Coalition did not write disparaging letter
We are aware that a letter disparaging a member of the Catalina Island Conservancy staff was published in the Catalina Islander last week. The Coalition Against the Slaughter of Catalina Deer did not write this letter, and we do not support or condone its content.
The Conservancy’s plan to slaughter all mule deer on the Island and their total disrespect and disregard for those who love our Island deer is deeply and understandably upsetting for people. It is completely disingenuous of the Conservancy to be shocked by the response they’ve received. They knew exactly what the response would be. That’s why they tried to keep their intent a secret.
The Coalition organized to stop the Conservancy’s horrific plan through lawful and peaceful means. We represent the interests of all who stand with us, but it’s absurd to try and hold us responsible for everything anyone ever says on this issue. We don’t control the entire narrative or speak with just one voice.
Organizing Committee
The Coalition Against the Slaughter of Catalina Deer
Dear Attorney General Bonta
Thank you, Sir, for your service to our State.
I hope that someone in the Public Inquiry Unit passes along this letter to you.
Please see the attached letter to Governor Newson regarding the proposal by the Catalina Island Conservancy to slaughter 2000 mule deer on the Island by using a helicopter and person using a high-powered rifle.
As the letter states, the Catalina Conservancy management thinks that this is the best way to eliminate the mule deer from the Island. In this modern day, I cannot believe that any organization would propose such a barbaric move without examining alternatives for a humane approach to reducing and/or eliminating the mule deer population. At the present time, the Conservancy management is requesting a permit for the slaughter from the Department of Fish and Wildlife. This permit should be denied. I have historically had a high regard for the Conservancy, but this proposal is one that cannot be acceptable.
I am told that the City Council of Avalon went on the record recently opposing any killing of mule deer in the city limits, but as you know, most of Santa Catalina Island is designated within the conservancy boundaries. The Island is 75 square miles, and it is the largest Island in the Channel Island chain.
I believe that your voice is needed to discourage the issuance of a kill permit by the Department of Fish and Wildlife. A relocation option with the help of preservationists is a humane approach to the matter. I am surprised that such an approach has not already been examined as part of an environmental assessment.
I’ve included a photo of mule deer I took in October 2016 when I was last employed as City Manager there. They are a special species of deer according to the Mule Deer Foundation.
Thank you for your review of this matter, and best wishes and regards for continued success and good fortune.
Respectfully,
ORIGINAL SIGNED BY
David Jinkens
Good Government Advocate
(Former Avalon City Manager)
MPA (UCL A). A.B. (U.C. Berkeley)
