A proposed piece of legislation to revamp the New Jersey Fish and Game Council was heard this morning in the Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee. New Jersey sportsmen and the U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance are concerned the legislation will simplify anti-hunters' involvement in wildlife decision-making. Assmbly Bill 3275 introduced by Assemblyman Michael Panter, D-Shrewsbury, will change the makeup of the Fish and Game Council by removing six sportsmen and three farmers representing various geographical regions, replacing them with seven appointees recommended by the governor. The bill also directs the council to investigate non-lethal wildlife management options prior to setting hunting, fishing or trapping programs and removes the council's authority to consider the use and development of fish and wildlife resources for public recreation and food supply when adopting the state's Fish and Game Code. Assembly Bill 3275 also proposes the transfer of the Division of Fish and Wildlife from the Department of Conservation and Economic Development to the Department of Environmental Protection. If the shift occurs, there is a risk that game management activities will take a back seat to environmental projects, and thus wildlife conservation will suffer. Stay tuned for the results.