Posted on 12/02/2004 3:47:31 PM PST by ZGuy
TRENTON, N.J. - The state's highest court called off New Jersey's bear hunt Thursday, four days before the season is scheduled to start.
The Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the state needs to establish a proper management program for bears before it can allow them to be hunted.
More than 300 black bears were killed in last year's hunt — the first bear season in 33 years in New Jersey. Proponents maintain another season is needed because of increasing contact between the animals and humans in the northern, rural parts of of the state.
But state environmental chief Bradley Campbell has opposed the 2004 bear season, saying the state should be allowed to manage the bear population with a contraception program and public awareness campaigns for residents who live near heavy bear populations.
"What they said was right on target," said Jeff Tittel, head of the New Jersey chapter of the Sierra Club (news - web sites). "This is a victory for good government but it's also a victory for the bears. It's the best Christmas gift they could have this year."
Rob Sexton, vice president of government affairs for the U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance Foundation, said he was shocked by the ruling. He said wildlife experts on the council have spent years developing a sound bear management plan.
"I think it's a flawed ruling," Sexton said.
Yes, and require all of the NJ Supreme Idiots (Justices, so-called) to assist while wearing their black robes. The justices can try to hold down the bears while Bradley Campbell can try to go snip-snip in the bear's private parts....... that would be an entertaining sight!
p.s. What business does the NJSC have getting involved in evaluating the "sound management plan" for the bears? That seems like a classic case of judicial over-reach, unless there is some very very specific provision in the LAW that allows them to pass judgment.........
This is so asinine! fwiw, I'm in favor of preserving plenty of wild critters in the WILD, in remote areas far far away from children and other vulnerable humans, and I have encountered various bears and other lovable critters in many remote hikes in WY, MT, Canada, etc. But the idea that a bear population must be allowed to explode in NEW JERSEY of all places, one of the most densely populated states, is just the kind of asinine idea loved by liberals. Those NJSC justices should be required to put THEIR FAMILIES on the line in the most bear-populated areas.... let THEM provide the "contraception" for the bears first-hand....
Yogi Bear, Esq.
I know the bear problem is a today type problem, and the judges actions might not help a NJ Repub to be elected.........but it does keep the tide moving our way. This kind of junk science will stopp.
Ok so what part of the state or fededral constitution is that provision in
NJ needs a bear amendment referendum
BTTT!!!!!!!
Paging, Jocelyn Elders!
Send her out to teach them, to satisfy their urges themselves.
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