Can forestry schools contribute to the recruitment and retention of hunters to mitigate game damage in Japan?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51094/jxiv.693Keywords:
human–wildlife conflict, sika deer, clearcutting, reforestation, forest workerAbstract
Human–wildlife conflicts by ungulates have become a major problem worldwide. Deer populations are increasing in many temperate areas of developed countries, significantly affecting forest vegetation. Hunting is a widely employed method for mitigating game damage; however, hunting participation has decreased in Japan and many Western countries. Therefore, the recruitment and retention of hunters are crucial. This study highlights challenges and evaluates approaches to teaching hunting at 22 forestry schools in Japan. The main wildlife damage mitigation technique taught at forestry schools was plant shielding (with protective nets). Some schools provided opportunities to interact with actual hunters by inviting local hunters as lecturers or organizing group-hunting trips for students. Analysis of hunting license examinations across eight prefectures revealed that, although forestry students were only a minority of successful applicants overall, they achieved the highest passing rate among teenagers. Therefore, forestry schools with diverse curricula can contribute to the recruitment of young hunters. Strategic and integrated implementation of game and forest management is essential to maximize the positive impacts and mitigate the negative impacts of game ungulates on forest ecosystems. The forestry schools can play an essential role in preparing frontline personnel with expertise in both forestry and hunting.
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Submitted: 2024-04-30 07:51:59 UTC
Published: 2024-05-08 00:36:24 UTC
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Junna Iwano
Ryudai Ueno
Tadamichi Sato
Noriko Sato
Takahiro Fujiwara
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