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Wildlife Action
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. CONSTITUTION
CONSTITUTION;
The laws, structure and composition of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC
BY-LAWS:
Rules adopted by WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. for managing its internal affairs with
the inclusion of job descriptions for Board Members, Officers and Staff
RESOLUTIONS:
Formal statements expressing the opinion, will or intent of WILDLIFE ACTION,
INC, and voted on by the National Board
ARTICLE I – NAME
The name of this organization shall be WILDLIFE ACTION, INC.
ARTICLE II – INTENT
The intent of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. shall be to promote preservation and conservation of all wildlife, to raise the level of public awareness of the threats to that wildlife, to educate all sportsmen and the general public in the love of wildlife, to promote and protect the growth of our native trees and wildflowers, to encourage fellowship among all sportsmen and environmentalists. All this we do in our endeavor to involve ourselves in civic service and to bring about our own spirit of communication with all of God's creation.
ARTICLE III – SLOGAN
"To Put Back More Than We Take"
ARTICLE IV – MOTTO
"Local Folks Solving Local Problems"
ARTICLE V – LAW
The Law of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. has five (5) points:
A. Preservation B. Conservation C. Education D. Sportsmanship E. Fellowship
ARTICLE VI – FINANCIAL STRUCTURE
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. is organized for eleemosynary purposes. It shall not have any power to issue certificates of stock or declare dividends. No part of its net earnings of income shall be incurred for the benefit of any officer, director or member. All funds of deposit from whatever source realized shall be used solely and exclusively to finance the continued existence and operation of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. and for no other purpose whatsoever except, however, that if the Board should determine there are more funds on deposit than are necessary to insure the cont'i11ued operation, existence and maintenance of the board's duties to its chapters and members, the Board shall be and is hereby authorized to disburse such excess funds, or any part thereof, to such organization (s) as may be selected by it, provided, however, that no such distribution shall be made to any organization not recognized as a charity by the Internal Revenue Service or conservation-related. In the event of the termination of the existence of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC all funds on hand in excess of liabilities and all property as may be owned by WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. shall be disposed of in such manner as may be determined by the National Board, provided: however, that no disbursement of funds or distribution of property shall be made to any organization not recognized as a charity by the Internal Revenue Service. May it be known also that the National Board of Directors has the authority to charge State affiliate or Local associate chapters any percentage of dues it deems necessary to continue operation of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. Inasmuch as chapters gain access to property, either through purchase or by donation, it will have complete control of management of that property as long as it remains a chapter in good standing. However, all property, funds and materials belong to WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. The purposes for which the corporation is organized are exclusively educational, scientific, charitable, literary and religious within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 or the corresponding provision of any future U.S. Internal Revenue Law. Notwithstanding any other provision of these articles, this organization shall not carry on any other activities not permitted to be carried on by an organization exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 or the corresponding provision of any future U.S. Internal Revenue Law. In the event of dissolution, the residual assets of the organization will be turned over to one or more organizations which themselves are exempt as organizations described in Sections 501(c)(3) and 170(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 or corresponding sections of any prior or future Internal Revenue Code, or to the Federal, State or Local government for exclusive public purposes. WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. also has a 509(a)(2) public charity status from the federal government.
ARTICLE VII – DUES
Forty percent (40%) of membership dues remains with National Headquarters for administrative expenses and National projects. Thirty percent (30%) is sent to State Headquarters for administrative expenses and State projects Thirty percent (30%) is sent to the Local chapter for projects.
1. Individual - Annual renewal $30.00 entry for yourself only to all WLA functions (spouse/children may not attend with you if "members only" activity); subscription to Wildlife Pride; membership card; decal.
2. Family - Annual renewal $40.00 entry for you, your spouse and all children under 18 to all WLA functions; subscription to Wildlife Pride; membership card, decal.
3. Life - $400.00 paid once (installment plan available); entry for yourself only to all WLA functions (spouse/children may not attend with you if "member only" activity); subscription to Wildlife Pride; membership card; name printed in Wildlife Pride; life certificates; life decal.
4. Family Life - $600.00 paid once (installment plan available); entry for you, your spouse and all children under 18 to all WLA functions; subscription to Wildlife Pride; membership card; name printed in Wildlife Pride; life certificate; life decal.
ARTICLE VIII – SPONSORS
To be listed as a sponsor of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC., all funds must come through the National headquarters, but can then be designated for specific associate or affiliate chapter projects. Sponsors will be listed for one year in Wildlife Pride. Sponsorship levels are as follows:
|
1. Benefactor |
- |
$ |
10,000.00 |
or more |
||
|
2. Visionaries |
- |
$ |
5,000.00 |
- |
$ |
9,000.00 |
|
3. Conservator |
- |
$ |
1,000.00 |
- |
$ |
4,999.00 |
|
4. Protector |
- |
$ |
500.00 |
- |
$ |
999.00 |
|
5. Guardian |
- |
$ |
200.00 |
- |
$ |
499.00 |
ARTICLE IX – TRAVEL AND EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT
A. A WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. employee using his own vehicle for out-of-town trips, will be reimbursed at the current IRS rate. To be reimbursed for additional expenses incurred (lodging, meals), an expense voucher Form #7 accompanied by receipts, must be submitted to the chapter (National or State) he is representing.
B. A volunteer will be reimbursed for money he spends on his duties, projects, etc. related to WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. An expense voucher Form #7 accompanied by receipts, must be submitted to the chapter he is representing for reimbursement.
ARTICLE X – NOMINATING AND VOTING PROCEDURES
A.
National Committee Responsibilities:
Each chapter is required to have a nominating committee appointed in January. This committee will consist of three (3) members appointed by the chapter president. The committee will then appoint a member of the committee to act as chairman.
In the August newsletter, members will be notified the nominating committee is open for names for board members for the coming year. Nominating committee member's names/phone numbers will be printed in the newsletter for chapter members to contact. Deadline for submitting names will be at the next meeting.
It will be the duty of the committee to get four (4) names minimum, ten (10) names maximum to print In the chapter newsletter. There will also be slots for write-in candidates on the chapter ballot.
For local elections, individual members get two (2) votes; family members get four (4). For state elections, individual members get three (3) votes; family members get six (6).
Ballots for all board members and officers will be counted at the October meeting by the nominating committee.
All board members' and officers' names must be submitted to National by December 31st on Form #4 (Stale) or #5 (Local). Chapters will receive these forms from National Headquarters in October.
ARTICLE XI – MEMBERSHIP
A.
There is no limit on membership. All members join WILDLIFE ACTION, INC.
National and will be assigned to State affiliate chapters or Local associate
chapters if specified by the member.
B.
All members must be 18 years of age to join. Children (Pioneers) under 18
must be supervised by an adult WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. member when participating
in WILDLIFE ACTION, INC sponsored activities. Activities will be planned for
them to promote an understanding of conservation and to insure their leadership
abilities.
C.
All members must conduct themselves as goodwill ambassadors for WILDLIFE
ACTION, INC or be brought before the ethics/grievance committee.
D.
Any member violating a wildlife law, and because of the violation, loses
his hunting or fishing license will have his membership automatically
terminated. When reissuance of a State license occurs, the past member may
reapply for membership.
E.
Members will be accepted regardless of race, creed or sex.
F.
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC offers its members a membership card, decal and a
subscription to its official publication, Wildlife Pride.
ARTICLE XII – POLICIES
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. members, when joining, agree to abide by the constitution, by-laws and resolutions of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC., that WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS will always remain in Mullins, South Carolina, and ARTICLE XII - POLICIES - shall not be amended.
A.
General:
(1)
We will continue to provide public awareness on diminishing wildlife habitat.
(2)
We will effectively secure, protect and manage wildlife habitat and protect our
National and State rivers and wetlands from unnecessary destruction and
development.
(3)
We will work to reduce poaching, trespassing and other illegal and inconsiderate
outdoor activities and encourage improved behavior of irresponsible outdoor
users.
(4)
We will work to educate all people, hunters and non-hunters, that our natural
resources belong to everyone and that all should share in the costs and benefits
of perpetuating them.
(5)
We will work to obtain facts on legitimate issues and bypass emotional causes,
offering vital alternatives to problems, not just criticizing.
(6)
We will work to SHARE with our youth the outdoor tradition that we have enjoyed
and together work to protect those traditions for future generations.
(7)
We will encourage "Local Folks Solving Local Problems" and "To Put Back More
Than We Take".
(8)
We will support the right to keep and bear arms.
(9)
Family participation in all activities is encouraged with all meetings and
special activities held after church hours if possible.
(10)
Alcoholic beverages are prohibited at WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. meetings and
discouraged at any WILDLIFE ACTION, INC function.
(11)
Prayer is encouraged before WILDLIFE ACTION, INC meals, at meetings and other
appropriate functions.
(12)
We encourage meals be "dutch" as WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. funds are directed
towards the conservation of wildlife and the environment.
(13)
We encourage the pledge of allegiance before all meetings and before other
appropriate functions.
(14)
We suggest all members attend hunting and boating safety courses.
(15)
The National Board will not allow one chapter to infringe on another chapter's
project unless the project chapter relinquished that right.
(16)
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC has an open door policy at all functions. Regardless of
chapter membership, the member is invited to attend other chapter functions.
However, the sponsoring chapter reserves the right to have a "Chapter Members
Only" activity. When "Members Only" is on an invitation, then all card carrying
members from any chapter in WILDLIFE ACTION, INC are invited. Guests may be
brought when the invitation specifies members and guests. If there is a charge
for any function, the charge will be allocated equally to all WILDLIFE ACTION,
INC members and/or guests regardless of chapter membership.
(17)
Members are encouraged to express their opinions over issues. Peaceful
demonstrations promoting WILDLIFE ACTION'S resolutions are allowed; however, any
form of civil disobedience will not be approved.
B.
Chapter Responsibilities:
(1)
It will be mandatory for each State affiliate and Local associate chapter to
submit to National Headquarters, Form #4 (State), Form #5 (Local) at the end of
each year, set forth and implement activities and projects, and approve the
chapter budget.
(2)
It will be mandatory for each State and Local chapter to submit to National
Headquarters Board meeting minutes, financial report and inventory control form
on Forms #10 and #11-
(3)
It is mandatory for each Local chapter to hold a "Member's Only" Banquet and
annually sponsor a "Pioneer Activity Day".
(4)
All WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. materials, souvenirs, etc. will be approved by the
National CEO. Chapters will not be allowed to create their own souvenirs, etc.
without prior approval from the National CEO. Patches with chapter name will
always be on a white background with black lettering. Ambassador patches will be
on a white background with gold lettering.
(5)
It is required for each newly elected officer, Board Member or staff member to
attend an orientation course held after the October election and by the January
meeting.
(6)
There can be as many chapters in a State or county as the Board deems necessary.
The ratio of 20 miles should be used as a guide, but is not an absolute.
(7)
In Marion County, SC, National Headquarters for Wildlife Action, Inc., there
will be no other chapters formed.
(8)
Members residing in Marion County have the option of either belonging to
National, State or any other Local chapter. The State chapter's portion of its
project money will be returned, therefore entitling National chapter members to
all privileges of any other Local or State chapter.-
(9)
Chapters wishing to build permanent structures on leased land must have prior
approval from the National CEO.
ARTICLE XIII – CHAPTER RESPONSIBILITIES
A.
General:
(1)
We encourage individual chapters assist in the development of new chapters by
sponsoring a new chapter as its sister chapter. This would include a payment fee
to the new chapter and continued support by visiting the chapter on a regular
basis. There must be a minimum of fifteen (15) members to start a new chapter.
(2)
After the first year of a chapter's existence, the WILDLIFE ACTION, INC.
ambassador working with the new chapter will generally make recommendations for
membership awards. Individuals receiving awards will serve on the awards
committee the following year.
(3)
Local chapters experiencing problems will receive assistance from the State or
National President, Form #41 (notification), #42 (probation), #43 (warning
letter to close), #44 (chapter closing procedure) will be used by National for
chapters placed on probation or closing. Chapters on probation or closing will
not receive their portion of chapter project money.
B.
Financial:
(1)
State and Local chapters must have a checking account and are allowed only one
(1) checking account per chapter. Each chapter may have as many savings accounts
as it deems necessary. No committee within a chapter will be authorized to have
its own checking account.
(2)
It is required that each chapter have the National CEO sign the bank account
signature card so that money within the account may be withdrawn and returned to
National if the chapter closes.
(3)
State or Local chapters borrowing money must receive approval from the National
CEO; Form #6 must be completed by chapters and filed with National. All chapter
indebtedness is kept on file at National.
(4)
State or local chapters purchasing or leasing land or equipment must obtain
National CEO approval prior to contract, Form #6 will be used.
(5)
Each year National will bill chapters for estimated direct services provided by
National for the upcoming fiscal year. Additional expenses incurred during the
year by an individual chapter may be billed monthly or annually. This bill will
be due and payable within thirty (30) days of receipt. If money has not been
received by this period of time, National has the authority to withhold chapter
project money up to the sum owed for these services.
(6)
Each State chapter will be billed for its annual individual State charter fee.
(7)
State chapters must have a land acquisition fund. The money will be used for the
purchase of land, surveying, and general maintenance. The funds may not be used
for the construction of buildings.
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. BY-LAWS
ARTICLE I – ELECTION OF NATIONAL, STATE AND LOCAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND
OFFICERS
- WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. chapters shall be governed by a Board of Directors including the President who will act as Chairman. Each member will serve a three (3) year term with the Chairman serving a one (1) year term. All Board Members, including the Chairman, will be eligible for re-election. Names will be placed in nomination for vacated positions by the Chairman of each Board with Board approval.
(1) The National Board will consist of thirteen (13) members. Each of the six (6) regions in the u.s. will be represented when possible: Southern; Eastern; Central; Midwest; Southwest; Pacific. There will always be one position filled by a member from Marion County South Carolina, National Headquarters for WILDLIFE ACTION, INC.
(2) State Boards will consist of ten (10) members.
(3) Local Boards will consist of seven (7) members.
- The Board of Directors will elect officers and any other position deemed necessary to carry forth the growth and development of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. Officers will be elected for one (1) year and shall be eligible for re-election. The Board has the authority to replace any officer, with a majority vote, who is not fulfilling his responsibilities.
ARTICLE II – MANDATORY DUTIES OF NATIONAL, STATE AND LOCAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
A.
All chapter meetings are called by the Chairman and shall be announced to the
membership and open to the public.
|
January |
-
National / State / Local Board of Directors meet to set policy for the
upcoming year and appoint nominating and ethics committees; Local mails
newsletter |
|
February |
-
State mails newsletter; Local meets / mails newsletter |
|
March |
-
Local meets/mails newsletter |
|
April |
-
National / State / Local meet/mails newsletter |
|
May |
-
State mails news letter; Local meets/mails newsletter |
|
June |
-
Local meets/mails newsletter |
|
July |
-
State/Local meet |
|
August |
-
Local meets; National/State/Local nominating committee submits Board
Member names; (see Article X – Constitution for voting procedures);
local/state mail newsletter requesting additional Board Members names for
committee |
|
September |
-
Local meets/mails newsletter |
|
October |
-
National/State/Local meet and election committee counts Board Member
Ballots; National/State/Local nominating committee submits names of
officers to be appointed (see Article V – By Laws for nominating
procedure); Local mails newsletter |
|
November |
-
State mails newsletter; Local meets/mails newsletter |
|
December |
-
State/Local return Chapter Application Forms #4 (State), #5(Local) to
National by the 31st; Local meets/mails newsletter |
B.
Additional information regarding chapter responsibilities is found in the
Constitution, Article XII, Policies.
C.
The President shall have one (1) vote. Each Board Member has one (1) vote and
will cast his ballot during a call vote only when a quorum is present. These
ballots will then be counted up to the highest odd number of voting members.
This alleviates the President having to openly cast his ballot in case of a tie
vole. Proxies will be accepted and are expected when Board Members plan to be
absent.
(1)
National can have a total of thirteen (13) votes cast. Quorum is seven (7).
(2)
State can have a total of ten (10) votes cast; however, the President votes only
in case of a tie or if his vote is needed for a quorum. Quorum is five (5).
(3)
Local can have a total of seven (7) votes cast. Quorum is four (4).
D.
Board Members shall be appointed by the President to committees deemed necessary
and appropriate for the advancement of WLA goals.
E.
Any Board Member having missed one (1) called meeting per year during his term
(3/term), without an excuse from the Chairman, is subject to dismissal.
F.
The Board Members shall lend support and advice to residents of any State or
county wishing to form a chapter. The Board will be expected to lend its support
to any individual or organization which shares the goals of WILDLIFE ACTION,
INC. and its purpose as stated herein.
G.
The Constitution and By-laws of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. may be amended at any
National Board meeting provided notice of intent to amend with the substance of
the proposed amendment be sent to Board Members at least ten (10) days prior to
the meeting at which the proposed amendment shall be presented. However, Article
XII - Policies - may not be amended.
ARTICLE III- DUTIES OF NATIONAL, STATE AND LOCAL OFFICERS
A.
Officers shall hold one (1) office and lend support and advice to residents of
any county or State wishing to form a chapter. (Exceptions: National
President/CEO; Secretary/Treasurer; President/Chairman of the Board.) Directors
or committee chairmen are considered positions.
B.
Any officer having missed one (1) called meeting per year during his term,
without an excuse from the Chairman, is subject to dismissal. Officer positions
are elected for one (1) year only, but may be re-elected.
C.
President:
(1)
National· (mandatory) - assume leadership of the corporation; carry out policy
of the Board; delegate directives; preside at all meetings; appoint the chairmen
of all committees, reappointing any committee chairman not meeting his
responsibilities; disband a committee as needed; have the authority to
promulgate any rule or regulation necessary to govern special activities or
functions assuring that tbe original intent of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. is
safeguarded; replace any member of any position not fulfilling his
responsibility, missing meetings, resigning; hold an orientation course for
newly elected officers and Board Members by January to teach a basic
understanding of the WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. Constitution and chapter
administrative duties
(2)
State - (mandatory) - same
(3)
Local- (mandatory) - same as State
D.
CEO:
(1)
National- (mandatory paid position); act as advisor to the Board and President;
be responsible for administrative duties, office maintenance and equipment; see
that all directives from the President are carried out; maintain control for
hiring and/or dismissal of paid employees, staff members and/or volunteers and
all functions involved with regards to these positions
(2)
State - (Mandatory Paid Position)
(3)
Local - (Potential Paid Position)
(4)
Vice-President:
(5)
National - (mandatory) - assists President when necessary; plan programs as
needed; arrange speaking engagements, slide presentations, press releases and,
in general, act as a public relations official; coordinate
"Chapter-Get-A-Chapter" Program; assist chapters experiencing problems; acquire
funding; know constitution
(6)
State - (mandatory) - same, and also preside in the president's absence
(7)
Local- (mandatory) - same as State
E.
Executive Vice President:
(1)
National - (mandatory). assist CEO in duties deemed necessary; preside in his
absence; at the resignation, death, or incapacitation of the President/CEO,
become Acting President/CEO and Chairman of the Board and initiate the selection
"process for a new President/CEO; when applications for the position have been
submitted, he will convene the Board of Directors in order to select a new
President/CEO; act as liaison between national board committees and CEO; prepare
an annual budget and finance report
(2)
State - not applicable
(3)
Local - not applicable
F.
Secretary:
(1)
National - (mandatory) - administrative duties including keeping minutes of
Board meetings; custodian of all documents; assist President in all
administrative duties including attending meetings, clerical work, etc.
(2)
State - (mandatory) - same, and send Form #10 to National after each Board
meeting; mail newsletter second month of each quarter
(3)
Local- (mandatory) - same except mail newsletter each month announcing meeting
G.
Treasurer:
(1)
National- (mandatory) - administrative duties include holding all funds
belonging to the chapter; disburse funds according to the directions of the
President and with Board approval; have books audited annually; have quarterly
financial report complete for board meetings
(2)
State - (mandatory) - administrative duties include collecting and holding all
funds belonging to the chapter; disburse funds according to the directions of
the President and with ~oard approval; send Form #11 to National monthly
(3)
Local- (mandatory) - same as State
H.
Senior Vice President Education Division:
(1)
National- (mandatory) - (proposed paid position)
(2)
administrative - direct the Resource Education Center; acquire funding for
center and educational programs; know constitution
(3)
communication - print informational materials; coordinate Ambassador Program;
conduct Ambassador workshops for acquiring teaching skills; conduct staff
development programs for leadership positions
(4)
community programs - coordinate Program S. H. A. R. E.; coordinate
Adopt-A-Library Program; plan instructional camping trips, Pioneer Day Camp and
any other educational program which would benefit the organization
(5)
State - (mandatory) - same
(6)
Local- (mandatory) - same
I.
Senior Vice President Environmental Division:
(1)
National - (mandatory) - (proposed paid position); pursue activities which
appropriately follow WILDLIFE ACTION'S Resolutions, making proposals to the
Board concerning the solution(s) to these problems; act as liaison between the
chapter and political officials;, work with other senior vice presidents on
"Member-Get-A-Member" Campaign; recruit ambassadors for your division
(2)
State - (mandatory) - same
(3)
Local· (mandatory) - same
J.
Senior Vice President Fishing Division:
(1)
National - (mandatory) - (proposed paid position); pursue activities which
appropriately follow WILDLIFE ACTION'S Resolutions, making proposals to the
Board concerning the solution(s) to these problems; act as liaison between the
chapter and political officials; work with other senior vice presidents on
"Member-Get-A-Member" Campaign; recruit ambassadors for your division
(2)
State - (mandatory) – same
(3)
Local- (mandatory) - same
K.
Senior Vice President Hunting Division:
(1)
National - (mandatory) - (proposed paid position); pursue activities which
appropriately follow WILDLIFE ACTION'S Resolutions, making proposals to the
Board concerning the solution(s) to these problems; act as liaison between the
chapter and political officials; work with other senior vice presidents on
"Member-Get-A-Member" Campaign; recruit ambassadors for your division
(2)
State - (mandatory) – same
(3)
Local- (mandatory) - same
L.
Regional Vice President
(1)
National - will represent the six (6) regions of the United States: Southern,
Eastern, Central, Midwest, Southwest, Pacific, lend assistance in the growth and
development of old chapters and the creation of new ones
(2)
State - not applicable
(3)
Local - not applicable
ARTICLE IV· DUTIES OF NATIONAL, STATE AND LOCAL ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
A.
The administrative staff shall be appointed by the CEO for National with Board
approval. State and Local staff shall be appointed by the Chairman of their
respective Boards with Board approval.
B.
Executive Secretary:
(1)
National- (paid position); send the chapter's portion of dues by check at the
end of each month with a copy of the computer print-out; mail membership and
renewal cards; operate computer; maintain an efficiently run office
(2)
State - (Pa1d Position)
(3)
Local - not applicable
C.
Editor
of Wildlife Pride:
(1)
National - (Publish a magazine; sell ads)
(2)
State - (State Pride) Same
(3)
Local - (Not Applicable)
D.
Attorney:
(1)
National- act in an advisory capacity when needed
(2)
State – same
(3)
Local- same
E.
Director of Memories/Souvenirs/Awards:
(1)
National- (proposed paid position); Term of service shall be for one year with
no term limits. Design & purchase souvenirs (caps, etc.) with National CEO
approval; maintain a scrapbook; chair the awards and photography committees;
ordering plaques for presentation; coordinate all State sanctioned events.
(2)
State- same, except see that any chapter sponsoring a new event will be
responsible for purchasing plaques for winning chapters.
(3)
Local- same, except encourage participation in Local events to qualify for State
events.
F.
Director of Land Management:
(1)
National- (proposed paid position); Term of service shall be for one year with
no term limits. Must have the ability to read descriptions and interpret what
they convey. Meet with proper government officials to determine tax exempt
status. Know restrictions to land such as easements or septic waste flow. Make
sure land is placed on inventory, be responsible for land owned or leased by
National; be accountable for all properties owned, both real and personal for
all chapters.
(2)
State - same
(3)
Local - same
G.
Membership:
(1)
National- (proposed paid position); Term of service shall be for one year with
no term limits.
(2)
State - same
(3)
Local- same
H.
Pioneer Activities:
(1)
National- (proposed paid position); Term of service shall be for one year with
no term limits.
(2)
State - same
(3)
Local- same
I.
Sponsors:
(1)
National- (proposed paid position); Term of service shall be for one year with
no term limits.
(2)
State - same
(3)
Local- same
J.
Chapter Development:
(1)
National- (proposed paid position); Term of service shall be for one year with
no term limits.
(2)
State - same
(3)
Local - same
K.
Director of Natural Sciences:
(1)
National- (proposed paid position); Term of service shall be for one year with
no term limits. Plan, implement and maintain Wildlife Action properties. Plan,
implement and maintain Wildlife Management Plan with food plots, artificial
nesting areas, quality vegetative management, and other habitat enhancements.
Plan Instructional Camping Trips (lCTs), pioneer camps, and other natural
science programs.
(2)
State - same
(3)
Local - same
ARTICLE V - DUTIES OF NATIONAL, STATE AND LOCAL COMMITTEES
A.
Mandatory committees will be appointed by the President with Board approval:
Ethics; Nominating.
B.
Ethics Committee:
(1)
National - will consist of three (3) members who will confidentially investigate
problems that arise; a written statement, including factual information
regarding the incident or individual under investigation, must be signed and
submitted to the ethics committee prior to an investigation; rumors and
accusations, personality conflicts, etc. will not be considered reason for an
investigation; when a prompt and thorough investigation has been completed, the
committee shall report its findings and recommendations within ten (10) days to
the President and the Board in dosed session; after presenting its findings to
the Board, the committee shall remove itself from the meeting and consider
itself relieved of duty; while in session, the President and Board Members will
privately consider the recommendations of the committee; the Board will report
its decision by announcing the tally of the vote at the next regular Board
meeting; the problem under consideration will not be discussed or debated before
open chapter; any member may be brought before the ethics committee for
unethical conduct
(2)
State - same but if the decision of the committee and the Board are not of the
same vote, then the member under consideration has the right to be heard by the
National ethics committee and the same procedure followed
(3)
Local -same but if the decision of the committee and the Board are not of the
same vote, then the member under consideration has the right to be heard by the
State ethics committee and the same procedure followed
C.
Nominating Committee:
(1)
National - will consist of two (2) senior Board Members and one (1) second year
Board Member; when the new Board Members are announced in October, new officers
will be selected by the Board for the following year which runs from January 1st
to December 31st
(2)
State - same
(3)
Local - same
D.
Other committees may be appointed by the President as he deems necessary.
ARTICLE VI - NATIONAL, STATE AND LOCAL AWARDS
A.
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. awards may be presented annually to members but are not
mandatory. Nominations may be made by any chapter member with each nomination
being accompanied by appropriate substantiation of activities which entitles
nominee to be considered. National Trailblazer Award Winners, enter WLA Hall of
Fame.
a)
Trailblazer Award
- given annually to a member whose accomplishments far exceed volunteer service
b)
Pathfinder Award
- presented to a Pioneer who has successfully completed a project within an area
designated by the S Point Law and displayed creativity, leadership and the
ability to plan, organize and direct his specific activity
(1)
State -
a)
Preservation
- involved in specific activity to preserve wildlife, natural habitat, or an
environmentally sensitive area
b)
Conservation
- successful initiation and/or completion of a wildlife, natural habitat, or an
environmentally sensitive area
c)
Education
- work in the area of education through chapter programs, activities with
Pioneers, teaching safety courses, etc.
d)
Sportsmanship
- activity which enhances outdoor ethics and assists in improving behavior,
teaching outdoor skills, etc.
e)
Fellowship
- achievement with any activity which brought together a group of individuals
f)
Pioneer
- successfully completed a project within an area designated by the 5 Point Law
g)
Media-
given to a media for its frequent and continuous recognition of chapter
activities and for its efforts in helping spread WLA's message
(2)
Local - same as State; deadline for submitting names to Local September 30th;
winners must submit names to the State chapter for competition by October 31st
ARTICLE VII· NATIONAL, STATE AND LOCAL COMPETITION
A.
Competitive activities among members are encouraged such as skeet, archery,
rifle, pistol shoots, fishing tournaments; wild game cook-off; photography
contest, etc.
(1)
National- select a host chapter to sponsor a National sanctioned competitive
activity between State chapters; may sponsor a State competition
(2)
State - select a host chapter to sponsor a State sanctioned competitive activity
between chapters
(3)
Local - members will participate in competitive activities within the chapter;
winners will represent their chapter at State events
B.
Rules for all competitions can be obtained from National.
ARTICLE VIII· NATIONAL, STATE AND LOCAL COMPETITION AND AWARDS CALENDAR
A. These activities are strongly encouraged to increase membership participation. All local awards are given out at the chapter's annual banquet. Dates for local chapter banquets and competition activities will vary.
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1) January |
- National/State awards presented at respective board meetings; National presents photography award |
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2) February |
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3) March |
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4) April |
- State holds annual competition during 3rd week which will be called Wildlife Action Week in celebration of the founding of WLA April 26th, 1977 |
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5) May |
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6) June |
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7) July |
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8) August |
-
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9) September |
- Deadline 30th for Local members to submit entries for chapter photography contest |
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10) October |
- Deadline 31st for Local to submit winning photography entry to State |
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11) November |
- Deadline 30th for submitting nominations for National or State awards to respective boards (Constitution, Article VI); deadline 30th for State to submit winning photography entry to National |
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12) December |
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WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. RESOLUTIONS
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SC 83-1-(1) |
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. adopts the
South Carolina Wildlife and Marine Resource Department's Law Enforcement
Point System for hunting and fishing violations. |
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SC 83-2-(2) |
If a WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. member loses his hunting or fishing license for violations of game and fish laws, he is automatically suspended from membership in WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. His individual case will be reviewed by the ethics/grievance committee upon request and action will be based on the findings of this review committee as to whether he “retains” good standing in WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. |
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SC 83-3-(3) |
A. That insofar as it has been learned of the possibility of plans of the city of Bladenboro, North Carolina, to discharge certain waste that will have pollution effects, on Big Swamp which runs into the Lumber River and thus into the Little Pee Dee River, WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. of Marion County, South Carolina, does hereby adopt a resolution which strongly opposes such action by the city of Bladenboro, North Carolina. B. Further, WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. of Marion County will use whatever avenues are open to them to bring this stoppage about with the intent to call upon the department of health and environmental control to monitor what effect any discharge into Big Swamp in North Carolina may have on the Lumber and Little Pee Dee Rivers in South Carolina and the environment thereof. C. It is further resolved by WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. that inasmuch as the Lumber and Little Pee Dee Rivers and all wetlands thereof are a great asset and natural resource beyond measure, this group wilt not only oppose any action that will alter these rivers and wetlands but will seek ways and means to stop any such action. |
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SC 83-4-(4) |
A. WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. hereby adopts the following resolution and petitions the South Carolina Wildlife Department to so act upon: B. Be it resolved that the season for hunting rabbits with dogs in Zone 10 and Zone 7 be from Thanksgiving until March 1st. C. That training of dogs on rabbits be year round with no guns or large packs allowed. |
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SC
84-4-(5) |
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. hereby adopts the following 'resolution which opposes any law that would lead to taking guns from responsible citizens, Membership in WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. will help fight for the right to keep and bear arms. |
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SC 84-6-(6) |
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. hereby adopts the following resolution: A. That a marine saltwater recreational fisheries license be instituted and that all funds by law be used for the benefit of marine sport fisheries programs. B. Further, WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. would support a law that would enforce everyone from ages sixteen years to sixty-five years old to have a valid freshwater or saltwater license regardless of what fishing device one chooses to use. In addition, it is recommended that no more than two (2) fishing devices be used at one time. |
SC 84-6-(7) |
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. hereby adopts the following resolution: Due to the fact that two million ducks die each year of lead poisoning and in compliance with WILDLIFE ACTION'S five point law and slogan, we support the use of steel shot when shooting waterfowl over shallow water. |
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SC 85-3-(8) |
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. hereby adopts the following resolution: Inasmuch as the Little Pee Dee River Project, WILDLIFE ACTION, INC., Marion County Chapter, is leading the way in the attempt to obtain for the river the State scenic river status, we endorse the purchasing of canoes so that WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. can carry out its aim of educating the community to the awareness of the value of this natural resource. NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved that the committee Chairman and Secretary of the Little Pee Dee River Project act within the guidelines of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. Marion County Chapter, and be authorized and directed to act in accordance with this resolution. |
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SC 85-5-(9) |
WHEREAS the Board of Directors of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. at its regular monthly meeting held in Mullins, South Carolina, on May 6th, 1985, by a majority vote authorized the Marion County Chapter to purchase a tract of land formerly owned by Malcolm and J. Keith McMillan containing 57.22 acres, more or less, located near Fork Retch, Marion County, South Carolina for the sum of Twenty-three Thousand and NO/100 ($23,000.) Dollars; And WHEREAS, in order to purchase the tract of land described above it will be necessary to borrow the entire purchase price in the sum of Twenty-three Thousand and NO/100 ($23,000.) Dollars; And, WHEREAS, Anderson Brothers Bank of Mullins, South Carolina, has agreed to loan WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. the purchase price with interest for the tract of land described above and take a mortgage on the land for security; NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved, that the President and Secretary of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. be and they are, hereby authorized and directed in the name of the corporation, in its behalf to execute and deliver a note and mortgage to Anderson Brothers Bank of Mullins, South Carolina, in the principal sum of Twenty-three Thousand and NO/loo ($23,000.) Dollars and convey to Anderson Brothers Bank the tract of land described above as security for the repayment of this loan and to execute any and all other documents or instruments necessary and related thereto. Executed and attested by the Board of Directors of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. this 21st day of May, 1985. |
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SC 86-6-(10) |
WHEREAS the Board of Directors of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. at its regular monthly meeting held in Mullins, South Carolina, on June 23rd, 1986, by a majority vote hereby adopts the following resolutions; A. NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved that because the endangered list of animals and plants continues to stand at an alarming number and because WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. is for the resource, WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. supports legislation to protect those placed on the endangered species list and will actively work to keep animals and plants off that list. FURTHER, it is with this intent in mind that WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. urges State and Federal agencies to require all medium and large shrimp trawlers to use trawler's efficiency devices (TEDs) developed by the National Marine Fisheries Service, to protect sea turtles including the threatened loggerhead and green sea turtles and the endangered Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle. B. BE IT RESOLVED that WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. encourages prompt action towards solving toxic pollution of the environment by re-authorization of the Super Fund, Toxic Substance Control Act, the Clean Water Act, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act, and the Safe Drinking Water Act and to give top priority to passing and improving and expanding the Clean Air Act that includes reducing acid rain precursors by at least 12 million tons annually within the next 10 years. C. BE IT RESOLVED that WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. calls on our government for a National policy on recycling decomposable waste. |
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NAT 87-7-(11) |
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. adopts all fifty state's Wildlife and Marine Resource Department's Law Enforcement Point Systems for hunting and fishing violations. |
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NAT 88-10-(12) |
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. adopts the following resolution: to support the RESPECT program in S.C. and its accompanying logo and acrostic as worded: Responsible Educated South Carolinians Promoting Ethical Conduct Together; Respect for our Natural Resources; for the Law; for our State; and for Fellow South Carolinians. |
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NAT
88-10-(13) |
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. adopts the resolution to reduce the creel limit for striped bass to 5 per day on Santee-Cooper, S.C. |
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NAT
88-10-(14) |
WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. adopts the following resolution to protect the big blue catfish by reducing the commercial harvest on the Santee-Cooper, S.C. waterways: A. Reduce the number of trotline hooks allowable without commercial license from 150 to 50. B. Require that blue catfish fishermen use a #2 hook which has a 3/8" gap point to shank. C. No stainless steel trotlines will be allowed. D. Recommends the S.C. Wildlife Department bring into law that each month a different colored jug (marker) would be used for the Santee-Cooper, S.C. waterways, with the use of 2 colors only; one from the 1st to the 15th, and second color from the 16th until the end of the month. |
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NAT
89-1-(15) |
WHEREAS the Board of Directors of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. at its regular meeting held in Mullins, South Carolina, on January 16th, 1989, by a majority vote hereby adopted the following resolution: A. NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved that because WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. is dedicated to the conservation and preservation of our natural resources and recognizes that hazardous waste poses a threat to our streams and groundwater, WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. condemns the practice of disposing hazardous waste by burial in landfills, and advocates the responsible treatment, incineration, and/or above ground bunker storage of hazardous waste material. |
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NAT
89-5-(16) |
WHEREAS the Board of Directors of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. at its regular meeting held in Mullins, South Carolina, on May 15th, 1989, by a majority vote, hereby adopted the following resolution: A. NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved that due to locale and convenience, National headquarters has accepted the use offered by the SC/Marion County Chapter of Fork Retch Wildlife Refuge for its annual day camp fundraiser and any other camp activity or function deemed important by National. B. FURTHER, WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. extends its appreciation to the SC/Marion County Chapter for the generous offer of Fork Retch and HEREBY states in this resolution that said offer was duly noted in the June, 1986, SC/Marion County Chapter minutes. |
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NAT
89-5-(17) |
WHEREAS the Board of Directors of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. at its regular meeting held in Mullins, South Carolina, on May 15th, 1989, by a majority vote, hereby adopted the following resolution: A. NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved since National headquarters has previously charged 10% above cost for all souvenirs, authorization is now hereby granted the CEO to increase the wholesale and/or retail price of all souvenirs to meet not only the postage and handling expenses in ordering, but also for National to realize a fair market profit on all items. |
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NAT
90-1-(18) |
WHEREAS the Board of Directors of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. at its regular meeting held in Mullins, South Carolina, on January 15th, 1990, by a majority vote, hereby adopted the following resolution: A. NOW THERE, be it resolved that WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. supports the reduction of the creel limit for striped bass to 5 per day and size limit to 21" on Lake Murray, S.C. |
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NAT
91-·J-(19) |
WHEREAS the Board of Directors of WILDLIFE ACTION, INC. at its regular meeting held in Mullins, South Carolina, On April 20th, 1991, by unanimous vote, hereby adopted the following resolution:
A.
If a WILDLIFE ACTION member is indicted and found guilty of an
environmental crime, he is automatically suspended from membership in WLA.
When he has fulfilled his obligation to society for the crime(s), his
individual case will be reviewed by the ethics committee upon his request
and action will be based on the findings of this review committee as to
whether he may be reinstated into WILDLIFE ACTION. |
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NAT 97·10-(20) |
Whereas the members of Wildlife
Action support private property rights and recognize the rights of individuals
to use and enjoy their property, and Whereas the members of Wildlife
Action believe that all landowners are responsible for managing their land
and associated natural resources to achieve their own objectives using
practices which ensure long-term sustainability and a balance economic
and environmental values which benefit all American, and Whereas the members of Wildlife
Action believe condemnation of private property to meet society's
environmental goals should be the measure of last resort and should be
accomplished only through due process and just compensation as the constitution specifies, and Whereas the members of Wildlife
Action recognize that all landowners are subject to restraints on the use
of their land and water. such as nuisance laws which prevent owners from
using their land and water in a way that interferes with other landowners'
use or enjoyment of their land or water, Therefore, be it resolved that Wildlife Action supports the protection of private property rights as specified in the United States Constitution. |
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