Where many of us have learned that the demands from such groups are not often satisfied unless each of their demands are met, it comes at no surprise that statements from the ‘other side’ have said the new proposed regulations fall short of their expectations.
The new proposed changes included regulating hunting with dogs as well as trap size and placement. While we can all agree that regulating where traps should be placed (read: not in dog parks), adding in additional regulations for those who hunt ‘yotes with dogs seems a bit disingenuous.
On the trapping side, many of the new regs are proposed in an attempt to mitigate the risk of both bycatch and nontarget species getting caught. The rules would see the elimination of body traps and would designate safety buffers from common roadways and trails.
The new proposal would also see all dogs used for coyote hunting equipped with GPS tracking and control collars. In addition to the collars, hunters will require permits and will be required to report any and all harvest numbers to Vermont Fish and Wildlife.
Many hunters that utilize the help of man’s best friend to track, chase and locate game have already invested in GPS collars. The thought of losing a good dog is one that would guarantee to send any houndsmen into a deep and dark depression.
The additional permits and regulations, many feel are purely to appease the anti-hunting community. While I’m certainly not against sending more money into state wildlife agencies by way of permits and licenses, we do have to remain vigilant in standing up against those trying to take down our way of life.
Common sense hunting regulations and conservation practices have served this country well and, if maintained, will do so for generations to come. Keep this in mind during question or comment periods and when you head to the polls.
