Norway to Order the Slaughter of Thousands of Reindeer. Herders Warn of a Threatened Future
The Reindeer Husbandry Board has decided to slaughter 8,200 reindeer in the Vest-Finnmark region over the next three years. The decision aims to curb the growing herd size. Some herders point to serious consequences for their livelihoods.
The regulations governing herd reduction were adopted with the involvement of industry organizations and public institutions.
Fot. materiały prasowe GRID-Arendal (www.grida.no/resources/2007); Flickr.com (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
Authorities have been observing an increase in the number of reindeer in the western part of Finnmark for several years. According to chairman Inge Ryan, the level from a decade ago was 'desirable.' Currently, the population is rising again and, in the state's view, is unsustainable. The estimated value of the cull is about NOK 14.5 million.
No Agreement in Some Herding Districts
In March, the Reindeer Husbandry Board analyzed the situation in the grazing districts, checking whether the number of animals was within set limits. The goal was for the districts to determine their own herd reduction methods. Five of them did not present approved plans or reach an agreement.
The largest reduction concerns the Ábborášša herding group (siida – a herders' community). The number of reindeer there is to be reduced by over 2,200. Similar decisions were made for Skáiddeduottar and Skuothanjárgga. Two districts, Láhtin and Spierttanjárgga, received approval for their own plans. In their case, the reduction will proceed according to local arrangements.
The largest reduction concerns the Ábborášša herding group (siida – a herders' community). The number of reindeer there is to be reduced by over 2,200. Similar decisions were made for Skáiddeduottar and Skuothanjárgga. Two districts, Láhtin and Spierttanjárgga, received approval for their own plans. In their case, the reduction will proceed according to local arrangements.
The monitoring of reindeer numbers is mainly based on reports submitted by herders.Photo: Fotolia.com
Dispute Over the Effects and Rules of Reduction
Some herders criticize the decision. Inga Biret Márjá Triumf points out its impact on those who rely solely on reindeer husbandry. In her opinion, equal limits hit the largest herds the hardest. She also highlights rising operational costs, including fuel. Smaller herds may not cover expenses.
There are also differences of opinion within the Reindeer Husbandry Board itself. Some members have filed a formal objection, arguing that equal limits do not reflect traditional practice. They also noted difficulties in passing herds between generations. At the same time, it was emphasized that the board is acting within the bounds of current law.
There are also differences of opinion within the Reindeer Husbandry Board itself. Some members have filed a formal objection, arguing that equal limits do not reflect traditional practice. They also noted difficulties in passing herds between generations. At the same time, it was emphasized that the board is acting within the bounds of current law.
The reduction process is to be carried out in stages over three years. The smallest reduction is planned for the first year, with greater restrictions in the following years. Authorities warn that failure to comply with the decision may affect the level of financial support. At the same time, some herders are considering legal action, which could impact the future functioning of the reindeer husbandry management system in the region.
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