Some of you may (or may not) have noticed things have been a little slow with new content here on the Furbearer Conservation site, and our accompanying social media platforms. With good reason.
While the stereotype of the modern trapper is that of an uneducated redneck with a thirst for the blood of woodland critters, this licensed trapper’s been feeling like a sir. I’ve been busy with a penned tsunami of printed goodness via several different (and well known) publications - both local to New England and abroad.
The first of which is an in-depth article in the NH Fish & Game Department’s Wildlife Journal - the official magazine of the state’s Fish & Game Department. A digital copy of the article, which hit the stands this month, can be downloaded here in PDF format.
The article features an overview of regulated trapping and my experiences with beaver management here in Southern New Hampshire. I’m truly humbled over the opportunity to contribute to the Wildlife Journal magazine and reach a broader audience, adding commentary on the contributions made by licensed trappers and wildlife control agents on today’s landscape.
State wildlife agencies serve a magnitude of different stakeholders while dealing with ways to best conserve and manage local wildlife. It is important that the hunting/trapping community continue to advocate and educate, so as to best convey the immense importance these activities promote; whether as a conservation funding mechanism, management tool, or public service - in many cases all of the above.
Despite criticism (most of which usually unwarranted), regulated trapping remains an integral activity for our natural environment. There’s two sides to every story you hear- remember that.
I’ve got a few other penned “tricks” up my flannel sleeve coming to some great (and prestigious) printed publications in the near future - stay tuned!
Needless to say, this ol’ hillbilly seems to be “movin’ on up” in the stereotypical social structure!
