Hunting can regulate the abundance of animals, preserve the diversity and viability of species. It helps to make game resistant and less susceptible to disease and other threats. This in turn makes it possible to increase the social and economic importance of hunting in rural areas. Hunting statistics are compiled by the Environment Agency, which publishes the following data: game hunting by species and county; damage caused by game. Based on hunting statistics, it is possible to develop and monitor the field of hunting, assess progress towards national targets and conduct research.