Issue date: 21st September 2018
The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) feels the Natural Resources Wales (NRW) decision to end shooting on their land is a blow for wildlife. Our scientific studies have shown that pheasant shoots which implement good habitat management and follow codes of practice can deliver significant biodiversity benefits. This extensive evidence was submitted to the recent NRW review of shooting which concluded shooting should continue on NRW land. However this decision to ignore their own findings is bizarre. When the same evidence was previously reviewed by the RSPB they also concluded “the positive effects of habitat management are likely to result in a positive net conservation impact”.
Sue Evans, GWCT Director Wales said, ‘We are disappointed that the Minister Hannah Blythyn has acted against the NRW review which concluded that shoots can help deliver Welsh Government targets in both their Well-being of Future Generations Act and the Environment Act. Those working to conserve the Welsh countryside may feel equally frustrated that wildlife and jobs are being sacrificed to appease those opposed to shooting.’
The GWCT will continue to engage with the Welsh Government and NRW.
Help us create a thriving countryside rich in game and other wildlife
What do we do?
- We use science to promote game and wildlife management as an essential part of nature conservation.
- We develop scientifically researched game and wildlife management techniques.
- We promote our work to conservationists, including farmers and landowners and offer an on-site advisory service on all aspects of game and wildlife management, so that Britain’s countryside and its wildlife are enhanced for the public benefit.
- We influence government policy with sound science that creates progressive and effective policies.
- We support best practice for field sports that contribute to improving the biodiversity of the countryside.
What do we believe?
- Scientific research should underpin sustainable conservation practice.
- Game and wildlife management is the foundation of good conservation.
- Field sports (in particular shooting and fishing) can contribute substantially to the conservation of landscape, habitat and wildlife.
- Humane and targeted predator control is an essential part of effective game and wildlife conservation.
- We utterly oppose those who engage in wildlife crime.
- Good conservation goes hand-in-hand with economic land use.
How your money is spent
- We spent over £5m on vital game and wildlife research and public education in 2017.
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