2002-01  MINNESOTA TURTLE CONSERVATION

Few Minnesotans are aware of the commercial turtle harvesting industry in Minnesota and the extensive turtle trapping for sales into both domestic and foreign markets.  Due to this industry, several species of turtle populations are being decimated according to state biologists, herpetologists and DNR personnel who recommend improving Minnesota's regulations affecting turtle harvest.  Species seriously affected by current commercial harvest include snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentina), western painted turtles (Chrysemys picta bellii), spiny softshell turtles (Apalone spinifera) and most drastically - smooth softshell turtles (Apalone mutica).

The DNR supported legislation in the2001 session to improve regulations affecting turtle harvest but the bill was not acted on by the legislature.  They now are considering  implementation of some of the 2001 bill's proposed changes in turtle harvest regulations through the administrative rule process as well as promoting new legislation in the 2002 session.  Recommendations include:Except for renewals, no new commercial licenses issued after June 1, 2002.  Removal of softshell turtles from commercial taking.  More restrictive trapping methods, sizes and numbers of turtles trapped.

Public support of these DNR policies will be of great value in their efforts to maintain sustainable turtle populations in Minnesota.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Minnesota Division of the Izaak Walton League of America in convention April 28, 2002, at Detroit Lakes, MN supports the Minnesota DNR's proposals as outlined above.  Be it further resolved that we urge passage of  2002 legislation incorporating these and other measures which would ensure sustainable turtle populations in the future.

Walter J. Breckenridge Chapter
MN Division of the IWLA