The ban on lead shot ammunition, the destruction of red deer adn their limitation, the decreasing number of hunters were just some of the topics that were discussed at the free seminar dedicated to hunters in Tulsa on December 6. The event was well attended, leaving not many empty seats in the hall.
The seminar discussed the particularly sad situation in Latvia with moose and roe deer, the number of which has decreased substantially in recent years. According to Haralds barviks, Chairman of the Board of the Latvian hunters’ Association, the moose hunting limits may have to be significantly reduced, if not in all of Latvia, then in certain regions, “and there are even places where hunting should be stopped altogether for two, three, five years… it has to be seen. » Also, in the dynamics of the number of deer, the estimated amount is very different from the hunted amount, it is related to the presence of predators. Hunters were asked to pay more attention to foxes, which often eat deer babies, often even adult ones. Invasive species such as golden jackal, mink, raccoon dog, sika deer, fallow deer and raccoon were recalled, most of which are recommended to be hunted year-round.
Wild boar population control
This year marked ten years as the first case of African swine fever was detected in Latvia, so the issue of wild boar control was also discussed.The vision of the Food and Veterinary Service to reduce the plague is chase away their number up to 1.5 wild boars per 1000 hectares and to maintain this number.”The disease itself is this number nodzenbut the task of hunters is to maintain this number,” says H. Barviks.
The rules for feeding forest animals will soon be changed, which will be more hunter-friendly in the future, and the price for trichinella (meat parasite) analysis of wild boars will be reduced. Rather of the previous 19.04 euros, the examination price of one wild boar sample will be 7.33 euros. Wild boars are recommended to be hunted intensively, “hunted roe deer, ribs in the refrigerator are better than rotting in the forest,” explains H. Barviks.
The destruction of red deer – a basis for unlimited hunting?
When asked if the hunters present support unlimited deer hunting, there were few hands raised in the hall, the hunters would like to continue the order they are used to. There has been a lot of hype about the damage done by deer. as one of the possible reasons for the damage, pressure by predatory animals, or attacks by predatory animals, under the influence of which animals concentrate in large herds, where they feel much safer, was mentioned. “It has also been scientifically proven and researched: animals cause much greater damage when the pressure of predators is greater. The animal needs to eat faster, more calorically rich food, this forces it to go to winter crops and rape crops and also to young crops,” said H. Barvik.
At the seminar, it was repeatedly emphasized that each forest animal population, concentration and damage caused should be evaluated in each region separately, without applying the situation to the whole of Latvia. “You shouldn’t measure the average temperature, currently Latvia is not densely populated by deer, you have to look at each specific place.” Damages must be evaluated objectively: where they are, how to prevent them and decide what to start.
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Interests of hunters in Brussels
On September 25 of this year, thanks to the lobby of FACE (Federation of European Hunting and Nature conservation Associations) and member states, it was achieved that the status of the wolf was changed from a specially protected to a protected species. This means that there will be restrictions, but the wolf can still be hunted.
Linda Dombrovska, member of the board of the Latvian Hunters’ Association, editor-in-chief of the magazine “Medības”, informed the gathered hunters about the decisions made in Brussels. Already a year ago, a law was passed on the banning of lead shot ammunition in wetlands throughout the European Union, now discussions continue that all types of lead ammunition should be banned. L. Dombrovska warns: “Of course, lead is toxic, the ban will come, get ready and find the appropriate ammunition!” The upcoming law could also affect pneumatic weapons, which currently do not have alternative ammunition.
The hunter is not afraid
H. Barvik points out that hunters are often perceived as a threat, but limiting the animal population is essential so that young crops and farmers’ crops do not suffer, there is also safer traffic, and less spread of diseases.”The hunter provides a free service to society, in his spare time, paying for it with his own money,” explained H. Barvik. “Hunting is a legal tool that ensures population stability. We have stable populations. As we do not hunt predators, the number of predators increases, they need to feed. Everything happens cyclically in nature: there is a predator - there is food, there is no food – there is no predator, there is no predator - there is food,” explained L. Dombrovska.
“In this season, there are approximately 18,700 active hunters, in the last two years the number of hunters has decreased by one and a half thousand,” reveals H. Barviks. The decrease in the number was definitely influenced by the fact that after the amendments to the Law on the circulation of weapons it was decided to cancel the weapons permits issued to non-citizens of Latvia, but in general such a trend has already been observed in the last ten years. There are fewer doers and payers. At some point, the capacity of hunters may become too small to cope – a challenge for the future outlined at the workshop.
Interviewer: welcome to Time.news! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking wiht Haralds Barviks, Chairman of the Board of the Latvian Hunters’ Association, following the recent seminar dedicated to hunters in Tulsa. Thank you for joining us, Mr. Barviks!
Haralds Barviks: Thank you for having me! It’s great to be here to discuss thes important issues affecting hunting and wildlife management.
Interviewer: The seminar was quite well-attended! What were some of the key issues that resonated most with the attendees?
Haralds Barviks: Yes, it was heartening to see so many passionate hunters engage in discussions. We covered several pressing issues such as the ban on lead shot ammunition, the decline in deer populations, and the need for more effective control over invasive species. The situation in Latvia with moose and roe deer is particularly alarming, as their numbers have decreased substantially.
Interviewer: You mentioned the decreasing moose population. What steps are being considered to address this decline?
Haralds Barviks: We’re considering notable reductions in moose hunting limits, and in some areas, we may need to pause hunting altogether for two to five years.It’s crucial to assess each region individually to ensure the sustainability of these populations. We also have to consider the impact of predators on deer populations, as they frequently enough concentrate in large herds due to predatory pressure, leading to greater agricultural damage.
interviewer: Speaking of agricultural damage, could you elaborate on the concerns regarding red deer and the perceived need for unlimited hunting?
Haralds Barviks: The atmosphere at the seminar showed that many hunters are hesitant about unlimited hunting. While there is concern about the agricultural damage caused by deer, it’s vital to understand that these issues are frequently enough interconnected with predator dynamics. Each forest animal population and the damage they cause needs to be assessed individually, rather than applying a blanket approach across Latvia.
Interviewer: You’ve also mentioned the wild boar issue related to African swine fever. How do hunters fit into this management strategy?
Haralds Barviks: Yes, wild boar control is a significant topic as we mark ten years since the disease was first detected in Latvia. Our objective is to adaptively manage their population to about 1.5 wild boars per 1,000 hectares. Hunters play a vital role in this, and we’re encouraging intensive hunting of both wild boars and roe deer. Furthermore, the costs associated with analyzing meat for trichinella will be lowered, making it more accessible for hunters.
Interviewer: It sounds like there are positive changes on the horizon for hunters! What other enhancements can we expect moving forward?
Haralds Barviks: Indeed, we are working on friendlier regulations for feeding forest animals, which will benefit hunters significantly. This collaboration aims to promote lasting hunting practices while also considering the ecological balance. It’s crucial to ensure that our hunting practices support both wildlife conservation and the interests of our agricultural communities.
Interviewer: Before we wrap up, what final message would you like to convey to hunters in Latvia regarding these challenges and changes?
Haralds Barviks: I want to emphasize the importance of responsible hunting practices and collaboration among hunters. By being mindful of the ecological impacts and actively participating in wildlife management, we can ensure a balanced coexistence between hunting, wildlife, and agriculture. Together, we can adapt to these challenges and create a sustainable future for our environment.
Interviewer: Thank you so much for joining us today, Mr.Barviks. your insights are invaluable for understanding the complex interplay between hunting and wildlife management in Latvia.
Haralds Barviks: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing these critically important topics with you.