406 Victoria Avenue East,…

406 Victoria Avenue East, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada P7C 1A5

Phone: (807) 623-4635 Email: consultaion@rsmin.ca

www.rsmin.ca

January 11, 2018

Megan McAndrew

Policy Analyst

Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry

Policy Division, Species Conservation Policy Branch

300 Water Street, Peterborough, Ontario, K9J 8M5

(705) 755-2901

Re: Development of government response statements in relation to final recovery strategies for three species at risk published on December 13, 2017 in accordance with the Endangered Species Act, 2007

Following a review of the final recovery strategies for three species at risk published on December 13, 2017, to the Environmental Registry by the MNRF, the Red Sky Métis Independent Nation Community has not identified any concerns regarding the recovery strategies for Blue Ash and Kentucky Coffee Tree. The strategies presented have well-defined objectives and lay out feasible goals for the recovery of both Blue Ash and Kentucky Coffee tree

Upon reviewing the recovery strategy for the Gypsy Cuckoo Bumble Bee Red Sky Métis Independent Nation (RSMIN) is looking for a larger to commitment to the recovery of this species by eliminating the use of neonicotinoids and putting more emphasis on research this insecticides effects on the Gypsy Cuckoo Bumble Bee and its host species. Wild pollinators have an important role to play in both the natural world and in agriculture. With engendered bumble bee populations, all being threatened by climate change, varroa mites and reduction in habitat it is critical that use neonicotinoids are eliminated and not just reduced.

RSMIN is aware that discontinuing the use of neonicotinoids coated corn and soy beans will require several adjustments to the agricultural sectors but this step is critical is Ontario is going to recover its bee populations. The recovery of the Gypsy Cuckoo Bumble Bee is of great importance to the RSMIN community, therefore RSMIN is requesting that the recovery strategy include contacting Indigenous peoples who live on the land when conducting surveys, especially in Northern Ontario. Indigenous peoples have a deep connection to the land and all wildlife, the traditional knowledge held within communities would be a great resource when surveys begin under the recovery strategy for the Gypsy Cuckoo Bumble Bee.

Sincerely,

Kayla Searle

Environmental Coordinator

Red Sky Métis Independent Nation

[Original Comment ID: 211966]