Hokkaido Hunters Association Chairman Pleads: 'Remove Us from Bear Culling; We Don't Want to Lose Any Members'

The chairman of the Hokkaido Hunters Association has sparked a major debate with his candid plea regarding the increasing sightings of brown bears and the associated culling activities: "I want the hunters association removed from bear culling. I don't want to lose a single member."

The chairman expressed strong concern that under the current system, members' lives are at risk, and many have been injured. This heartfelt appeal is backed by data showing that out of 177 people killed or injured by bears between 1962 and the end of March 2024, the largest number, 66, were instances where individuals were attacked while hunting or culling.

The Hunters Association is urgently calling for the establishment of a new, government-led system where the police, Self-Defense Forces, and local municipalities take charge of bear culling. While they are willing to provide full cooperation until a new system is in place, it appears they desire to be relieved of dangerous tasks that go beyond their role as a "volunteer or hobby club."

This statement has garnered widespread sympathy and support on social media. Comments such as "Can't risk your life for such ridiculously low pay," "It's unsustainable to stay on the front lines of culling at one's own expense and risk," and "Maintaining public safety is the job of the government and police, not the hunters association" have flooded in, revealing a surge of criticism against the long-standing excessive burden placed on the Hunters Association.

Furthermore, many voices are calling for the utilization of the Self-Defense Forces and the creation of specialized culling units, with comments like "Instead of relying on civilians, this is when the SDF should step in" and "The only option is for the government to lead the creation of a specialized unit." This indicates an accelerating movement demanding government responsibility for bear countermeasures and a fundamental review of the system. Amidst the deepening long-standing issues such as the aging of Hunters Association members, declining membership, strict restrictions related to firearms laws, and compensation problems, the chairman's recent statement fundamentally questions the very approach to bear management.

The Context

In Japan, particularly Hokkaido, increasing sightings of wild bears in populated areas have become a significant public safety concern. Historically, local hunters associations (猟友会, Ryoyukai), comprised mostly of experienced volunteer hunters, have been primarily responsible for responding to these incidents, including culling dangerous animals. However, this system relies heavily on the goodwill and personal risk of volunteers, who often use their own equipment and receive minimal compensation. The challenges faced by these associations are growing, including an aging membership, declining numbers of new recruits, and strict regulations on firearms. The data showing a significant number of injuries and fatalities among hunters highlights the severe danger involved. The call for the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) to take over this role is notable, as the SDF is typically involved in national defense and disaster relief, not routine wildlife management. This article reflects a growing national debate about who bears responsibility for wildlife control and the need for a comprehensive, government-backed system to ensure public safety and protect those on the front lines.