Nutrioso
Well-known member
I don’t disagree with a lot of what Matt says, and sure see that some of what is posted on social is disrespectful of our game and our traditions, but I think he paints with too broad a brush. Some media outlets promote ethical behaviors and hunting for the right reason and are a positive influence. It can be a great vehicle to train and teach in the absence of mentors. I think Meat Eater is one of those.
I also think social media is not the root of the true problem. There are just too many people trying to enjoy too little resource. That’s true for hunters, fishermen, backpackers and bird watchers. Do we really think there would be fewer vehicles at the trailhead if there was no social media? I am sure there are folks who “do it for the ‘Gram,” but most are just looking to be out there to enjoy what we all enjoy about being outdoors. Ego-driven social media may contribute to the problem, but it’s not like nobody had heard of the Madison River before Facebook.
Matt’s point also overlooks some of the positives of social media, such as the instant bucket brigade launched through various social media outlets on the Madison last week to save fish stranded by the Hebgen Dam failure, or the ability to mobilize a large constituency to support resource conservation issues.
Based on his most recent article and the one he wrote on R3, Matt wishes for what most of us wish for; a return to a time when we had the outdoor paradise to ourselves. I think we could get closer to that goal by expanding opportunities and access rather than trying to stem the growth of interest in our recreation. That genie is well out of the bottle.
I also think social media is not the root of the true problem. There are just too many people trying to enjoy too little resource. That’s true for hunters, fishermen, backpackers and bird watchers. Do we really think there would be fewer vehicles at the trailhead if there was no social media? I am sure there are folks who “do it for the ‘Gram,” but most are just looking to be out there to enjoy what we all enjoy about being outdoors. Ego-driven social media may contribute to the problem, but it’s not like nobody had heard of the Madison River before Facebook.
Matt’s point also overlooks some of the positives of social media, such as the instant bucket brigade launched through various social media outlets on the Madison last week to save fish stranded by the Hebgen Dam failure, or the ability to mobilize a large constituency to support resource conservation issues.
Based on his most recent article and the one he wrote on R3, Matt wishes for what most of us wish for; a return to a time when we had the outdoor paradise to ourselves. I think we could get closer to that goal by expanding opportunities and access rather than trying to stem the growth of interest in our recreation. That genie is well out of the bottle.