A new deer stalking scheme has been set up in Dorset by the UK’s largest shooting organisation, the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC). The scheme will help with management of deer populations and support farming, forestry and conservation interests.
The new scheme offers BASC members a combination of high seat and accompanied foot stalking and is designed to provide practical follow-on experience for people who have completed the Deer Stalking Certificate Level 1. Anyone interested in taking part in the scheme must hold this qualification and must have a suitable calibre rifle.
The new scheme is in addition to BASC stalking schemes already in operation at King’s Forest, Thetford, and on the Isle of Arran.
Glynn Evans, BASC’s head of game and deer management, said: “The BASC deer stalking schemes have been set up to enable our members to take up shooting opportunities while contributing to deer population management.”
Mike Sherman, vice-chairman of BASC Council and chairman of BASC’s deer stalking committee, said: “Management of deer populations is necessary to reduce damage to farming and forestry and also for nature conservation, all of which suffer if deer numbers are not controlled.”
“Our deer stalking schemes form just a part of a much wider picture in terms of the benefits and opportunities on offer to BASC members.”
Due to high demand for places, BASC members interested in booking a place on the scheme should contact BASC’s game and deer department by phoning 01244 573019 or emailing game.deer@0ld.basc.org.uk. Bookings will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis.
Full details of the scheme can be found here. Available dates and costs involved are listed.
ENDS