Background
In the early-1980s, the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and other animal-rights groups launched an attack on duck hunting via a challenge to annual regulations allowing hunters to take black ducks. The anti-hunting organizations claimed the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and states in the Atlantic Flyway could not justify continued hunting of black ducks, arguing that until definitive data (as defined by HSUS, et al.) was available proving that hunting was not adversely impacting black duck populations, hunting had to be terminated.
Impact to Hunters
In addition to the direct assault on hunters in states within the Atlantic Flyway, unstated in HSUS’ complaint was that if HSUS prevailed, it would use the precedent to attack other annual rules providing for hunting of other ducks, geese and migratory birds.
Legal Ruling
The Sportsmen’s Alliance, then known as the Wildlife Legislative Fund of America, was selected by the federal court hearing the case to represent the interests of hunters. And, in tandem with FWS and the state agencies, the Sportsmen’s Alliance and hunters prevailed. Moreover, the precedent established by the case blocked similar future suits by HSUS and its ilk.
Help Us Fight for You
Your tax-deductible donation to the Sportsmen’s Legal Defense Fund directly supports our legal fights in courtrooms nationwide. The Sportsmen’s Legal Defense Fund was established to represent sportsmen in lawsuits that affect your ability to hunt, fish, trap and own firearms. Its funding ensures the sportsman’s voice is heard above the rhetoric of anti-hunting groups.
Join the fight for your hunting and fishing future by donating to the Sportsmen’s Legal Defense Fund today!
