The Debate Over Captive Hunting
Captive Hunting (high-fence hunting on hunting ranches) is coming under fire in Rhode Island. Five years after the initial proposal, Rhode Island lawmakers are on the brink of banning captive hunting practices. This move, however, raises questions about its necessity and potential overreach. Am I a guy who’s itching to go shoot a deer in a pen? No, not my thing. But this is America, and if you can get the reward without the work, you know people are going to be lining up at the door for that. So, unsurprisingly, people will pay money for an “easy” button when deer hunting.
Legislative Progress Towards a Ban
Captive hunting, often termed "canned hunting," involves placing wild animals in a controlled, fenced environment for hunting purposes. Critics claim it threatens local ecosystems and disrupts traditional hunting practices, and there’s concern about deer escaping, and possibly spreading CWD. That’s the main argument being made.
Identical bans (S2732A/H7294A) have progressed through Rhode Island's legislative chambers, gaining significant support. Despite the overwhelming approval, the underlying rationale and potential unintended consequences of these bans warrant a closer look if you ask me.
Critics' Concerns
Opponents primarily argue that no fence can entirely prevent wildlife from escaping and that imported animals could introduce diseases like chronic wasting disease. Minority Leader Michael Chippendale said “It could seriously wipe out the indigenous wildlife here in Rhode Island”.
My response is this: Really Representative Chippendale? You don’t think that’s a bit dramatic? I know you’re a politician, but the fear of CWD (a disease that has yet to be seen in New England), driving policy to ban industries seems disproportionate. Not to mention, surrounding states DO have positive CWD cases, and state borders don’t have double fences like deer facilities do. I’m all for preventing CWD, but I don’t think this is it.
The Role of The Preserve and Historical Context
Captive hunting was brought to Rhode Island's attention in 2018 by The Preserve, a luxury resort seeking to offer unique hunting experiences. This push led to the first legislative efforts in 2019 to ban the practice. While critics like Michael Woods of the New England Backcountry Hunters & Anglers celebrate the potential ban, there seems to be a lot of fear mongering involved.
Nobody has more to lose when it comes to CWD than fenced facilities, and nowhere is monitored more closely, with every dead deer getting tested.
A Balanced Approach to Hunting Regulations
While the captive hunting ban gains momentum, let’s be sure to weigh its perceived benefits against the risk of more government overreach, and make sure to consider the existing regulatory capabilities already in place. These facilities already have strict surveillance and testing procedures in place, many supplement their feed with humic acid, and they’re forced to be cognisant of deer transport. Instead of an outright ban, Rhode Island could implement stringent controls to ensure safety and ecological balance, preserving the state’s hunting traditions while accommodating modern practices and allowing businesses to operate freely and accommodate the market demand.
