I, personally, think it is a really bad idea to make massive changes to the current system. It appears to me to be an ANSWER in search of a problem. But, it looks like it is a done deal unless duck hunters revolt in the coming weeks.
Here is the contact list for the TWRA Commissioners: https://www.tn.gov/content/tn/twra/tennessee-fish-wildlife-commission.html#meet
If you oppose the changes, they need to hear from you. I'd suggest a polite and reasonably short email outlining the reasons for your opposition. Individual emails to all of them will likely carry more weight with them than something like a petition.
The TWRA Director, Asst. Director in charge of field operations (Jason Maxedon), and TWRA Chief of Wildlife also need emails outlining your thoughts on the issue.
In addition to sending in public comments, I would HIGHLY suggest contacting members of the legislature early in the upcoming session in January. If TWRA gets enough legislative heat on the issue, maybe they will think twice on carrying through with it. All of the Commissioners that will be making the decision are appointed by either the Governor, Speaker of the House, or Speaker of the Senate. I'd suggest contacting all three if you disagree with the plan. And, I would contact your local legislator as well. TWRA does listen and respond to legislative input.
If duck hunters sit back and do nothing before February, I suspect you will see a massive change in access to TWRA WMAs for duck hunting. It needs to be nipped in the bud before it is presented in February by the agency.
Here is the contact list for the TWRA Commissioners: https://www.tn.gov/content/tn/twra/tennessee-fish-wildlife-commission.html#meet
If you oppose the changes, they need to hear from you. I'd suggest a polite and reasonably short email outlining the reasons for your opposition. Individual emails to all of them will likely carry more weight with them than something like a petition.
The TWRA Director, Asst. Director in charge of field operations (Jason Maxedon), and TWRA Chief of Wildlife also need emails outlining your thoughts on the issue.
In addition to sending in public comments, I would HIGHLY suggest contacting members of the legislature early in the upcoming session in January. If TWRA gets enough legislative heat on the issue, maybe they will think twice on carrying through with it. All of the Commissioners that will be making the decision are appointed by either the Governor, Speaker of the House, or Speaker of the Senate. I'd suggest contacting all three if you disagree with the plan. And, I would contact your local legislator as well. TWRA does listen and respond to legislative input.
If duck hunters sit back and do nothing before February, I suspect you will see a massive change in access to TWRA WMAs for duck hunting. It needs to be nipped in the bud before it is presented in February by the agency.