MISSOULA — A Missoula-based organization has developed a new research program in an effort to reduce illegal big-game hunting and increase punishment for perpetrators.
The Missoulian reports the Boone and Crockett Club’s “Poach and Pay” research program will include data from all 50 states to determine if higher fines work as a deterrent to poaching.
Measurement specialist with the organization, Vickie Edwards, will conduct interviews with wildlife agencies and their enforcement divisions across the nation to find out how wildlife crime is being punished.
Boone and Crockett marketing director, Keith Balfourd, says the research will be targeted at trophy restitution and will help bring about arrests and convictions.
The report is expected to be published in 2017.