French hunters emphasize biodiversity and conservation efforts

In France, hunters are increasingly engaging with biodiversity conservation and environmental stewardship. In Carentan, hunters Jean-Louis Lehot and a neighbor chose not to hunt during the opening of waterfowl season, despite having legal permission to use solar pumps to maintain water levels in their ponds. This decision was made in response to severe summer droughts that left many surrounding wetlands dry, serving as a gesture of solidarity with the local ecosystem and other hunters whose ponds lacked water.

In the Sarrebourg region, hunting groups are advocating for a greater role in managing local biodiversity. Thierry Jung, president of the hunters of Sarrebourg, emphasizes that hunters act as daily witnesses to the state of forests and wildlife. They argue that regulating game populations is essential to prevent overpopulation and preserve natural habitats, while seeking to balance their activities with foresters and other local stakeholders.