Are Vermont Bears Becoming a Problem? | Fish & Wildlife Commissioner - Jason Batchelder - Weighs In

Why are so many communities seeing an increase in bear conflicts? How does Vermont manage its wildlife populations? 

In this episode of the Northwoods Whitetails Podcast, Dustin Martin and Joey Davis sit down with Vermont Fish & Wildlife Commissioner Jason Batchelder for an in-depth conversation about conservation, wildlife management, and the future of hunting in Vermont.

Jason shares his journey to becoming Commissioner, explains the responsibilities of Vermont Fish & Wildlife, and discusses why regulated hunting remains a critical tool for maintaining healthy wildlife populations. The conversation then turns to one of Vermont's hottest topics—human-bear conflicts. From bears getting into dumpsters, vehicles and even houses to increasing encounters in towns like Stowe, we explore what's driving these interactions, the challenges facing wildlife managers, and how hunters, homeowners, and non-hunters all play a role in the solution.

The episode wraps up with some memorable stories from Jason's career and a classic buck story that every deer hunter will appreciate.

Whether you're a lifelong hunter, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply interested in how wildlife is managed in Vermont, this conversation offers valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities facing conservation today.

Be sure to like, subscribe, and follow Northwoods Whitetails for more conversations with hunters, biologists, conservation professionals, and outdoorsmen from across the Northeast.