What does the term "sustainable use" mean in wildlife management?

The term "sustainable use" in wildlife management refers to utilizing wildlife resources in a manner that ensures the ongoing health and stability of wildlife populations. This concept is built on the understanding that wildlife resources can be harvested or utilized without depleting or harming those populations, allowing them to persist for future generations. Sustainable use emphasizes a balance between ecological health and human needs, promoting practices that avoid over-exploitation and ensure that wildlife populations can reproduce and thrive despite resource extraction.

This definition and approach are key in conservation efforts, as they advocate for practices that not only meet human demands—such as hunting, fishing, and tourism—but also protect the ecosystems and species involved. By focusing on maintaining population levels, sustainable use seeks to create a harmonious relationship between humans and wildlife, promoting biodiversity and ecosystem integrity over the long term.