Hunters keep an eye on your emails because the Victorian Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions are asking you to take part in a survey about the economic impact of hunting.

The Australian Deer Association Executive Officer Barry Howlett encouraged people to do the survey, which is an update of the 2013 economic study conducted by the Department of Environment and Primary Industries.

Mr Howlett said the 2013 study has been an important tool in helping advocate for more support and opportunities for hunters.

“The headline figure is important as it shows scale,” he said in reference to the reported $439 million generated by hunting game and pest species in the 2013 study.

“What really matters is the local impact – the money spent by regional towns and the jobs which are supported and created there.”

Mr Howlett said this is where the survey results move beyond numbers on paper and into direct impacts on real lives and real communities.

“What we know without any doubt is that when hunters are given opportunities and access, they take them up and spend money,” he said.

The ADA is anticipating the 2019 study will show an increase in expenditure relating to deer hunting and a decrease for duck hunting.

“While we hope to be pleasantly surprised, it would stand to reason where the opportunity is removed, investment in regional communities is lessened,” Mr Howlett said.

The 2013 duck hunting season lasted for 13 weeks with a 10 bird a day bag limit, the 2019 duck hunting season lasted for nine weeks with a five bird a day bag limit – four on opening weekend.

“Again, where this really matters is not on the headline figure – it’s with real people and real jobs,” Mr Howlett said.