PRUDENT AND IMPRUDENT USE OF ANTLERLESS MOOSE HARVESTS IN INTERIOR ALASKA

摘要: Liberal antlerless moose (Alces alces) hunts which allow the take of substantial numbers largely female have been controversial and divisive since Alaska Department Fish Game instituted ill-timed, liberal in early 1970s that contributed to a precipitous population decline. Thus, we initially found governing, citizen (non-agency) advisory committees skeptical implementing harvests 2000s Management Unit 20A (Unit 20A). To help justify hunts, focused on presenting information about notably low nutritional status current relative populations worldwide. However, gain broader credibility trust, needed directly address public perceptions regarding former “mismanagement” including admitting past mistakes long-term poor hunting opportunities. We subsequently presented major differences between recent those 1970s. Specifically, contrasted relevant circumstances 2 time periods, trajectories, harvest rates males females, survey techniques related technology, winter severity frequency, reproductive rates. Illustrating major, time-period these parameters was key assuring could be prudent. By addressing anxieties, were successful gaining maintaining support for 20A. Subsequently, our success has helped ease expansion into adjacent areas.