Hunting dispute in Bad Reichenhall: Facts against misinformation!

Hunting dispute in Bad Reichenhall: Facts against misinformation!

There is a current dispute between hunters and conservationists. The Lower Hunting Authority has now firmly contradicted the allegations made by the Bad Reichenhall local group in the Federal Nature Conservation Association (BN). According to the statements of Dr. Michael Wittmann, chairman of BN Reichenhall, says there are misunderstandings in public relations, but he sticks to his criticism. The dispute particularly revolves around the interpretation of kill numbers and the understanding of current game populations. The authority believes that its statements in the discussion are often not reproduced correctly.

As pnp.de reports, it has become increasingly clear in recent weeks that the fulfillment of the shooting plan for roe deer in the region from 2022 to 2024 will actually be over 114 percent was exceeded. This is in stark contrast to the claims of conservationists, who reported a compliance rate of just 37 percent. These misunderstandings and the supposedly incorrect numbers on deer numbers have led to tensions where both sides cannot agree.

Misunderstandings and clarifying statements

The anger between the groups is caused by different views on wildlife and the condition of the forest. This is also fueled by the claim that all areas in the vegetation report have deteriorated. The authorities vehemently contradict this and emphasize that some areas, such as the “Weißbach” area, have even improved. Experts also rate the areas “Inzell”, “Aufham” and “Petting” as favorable, while the private hunting areas “Anger” and “Aufham” are acceptable.

According to die-jagdrechtskanzlei.de, the issue surrounding shooting regulations is a complex matter. It can happen that those authorized to hunt do not stick to the shooting plan due to an excessive love of game or a lack of time. These administrative offenses not only result in fines, but can also have significant legal consequences.

Development in hunting

What many people don't know: Hunting also has its legal basis. In Baden-Württemberg, for example, it is based on the Federal Hunting Act and the Hunting and Wildlife Management Act, which came into force in 2015 and was intended to make adjustments to social developments. Things such as the assignment of species to management groups and the introduction of closed seasons are important aspects. The Ministry of Food, Rural Areas and Consumer Protection carried out extensive participation processes in which citizens and associations were able to submit their opinions and suggestions. Information is available on the state government's topic page (https://mlr.baden-wuerttemberg.de/de/unsere-themen/wald-und-naturerlebnis/wildtiere-und-jagd/jagd-und-wildtiermanagementgesetz/).

Overall, it should be noted that the topic of hunting is accompanied by many emotions in our society. Above all, the number of wild animals and the regulation of populations are central points of the debate. A dialogue between those involved seems more necessary than ever in order to promote a harmonious coexistence between hunting and nature conservation.