The mountain lion mess

Re “Fish and Game’s lion hunter,” Editorial, March 1

The Times would do well to remember that the “less than 1%” of state residents who hunt, as we’re so dismissively referred to, pay the lion’s share of the Department of Fish and Game’s conservation efforts through hunting license fees, tags and permits.

As for Fish and Game Commission President Daniel W. Richards, it’s heartening to see that even The Times’ editorial board recognizes the legality of his mountain lion hunt in Idaho and is refraining from joining ignorant grandstanders like Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom in calling for his resignation.

Now if we could only get you on board for a repeal of California’s Proposition 117, which has accomplished nothing but ensuring the starvation of scores of lions due to overpopulation.

Rich Crowther

Shadow Hills

Richards’ killing of a mountain lion with a dog pack and a rifle, his grinning photo-op and the tired, predictable defense by his apologists was so wrong on so many levels.

For a man in Richards’ position, having a right to engage in a “100% legal activity” in Idaho is a bar set far too low for the majority of Californians. He should do the right thing and resign.

Brian Lent

Sierra Madre

Richards was within all legal rights in shooting the cougar.

The 40 Assembly Democrats who signed the letter stating that the commissioner is unfit to enforce the laws of the state of California are themselves shameful. This is exactly the reason California has become the laughingstock of the world. These are the very same legislators running and ruining this once great state.

I remember a time when Iwas very proud to say, “I am from California.” It is now an embarrassment.

William Garrett

Newport Beach