I was one of those who testified against the appt of Scott Mason to the position of Executive Director of the Fish and Game Department. My objection was mostly regarding his lack of experience for the job. However, after listening to the testimony, I found that there were many compelling reasons to deny his appointment.

There was a “name calling” testimony on record that directly conflicted with his testimony at the hearing. Biologists testified that he is unqualified and one biologist in particular, from the F&G Dept., testified regarding his open disrespect towards the biologists and the difficulty they encountered working with him. Neighbors spoke of the alienation caused by his work on behalf of the failed Northern Pass. Despite these, and many more red flags, the Council approved him 3-1. Thank you Councilor Pignatelli for being the lone Councilor who remained dedicated to serve those you represent.

Looking at the testimony from his detractors and his own faltering testimony, Mr. Mason demonstrated that he has neither the temperament nor the experience to fill the position.

The confirmation of Mr. Mason maintains the current direction of “them vs us” that doesn’t take into account the legitimate interests of other residents in NH in setting the priorities and direction for the critical times before us.

Conservation is more important than ever (he has no experience or interest in conservation) as the mass extinction of so many species are on the horizon. Climate change will need to be dealt with in concrete and proactive ways (he worked toward the anti-environmental Northern Pass project). He has claimed no vision for how the department will adapt in the future.

The New Hampshire Fish & Game Department continues to ignore the voices of those who support a change to the department that reflects an inclusiveness to all residents in the conservation and protection of our wildlife and environmental treasures. These voices continue to be ignored and have no representation on the commission’s board.

Gov. Chris Sununu has previously expressed support for reforms to the department to reflect the diversity of uses for New Hampshire’s public areas. The lack of funding from hunting and fishing licences has left the department underfunded with more monies needed from the general fund (taxpayer money). New sources of revenue must come from those non consumptive residents who enjoy hiking, boating, wildlife watching, etc. However, that funding will not come if these people are left out of the conversation completely.

This November, please consider candidates that will allow for new members on the F&G Commission to represent all the interests of the state’s residents. And, according to those who testified for Mr. Mason’s appointment, describing him as a “nice guy” and someone who can “bring people together,” let’s see how much truth there is to those sentiments.

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