Oregon and many states across the nation realized trapper education was critical to informing the public about the trapping practices. The programs include information on ethics, fur handling, humane trapping techniques and regulations. Current status of trapping in Oregon Regulated trapping is critical to ensure the health and well being of furbearer populations in Oregon. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife sets seasons and harvest levels based on population status of each species, trapping pressure and wildlife damage problems in different portions of the state. Trapping can reduce or prevent threats to human health and safety by minimizing public exposure to diseases such as rabies and giardia.
Trapping is a wildlife management tool used by biologists to protect endangered species.
For example, sometimes predators must be reduced in localized areas to reintroduce a prey species that is threatened or endangered. Trapping is a wildlife management tool used by biologists to maintain healthy populations of furbearers. Trapping is a method to collect important information about wildlife such as age and condition of animals and populations. For example, all marten harvested in Oregon are brought to an ODFW office before March 1 following each season so biologists may obtain critical information about this secretive species. Through trapping license fees, tag fees and special taxes paid by trappers, funding is created to protect wildlife habitat and populations.