Hunter Nation Applauds Audit of Wisconsin’s Fish and Wildlife Account

Hunter Nation applauds Wisconsin Senator Eric Wimberger and Representative Robert Wittke for their efforts to move forward with an audit of the state’s Fish and Wildlife Account, which is administered by the Department of Natural Resources. The two legislators recently requested State Auditor Joe Chrisman conduct an audit of the account, which is believed to be on track to fall short of the funds needed to cover current costs.

Transparency for Hunters and Anglers

Hunter Nation’s Chairman of the Board, Rock Bordelon, emphasized the importance of transparency, stating:

“It’s very important that we know where the money that hunters and anglers generate through fees and licenses is going. Bird watching, cycling, boating, and the like, are all great outdoor hobbies, but they aren’t funding these programs. An audit would signal to the citizens of Wisconsin that hunting and angling is important and worthy of the scrutiny an audit would generate.”

In a response letter to Wimberger’s and Wittke’s request for the audit, Auditor Chrisman noted that such an audit could determine four key matters, including whether:

• Expenditures were prudent
• Reasonable
• Compliant with state law
• Ensuring Justified Fee Increases

Chris Vaughan, Hunter Nation’s Wisconsin State Director, highlighted the importance of justifying any potential fee increases:

“It appears we will probably be facing fee increases for hunters and anglers, and we want to be sure those increases are justified and necessary. An audit will provide the best transparency or sunshine on the process and reveal where our money has been going, and no one should have a problem with that.”

Hunter Nation President Keith Mark echoed this sentiment:

“Hunter Nation doesn’t oppose fee increases if we know for certain that the money hunters and anglers put into the system is used appropriately. The current level of inflation is hitting everyone hard. Hunters don’t mind paying their fair share, and then some, if the money is being spent appropriately. Now is the time to evaluate how these tax dollars are being spent before we start raising fees.”

The Importance of Accountability

Hunter Nation’s Chairman, Rock Bordelon, concluded by addressing the importance of accountability for funds generated by hunters and anglers:

“I think we all want to know what any increased fees would provide for those who are paying the money. Can we expect more fish and healthier herds? We think it is only fair to have an expected return on our investment.”