CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) - Critics of Nevada's wildlife department say it and a nine-member commission that sets wildlife policy is unfairly stacked with hunters who ignore public opinion.

They urged a state panel to consolidate the Nevada Department of
Wildlife into the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, or restructure the agency's governance to give "non-consumptive" animal lovers greater say on wildlife issues.

No action was taken Tuesday by the Legislative Commission's Sunset Subcommittee.

Wildlife Director Ken Mayer told the panel that federal money, along with fees paid by sportsmen, fund most of the agency's budget.

But some lawmakers say hunters shouldn't dictate wildlife management.

Critics point to outcry over Nevada's black bear hunt and reluctance by the commission to adopt urban trapping regulations last year as evidence the public's concerns are ignored.

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