At last, a government follows the science 

The Government’s recent endorsement of sustainable grouse shooting (News, 29 January) marks a significant moment for both conservation and rural economies. In an era of polarised environmental debates, this stance recognises a more nuanced reality: sustainable grouse moor management benefits biodiversity, habitat preservation and upland communities. 

For many upland regions, grouse shooting is more than a seasonal activity — it is a key economic driver. Employment extends beyond gamekeepers to land managers, conservationists, hospitality workers and local businesses. Visitors during the shooting season inject much-needed capital into rural economies. 

Small villages and family-run businesses rely on grouse shooting to remain viable. The Government’s recognition of the economic significance of grouse shooting ensures these communities can continue to thrive. 

Critics argue that grouse shooting harms conservation, but this overlooks the role that managed moorlands play in preserving biodiversity. Our uplands provide critical habitats for species such as curlew, lapwings and golden plovers. Keepers and land managers are essential to this ecosystem. Predator control and vegetation management create diverse habitats. The rotational cool burning of heather promotes regeneration, reduces wildfire risks and maintains open landscapes required by ground-nesting birds. 

Concerns over wildlife crime, particularly the illegal killing of birds of prey, have been used to justify banning grouse shooting. Any instance of wildlife crime is unacceptable and the overwhelming majority of those involved in grouse moor management operate within the law. 

The Government’s investment in enforcement measures, such as the National Wildlife Crime Unit and the Hen Harrier Task Force, ensures illegal activities are addressed without undermining the benefits of responsible shooting practices. BASC has consistently maintained a zero-tolerance approach to wildlife crime. 

Calls to ban driven grouse shooting ignore the unintended consequences. Without active management, vast moorlands would become overgrown, leading to increased wildfire risks and habitat loss. The economic impact would be severe. 

Moreover, conservation efforts would suffer as landowners lose incentives to maintain and protect these areas. The Government’s current stance ensures land management remains a priority while avoiding the pitfalls of over-regulation or outright prohibition. 

Complex 

The Government’s handling of the grouse shooting debate sets an example for policymakers navigating complex environmental and economic issues. Rather than yielding to anti-shooting campaigns from a vocal minority, this decision supports sustainable moorland management, guided by scientific evidence and sustainability.

This policy is about balance. Tradition and conservation are not mutually exclusive — they complement each other. Through targeted enforcement, investment in habitat restoration and economic support for rural communities, this approach represents a pragmatic way forward. 

With increasing environmental challenges, policies fostering coexistence between economic activity and conservation are more essential than ever. And with this approach, the Government has ensured upland regions remain vibrant, both ecologically and economically. 

This decision paves the way for collaboration — where conservationists, policymakers and rural workers can work towards sustainability. Sustainable grouse shooting is not an outdated relic but a vital component of modern conservation. It is proof that tradition, economy and ecology can thrive together, showing that the best solutions lie in balance, not bans.