DNR Action Plan

http://docs.google.com/a/huntingnet.com/Doc?id=dgbsfvvw_0csbqvjgc

OPERATION DNR: AN ACTION PLAN FOR SAVING THE ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
There is no question that the Illinois Department of Natural Resources has suffered under the Blagojevich administration. During the last 7 years, general revenue appropriations have been reduced by over $80 million, dedicated funds have been raided and the Department’s head count has been reduced resulting in a significant loss of experience and expertise.
As a result our state parks and open lands have been ignored or closed, opportunities for sportsmen and businesses have been reduced, threatened and endangered species have been ignored and matching federal funds have been jeopardized. A Department which once stood as a national model has been reduced to the laughing stock of the country.
Despite these reductions, Illinois outdoor enthusiasts have been asked to pay more for significantly reduced services. As a result many of you have communicated with the IDNR only to receive no response or “a closed door” to your concerns. As a legislator and a sportsman I realize it is time to bring interested conservation groups together to work and lobby with a united voice and a comprehensive plan of action.
On January 23, I convened a meeting of representatives from more than 40 conservation and sportsmen’s groups with the goal of formulating a coherent and realistic plan to rebuild the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
While the various attending groups have different interests and different objectives, it was agreed that we need to unite at this crucial time.
If you have any questions, please feel free to call me at 217-243-6221.
Thank you,

Jim Watson
Illinois State Representative
97th District



WHAT DOES SUCCESS LOOK LIKE?
If we are to effect change, it is important that we know what successful change will look like. What are the key success factors to turning around the Illinois Department of Natural Resources? With the help of many interested leaders, including former IDNR Director Brent Manning, the following Goals and Recommendations were developed:
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IMMEDIATELY STOP THE BLEEDING. If there is to be a Department to rebuild, it is important that the 7 year trend of staff and budget reductions be halted.[*]
PROFESSIONAL MANAGEMENT/STEWARDSHIP. Ensuring that IDNR business is conducted professionally and free from political burdens will facilitate the growth and development of necessary programs as well as proper allocation of funds.
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With the support of all constituencies lobby for appropriate governance of IDNR using Missouri, Arkansas, Wyoming and other like agencies as models.[*]
Once professionalism is reestablished, it is important that all constituent groups and staff facilitate open communication and strategic thinking.
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RECONVENE THE CONSERVATION CONGRESS. Active under previous administrations, the Conservation Congress provides all citizens and conservation groups a voice within IDNR. In short, the Conservation Congress could serve as the fastest way to repair and rebuild the damaged relationships between the Department and the various conservation groups.[*]
PROTECT DEDICATED FUNDS. Outdoor enthusiasts have always “paid their way” when pursing their passions, and dedicated revenue streams are reflective of such a philosophy. We must protect the funds already set aside for outdoor programs. [*]
PURSUE NEW FUNDING. IDNR and its stakeholders compete with hundreds of other interest groups throughout the state (education, health care, developmental disabilities, etc) for general revenue dollars. As a result, it is necessary to find new and innovative ways of supporting IDNR.
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` The following new funding streams have been suggested:
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Environmental license plates & Creation of new specialty plates.[*]
Income tax check-off.[*]
Initiate a Statewide open space referendum.[*]
Funding plan similar to Missouri; such as a dedicated percentage of sales tax
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COMMUNICATING OUR MESSAGE
Developing a plan means nothing if that plan is not communicated and successfully implemented. With Pat Quinn installed as our new Governor, and with a new IDNR Director, the time is now to advocate for change with a united voice. The following venues, outlets, and methods have been suggested:
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NEWSLETTERS & EMAILS. Most organizations can update their members on the proposed changes via email and/or newsletters. Use all tools necessary to effectively lobby the administration and your legislators.[*]
ANNUAL MEETINGS/BANQUETS. Invite your local legislator and Rep. Watson to speak at your annual or regional meetings. Whether a legislator can attend or not, ensure that five minutes of your meeting agenda is set aside to discuss these recommendations.[*]
LEGISLATIVE CONTACT. Encouraging individual members to contact their legislators is vital![*]
ILLINOIS LEGISLATIVE SPORTSMAN’S CAUCUS. Representative Dan Reitz, Chairman, will provide the caucus with these recommendations.[*]
REGIONAL MEETINGS. Representative Jim Watson and Brent Manning will work together to develop a series of regional meetings to bring the message to the local level.
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REMEMBER…
Success will be achieved through the united efforts of all IDNR stakeholders. This push for a fully funded, professionally managed and fully functional Illinois Department of Natural Resources will require the support and cooperation of concerned citizens and legislators. Working together we can build a better Department and ensure that our state’s natural resources are both protected and accessible … today and tomorrow.