Legislators concerned about Game Commission’s rural land control
Rural Pennsylvania Legislators Express Concerns Over Pennsylvania Game Commission Expansion
Legislators from rural Pennsylvania have raised concerns about the expansion efforts of the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC), fearing that increased land ownership by the commission will hinder development and tax revenues. During a recent Senate Game & Fisheries Committee meeting, these concerns were once again brought up.
Questioning the Commission’s Land Acquisition
Senator Scott Hutchinson, R-Oil City, expressed his concerns about the Commission’s land acquisition policies and procedures, emphasizing the need for an ongoing conversation. He asked whether the Commission has set a limit on the percentage of land that should be under government or Game Commission ownership.
PGC Executive Director Bryan Burhans refrained from providing a specific figure but highlighted the importance of managing wildlife and ensuring ample land for hunters.
Ensuring Access and Opportunity
Burhans emphasized the principle of providing equal hunting opportunities for all, regardless of class, income, or social status. He outlined strategic goals, including acquiring land that grants access to existing game lands, purchasing properties within game lands, and simplifying management.
Burhans clarified that the Commission does not prioritize acquiring as much land as possible but rather focuses on specific projects that align with their objectives.
Contentious Issues and Decreased Revenues
The PGC currently controls over 1.5 million acres of game lands and provides $1.8 million in payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) to localities. However, this has become a contentious issue for legislators.
Representative Cris Dush, R-Brookville, expressed concern over the significant amount of land owned by the Game Commission, comparing it to the entire state of Delaware. He argued that the Commission’s land expansion negatively impacts local government revenues.
PGC’s Response and Ongoing Discussions
Burhans reassured legislators that the Commission’s goal is not to purchase the entire state of Pennsylvania but rather to acquire lands with significant wildlife value. He acknowledged the concerns raised by local government officials and emphasized the need for further discussions on the matter.
Although Act 34 of 2023 increased the rates for PILOT payments, the issue remains unresolved and continues to be a cause for concern among local government officials.
Deeper Discussions Needed
Representative Dush stressed the importance of engaging in deeper discussions to address the concerns raised by local government officials regarding the impact of the PGC’s land expansion.
What are the concerns raised by rural legislators regarding the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s expansion efforts?
Habitat and the need for sufficient land for conservation purposes. He argued that the acquisition of lands by the commission is essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability of Pennsylvania’s wildlife resources. Burhans also clarified that the commission only acquires land from willing sellers and does not use eminent domain.
Nevertheless, Senator Hutchinson’s concerns were shared by other legislators from rural areas. They argued that the expansion efforts of the PGC would result in increased government ownership of land, which could restrict economic development and reduce tax revenues for local communities. They raised important questions about the balance between conservation and economic growth.
One of the key concerns is the impact that increased government-owned land could have on local tax revenues. Pennsylvania, like many other states, relies heavily on property taxes to fund local services and infrastructure. With the PGC acquiring more land, the taxable property base in rural areas may be reduced, leading to a decline in tax revenues for local governments. This could put a strain on essential services such as schools, healthcare, and public safety.
Legislators also highlighted the potential limitations on development that could arise from a larger government-owned land area. In rural areas, where development projects are often limited, the expansion of the PGC’s land ownership could further restrict opportunities for economic growth. This, in turn, could lead to job losses and hinder the overall prosperity of rural communities.
While the concerns raised by rural legislators are valid, it is important to consider the benefits that the Pennsylvania Game Commission expansion brings to the table. By acquiring more land, the commission can enhance wildlife habitat conservation, protect biodiversity, and provide ample opportunities for hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreational activities. These benefits not only contribute to the preservation of Pennsylvania’s natural resources but also promote tourism and outdoor industries that are vital to the state’s economy.
Finding a balance between conservation and economic development is crucial. The PGC should work closely with rural communities and local governments to address their concerns and find mutually beneficial solutions. Measures could be taken to mitigate the potential negative impact on tax revenues, such as providing compensation to local governments for lost tax revenue or exploring alternative revenue options. Similarly, the PGC can collaborate with local development authorities to identify areas where economic development can coexist with conservation efforts.
The expansion efforts of the Pennsylvania Game Commission should be seen as an opportunity to foster collaboration and find common ground between the interests of conservation and economic prosperity. By engaging in open and ongoing discussions, legislators, the PGC, and rural communities can work together to ensure a sustainable future for Pennsylvania, where wildlife resources are preserved, economic growth is fostered, and local communities thrive.
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