Contacting the DNR, a large state-funded organization that supports the conservation and protection of wildlife in Illinois and throughout the United States, I received valuable information about hunting from DNR spokesperson Tim Schweizer. My first question for him was how hunting had influenced his conservation work. He responded by saying, “As a hunter, I value habitat and wildlife conservation. Being able to work for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources has given me an even greater appreciation for the work wildlife managers do to improve sustainable wildlife populations and the support conservation efforts receive from hunters , landowners, and citizens throughout the state of Illinois" (2016). My second question was whether he thought hunting was beneficial or harmful to animal ecosystems. He responded by saying that, “Hunting is one of the most important tools that we have for wildlife management in Illinois. Hunting helps maintain the necessary balance in our ecosystem” (2016). third question to Mr. Schweizer was what his personal opinion was on trophy hunting he stated that “wildlife management requires balance; that's why there are limits on the number of antlered deer Illinois hunters can take during all deer seasons per year (no more than two). Having a balance between the number of does (does) and bucks (males) taken by deer hunters helps keep the deer population at manageable levels in Illinois” (2016). My fourth and final question was what impact he thought the hunt had on DNR conservation efforts and funding. He responded by saying that hunters provide the majority of funding needed for wildlife conservation in Illinois and throughout the United States. Hunters purchase hunting licenses and permits to provide state funding and pay excise taxes on guns, ammunition, bows, arrows, and other hunting tools. related equipment allocated to state wildlife agencies such as the Illinois DNR based on acreage and number of licensed hunters in the state. Funds can only be used for wildlife management, including scientific research, wildlife reintroduction and wildlife habitat improvement. Projects benefit all types of wildlife, including species that are hunted and those that are not” (2016). Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay I found my interview with Mr. Schweizer to be very helpful because I was able to ask questions and get answers from someone who directly works to continue conservation efforts on a daily basis. This source was more helpful than some of my other sources because Mr. Schweizer had evidence from his daily work with the DNR to support his claims in support of hunting and trophy hunting.