2017-06-27 Game Management Advisory Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Game Management Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes – June 27, 2017 TS: Tony Sylvester expressed his appreciation to the Chair and to the commission members for their time and effort with the game commission. He mentioned that recently they were able to establish and bring back the 4-H shooting sports program to Hawaii County – about a twenty year absence. Mr. Sylvester mentioned that there is already a place set up on a private property for this year to have the first classes. Mr. Sylvester is asking for possible ideas for a future venue. He stated that it’s been very difficult to establish a reliable shooting venue. He is aware that there’s other issues with shooting ranges and so forth. Mr. Sylvester stated with the change in the Mayor’s administration and other departments, people don’t want to really address the issues – it may scare people off when one starts talking about shooting sports. Next Spring, air rifle and archery are the type of sports that will be enforce. Since it will be off season, the older kids will probably be more interested in air rifle. This will be a good way to provide a venue and allow them to train and practice prior to the regular season. The younger kids will practice archery while the older kids can volunteer to mentor the younger children. He mentioned that they are trying to get a venue and have gone through the easy channels of Waiakea Rec Centers. There’s a lot of complications in scheduling and timing for these things to happen. They are willing to think outside the box – possibly a warehouse – preferably a place with lighting since it will probably be in the evening because kids go to school during the day and other sports so it would be something in the later evenings from five to seven. There’s a little bit of classroom time in the beginning to get everybody on board. After that it would just be the training and instruction. He is asking for support from the County Council or GMAC members and would like to meet and discuss their plans and in hope to get this moving. There’s a lot of opportunities and benefits in 4-H as far as getting grants and scholarships to go to college for the kids who join. He asked, If anyone knows of kids interested in becoming a member in 4-H, Becky Settlage, County Extension Agent, maybe contacted for additional information. Mr. Sylvester may also be contacted. There are currently 38 kids who signed up. The goals is to reach 50 kids. TL: Mr. Lodge expressed that he is in full support of any of the shooting sports and people that dedicate themselves to that sport. How big an area do you need? 4