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Frequently asked
questions
What does the SACN do? Why should I join?
The SACN is a Network of Sea Anglers, concerned with all Conservation Issues affecting our sport.
We exist mainly to provide a communication and knowledge platform, both to our membership and, through our membership, to the greater world beyond.
We exist to encourage as many people as possible to become involved in Conservation issues.
We exist to support other organisations and individuals in their conservation efforts.
More information about the SACN and its work can be found on our website http://www.anglersnet.co.uk/sacn
How much will membership of the SACN cost me?
Unless/until the membership decides otherwise, Nothing.
The SACN wherever possible uses technology to communicate with members, outside organisations etc, in pursuance of its aims, thereby operating at a low cost base (no postage or publication expenses etc).
That way, we don't need to tie up someone's efforts acting as treasurer, publishing annual accounts etc.
If you have money to put into Marine Conservation, please consider donations to the NFSA Conservation Fund, the BASS Conservation Fund and/or the Marine Conservation Society.
(However, we may make appeals for funds if the need arises. Any response will be entirely voluntary.)
What does membership of the SACN give me?
If you are an organisation, you will be able to quote (in fact encouraged to quote) 'member of the Sea Anglers' Conservation Network (http://www.anglersnet.co.uk/sacn/)' on letterheads etc
If you are an individual member, not a lot. Apart from the satisfaction of knowing that you belong (and we desperately need you), and that you are helping to defend the sport you love, for yourself and for future generations to enjoy.
What will the SACN expect from me?
You choose! Simply being a registered member adds value to the SACN.
You might simply like to respond to requests to write to your MP etc, to support SACN positions on Marine Conservation issues etc.
You might have special interests, like protecting wrasse from ending up as pot-bait. You can volunteer to run with that issue, so long as you act in a way that maintains the aims and credibility of the SACN.
You might care to volunteer for any of the many roles in SACN that need a volunteer.
You might have your own ideas as to what you can contribute. Please let us know.
Does the SACN have a constitution; do I get to vote?
If anyone feels unhappy at the way that the SACN is being run, then that issue will be put before the membership and if the membership feels that we need to become a more formal institution, we can start holding meetings, adopting a constitution, deciding an annual subscription, voting for officers etc
But for the time being can we please keep it simple, and concentrate our efforts on the issues rather than the politics?
Please note that the 'Conservation Forum' at http://www.anglersnet.co.uk can be used if anyone wants to start/participate in 'lively' debate!
Who Runs SACN?
In short, the membership.
However, there is an 'Executive Group', answerable to the general membership who have overall responsibility for the smooth running of SACN, and 'executive decisions'.
The Executive Group consists of a number of volunteers, some who have agreed to take on specific jobs/roles.
The way that the Executive Group administers SACN, or any decisions taken by the Executive can be challenged by any member, and any dispute taken to the membership as a whole.
Generally, decisions that take place are by consensus ie any proposals put before the Executive Group are deemed passed, unless there is any objection, which will then be debated. If the Executive Group cannot unanimously agree, then the issue will be put before the membership.
From time to time, members will volunteer (or have their arms twisted!) to take on particular tasks or roles. Generally they will automatically be proposed as new members to the Executive Group with existing members of the group accepting or challenging their appointement.
Those members with roles (ie Campaign Directors) have the authority to make decisions within those roles, on behalf of SACN, but always mindful that they will be answerable both to the Executive Group and the membership as a whole for any decision taken. Similarly, if they feel that the issue is one that should be referred for a group decision, they will put it before the Executive Group, who may then decide to lay the issue before the membership.
Generally, this doesn't happen and SACN executives have a good deal of autonomy and authority, enabling issues to be addressed rapidly.
How does SACN communicate with the membership?
Information about current issues will be made available at 'SACN Latest' (http://www.anglersnet.co.uk/sacn/latest ) as soon as possible.
Issues regarding SACN business relevant to the membership will be communicated by email, as will any issues that require action from the membership as a whole (eg appeals for campaign letters to be written, participation in government consultations etc)
Can I talk to other SACN members without going through the SACN?
SACN is a 'network' of concerned anglers.
All communications from the SACN will go to an 'open' address list. That means that you will see the email address of all other members. You will then be able to email SACN members individually, or email the whole list, independently of the SACN (press the 'Reply to all' button).
If you do not want your personal email address revealed to other members, then I suggest that you obtain a forwarding address specifically for SACN material.
Do I have to live in the UK to be a member of SACN?
No! SACN is primarily concerned with Conservation of UK and European stocks in which Recreational Sea Anglers have an interest. Sharing these stocks with European neighbours, it's important that we also share information and our combined efforts to protect them.
Both in Europe and the UK, we can learn many lessons from the efforts of anglers overseas, who are fighting similar battles. If you live outside of Europe, and have information that can be of value, or you simply want to keep an eye on developments here, Join. You contribution will be very welcome.
Do I have to have access to the Internet to join the SACN?
No, but (for now) all information will be distributed by email, so it helps!
What more can I do to help?
Spread the word! Email a blank application form to any of your conservation minded friends and persuade them to sign up too. Photocopy a few and deliver them to your local tackle shops. Pass around photocopies at your club's AGM.
Spread the word on Internet Forums, especially when support for an SACN campaign is needed from as many anglers as possible.
When issues come up on SACN Latest, that should be of interest to all anglers, post links to any forums that you visit, and email the link to your friends.
There's a mountain to climb, and angling needs all the help possible to ensure a future where there are plentiful fish to be caught.
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