

November 30, 2014


Dear Mr. Doner:

I am writing as an Anchorage resident, avid outdoorsman, and president of the Alaska Chapter of Safari Club International (AKSCI). On behalf of SCI Alaska Chapter and myself I am writing over concerns raised by the November 28, 2014 article in the Alaska Dispatch News titled “Anchorage Fish and Game Advisory Committee Cancels Local Moose Hunts”.

I’m concerned about the effects this decision may have on our outdoor community as well as our community’s safety. Negative human-moose interactions in the Anchorage bowl are a serious problem. Motor vehicle accidents, encounters by recreationalists in our green belts, and encounters at our very residences are a serious matter. This is Alaska and a certain amount of wildlife interaction should be expected, but we should also support sound sustainable wildlife management practices to the greatest extent possible.

Managing Anchorage’s moose populations by providing antlerless hunts should be encouraged as long as it is sustainable. This is especially so when it provides desired recreational and subsistence opportunities for Alaska residents. Science, research, and the expertise of our local AKF&G biologists suggest that the continuation of antlerless moose hunts in the Anchorage bowl is not only sustainable, but is a great tool for managing our healthy Anchorage moose population.

This decision will cancel several hunts, specifically for wounded veterans and hunts for restricted weapons. The restricted weapons hunts are a great opportunity for archery, muzzleloader, and shotgun enthusiasts to have a permit for their chosen weapon. Those opportunities promote archery and traditional weapons use, which is essential for their growth and perpetuation.

I would like to thank you for discussing this issue with me and am interested in hearing more before a final decision is made. I would especially like to see the science, population surveys, and public testimony that back this decision. I’m encouraging all Alaska Chapter SCI members as well as the outdoor community to attend the December 2nd meeting at 6:30pm at the King Career Center to voice their concerns regarding this decision.

Sincerely,


Dr. Brett A. Barringer
SCI AK Chapter President

cc: Anchorage Advisory Committee Members

Good job Brett!

Sadly in most of the state our game is managed for non residents. To me it seems a double slam on residents living in urban Alaska, as they can't participate in most subsistence hunts. . Since 2008 my family has had more upclose negative moose encounters in Anchorage on foot. And more near misses in vehicles than we have had at our home in Glennallen. A bit of hunting would make Anchorage streets and walking paths safer.
Thank you for your efforts!!