I hunt every year in the…

I hunt every year in the Kirkland Lake region as a First Nations harvester under the Robinson Huron Treaty.

The proposed enhancements to the points-based moose tag allocation process for resident hunters are inconsistent with sustainable harvest and respect for treaty rights in many areas of Ontario.

The proposed ‘last chance allocation’ would place added pressure on moose populations without appropriate consultation and engagement with First Nations rights holders.

Based on the proposal, tags purchased at this stage would not impact a hunter’s points which would result in an increase in the overall harvest.

The Government of Ontario should not proceed with these changes without consultation and support from First Nations rights holders.

If the Government of Ontario elects to proceed with these changes, hunters points should be applied to the allocation in all cases.

Moose populations are listed as stable in some areas of the province and declining in some WMUs under the current system. To maintain stable populations and avoid further decline, the Ministry should not take actions which would increase the amount of moose being harvested. If this program is to proceed, it should be piloted in regions or WMUs that have seen increasing, rather than stable or declining populations.

Robinson Huron Treaty
Anishinaabe Harvester