Background

Research indicates that BASC has some 14,000 active deer stalkers in the UK with some 20,000 interested in stalking but currently not participating. Wales has the smallest population of wild deer in UK and many BASC members have difficulty accessing deer stalking opportunities locally. There is the perception that it is not worth trying to start deer stalking, because of the perceived difficulties. As part of the development of services for the deer stalking members, it has been decided to pilot a networking project for the estimated 400 stalking members in Wales.

Aim

To provide a communications focus for BASC deer stalker members in Wales which will enable them to come together at deer related events in an informative atmosphere that will also allow an opportunity to socialise with likeminded members. 

Organisation and management

BASC staff at the Wales Office as well as the HQ Deer Management Department will provide management/ communications oversight and it is intended to utilize the services of stalking members who have volunteered to act as ‘link members’ for the network.  There is no intention to establish committees or other formal management structures, as all those taking part will already be members of BASC. If the feedback is favorable to initiate the network, then it is anticipated that communications will be by e-mail in the first instance to allow for speedy and efficient correspondence.  The issue of postal correspondence will be assessed if the project proves to be successful. There is likely to be a requirement for members agreeing to take part to give permission for the link members to have their contact details specifically for network related communications.

What type of events?

The events that the network will organise will in the main be based on the feedback from those who wish to participate.  The feedback form contains a section for you to indicate which event/activity would interest you most.  This might be a range day with BBQ, briefing on trophy measuring or perhaps woodland design for deer management.  As long as it is affordable, practical to deliver and likely to be supported, then we will consider it. It is anticipated that there will be two events in the first year until the project is established and then this will be re-assessed.

What do you need to do now?

Attached to this letter is a feedback form which indicates whether or not you would be willing to support such a network in Wales.  Please fill it in and return the form. However, we would prefer e-mail returns to the_deer_deparment wherever possible.

  Deer Stalker Network Wales feedback form

Please feel free to pass this newsletter on to other BASC or non-BASC stalkers who might be prepared to join. If you do not wish to participate, please could you return this form with your current contact details, especially e-mail address, so that we can update our membership records.