Deer hunting experts and government representatives will give their insights into deer hunting in Victoria at the SSAA SHOT Expo this weekend.
The panel discussion, to be held on the Main Stage on both days of the Expo, will discuss the role recreational hunting plays in deer management and the challenges faced in controlling deer numbers.
“We’ve seen a lot of commentary in the media and on social media about a growing deer population, the impacts it is having and how it is being managed,” said SSAA Victoria Hunting Development Manager David Laird who will be on the panel as an expert hunter.
“Recreational hunting is somewhere in the middle of it so we wanted to bring clarity to the issue and help hunters understand their role.”
Mr Laird will be joined by Australian Deer Association Executive Officer Barry Howlett, Game Management Authority Stakeholder and Hunting Programs Zach Powell and Senior Analyst Environment and Conservation Ben Fahey from Parks Victoria.
They will discuss topics such as:
- The roles each organisation plays in deer management and control;
- Deer population growth and the impacts it is having;
- How declaring deer a pest would impact hunting;
- Control methods such as contract shooting and the Conservation and Pest Management program; and
- The importance of recreational hunting in an effective deer management strategy.
“We also want to hear what hunters think so there will be an opportunity to ask the panel questions about deer hunting and management,” Mr Laird said.
“It’s a great opportunity to come together and have a conversation which can help shape future policy on deer management issues.”
The panel is on 1:15pm Saturday and 1:10pm Sunday on the Main Stage. Check the program for details.
