New research shows that the internal social dynamics of hunting groups have a significant impact on how successfully hunting recommendations are followed in Finland. The results are based on extensive survey data. The study shows that well-working decision-making, strong trust and good cooperation within the hunting group significantly increase the number of hunting decisions that are in line with the recommendations.

Sustainable moose population management is based on a carefully planned, multi-level and adaptive management system. However, the implementation of these plans requires strong support from the grassroots level: from hunters and hunting groups. The study was part of Laura Tuominen's doctoral dissertation at the University of Turku, which examined the decision-making and cooperation of moose hunting groups and their impact on compliance with hunting recommendations. The researchers conducted a country-wide questionnaire with a sample of 4729 hunters in Finland.

- Our results show that high social capital is not just a nice addition to hunting groups’ activities. It is a key element in the sustainable management of the moose population, says researcher Laura Tuominen from the University of Jyväskylä. Hunters commit to common goals when there is open discussion within the group and decisions are felt to be fair, Tuominen continues.

The Finnish Wildlife Agency also sees the results as very important.

- Moose population management is heavily based on local knowledge and the commitment of hunters. The study emphasizes that the quality of cooperation has a direct impact on how well hunting groups follow recommended practices, says Mikael Wikström from the Finnish Wildlife Agency. This is valuable information when we develop new operating models and training for hunting groups, Wikström continues.

Hunter networks and trust play a crucial role in moose population management

Moose population management benefits from actions that support internal interaction, open discussion, and joint decision-making within hunting groups. Good social relations can improve both recommendation compliance and the long-term operational capacity of the groups.

- The results also show that a balance between new members and long-term members helps the hunting group run more smoothly, Tuominen explains. This may be related to the enthusiasm and different approaches of new members. Also, the local knowledge and skills transferred by long-term members, she continues.

The results of the study show that social capital, including trust and conflict resolution skills, contributes to sustainable moose population management at all levels: within hunting groups, between them, and between hunters and decision-makers.