Apr. 03, 2005
ST. PAUL - Thousands of hunters, birdwatchers and environmentalists converged on the state Capitol on Saturday for the common causes of clean water, wildlife habitat and waterfowl.
Billed as the "Rally for Ducks, Wetlands and Clean Water," the event marked a rare convergence of outdoor and environmental causes of nearly every stripe, including groups as diverse as the Sierra Club, the Minnesota Bass Federation, Audubon Minnesota and Ducks Unlimited.
Organizers say the purpose was to call attention to water pollution and wetland drainage in Minnesota. Speakers and crowd members urged lawmakers to pass environmentally friendly legislation this session.
About 5,000 people packed the Capitol Mall to hear hunters and environmentalists decry the loss of the state's wetlands and duck-hunting traditions, with many hunters describing last fall's duck season as their worst in 40 years.
The large turnout seemed to surprise some state legislators in attendance.
http://www.duluthsuperior.com/mld/duluthsuperior/news/local/11299796.htmToo bad they didn't have a brain dead woman for their mascot, they might have gotten more attention.