Melissa, The Sierra Club has actively opposed the legalization of ferrets in California for many years. To learn more about their communications with the DF&G and ferret supporters, you can go to the archives of Californians for Ferret Legalization: http://www.ferretnews.org/archive.html. A few years back I wrote to both the national chapter and the California chapter. The national chapter claimed no responsibility for the decisions of local chapters, and the California chapter quite definitely favored opposition of ferret legalization. I am not sure why the woman you wrote to would have claimed that the California branch has no stance on the issue, unless not all of their members have been informed about it. If it is true that she really doesn't know their position, I believe the best thing you can do is to write back to her, politely explain that the Sierra Club has indeed been an opponent of ferrets in California, give her some facts about ferrets (such as that they are indoor pets, have never bred in the wild, and are actually safer to the environment than cats or dogs), and request that she have the California chapter review its policy about ferrets using all the scientific evidence available. I don't know if your aunt could have any influence on the California chapter, but if there's a chance that she might be able to, you should give her the same information. As a resident of California myself, I want to thank you for looking into this issue. I think the best way to influence the Sierra Club and other organizations that oppose legalization is to gain the support of members who have real decision-making power. On a side note, I would like to remind all Californians to PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE send your letters to the DF&G before the April hearing and let your opinions be heard. I know there have been a lot of calls for letters in the past, and there will be many more before this is over. If you don't feel you have the time or the energy to keep writing, then just write ONE letter, save it on your computer, and cut and paste addresses as this issue makes its way through the DF&G and the legislature. If you are concerned about giving out your name and address, be assured that if you don't actually claim to own ferrets then you will be safe. There are many, many people affected by the ban, but the DF&G won't change a thing unless they hear from us in large numbers. Think about all the time and effort you go to to make sure your ferrets are safe and healthy... writing a letter now and then when it is called for is just one more thing you can do to ensure the welfare of your babies. Of course, you don't have to write if your little mischiefs have stolen all your pencils! Julie P.S. Let me re-post the address for the DF&G commissioners: Commissioner Theriot Commissioner Chrisman Commissioner Schuchat Fish and Game Commission 1416 Ninth Street Sacramento, CA 94244-4899 CFL asks that we also send a copy to Bob Treanor, the executive director, at the same address. [Posted in FML issue 2962]