What does "sustained yield" mean in wildlife management?

The concept of "sustained yield" in wildlife management refers to the practice of harvesting resources, such as wildlife, at a rate that ensures the population remains stable over time. This involves managing the harvest so that it does not exceed the reproductive capacity of the population. Thus, maintaining a balance is crucial for the long-term health and viability of the species.

Selecting the option about harvesting at a rate that does not damage the population reflects an understanding of this principle. It emphasizes that wildlife populations can be utilized sustainably, provided that care is taken to ensure that the rate of harvest does not surpass the growth rate of the population. This approach stands in contrast to unsustainable practices that could lead to population declines or even extinction.

The other options suggest practices that either misinterpret the concept of sustainability or could lead to detrimental effects on wildlife populations. For instance, harvesting at a rate that promotes population growth implies a proactive approach rather than the maintenance aspect central to sustained yield. Harvesting regardless of population health undermines the sustainability principle, and reducing hunting quotas every year could indicate an inability to manage the population sustainably or respond to declining numbers, rather than maintaining a stable population.