KLG
05-05-2010, 11:23 PM
The following are guidelines from USARK to the Reptile Nation on “How To” make a highly effective public comment on the USFWS proposed ‘Rule Change’. If enacted ‘Rule Change’ could add 4 pythons, 4 anacondas and Boa constrictor to the Injurious Wildlife list of the Lacey Act. It is extremely important that you make public comment! Your comments should be thoughtful and pertinent. During the Notice of Inquiry in 2008 only 115 public comments out of approximately 1500 submitted were used because most failed to answer what was requested by USFWS. Please DO NOT plead for your animals, complain about fairness, or give your political philosophy regarding regulation. If you have put a lot of thought and effort into your comments please email to USARK so we can see them. Read below for the best suggestions of “How To” Kill- Rule Change.
http://usark.org/banners/usark_vertical.jpg USARK Recommendations for Making Public Comment:
There is a list of questions below in the section titled USFWS Questions to be Answered by Public Comment. These questions should be addressed if you have the knowledge to address them. Look for USARK suggestions in italics. Answer only questions you know or can research the answers to.
Be thoughtful and as original as possible with your comments.
At the bottom of the page there are examples of two styles of letters that people have written. Do your best!
Comment on the Unprecedented nature of listing animals that are so widely held by American public. (use the word ‘unprecedented’)
Comment on the Controversial nature of the USGS report being used to justify a Lacey Act listing. (use the word ‘controversial’)
Comment on the Significant Economic Impact on the reptile industry. (use the words ‘significant economic impact’)
Comment on the fact that the Lacey Act will be Ineffective in addressing invasive species issues. (use the word ‘ineffective’; Lacey Act listing has never stopped introduction nor eradicated any invasive species)
Give alternatives to Lacey Act. (such as USARK Industry Best Management Practices...USARK Accreditation)
Also comment on:
Unintended consequences of reducing the value of as many as 2 million animals to $0 overnight. What will happen to animals that owners can no longer afford to care for?
The economic impact on you and your family.
http://www.kill-rulechange.com/
http://usark.org/banners/usark_vertical.jpg USARK Recommendations for Making Public Comment:
There is a list of questions below in the section titled USFWS Questions to be Answered by Public Comment. These questions should be addressed if you have the knowledge to address them. Look for USARK suggestions in italics. Answer only questions you know or can research the answers to.
Be thoughtful and as original as possible with your comments.
At the bottom of the page there are examples of two styles of letters that people have written. Do your best!
Comment on the Unprecedented nature of listing animals that are so widely held by American public. (use the word ‘unprecedented’)
Comment on the Controversial nature of the USGS report being used to justify a Lacey Act listing. (use the word ‘controversial’)
Comment on the Significant Economic Impact on the reptile industry. (use the words ‘significant economic impact’)
Comment on the fact that the Lacey Act will be Ineffective in addressing invasive species issues. (use the word ‘ineffective’; Lacey Act listing has never stopped introduction nor eradicated any invasive species)
Give alternatives to Lacey Act. (such as USARK Industry Best Management Practices...USARK Accreditation)
Also comment on:
Unintended consequences of reducing the value of as many as 2 million animals to $0 overnight. What will happen to animals that owners can no longer afford to care for?
The economic impact on you and your family.
http://www.kill-rulechange.com/