Guide to acceptable practices for enjoying the trails during the hunting season

We were slow to deal with this topical subject because the cohabitation between hunters and hikers is sometimes debated ... Although many hunters are also hikers.

Our will is not to be controversial or to take sides for or against the practice, but to revise the basics to enjoy the trails in complete safety and friendship this fall.

Let us remember above all that we are dealing here with hunting supervised by a permit, governing the species, and the number of individuals to be hunted, ensuring the sustainable management of wildlife in a given territory (and not of poaching).

FOCUS ON 4 GOOD ATTITUDES TO ADOPT FROM SEPTEMBER:

1 / Be visible

Stay on the trails where you will be more easily identifiable and wear visible clothing or accessories (hats, bags, etc.); instead, avoid khakis or chestnuts, and opt for bright colors.

If you do not have suitable outfits, a chasuble can also help.

If you have a dog, it is recommended that you keep it on a leash.

2 / Take into account the signs

Batteries are often marked with signs. If you see them, follow the instructions specified: take a detour, be silent, wait for the end of the action in progress, etc.

3 / Talk with hunters

The best option if you come across hunters is to find out from them about the area being hunted, the actions in progress, and what to do. You will thus ensure maximum safety for all, without disturbing the activity in progress or preventing you from hiking.

4 / Respect the beatings

They usually don't last all day.

The ideal is to avoid crossing them, but if you must, bring the group together to move forward together while staying on the path. Manifest upstream and put yourself on the same side as the hunters. Avoid stopping along the way (the break will be more agreeable a few meters further) and try to respect silence as much as possible.