Director: Mark Palas
 Co-Director: Jim Wallner

Director Report

Greetings Metro Trappers, 

On the 17th of January, approximately 25 trappers showed up at the Minneapolis Federal Court Building, to show support for our interest in the lynx case.  As I write this on the 4th of February, no ruling has been handed down.  I defer to Gary Meis for details, as I’m sure he’ll have many as they develop.  Please read his column to stay informed.  

My initial opinion in regards to the lynx case was that reason would win out.  At this point, I’m uncertain it will.    As a person who believes in the Endangered Species Act, I’m astounded at how the Act has been abused and misused, by cases such as this.  The pertinent question is this:  Do we have lynx in Minnesota?  Yes we do, but just barely.  In much the same way that opossum are not doing very well north of Hinckley, lynx aren’t doing very well south of the Canadian border.  Is there anything we can do?  Yes there is.  We need to change the climate in the state.  With more snow, will come more lynx.  Sound reasonable?  Welcome to the Game. Take note, this is a very serious issue, we need your support.  

On a lighter note, District 6 members, Jim Wallner and I, attended the Pheasant Fest at the Xcel Center in St. Paul, on the weekend of January 19th and 20th, where we helped Deb Offerdahl with the MTA booth.  If I learned anything, it was this:  People like action.  If you want to attract people to your booth, do an impromptu trap setting demonstration.  Dig a dirt hole if you’re outside; set a conibear, if you’re not.  Believe me, it works.

It's likely that I'll need help on April 3rd and 4th for the Minneapolis Sportsmen show. Booth hours are from 1-9 PM.  If you can help, let me know.  

Keep in touch,

Mark Palas
District 6 director
651-699-7622
markpalas@earthlink.net