The 2023 Eastern Australian Waterbird Survey results, which are now available, bring some positive insights for the hunting community. Here's why this year's survey spells good news for sustainable hunting practices:

Abundant game species: The survey reports that most game duck species have populations well above long-term averages. This is a clear indicator of healthy populations, making them sustainable for regulated hunting.

Conservation through hunting: Despite the repeated references to long-term declines in total waterbird numbers, the high abundance of certain game species suggests that regulated hunting is a vital part of a balanced conservation strategy. By focusing on abundant species, hunters can avoid impacting those that may have declining numbers.

Sustainable ecosystem management: The survey underscores the importance of wetland habitats for waterbirds. Hunters play a crucial role in conservation by supporting habitat protection initiatives and advocating for sustainable water management.

Economic and ecological balance: The presence of high numbers of certain duck species presents an opportunity to balance ecological health with economic activities, like hunting, which can fund further conservation efforts.

Science-informed adaptive harvest models: The integration of science-informed adaptive harvest models in hunting regulations marks a significant advancement, leveraging comprehensive data from various sources. While the EAWS is a critical survey, it represents just one piece of the puzzle. To form a complete picture, the full data spectrum, including Victorian and NSW helicopter surveys, ground counts, and other relevant studies, is essential. This holistic approach ensures that hunting practices are dynamically adjusted in response to a wide array of ecological data. The hunting community is now eagerly awaiting the release of the Interim Harvest Model outputs, expected in the coming week(s). This release will further enhance our understanding and application of knowledge for season-setting arrangements. Such a responsible, data-driven strategy not only supports sustainable hunting but also plays a crucial role in safeguarding our ecosystems and wildlife.

Looking ahead: It's uplifting to know that ducks have been thriving and breeding successfully. While water areas are reducing, recent trends point to a positive direction, different from the long-term averages. This shift underscores the impact of well-regulated hunting and dedicated conservation efforts. Our collective actions are not just about today's hunt but also about ensuring the long-term survival and health of waterbird populations. Let's continue this journey with responsibility and passion, shaping a future where hunting and conservation go hand in hand. Here's to a sustainable and vibrant outdoors for generations to come!

You can read the GMA report HERE.