Natural Resources Wales is reviewing the use of firearms on its (your) land
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Lead ammunition?
Woodcock, Snipe and Golden Plover?
Why are there Pheasant shoots on NRW land?
Ceri Davies, NRW’s Director of Evidence, Policy and Permitting said:
‘We want to make the most of the land we manage for the people, economy and environment in Wales. This means considering the best way to manage our natural resources to build a healthy and resilient environment that can support Wales’ economy and society. We know there will be differing opinions about the use of firearms. This is why we want to collect as much evidence as we can, from the widest range of stakeholders possible.’
Mark Avery, a blogger, author and environmental campaigner said:
‘I’m sure NRW means that it wants to make the most sustainable use of the land it manages on behalf of the taxpayer and population as a whole. This means considering the best way to manage our natural resources to build a healthy and resilient environment that can benefit the quality of life of the people of Wales and the rest of the UK, with due regard to economic costs and benefits. NRW knows there will be differing opinions about the use of firearms. This is why as many people as are interested should respond to this evidence review.’
A couple of thoughts.
NRW manages the Welsh National Forests (ie Forestry Commission)
The FC in England has switched to lead-free ammunition for its deer and boar shooting – the main activities of its own wildlife management staff. Lead may still be used on let shoots, but given time…. NRW should obviously follow ( there are far fewer deer in wales so it is a much smaller/easier issue)
Welsh forests are perhaps THE British stronghold of Goshawk because of the lower levels of sport shooting in Wales combined with the scale of the forests. Also Kites and Honey Buzzards. As has been the case with FC forests generally the raptors must come ahead of shooting. There is the risk of money grubbing increasing the amount of shooting let.