Economic, Social and Environmental Aspects of Hunting with Hounds in West Somerset and Exmoor
Executive Summary
of the Report to the Rural Economy Working Group of West Somerset
District Council
by
Will Manley, Julia Hallett, John Nixon and Richard Baines.
The Centre for Rural Studies, The Royal Agricultural College,
Cirencester, GL7 6JS
Prepared February 1998 - Februarry 1999
1. Introduction
This report was undertaken by the Centre for Rural Studies, Royal Agricultural college for the Rural Economy working Group of the West Somerset District Council. The primary objectie of the study was to assess aspects of the local economy, society and the environment, which are affected or influenced, directly or indirectly, by hunting with hounds. The study also considered the possible effects of a withdrawal of hunting with hounds. The area covered by the study included West Somerset and Exmoor.
As with previous tudies in this field undertaken by CRS, we are aware of its wider interest to both 'pro' and 'anti' hunting proponents. Similarly, it is a deliberate strength of this research that different members of the team have differing views and knowledge of hunting itself, although none are atively promulgating any particular view. We have focused only upon relevant and measurable economic, social and environmental issues, and share a common aim to collect, present and comment upon the data in an informed, objective and practical manner.
2. Methods
The study used a series of survey methodologies designed to initiate, broaden and complement the research base including:
3. Hunting Economy
Key research findings