The crusade to manage and conserve fish and wildlife began in the mid‑1800s when hunters and anglers realized the need to set limits to protect disappearing species. This cause led to the one‑of‑a‑kind, time‑tested conservation program known as the North American Wildlife Conservation Model in which hunters and anglers were among the first to call for the conservation of fish and wildlife. Even today, hunters and anglers are some of the foremost leaders in conservation efforts.
There are two basic principles relative to this model: 1) that our fish and wildlife belong to all North American citizens, and 2) that these resources are to be managed so that populations will be sustained indefinitely. These principles are explained and expounded upon through a set of guidelines known as the “Seven Sisters for Conservation.”
Sister #1: Public Trust. This states that in North America, natural resources on public lands are managed by government agencies to ensure that we always have fish and wildlife as well as wild habitats and places to enjoy.
Sister #2: Prohibition on Commerce of Dead Wildlife. In the late 1800s, the selling of meat, hides, feathers, and other parts of wild animals was a growing business. This led to excessive hunting which severely depleted some species and drove others to near extinction. However, the hides, antlers, teeth, fur, and horns of some game animals may still be sold.
Sister #3: The Democratic Rule of Law. This means that you and every other citizen of the United States and Canada have the right to help create conservation and management laws. Citizens are given the opportunity to attend forums and vote on ballot measures that impact fish and wildlife.
Sister #4: Hunting and Fishing Opportunities for All. This upholds that regardless of your race, creed, social status, religion, or gender, you have the right to legally hunt and fish on most public lands in North America.
Sister #5: Non‑Frivolous Use. This simply means that there are laws in place that restrict us from casually killing fish and wildlife. In North America, we can legally kill certain wild animals for food and fur, self-defense, and property protection, but we cannot kill solely for feathers, horns, or antlers or even to use only a small portion of the meat.
Sister #6: Wildlife and Fish as International Resources. This recognizes that fish and wildlife can migrate freely across boundaries between states, provinces, and countries and that we are all responsible for their protection. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 is an example of this concept.
Sister #7: Scientific Management. This considers the supportive aspect of scientific management. This holds to the belief that applying scientific research is essential to managing and sustaining North American wildlife and habitats.
Regardless of how you feel about hunting or fishing, it is the glue that holds together this unique, world‑renowned North American Wildlife Conservation Model. And it is a large reason why we in North America have bountiful fish and wildlife resources that we and future generations can enjoy.
James L. Cummins is executive director of Wildlife Mississippi, a non‑profit, conservation organization founded to conserve, restore, and enhance fish, wildlife, and plant resources throughout Mississippi. Their web site is www.wildlifemiss.org.
