WITH reference to your article and letter (February 15) on animal snares, it is important to recognise that to manage our countryside, deliver conservation and biodiversity targets, and sustain rural economies in fragile areas, certain tools are essential.

That is why Scotland's leading rural organisations have rejected calls for a ban on snaring and pledged to work with the government to ensure a long-term solution to the issue that will address public concerns.

Snaring is vital for responsible land managers, whether to protect lambs, game birds or species of high conservation value, including those in decline such as capercaillie, black grouse, golden plover, lapwing and curlew. Snaring is also needed to control rabbits which cause huge damage every year. In many parts of the country, alternative methods of control such as shooting are not practically possible. Snaring is already subject to legislation and codes of practice. We are not complacent and continue to work towards better technology, deliver better training and ensure high standards. Our passion for Scotland's environment and its wildlife is paramount and we strive constantly to find solutions that balance the needs of welfare with essential management.

Jonathan Hall, NFU Scotland; George Milne, National Sheep Association; Ross Montague, Scottish Countryside Alliance; David Gwyther, Scottish Estates Business Group; Alex Hogg, Scottish Gamekeepers Association; Douglas McAdam, Scottish Rural Property and Business Association, Stuart House, Eskmills Business Park, Musselburgh.