The annual Wisconsin Conservation Congress spring hearings are the public’s opportunity to weigh in on hunting, fishing and environmental questions, including one on opposition to the Back Forty mining proposal.  In-person hearings have been canceled, but you can give your input online from 7 p.m. Monday, April 13, to 7 p.m. Thursday, April 16.

You can see the John Muir Chapter’s recommendations on key questions here. These questions include requiring nontoxic shot to prevent lead buildup in wildlife and the environment. To learn more about asking Wisconsin to weigh in against the Back Forty mine proposal  in the Upper Peninsula, which would have detrimental effects on the Menominee River watershed and Lake Michigan downstream, read a previous op-ed by Eric Hansen.

The Conservation Congress is a citizen-elected board that advises the Natural Resources Board on environmental policies. Citizen resolutions also are included on the questionnaire. Look for citizen resolutions on offering free park admission for fourth-graders and other topics.