It does involve some complicated issues trying to live in harmony with wildlife. I believe that this is due in part to those continuing the wild west ways. Just look at the 25 deer recently hunted and dumped in the Nanaimo River. The Central Saanich farmer who wants to treat deer as thieves should not promote vigilantism. You wouldn’t kill human shoplifters and deer should be extended similar rights.
Our society must find ways to live in harmony with the wildlife who are rapidly losing their natural habitats. As humans continue to encroach upon their homes there must be new policies to protect wildlife. Farmers must implement nonlethal solutions and wildlife friendly certified organics.
Fencing and other types of nonlethal solutions will immediately help reduce crop loss. It will also take long term, major changes in the way we treat or more appropriately mistreat wildlife.
We must look at new policies such as new economies (not based on revenues such as hunting/trapping licensing and human immigration fees), stopping urban sprawl, zero human population growth, and respecting animal rights. Wildlife viewing must also be recognized as the multi-million dollar Super Natural B.C. industry that brings in tourists and brings many residents peace of mind.
Lifeforce looks forward to working with those who support positive changes.
Peter Hamilton
Vancouver