Hordes of RLP hunters demonstrate in Mainz, voicing opposition to the recently announced hunting legislation
## New State Hunting Law in Rhineland-Palatinate: A Controversial Proposal
A proposed new state hunting law in Rhineland-Palatinate has sparked controversy among hunters, forest owners, conservationists, and the state hunting association. The legislation, aimed at addressing high game populations and their impact on tree growth, has been met with resistance due to its potential implications for various stakeholders.
### Hunters' Reactions - **Demonstrations and Criticism**: Hunters in Rhineland-Palatinate have expressed their dissatisfaction through demonstrations, such as the one planned for June 25, 2025, in Mainz. Criticism focuses on increased culling requirements, changes to administrative structures, and stricter control of hunters, with bans on certain forms of hunting being a particular concern [1]. - **Orange Vests and Hunting Horns**: During these demonstrations, hunters have been seen wearing orange vests and sounding hunting horns, symbols of their profession and resistance [2].
### Forest Owners' Concerns - **Wildlife Management and Liability**: Changes in hunting regulations could significantly impact the way forest owners manage wildlife on their properties. This might involve adjustments in habitat maintenance or the implementation of new practices to comply with the law. Additionally, the proposed law's impact on liability for wildlife damage could be substantial, potentially requiring forest owners to adapt their management strategies to mitigate financial risks [3].
### Game Populations and Conservation - **Conservation Measures and Ecological Balance**: The new law could lead to more stringent conservation measures, potentially affecting the populations of various game species. The legislation must ensure that hunting practices do not disrupt the natural balance of ecosystems within Rhineland-Palatinate [4].
### Minister's Plan and Criticism - **Review of Hunting Permits**: Environment Minister Katrin Eder (Greens) has proposed reviewing the hunting permit for landowners in order to protect trees in leased areas. However, this plan has also received criticism [5]. - **Opposition and Animal Protection Associations**: Animal protection associations and the opposition in the state parliament have also criticized the law plans, which have been known since July [6].
### Minister's Stance - **Openness to Discussion and Unwavering Support**: Minister Eder has shown a willingness to engage in discussions but has made it clear that she will not withdraw the bill. She emphasized the need for the law to prevent damage to trees due to high game populations, as these are important for storing CO2 [7].
This developing story underscores the complexity and sensitivity of the proposed changes, with various stakeholders expressing their concerns and criticisms. The law is expected to be presented to the state parliament before the parliamentary summer break next year, and it could come into force on April 1, 2025 [8]. The state hunting association has demanded that the bill be "thrown in the trash," but Minister Eder has shown no intention of withdrawing it [9].
Hunters are planning a demonstration in Mainz on June 25, 2025, raising concerns about increased culling requirements and stricter control, with bans on certain forms of hunting being a particular issue. The proposed new law could lead to more stringent conservation measures, potentially impacting the populations of various game species, such as football teams in a sports tournament.
