We received a press release about a letter Roseville DFL state representative Jamie Becker Finn just tweeted:
Public discussion (and media) has often lumped fishing in with other recreational activities. Distinction is important, as outlined in the letter.
— Jamie Becker-Finn (@jbeckerfinn) April 3, 2020
Overall the Walz-Flanagan administration has done a great job being thoughtful in their actions. I expect the same re this issue.
Becker-Finn notes in the press release:
Today, Representative Jamie Becker-Finn (DFL – Roseville) sent a letter to Governor Walz asking him to protect Minnesotans’ access to hunting and fishing and the tools needed to meaningfully participate in these activities.
“Hunting and fishing are protected in our State Constitution and play an integral role in providing healthy food for many Minnesotans,” said Rep. Becker-Finn. “I hope that Governor Walz will keep these unique aspects of hunting and fishing in mind as decisions are made.”
Kudoes to Becker-Finn and Lee for raising the issue.
A South Dakota parallel?
We have been wondering about this as well--and will be asking the same question of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate's tribal government as well. Although South Dakota's Governor Kristi Noem has not issued a shelter-in-place order, the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate (Dakota), a sovereign nation, has drafted a Proposed ordinance to slow spread of coronavirus on Lake Traverse Reservation of a "public safety curfew" within the historic boundaries of the reservation defined by the Treaty of February 19, 1867, although "Outdoor Activities" are excepted with some restrictions.
Spearfishing on the creeks feeding Lake Traverse will begin soon, and our partner and others will certainly be asking if this activity conforms to the ordinance. We're both supportive of the tribe's need to protect its citizens-- but also Mike's desire to catch some fish.
Photo: A walleye fingerling from the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe's website.
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