KEY POINTS:
Massive environmental damage will follow if control of introduced pests is handed to hunters, says Forest and Bird.
Public submissions to a ministerial advisory panel considering options for managing deer, thar, chamois and wild pigs close today, with some hunters wanting the law changed to require landowners and the Department of Conservation to manage these species on their land for the benefit of hunters.
Forest and Bird advocacy manager Kevin Hackwell said these pests wreaked serious damage to native forests, alpine areas and other habitats.
"Where hunters control management of pest species, obviously they are motivated to maintain significant populations of these pests so they can enjoy their sport."
- NZPA
