I agree with the proposal to…

I agree with the proposal to reduce the minimum distance for placement of bear baits to 30 m from the right of way on public roads and trails. In this part of the world (Northwestern Ontario) the original requirement was excessive and was detrimental to bear hunting opportunities (both recreational and commercial opportunities were negatively affected).

As is pointed out in the proposal summary, the reduction in distance from rights of way for public vehicular traffic and recreational trails will provide more flexibility in bait placement for outfitters and hunters. From a safety perspective, I don't think that this will be a problem since baits were placed closer than 200 m to roads etc prior to the new regulation and there were no issues.

I assist a friend who is an outfitter who provides bear hunting opportunities and I can assure you that the reduction in distance will have very positive economic effects for the local and provincial economy since it reduces costs and better allows outfitters to manage their Bear Management Areas.