2017, a good year for hunters in PACA? This is what Christian Estrosi clearly suggested during his meeting at the beginning of this year.
The president of the Région arrived at the headquarters of the hunters’ federation of the Alpes-Maritimes with suitcases full of good news for those practicing in his jurisdiction. Determined in his approach, he was accompanied on this occasion by Marine Brenier, a deputy from Tinée, and Monique Manfredi, his personal secretary from Vésubie, two valleys keen on hunting. Naturally, Philippe Pradal, the mayor of Nice, Bénédicte Martin, and Loïc Dombreval, presidents of the relevant commissions within the region, were also honored.
The wolf still a current topic
Christian Estrosi wished to gather the hunters to inform them of possible and concrete advances at the dawn of 2017. The wolf is a significant topic. Even a worrying one. The aim is simple: to secure and reassure local stakeholders. Negotiations to obtain a national derogatory order will be initiated. The goal is to best adapt the Bern Convention on wolf regulation to local requirements. An advancement in wolf management concerns night vision with thermal cameras. These tools are provided to guards and also to breeders thanks to drones.
A budget planned over five years
On to the concrete measures. Proud of what he is about to announce, Christian Estrosi takes his time. Then the announcement comes. 2.5 million euros released, or 500,000 euros annually. For what purpose? Three major objectives are proposed.
In a spirit of cohabitation, the funding will be used for the preservation of species, the maintenance of open environments, and investment in hunting and nature houses. To improve territory security and space sharing, the region commits to co-financing examination and shooting centers. It also intends to promote partnerships with sports associations and national outdoor offices. In challenging times, the president of the Région also hopes to see hunting associations collaborate with food banks. Finally, the issue of large game (particularly the wild boar) is addressed, and part of the funds will go towards investment in facilities suitable for constructing protection equipment shelters.
