USP Lawsuit Update

The USP filed suit against the Pennsylvania Game Commission in Commonwealth Court on Sept. 7, 2007, requesting injunctive relief to salvage our dwindling deer herd.

A series of briefs submitted by both sides ensued on Oct. 24, Nov. 15, Jan. 7, and Feb.7, culminating with oral arguments on April 7, 2008.

As of press time we are anxiously waiting the court's decision as to how our case will proceed.

The USP would like to thank those sportsmen who have provided both moral and financial support, and we will keep you posted as our case progresses.

Additional contributions to our Legal Defense Fund may be forwarded to our Treasurer:
Bob Coble
260 Orchard View Drive
Leola, PA 17540

Update since this edition of Woods & Waters came out...

Pennsylvania Game Commission Objections Overruled

June 16, 2008

The Commonwealth Court overruled the PGC's preliminary objections to the Unified Sportsmen of PA's lawsuit alleging abuse of discretion in managing the state's deer herd. The PGC is now required to prepare a legal defense of their deer management program. In their responding press release, the PGC stated they look to moving forward and resolving this issue once and for all. However, they erroneously stated that it is unfortunate that valuable license dollar revenue will be wasted defending against this lawsuit. It has been long-established that the Attorney General's office provides all legal services in lawsuits against the PGC. Furthermore, any supporting documentation of the current deer management plan should be at their fingertips as this program is ongoing. There is practically no cost to the PGC in this matter. It is only appropriate that the PGC defend their actions for the last eight years.
The Unified Sportsmen of PA also looks forward to a speedy, but successful trial for sportsmen, our deer resource and all those who are effected by deer management in PA.

Court Ruling: www.courts.state.pa.us/OpPosting/CWealth/out/427MD07_6-16-08.pdf

Stephen Mohr
President
Unified Sportsmen of Pennsylvania

Advertise in Pensylvania Woods & Waters