Chapter 8: Trapping and Furtaking Basics
Benefits of Trapping

Helps control animal populations by minimizing: Starvation Spread of diseases Damage or destruction of habitat
Helps reduce damage to habitat and personal property: Flooding caused by beaver dams Destruction of trees Killing of livestock or pet
Protects certain endangered or threatened species from predators Provides funding through sales of licenses Provides recreation, food, and supplemental income

Best Management Practices (BMPs)

The International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, with assistance from state fish and wildlife agencies, is developing a set of guidelines for regulated trapping in the United States. Best Management Practices will identify the best equipment and practices that can be used to trap furbearers. These suggestions will address the welfare of captured animals and focus on the safest, most efficient, humane, and practical trapping techniques. To learn more, visit the Fish & Wildlife Furbearer Management website.