Cantonal Council SO Canton of Solothurn to support measures against beaver damage in future

The Solothurn Hunting Act is being adapted in line with federal law. With the partial revision of the cantonal hunting law passed by the cantonal council on Wednesday, measures against beaver damage can be supported in future and compensation can also be paid for traffic routes and embankments.

On Wednesday, the cantonal council clearly approved the new Hunting Act (JaG) with 78 votes in favor and 10 against. This now also stipulates at cantonal level that protected wild animals such as bears, wolves and beavers may be shot if they pose a threat to humans.

A beaver could be released for shooting if it attacks bathers in the water "apparently unprovoked". The canton can oblige hunting associations to carry out such shootings, as the cantonal council decided at the request of the Environment, Construction and Economic Commission (Umbawiko) by 54 yes to 37 no votes.

The federal government and canton already contribute to beaver damage in forests and agricultural crops, according to the debate. In future, measures to prevent beaver damage to buildings and facilities that are in the public interest should also be financially supported.

Quick implementation important

Brigit Wyss (Greens), the government councillor responsible, said in parliament that it was important for the law to come into force on January 1, 2025 so that the canton could support these measures. On the basis of the new law, the canton will pay contributions for agricultural roads or embankments, for example, if flood safety is no longer guaranteed due to beaver damage.

SDA