Future elk management based on knowledge

Sveaskog is expecting to see a reduction in grazing damage and an improvement in the quality of the elk population as a result of the new elk management system that will be introduced 1 January 2012.

"The new directives reflect a change in approach to game management and forestry. The current system is in need of revision so we welcome this new development," says Ronny Löfstrand, silviculture manager for forest and hoofed game at Sveaskog.

The new directives have been formulated by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency and are based on the results of a long process in which land owners, hunters, authorities and other interested parties were asked to present their views on how elk management should be developed. Sveaskog looks positively on the efforts aimed at coming to terms with the extensive grazing damage young forest is subjected to today and at raising the quality of the elk population. This is to be achieved by establishing an elk population in harmony with the grazing resources.

"Elk management involves complex questions and no straight forward answers, and must take into account the wide range of conditions our country as a whole presents us with. Consequently Sveaskog very much welcomes the increase in focus on the problem of elk management, based on facts, and on continually gaining knowledge through annual follow-up," says Ronny Löfstrand.

A new administrative level is being introduced - elk management areas - which will comprise several elk management areas and licence areas. The purpose of this is to define areas and the management of the elk populations in them on the basis of natural barriers rather than administrative borders. The directives clearly indicate that the entire elk population shall be managed and, therefore, that it is at elk management area level that goals shall be set, and the degree of damage and the condition of the elk evaluated.

Sveaskog is looking for clarification in regard to the financing of the new system and information on the establishment of a national council to maintain general coordination and uniformity throughout the country.

"To succeed in the area of elk management we have to, in addition to obtaining the requisite knowledge base, establish constructive and respectful cooperation between, above all, land owners and hunters. Through comprehensive inventories and support for research, we promote the acquisition of both information and expertise in the field. We have also already come a long way when it comes to cooperation, but the dialogue can be taken still further," says Ronny Löfstrand.