LAST EDITED ON Aug-15-04 AT 11:07AM (MST)[p]Just my assumption, but maybe some of the ?heavy hitters? are feeling a little bit threatened by all the technological advancements in digital video cameras.
In all reality, these days, for not a whole lot of money, anybody with the time and desire can be a wildlife videographer. Easily operated inexpensive equipment is readily available to the general public. I think as time goes by and less actual hunting opportunity is available to the little guy, video cameras in the woods will become the newest form of outdoors entertainment. For me, this activity has already replaced most of the limited amounts of hunting that I once enjoyed. In a lot of ways I like shooting video better than a true hunt. For the most part, I go anywhere I want to, when I want to, on any coveted deer/elk unit that I desire. And when I'm finished shooting, there's no mess to clean up.
Additionally, I take my secured footage home and get to play for hours on the home computer, editing, viewing, and sharing the ?trophy? with my friends.
Currently, from all that I have been able to determine, through a fairly extensive search, hobby photographers/videographers are not required to have any permits to participate in leisure activities. However, commercial enterprises would likely be wise to obtain the correct permits from each government agency adversely effected. In other words, any place that filming takes place on public lands with an intent to sell a product/video to the public, apparently does necessitate a pre purchased license. This includes a permit from every government agency jurisdiction (i.e., forest service, blm) for all public lands exploited. The permit process appears exhausting and very expensive, including necessary liability insurance. Mossbacks? friendly reminder appears to be just a fair warning, but I highly recommend you get the facts for yourself, before jumping to conclusions.