A year long controversy in Denmark now seems to be settled when forest owners, farmers and environment conservation groups have reached an agreement.
For centuries forest owners and farmers have released birds, for example pheasants, ducks and partridge, in the nature for hunting purposes. However, in recent times certain organizations and politicians have argued in favour of stopping such activities.

An experts investigation in early 2006 proves that the release of birds does not cause any noticeable veterinary problems, neither has it any impact on nature.
Danish forest owners, farmers and environment conservationist have now agreed on the framework rules for this sector and have jointly approached the Danish Minister of the Environment.
In the future releasing one pheasant or partridge per hectare will be allowed. Provided that a biotope plan is made, as much as seven partridges or pheasants per hectare will be permitted. Releasing birds will thus result in an automatic improvement of nature.
The agreement between these organizations applies until 2017.
Comments by the Danish Forest Association
Mr Niels Reventlow, Chairman of the Association, says that game birds are released in a sustainable manner. However, all the restrictions are not justified for scientific reasons. For example, there are areas where the release of more than seven game birds per hectare is sustainable.
 However, we now need an end of the political strife and the agreement will provide peace and calm for the next 10 years. A great number of politicians and green organizations have asked for a regulation of the matter. We estimate that a solution that applies until 2017 and that is supported by the most important organizations is necessary for have large acceptance of hunting.
This agreement will constitute the basis for long term development of hunting opportunities. It will also guarantee continued employment in this sector, even though the agreed rules impose certain limitations on such activities.