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Fur use – Perspective from a retired forester and wildlife manager β€” Furbearer Conservation

Fur use – Perspective from a retired forester and wildlife manager β€” Furbearer Conservation

The Furbearer Conservation project, which originated in 2014 merely as a web-based, pro-hunting/trapping postboard for greater New England, has evolved into a full fledged resource and commentary on both wildlife management policy, and the ever-changing future thereof. Its truly fascinating once one puts down the proverbial pitchfork and torch, and resides as a casual observer on the sideline rather than the no-nonsense pro-hunting warrior who once typed before you.

Translation: I do strongly support regulated aspects of hunting and trapping of abundant mammalian species - more-so on the grounds of beneficial (and sustainable) use and management; but my attention and interests have definitely shifted to more of a spectator sport. I’ve become accustomed to drudging up some good talking points and science-based references for why regulated hunting and trapping are beneficial on the modern landscape, and let you, the reader, take the content for what its worth. After all, society as a whole ultimately must decide the fate of the hunter (and trapper) and the wildlife in which he/she pursues. I’ve found people really don’t like being talked at as much as being spoken to - interpret that how you will.

In other words, my constituents and I compile research and talking points that support the idea of managing wildlife, discuss the conflict that surrounds the challenging aspects of living with wildlife, and hurl it against this proverbial web-based cork-board for your viewing and thought-provoking pleasure. You’re welcome.

Biodegradable soap is stupid

The other day I saw a post about biodegradable camp soap. I thought it was a stupid idea – buying more soap when you already have soap that works just fine at home – and I pointed that out. It’s just more trash to landfill or burn. For one thing, most common soaps are largely biodegradable and while many detergents are not, it’s not like they accumulate in the soil or really cause much in problems in the dispersed, remote country I usually camp in.

I am not saying one should not practice good outdoors practices. Certainly don’t dump soapy water near streams and bury your poop as deep as you can away from camp and water. Pack out whatever you can’t completely burn. Keep your camp site tidy and pick up whatever litter you find within reason.

But don’t be afraid of the woods or fully utilizing our natural resources. They’re not going to destroyed because you use a little conventional dish soap up at camp.

Why it’s a huge win for conservationists

Congress is poised to protect millions of acres of public lands: Why it’s a huge win for conservationists

Today the US House followed the lead of the Senate to pass the public lands bill, which has been called the biggest conservation measure in a decade. The president is expected to sign it. The law permanently enacts the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which provides federal funding from off shore drilling on a federal lands for local parks and preserves. It also expands wilderness areas and the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.