OFFICIAL CLARIFICATION
(DEADFOWL TRAINER USAGE)
Upon reading numerous emails and answering the same in telephone inquiries it seems it is past time in setting the record straight.
January
of 2002 the Board of Directors unanimously voted to introduce the OPTION usage of imitation birds in
sanctioned NAHRA tests. In a perfect world we where going to officially
introduce this new policy on or around the beginning of June 2002. However a
few issues did not get accomplished as planned in the time predicted.
We
have two (2) pilot tests to accomplish. The
first in Virginia June 14th , 15th and 16th.
The second (2) has yet to be determined. We then will take the reports written
up on the two (2) pilot tests for review. Upon
completion of the review a Policy and set of Procedures will be drawn up and
submitted to all clubs and members. A reprint of the rulebook will happen simultaneously,
including the procedures and policy if the imitation birds are used at a
sanctioned NAHRA test. Hopefully by the Fall we will be in a position to
officially introduce the “Optional” usage of the imitation birds. Worst case
situation would take us into the winter season.
Please be aware !!!! The imitation bird usage is not sanctioned at this point in time. Hence, any club using anything other than Birds without the written approval of NAHRA ( pilot test purposes only) prior to the official announcement will be running a non- sanctioned test in the eyes of NAHRA.
Numerous requests have been made to NAHRA and the members of the Board of Directors about the utilization of imitation birds in our testing program. Live birds are becoming increasingly difficult to obtain in certain parts of North America and the price of available birds is climbing at an alarming rate. Many potential test grounds and governmental agencies are putting increasing pressure on clubs to restrict the use of live birds and live ammunition which also increases insurance costs and potential accidents. In the northern most part of the hemisphere it is becoming a conservation issue as two to three hundred migratory birds need to be harvested each year for each club to host trials. For these reasons the Board of Directors of NAHRA has agreed to sanction the controlled use of imitation birds in field tests. NAHRA is not encouraging clubs to use imitation birds but is taking a proactive approach for those clubs who, decide or are forced in time to go this route.
Dave Cannings
President