Splitting the DNR is not a new idea. It has supporters from a variety of areas, including some avid sportsmen and groups who object to their license and user fees being spent elsewhere. Not even the money raised by fishing licenses or deer-hunting licenses is adequate to pay for the enforcement and management of those programs. Park fees would not finance the improvements and the expansion of parks and trails. There are some farm groups against the wetlands laws who fret about non-point pollution rules that are still being developed.
Fishing depends on accessible, clean water.
Hunting depends on wetlands and a clean environment for the creatures to live in and to increase in numbers. The concern about PCBs and mercury levels in the water is generated by those toxic substances showing up in fish. Campers, hiker and cyclists enjoy the outdoors and the freshness of a clean environment. We depend on public and private funding to ensure there is adequate space to enjoy all of our outdoor pursuits. A split DNR does not ensure this.