This proposal has many flaws…

This proposal has many flaws. The rationale for it is lacking. Hunting during the nesting season will disturb other species including birds, turtles, and amphibians, especially birds. The bag limit of 50 birds with unlimited possession is outrageous, and it devalues and disrespects wildlife without justification. The social effect of hunting during the summer will be disruptive and set hunters against cottagers, boaters and tourists. Non-target species will be harmed, most notably loons.

The drafters should go back to the drawing board. Do something to reduce the waste of wildlife killed. Include detailed determination of what will happen to this wild meat. Put some limits on the season and locations to avoid endless conflicts. Make the response focused rather than province-wide. Do something to reduce the risk to non-target species, especially loons on the water and nesting colonial waterbirds such as terns around the breeding site. Make sure the bodies do not become sources for botulism outbreaks.

Be specific about how the effects of the regulation will be measured and communicated to the public. Require detailed reporting by the hunters. Put limits for distance from boaters, cottagers, swimmers.