This comment is in regard to…

This comment is in regard to ERO 019-0022

Dear Minister Yakabuski and Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry staff,

The proposed change to reduce the minimum distance requirement for placement of bait from rights of way and trails for black bear hunting is irresponsible and puts the ease of hunters and guide outfitters ahead of public safety and the ecological integrity of Ontario’s natural places. Such a change would put people and wildlife at risk of conflict and other incidents.

• There are significantly more recreationalists such as bird watchers, hikers, dog walkers, photographers, geocachers, and families than hunters or outfitters in the province, many of whom are unfamiliar with hunting and firearm safety protocols who may be put at risk as a result of this move.

• Moving bait piles closer to publicly accessible roadways or trails increases the probability of negative encounters between wildlife (of all species who are potentially attracted to the bait piles) and non-hunters or outfitters.

• Moving bait piles closer to roadways increases the probability of vehicular collisions with large animals (there are tens of thousands of such incidents, including those causing serious harm to the wildlife, the driver and passengers, vehicles; additionally, this can influence insurance rates and road maintained costs). (Source: http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/motorvehiclesafety/tp-tp14798-1289.htm)

• As more recreationalists who are not hunters use wild spaces, regulations should be put in place to protect them – not increase the possibility or probability that they will be harmed by hunting and hunting-related activities such as baiting.

I ask that you reject this proposal.