Press Release: Vermonters Call for Stricter Wildlife Protections Amid Special Interest Group Influence
STARKSBORO, VT — A recent study highlights a significant desire among Vermonters for enhanced wildlife protections, yet state governance appears swayed by special interest groups. The report, "America’s Wildlife Values," reveals that 34% of Vermonters identify as “mutualists,” advocating for harmony with wildlife, while 29% are “pluralists” and 25% are “traditionalists,” inclined towards wildlife utility.
Controversial practices, such as hounding—hunting bears and coyotes with dogs—face substantial opposition, even from within the hunting community. Concerns include landowner rights and animal cruelty, as hounds may be injured and wild animals terrorized for several months each year. This year saw multiple incidents of conflict between hounders and the public, sometimes resulting in injuries.
Public sentiment against trapping is similarly strong. A survey by the University of Vermont indicated that 75% of respondents favor banning inhumane trapping methods like leghold and body-crushing traps. Compassionate lawmakers have introduced bills such as H.132, aimed at banning bait piles for hunting bobcats and coyotes, but these proposals often flounder in fear of a veto.
Critics argue that traditional hunting practices are defended by lobbyists with little scientific backing, and the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, which should represent all Vermonters, has shown bias towards these interests. The commissioner’s disregard for a tragic incident involving a dog killed by a coyote hunter underscores this concern.
With Bill H.132 still active, advocates are urged to engage legislators, emphasizing that the most vulnerable constituents—animals—deserve a voice. Jennifer Lovett of Starksboro calls for collective action to push for necessary wildlife protections this legislative session.
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