Toward the end of the year, hunters across our country get prepared to serve dinner over Thanksgiving and Christmas break. It’s a time of year that many people look forward to, and gives West Virginians a chance to explore its beautiful geography in search of deer. However, while it doesn’t seem like it has lost its influence, statistics show that as the years go on, there is a decrease in the amount of people that hunt.

There is no question that hunting season is highly anticipated and supported by many. This up and coming rifle season takes place November 22nd through December 5th and bow season is ongoing till the end of the year. But information shows that there has been a drastic decrease in hunters in recent years. A new survey by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service shows that today, only about 5 percent of Americans age 16 and older, actually hunt. This is half of what it was 50 years ago and will decrease faster over the next decade.

“I went hunting last year, but i dont think I’m going this year,” stated sophomore Nick Bowers. Bowers is a usual participant, but decided not to hit the woods this year. But why? Well, it’s hard to say. Many think it’s a result of urbanization, or simply just a loss of interest. Either way, that doesn’t mean hunting will cease altogether. West Virginians will continue to search the wild and wonderful woods.