Opposition to the contentious grizzly bear trophy hunt is high in rural areas, despite claims from hunting lobbyists and some politicians. A new poll from Insights West (commissioned by the Commercial Bear Viewing Association) indicated that 74% voters within several rural regions oppose the trophy hunt.
“The results, based on a telephone study conducted in late January, show that 74% of voters in five rural ridings with strong hunting traditions are opposed to the trophy grizzly hunt,” a press release stated. “The results align with a2015 Insights West survey, where 91% of British Columbians voiced opposition to trophy hunting. This is the first in-depth poll carried out to gauge attitudes towards this issue in the Interior.”
A representative of the Commercial Bear Viewing Association said that the poll shows there is clearly no urban-rural divide on the trophy hunt, as some politicians and hunting lobbyists have implied.
“Few voters who cast a ballot for either of the two major provincial parties in 2013 are satisfied with the status quo on grizzly trophy hunting,” says Mario Canseco, Vice President, Public Affairs at Insights West. “Voicing support for the current state of affairs is not bound to be a winner with voters at their doorstep.”
Detailed information about the poll is available here.
Blog: Review of Grizzly Management a Warning, Not a Win, for Government
This news comes on the heels of the Bella Coola Valley Tourism board announcing they are backing the Coastal First Nations ban on hunting in the Great Bear Rainforest. The board also stated they are interested in promoting non-consumptive wildlife activities in their region.
The tide against the trophy hunt is continuing to grow, and your voice can help protect British Columbia’s grizzly from this greedy blood sport.
Please take time to locate your local candidates for the upcoming provincial election in British Columbia and let them know you stand against the hunt – and want them to, as well. If you don’t live in BC, you can contact Premier Christy Clark atpremier@gov.bc.caand let her know you won’t be spending your tourism dollars while the trophy hunt continues.
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