Updated Statement by Board of Governors Regarding Chapter Access
On May 6, Governor Hogan issued an Executive Order which expands the scope of the “permitted outdoor activities” previously listed in the prior Executive Orders. It specifically identifies “small group sports” such as golf, tennis “and similar activities; . . . recreational fishing, hunting, shooting and archery; . . . .” It specifically indicates that outdoor archery and shooting ranges may open. Gatherings of 10 or more are still prohibited, and social distancing protocols must be adhered to.
The Chapter is ahead of the game, due to the coordinated efforts of our Security and Range Chairs. Hats off to them and to our very own public health advisor, Board member Sean David Waterman, who has been providing guidance.
Here is a statement from our Security Chair about what has happened so far and what to expect in the coming weeks:
As precautionary measure, Viral Cleanse LLC, which is a Chapter member owned company, visited the Chapter on May 6 and performed a decontamination of the following areas: interior and exterior of the Chapter House, Shotgun and R&P range houses and shooting positions.
At this time, while the Chapterhouse, Shotgun and R&P ranges are still closed, the Chairmen are creating range specific guidelines and procedures for the health and safety of our members. The R&P Range is aiming to open up on Memorial Day weekend and the Shotgun range will follow in June. The guidelines will be communicated via email before the opening of each range.
The Archery Chair has developed operation protocols and will open the range soon.
Please enjoy the woods and open spaces on the Farm, consistent with social distancing guidelines with which we’re all very familiar by now. Remember that all facilities are still closed, including the Chapter House, ranges and portable restrooms. Plan your visit accordingly.
Please check your email, our website and Facebook for updates.
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not allowing turkey hunting but permitting hiking sounds like the inverse. Hogan said sustenance food gathering was permitted.
Thank you, Dan. The Executive “Stay Home” Order specifically identifies as an “essential activity” “outdoor exercise activities, such as walking, hiking, running or biking.” I was looking forward to turkey hunting also.
Jeff: I tried to sign up for turkey hunting this season using the form in the letter you sent out recently. I’ve been a member so long (’67) that my number (22-010 6329) does not fit your format but I’ll be turkey hunting anyway.
Frank Och
“After considering more recent statements by the Department of Natural Resources and some other information gathered by Board members and some Committee chairs, the Board determined that turkey hunting on the Farm may proceed, if conducted pursuant to Department of Natural Resources regulations and published guidance.”
I am sorry that I missed last night’s board meeting.
For anyone who attended (BOG member or otherwise): What specific statements by the DNR swayed the board and when were those statements issued ?
How did our Board of Governors get it so wrong when they closed the farm originally and wrong again later when they excluded turkey hunting.
Why did almost everyone other member have it right and the BOG got it wrong?
Is there a “we got it wrong” apology forthcoming from the board or just this convoluted (lawyer talk) statement?
Respectfully,
Scott Stiger
Mr. Stiger: Thank you for your comment. As the Board reviewed and discussed the information from the Governor’s office, the Office of Chief Counsel, and DNR, it was aware that some of our members would disagree with some aspect of the decisions. These were not easy decisions for the Board members, who have spent hours considering the issues, including at its open meeting Wednesday night. I hope you are now enjoying the farm.
Thanks to the board for a thoughtful, informed and intelligent response.
Mr. Harris: Thank you for taking the time to say so.
We intend to use the Rifle and Pistol ranges when open. I will be accompanied by Christopher FRY. He is the son of former chapter president Gorman Fry, We intend to shoot Both on the pistol and rifle ranges. We will shoot two bolt guns both 7mm rem magnum.
{pistol maybe 45ACP 1911A1, Sig Sauer 9mm, S&W model 41 22lr. We may also shoot S&W model 460.