4VAC15-90-550. Game: Deer. Special elk hunting license, Conservation License Program.
Summary
The proposal is to (i) omit details on applications, process for transferring the special elk hunting license, and agreements or documentation required from the organization, (ii) specify that raffle proceeds must be spent on elk conservation or elk-related recreation projects, and (iii) provide more flexibility in considering wildlife violations in awarding an opportunity to purchase a special elk hunting license.
Proposed Language
Note: In the “Proposed Language” document, underlined text denotes proposed new language, while text with a strikethrough denotes language that is proposed to be deleted.
Rationale
This regulation was brought forth before the elk hunt in the Elk Management Zone started and there was a greater desire to have details outlined in regulation to eliminate uncertainty associated with a new hunt and program. Now that the hunt is coming upon its fourth year, there is much more certainty in how the process moves forward and a greater desire to streamline the regulation. The proposed omission of details involving the rules for submitting applications, required components of applications, requirements for an organization to award the reserved special elk hunting license, and agreements and documentation required from the organization are all details that can be included in Department guidance documents or policies. Many of these details are already included on the Elk Conservation License Program webpage.
The proposed language change from wildlife conservation or wildlife-related recreation to elk conservation or elk-related recreation projects is necessary because there is no consistent or long-term funding mechanism for the elk program and all the work required for it, such as habitat improvement, land access, etc. The Elk Conservation License Program is a wonderful opportunity to provide an organization with a great incentive (special elk hunting license) for people to spend money that will be directed towards projects that help elk populations and the elk hunt itself. The previous three projects executed through the Elk Conservation License Program have all been elk-focused but have improved habitat for many wildlife species. All of the general elk lottery application revenue goes to the Department’s general fund and not to the elk program.
The proposed amendment to the subsection involving wildlife violations serves two purposes: simplifying the language and allowing the Department the appropriate flexibility in being able to take into account wildlife violations for those drawn in the elk lottery. Elk hunting is an extremely limited and highly sought after opportunity that the Commonwealth offers. Not considering previous wildlife violations committed by potential elk license holders would be a disservice to all the law-abiding hunters who apply for the elk lottery and to those landowners who open their properties for elk license holders to hunt on.