A recent opinion piece raised concerns about hunting in the Cowichan Estuary, highlighting an experience where the presence of hunters caused unease for others enjoying the space. While such concerns are understandable, they overlook important facts about the role of hunters and conservation organizations in preserving this vital habitat.
The Cowichan Estuary is not only a place of beauty but also a conservation property managed with the support of groups like Ducks Unlimited Canada which has been instrumental in reversing habitat loss caused by development almost 40 years ago, working alongside hunters and other conservation partners. These efforts between Ducks unlimited Canada, governments, and other non-governmental organizations ensure the health of the wetlands, protection of waterfowl, and sustainable wildlife management. Hunting in this area is not only legal but carefully regulated to support these goals.
Hunting as conservation
The signage in the estuary, including those from Ducks Unlimited, highlights the importance of wildlife conservation and that hunting is permitted. What may be less recognized is that hunters have long been key contributors to these efforts.
For example:
• Hunters in North America have contributed over $350 million annually through license fees and conservation programs, funding essential habitat restoration and wildlife monitoring.
• Ducks Unlimited Canada has conserved and restored over 6.8 million acres of wetlands across the country, including areas like the Cowichan Estuary.
• Thanks to conservation efforts, North American waterfowl populations have rebounded from historic lows, with numbers now exceeding 35 million birds in North America, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Without these efforts, the estuary’s thriving ecosystem, benefiting both game and non-game species alike, might not exist for photographers, families, and dog walkers to enjoy.
Safety and regulation
Concerns about safety are understandable but unfounded in this context. Hunters are required by law to follow strict regulations, including the use of shotguns (not rifles, as was mistakenly mentioned) with non-toxic ammunition, and maintaining specific distances from other users of the area, i.e. 100 yards from any building or structure. The effective range of non-toxic shot on waterfowl is 40-50 yards and poses minimal danger over 150 yards, due to the spread and energy of the pellets.
Signage at the estuary informs visitors that hunting is permitted, ensuring that all users are aware of shared use and can plan their activities accordingly.
Balancing recreation and conservation
The Cowichan Estuary is a multi-use area designed to accommodate various activities, including birdwatching, hiking, and hunting. This balance is intentional and ensures that diverse groups can appreciate and benefit from the estuary. Removing hunting would not only alienate a key group of conservation supporters but also undermine the very funding and stewardship that make this natural space accessible and vibrant for everyone.
Hunters and conservationists share a common goal: increasing wildlife populations and preserving habitats. Both groups benefit from seeing more wildlife on the landscape, and there is plenty of room for both hunting and photography to thrive in harmony.
Rather than banning hunting, fostering mutual understanding is a vital step toward effective wildlife preservation. Instead of calling for a ban on hunting, we encourage concerned individuals to engage in meaningful dialogue with local conservation and hunting groups.
A wonderful opportunity to do so is by attending events such as Ducks Unlimited Banquet or joining the Cowichan Ducks Unlimited Chapter.
This is a great opportunity to see how funds raised support local conservation efforts, like maintaining the Cowichan Estuary, and to meet people who may be more like-minded than you think.
The Cowichan Estuary is a shared treasure, and its conservation is a collective effort. With collaboration and mutual respect, we can ensure it remains a sanctuary for wildlife and a place of enjoyment for all users.
Mike Anderson
Campbell River
