I too am grateful for the efforts of USARK to protect our rights as reptile keepers. After reading the transcript of the testimony presented by Andrew Wyatt to the House Judiciary Committee earlier this week, I can only say that I am very proud to be a supporter of USARK. His presentation was lucid, intelligent, and professional... exactly what we need in a time when many would like to paint us as a bunch of irresponsible freaks, with no regard for the rights of others, or the sanctity of ecosystems. Andrew countered that sentiment by educating them as to the scope of our industry, both financially and in terms of numbers of people involved, but also by pointing out the actual conservation benefits being provided by people in the private sector who maintain breeding populations of these various animals. He let them know that we are making efforts to be a responsible self regulating industry, addressing many of the very issues being proposed in these various bills, but that rather than doing so from a place of fear and ignorance, we can operate from a place of understanding, with a desire to work through these various issues so that we may continue to have the right to have reptiles in our lives.

I understand the anger and frustration that most of us have right now with what seems like a never ending stream of proposed legislation designed to stop us from having the creatures we love - but lets direct our energies in ways that can make a difference. Right now, USARK is a voice that is being heard, and is making a difference. If you want to be heard, I suggest that you join USARK, give them your support, give them your feedback... positive or negative - as long as it is constructive. Or if you think your position is one that is substantially different and cannot be integrated into their charter, start a different united front, and fight this another way... the point is that now is the time to act. Idle criticism is pointless and divides us at a time when we can ill afford it.

Thanks again USARK!
Dan Wolfe

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