Hunting Desertion in Norway: Barriers and Attitudes Toward Retention Measures

Hunting participation is declining in many Western countries. We surveyed 1,113 persons in Norway who had completed the mandatory hunting education program but not continued to hunt in order to examine reasons for desertion. Key barriers included lack of knowledge, associated expenses, and a lack of...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Human dimensions of wildlife 2010-11, Vol.15 (6), p.450-466
Main Authors: Andersen, Oddgeir, Vittersø, Joar, Kaltenborn, Bjørn Petter, Bjerke, Tore
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
barriers
hunters
Hunting
Knowledge
Mentors
Participation
Polls & surveys
recruitment
Responsibilities
retention measures
Sport shooting
Weapons
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Summary:Hunting participation is declining in many Western countries. We surveyed 1,113 persons in Norway who had completed the mandatory hunting education program but not continued to hunt in order to examine reasons for desertion. Key barriers included lack of knowledge, associated expenses, and a lack of people to hunt with. Measures that may increase participation include improved knowledge about hunting practices and weapon handling, hunting opportunities, how to treat harvested game, as well as support from family and friends. We recommend the following measures to increase recruitment: a mentor arrangement where experienced hunters take the responsibility for assisting new hunters through their first season; a practical follow-up course in shooting, weapons handling, and field skills; and improved information about hunting opportunities that are accessible locally and regionally.
ISSN:1087-1209
1533-158X
DOI:10.1080/10871209.2010.510498