What Is the Purpose of a Hunting Moratorium?
2025-01-17 13:00:00 / News
This proposal is included in the draft Presidential Decree “On the State Program for the Implementation of the Strategy ‘Uzbekistan-2030’ in the "Year of Environmental Protection and "Green" Economy”.
It is worth noting that in recent years, a lack of oversight regarding the issuance of hunting permits by hunting farms has created conditions for hunters to reuse permits and engage in illegal hunting outside designated hunting areas.
Illegal hunting beyond hunting grounds and uncontrolled hunting during the season pose serious threats to animal reproduction. These situations have led to justified objections from the public.
International Experience
International experience has demonstrated that long-term hunting restrictions help maintain stable populations of endangered species and, to some extent, contribute to their growth. For instance, research conducted by Harvard University in the United States and Oxford University in the United Kingdom indicates that hunting restrictions increased animal populations in these regions by an average of 20% and had a positive impact on biodiversity conservation.
Research by Uzbekistan's Academy of Sciences underscores that hunting restrictions are vital for maintaining ecological stability.
Are there exceptions to the moratorium?
According to the proposed draft, the moratorium does not apply to hunting wild animals kept or bred by farmers in nurseries, incubators, fish farms, and pond farms. It also allows for hunting for sanitary purposes.
As an alternative for hunters, specialized services for shooting sports will be introduced in designated areas in the regions.
Additionally, starting in 2025, fish farming activities will be carried out in rivers and streams flowing through central cities of the republic, with at least 15 tons of juvenile fish released annually.
How will It be Implemented?
Restrictions on hunting activities will be approved and monitored in accordance with established legislation. Compliance will be consistently overseen through state and public control mechanisms. Special commissions will be established to ensure enforcement, and the effectiveness of the measures will be evaluated quarterly.
Expected Outcomes
Analysis indicates that the introduction of restrictions is expected to result in an 8–10% annual increase in animal populations. Efforts in this area will also facilitate the organization of hunting farms and lay the groundwork for the rational use of natural resources, organized hunting, environmental conservation, and ecological stability. Furthermore, this will contribute to the development of tourism and recreational activities.
For Information: The draft of the Presidential Decree is open for public and expert discussion on the Uzbekistan-2030 National Strategy portal until January 22, 2025. You can participate actively by submitting your proposals and comments via the portal uzbekistan2030.uz and the Telegram bot @Ekologiya_yili_bot.