In reply to Post #15
I don't like to be pessimistic but its hard to argue with this. It's a precedent being set on what is an acceptable amount of intervention by private individuals, with NRW calling the shots.
Whilst I agree in some places the amount of birds put down is abhorrent, in the same way that some carp lakes are horribly over stocked, its still an uncomfortable position.
Maybe NRW should take a look at the vast areas of over grazed sheep pasture first but no one wants to argue with the NFU. That would be a far more significant way to environmental change than pheasant numbers but shooting is an easier win.
I don't like to be pessimistic but its hard to argue with this. It's a precedent being set on what is an acceptable amount of intervention by private individuals, with NRW calling the shots.
Whilst I agree in some places the amount of birds put down is abhorrent, in the same way that some carp lakes are horribly over stocked, its still an uncomfortable position.
Maybe NRW should take a look at the vast areas of over grazed sheep pasture first but no one wants to argue with the NFU. That would be a far more significant way to environmental change than pheasant numbers but shooting is an easier win.
As an Ecologist (MCIEEM) I applaud the move to ban releases of game birds. As an Angler I'm once again furious at the shooting lobbys' attempt to tap into support from me (again). I'm fully behind this initiative and hope it is carried out in the rest of the UK too.