Maryland Bear Hunt In Danger Of Being Canceled

Over the last decade, the black bear population in Western Maryland has dramatically increased, with nearly 400 bears now living in that area. The large increase has led to the development of a responsible population management plan by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in the form of a limited bear hunting season. Although this is the most effective way to manage the bear population in Allegany and Garrett Counties, many anti-hunting advocates are putting pressure on state legislators to cancel the hunt.

DNR`s black bear management plan will soon be considered by Maryland`s Joint Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review Committee (AELR). The State Senators and Delegates listed below are members of the AELR Committee and need to hear from NRA members. Please take a moment to call the legislators listed and let them know that the management of Maryland`s black bears is best left to the scientists and biologists at Maryland`s DNR, and that the black bear hunt scheduled for this fall should proceed. It is absolutely critical that you contact these Committee members, as every single call counts:

SENATORS: Paul Pinsky, (410) 841-3155; Gwendolyn Britt, (410) 841-3745; Jim Brochin, (410) 823-7087; Jennie Forehand, (410) 841-3134; Rob Garagiola, (410) 841-3169; Lisa Gladden, (410) 367-5811; Sandra Schrader, (410) 841-3572.

DELEGATES: Bill Bronrott, (410) 841-3019; Jill Carter, (410) 841-3283; Jean Cryor, (410) 841-3090; Barry Glassman, (410) 836-2400; Rich Madaleno, (301) 858-3130; Dan Morhaim, (410) 581-8712; Shane Pendergrass, (410) 841-3205; Mary Roe Walkup, (410) 778-6635.