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Area hunters disagree with extended protection for black bears

Although Florida black bears no longer need threatened species classification, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is still working to ensure numbers stay strong. Assistant Bear Program Coordinator Mike Orlando says a management plan needs to be put in place.

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Area hunters voiced concern about this process at an open forum in Gainesville last night.  Sweet Water Hunt Club Game Director Tom Parker traveled from Bay County to say protecting bears harms the ability to hunt for many different animals.

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He says the Club’s aim is not to hunt bears, but continuing these protective measures hampers the hunt overall.

Stephanie is a reporter for WUFT News who may be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news @wuft.org
Daniel is a reporter for WUFT News and can be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news@wuft.org.