Florida Moves Toward First Bear Hunt in a Decade Amid Controversy

In a contentious meeting filled with passionate voices, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) took a significant step toward potentially reinstating a bear hunt for the first time since 2015. With a 4-1 vote, the commission approved measures to set the groundwork for a limited-entry black bear hunt, sparking debate over wildlife management and public safety in the Sunshine State.

Florida's black bear population has been rebounding, with estimates around 4,000, compared to just a few hundred in the 1970s. However, this proposed hunt comes on the heels of increasing bear-human interactions, including a tragic incident earlier this month where a black bear fatally attacked an elderly man and his dog in Collier County. Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods, who voiced his support for the hunt, cited over 100 bear encounters reported in just nine months as evidence for the need to regulate bear populations through hunting.

Proponents argue that a carefully managed hunt is essential for balancing the growing bear numbers with suitable habitats and maintaining public safety. "Hunting is a science-backed way to manage populations," said Woods during the meeting, emphasizing the need to protect citizens as well as their property. However, opponents of the proposal contend that there isn’t sufficient scientific evidence to justify reinstating a hunt. "This isn’t conservation; this is state-sanctioned slaughter," retorted Chris Teodorski, a vocal opponent to the hunt.

The proposed plan aims to issue 187 hunting permits with restrictions designed to promote a more responsible hunt. Unlike the chaotic hunt of 2015, which resulted in the killing of over 300 bears in just two days, this plan seeks to incorporate a lottery system and a longer hunting season, allowing for more selective methods. Hunter Mason shared his distressing encounter with a bear, stating, "It got so bad that my fiancée refused to ever step foot on that property again," reinforcing the belief that some level of management is necessary.

Despite the push for a hunt, public opinion appears divided, with a recent survey showing about three-quarters of the 13,000 respondents opposed to the plan. Critics, including members of environmental organizations, argue that non-lethal measures, such as securing garbage and educating homeowners, are more effective strategies for reducing bear-human conflicts. "We need better data first," urged Steve Wonderly from the Sierra Club.

Next steps will see the commission reconvene in August, where a final decision will be made regarding the hunt. As the debate continues, the wildlife commission stands at a crossroads, weighing the need for human safety against the ethics of wildlife management. How will they decide between the scales of conservation and human interest? What are your thoughts on managing wildlife populations? We welcome your comments and insights on this hot-button issue.

• black bear
• Florida bear hunt
• wildlife management