Assemblyman Guy Gregg

GREGG ASKS CORZINE TO RE-CONSIDER DECISION
NOT TO ALLOW BEAR HUNT
Cites public safety as the primary concern

In response to a report that Governor Jon Corzine will seek to block this year's black bear hunt, Assemblyman Guy Gregg said today he would like to know why the governor isn't concerned with the protection and safety of residents living in the northwestern part of the state.

"Clearly this is a public safety issue," said Gregg, R-Sussex, Morris and Hunterdon, who noted that this past summer state wildlife authorities reported an increase in the number of black bears that act aggressively, destroy property and kill domestic animals. Advocates of the hunt, say it is necessary to curb the black bear population.
"As public servants, it is our responsibility to ensure the safety of every one of our residents," he continued. "How are we supposed to do that if Governor Corzine arbitrarily goes against the advice of the experts who say a hunt is necessary for public safety reasons? Are we supposed to wait until one of these aggressive animals kills someone? I'm not willing to do that. The Governor shouldn't be risking our residents' lives."

The Star Ledger reported today that Corzine, a long-time opponent of the state's black bear hunt, will not sign off on the state's annual game code in time for the start of this year's hunt.

The state's controversial on again, off again, bear hunting season begins December 4 and runs through December 9. New Jersey authorized its first hunt in 35 years in 2003 when 328 bears were taken.

A hunt was authorized again in 2004, but the New Jersey Supreme Court ordered that a black bear hunt could not be held until a comprehensive management policy was formulated by the Fish and Game Council and approved by the DEP Commissioner. Bear hunting seasonresumed last year when 298 bears were taken. The hunt is conducted in a 1,558-square-mile area north of Route 78 and west of Route 287, the state's prime black bear habitat.

Gregg pointed out that hunting is not a free-for-all sport, but a strictly-regulated method for controlling the bear population. All bear hunters are required to hold a valid hunting license and complete a mandatory bear hunting seminar provided by the DEP’s Division of Fish and Wildlife.

"I hope the Governor understands that you can't just pick up a gun and go out and hunt bear wherever and whenever you want," explained Gregg. "It's a very regulated sport and our most efficient method for curbing the bear population. In New Jersey, this isn't about killing bear for the sake of sport. It's a necessity to protect life and property. Therefore, I am asking Governor Corzine to re-consider his decision.�

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For more information, contact:
Assemblyman Guy Gregg/973-584-5422
Assembly Republican Office/609-292-5339