Pat Emory Discusses Delaware s Efforts to Recruit New Hunters for Wildlife Conservation

This article highlights Pat Emory, Director of DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife in Delaware, who discusses the critical role hunters play in wildlife conservation. Emory reflects on his personal history in a four-generation hunting family and addresses the nationwide decline in hunting participation.

He emphasizes the importance of recruiting new hunters through education and outreach programs, while recognizing that hunting provides significant benefits to conservation efforts.

Emory points out how hunters have historically contributed to wildlife protection, citing programs like the Federal Duck Stamp and excise taxes on hunting gear, which fund wildlife refuges and other conservation initiatives.

He also mentions Delaware-specific programs, such as Delaware Hunters Against Hunger, which allows hunters to donate excess deer meat to food kitchens. Deer management is a significant issue, with Delaware facing a growing deer population that leads to increased deer-vehicle collisions.

The challenge now is encouraging new and lapsed hunters to engage with the tradition, with DNREC offering resources like education courses and hunting maps to help individuals get started.

Emory encourages those interested in hunting to seek out mentorship through clubs or groups that would welcome newcomers.

 

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