The Province of Zeeland and the Zeeland Wildlife Management Unit today presented the Fauna app Zeeland. With this digital application, farmers, hunters and land managers get direct insight into the applicable rules regarding wildlife management and hunting. The app clearly shows at a glance what is allowed at a specific location, at that moment, and for a particular animal species.
Rules clear and workable
The regulations regarding wildlife management are carefully constructed but complex in practice. Which species may be managed when? Which means are allowed? Is there an exemption, a dispensation or a permit?
Discussions with hunters, land managers and the Wildlife Management Unit (FBE) showed there was a need for more overview and ease of use. The rules are clearly laid down but not always easily accessible in the field. This led to many questions to the FBE and uncertainty among users.
The Fauna app brings all applicable rules together in one user-friendly digital environment. The regulations themselves do not change but are better accessible and directly applicable in practice.
What does this mean in practice?
With the Fauna app, users can easily check:
- whether management or hunting is allowed;
- for which species;
- in which period;
- under what conditions.
When management is not allowed, the app also indicates whether it is possible to apply for a permit, which preventive measures must be taken and whether compensation for damage can be requested.
‘Clarity for everyone’
Deputy Wilfried Nielen is satisfied with the result. “Good rules are important, but they must also be understandable and applicable. With this app, we ensure that everyone in the field can immediately see what is and is not allowed. This prevents mistakes, increases care and strengthens the implementation of our wildlife policy.” Nielen also emphasizes that with the launch of the app, the work is not necessarily finished: “If there are matters that still need to be improved, we will do this in consultation with the Wildlife Management Unit.”
With the introduction of the Fauna app, the Province of Zeeland takes the next step in strengthening careful and responsible wildlife management. The app contributes to compliance with laws and regulations, prevents misunderstandings in the field and relieves the Wildlife Management Unit from individual questions.
The Fauna app Zeeland is immediately available for users and works best by clicking the following link via a smartphone: