Targeting Poachers and Protecting Our Natural Resources
Missouri is blessed with an abundance of natural resources. From our mighty waterways, scenic bluffs and pristine fields to our vibrant and diverse animal populations, we have it all. A range of hunting and fishing seasons gives Missourians the opportunity to not only enjoy nature, but to also reap the bounty that nature has provided us, within reason. After all, while we have these resources today, it will only be through careful management and stewardship that they will be here tomorrow.
I am a firm believer that our natural resources need to be respected. We are lucky to have these resources and the opportunity to enjoy them through our state’s hunting and fishing seasons. Unfortunately, poachers can have a profound and negative effect on our state’s natural resources. While you may not feel the direct effect of poaching, their actions can make it harder for you to be successful the next time you go out hunting or fishing. Likewise, poaching places an economic strain on our state’s conservation efforts. While poachers cheat the permitting process and illegally hunt for free, the Missouri Department of Conservation goes without some of the funding it needs to ensure the very resources that are being stolen are properly maintained. Poaching can also hurt vulnerable animal populations. Just this year, there have been three incidents of elk poaching, effecting the growing elk population that is being reintroduced in our state.
Unfortunately, when it comes to these bad actors, the current consequences are not always high enough to deter them from stealing valuable natural resources. To solve this issue, I have sponsored Senate Bill 356. This legislation strengthens the penalties against poaching by requiring those found guilty to pay restitution to the state for their crime. The cost of the penalty would depend on the animal that was poached. For deer, the penalty would be between $1,000 to $2,000 per animal. For wild turkey, the penalty would be $375 to $700 per turkey. Poaching a black bear or elk would lead to a fine between $2,500 to $5,000. Ultimately, I hope this legislation makes people think twice about poaching.
We must take care of our natural resources and ensure they are available for the next generation. By passing SB 356, I believe we can send a strong message that poaching in this state will not be tolerated. After all, if you steal from our state, you should have to pay it back.
Please feel free to contact my office at (573) 751-2076. For information about my committee assignments or sponsored legislation, please visit my official Missouri Senate website at senate.mo.gov/Bernskoetter.