Dear Editor:
I would like to take this opportunity to say how impressed I was with the outcome of the recent bear hunt in New Jersey. The success of the hunt can be attributed to the professionalism, the preparation and the scientific approach taken by the organizers at the State Division of Fish and Wildlife, as well as the preparation and training of the hunters involved.
The State of New Jersey is well served by active wildlife management programs. The bear hunt was also a useful way to determine more about the bear population in the State, which may be larger than earlier estimated.
A controlled hunt is the best way to reduce nuisance costs, accidents, crop damage and intrusion into residential areas from excess wildlife populations. Without natural predators, these hunts are needed for a healthy outdoors in New Jersey.
Richard E. Nieuwehuis
President
New Jersey Farm Bureau