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I just got off the call with the #Wisconsin DNR tip line and I am so upset. They are claiming that it is not a violation to harvest #Cicadas from state parks because there is no clause in their laws preventing people from harvesting insects on state property.
I pointed out that they don't need an insect specific clause, because #insects are considered animals, and their law clearly states that animals may not be removed without a permit.
I pointed out that the Federal Government does consider #insects to be #animals, and regularly offers them protections under the Endangered Species Act. I was told that I was calling the wrong number, because it's not a violation. If I have a complaint I need to email the dnrpress @ wisconsin.gov email address and/or call them.
The #Wisconsin DNR is fully abdicating their legal responsibilities and is actively refusing to stop poachers from taking animals from state parks. They're hiding behind the non-existence of an "insect clause" in their laws to say that #Cicadas are not protected, because they are not animals. HORSE SHIT. The Wisconsin #DNR is a disgrace to all conservationists, and they should be ashamed.
If you're as pissed as I am please call the DNR Spokesperson at 608-267-2773. I believe their name is James Dick. Tell them that #Cicadas are animals, and do deserve to be protected under existing state laws.
Edit: that number is disconnected and James Dick doesn't appear to work for the DNR anymore. I am currently working a different angle. See my more recent posts for an update.
#Wisconsin Law: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/nr/001/45/04
NR 45.04
1a) No person may destroy, molest, deface, remove or attempt to remove any natural growth or natural or archaeological feature except as follows: [list of plants, rocks, and minerals that doesn't include insects or animals]
1f) No person may transplant, relocate, stock or release any plant or animal, domesticated or wild, without written permission from the department.
As you can see in the #Wisconsin state law there is no exception for insects. There is no mention of insects. There is no mention of mammals or birds. They just say "animal" and #insects are animals!
The Wisconsin #DNR is willfully choosing to ignore state law, and are actively allowing people to illegally harvest animals state parks.
@fancysandwiches Have you thought about bringing the media into the loop? I'm sure there's a reporter at the CapTimes, State Journal, Journal-Sentinel, or any of the area teevee stations, that would see this as a compelling story.
Also, if DNR is not responsive, go to their "boss"... government officials. Legislators are supposed to respond to shit like this, part of their job is to be fixers for their constituents.
Good luck!
@ObbieZ Yes, we have reached out to several outside organizations including but limited to:
- Local TV stations
- Local Newspapers
- Local conservation groups, including legal advocates
- Local professors from the University of Wisconsin Entomology department
- Gene Kritzky, arguably the most notable Cicada scientist in the US
I would love it if more people could also help reach out to any organizations that they think are appropriate, including any that I have already contacted.