Regarding: Proposed Changes…

Regarding: Proposed Changes to Moose Management as Part of the Moose Management Review (ERO # 019-0405)

Dear Sir or Madam,

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry’s (MNRF’s) use of the latest research to implement changes to the Moose Management System in Ontario is a positive step to providing better protect for populations of this animal across the province. I support the MNRF's proposed implementation of the following Big Game Management Advisory Committee (BGMAC) recommendations: a preference-point, tag-allocation system; the removal of the right of resident’s immediate family members to hunt; and, limiting party hunting size and spread. Phasing out the hunting of moose calves is another step that scientific research suggests will benefit moose populations.

The MNRF is, however, paying too much attention to hunters and outfitters. I am deeply concerned that these groups are influencing the development of proposals that would relax restrictions on wolf and coyote hunting. This is highly unlikely to benefit moose populations. Allowing the unlimited killing of coyotes (including pups) – which are not significant predators of moose – year round (and under the pretense of benefitting moose populations) is NOT scientifically supported, and is cruel and unethical. Apex predators, such as wolves and coyotes, are critical to maintaining biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.

Increasing the hunting of wolves is likely to decrease the size of wolf packs; but, culling predators in an attempt to benefit prey often results in unintended and consequences. For example, smaller and weakened wolf packs might switch to preying on woodland caribou (a threatened species), which are easier to kill.

There is no sound science behind the proposal to ease regulations on wolf and coyote hunting. Removing the requirement to report canid kills will also significantly weaken the ability of wildlife managers to enforce limits and to gather critical data for wildlife assessments and the conservation of wildlife populations. This is not appropriate.

In addition, the composition of the BGMAC must be updated to reflect the wishes of the Ontario population at large. The committee requires women, First Nation representation, and general outdoor enthusiasts – not just male hunters and outfitters.

Furthermore, based on the latest research, I think the following should be implemented:

* immediately eliminate the moose calf hunt;

* reduce the harvest of cow moose; and,

* provide more enforcement money to the MNRF so that their staff can adequately monitor moose-management regulations.

I urge the Government of Ontario to proceed with the proposed actions to conserve moose populations, but to abandon the proposal to liberalize wolf and coyote hunting, which is not supported by science. Ontario’s wildlife should be conserved and protected for its own benefit and for that of all Ontarians - not only for special-interest groups (e.g., male hunters).

Thank you for your consideration.