I think the idea to provide…

I think the idea to provide a digital tag option is a great improvement on the existing system and one that would be utilized by many hunters. I also acknowledge that there still needs to be an option for physical tags to accommodate those without compatible mobile phones, those who have difficulties with technology, and those doing extremely remote hunts where maintaining a charged phone may be difficult.

However, I do see an additional opportunity to improve upon the existing system by eliminating the use of paper tags. I think there is an underestimation of the abuse of this current system, particularly when it comes to whitetail deer tags. It is simply too easy to circumvent the current process by printing multiple tags, and conservation officers do not have sufficient resources to adequately police this. If there is a significant usage of digital tags, this may provide an opportunity to bring back the old style tag stickers as it will be more viable from an economic and sustainability perspective with a reduced number of physical tags to be issued. This wouldnt be implemented in year one of the change but could be included in subsequent years based on the number of physical tags issued.

I think this is a great opportunity to eliminate the issues with the paper tag system. It should be noted that the people abusing this system will actively avoid the electronic tag option, as it will force compliance with current provincial regulations. Please consider this when making this change.