Indiana’s Department of Natural Resources to Hold Public Hearings on Coyote, Fox Training Grounds

Have you contacted Indiana’s Natural Resources Commission, urging them not to set hunting policy based on political pressure from the Humane Society of the United States?

If not, NOW is your opportunity. The deadline for submitting comments is Wednesday, May 18!   In the coming days, the Natural Resources Commission will hold two public hearings on proposed changes regarding hunting dog field trial permits and the chasing of fox and coyotes in enclosures. The proposed rule language and FAQ’s may be viewed by clicking here. Their proposal contains some good measures, such as providing appropriate escape areas for all coyotes and foxes within the enclosure. However, the primary problem with this proposal is a provision that places a moratorium on any new permit applications to operate a dog training ground for coyotes and foxes beginning in 2012. Such facilities are not “kill pens," but are simply a safe and controlled way to train dogs. Currently, only one facility operates within Indiana. It is unfair for it to be granted a monopoly with the passage of this rule.

Please consider attending one of the following public hearings:

Tuesday, May 10 at McCormick’s Creek State Park; Canyon Inn, Sycamore Room; Spencer (Owen County), 6:00 p.m. (EDT)

Wednesday, May 11 at Webster Recreation Center; Plymouth Park & Recreation Department, 110 Webster Avenue, Plymouth (Marshall County), 6:00 p. m. (EDT)

If you cannot attend in person, you are encouraged to provide public comments online or in writing by visiting the Natural Resources Commission Website.  Please click on “Comment for Proposed Rule” next to the “Coyote/Fox Dog Training Grounds Rule Amendments”

Comments can also be mailed to:

Natural Resources Commission
Indiana Government Center North
100 North Senate Ave. Room N501
Indianapolis, IN  46204

Please contact the Natural Resources Commission, respectfully urging them to base rule changes and hunting regulations on science and proper wildlife management, rather than political pressure by anti-hunting organizations such as the Humane Society of the United States.  Make your voices heard over the anti-hunting forces!