First off, I agree in whole…

First off, I agree in whole with a line up approach. Consider though that the tag allocation draw proposal is more convoluted than is needed to accomplish the goals. Think about initializing a line up using the tag histories on file, using all the points criteria you have already thought about to give priority for the line. Initializing the line up before opening the application process would allow you to issue a line number to each individual. Then you really simplify the application process for hunters. They know where they stand relative to others in their "party". Give them the option to take a pass on a tag at the time of application, let them manage their own "party". The initial allocation run would then skipping those applicants passing on a tag, and leaving those skipped still in line. The idea of turning back a tag could be left in play but I suspect it would not be a big factor. The need to apply to the draw to maintain a position in line is of course a given.

What to do with the line numbers after tags are allocated, collapse the line of course, and forward hunters their new number to give them a sense of progress up the line.

A way to make this pre-application initialization a bit more palatable is to re-initialize the line each year, same "points" rules. But, this is not really necessary and not recommended, as the first year line-up priority order held steady would allow for planning ahead by multiple years from the perspective of 'parties'.

What to do with successful applicants, tag holders? Randomize them and issue new line numbers, all at the end of the line of course.

When I get to the front of a line and the item I really want is not available, then I don't get sent to the back of the line to wait for some left-overs. Please do away with the second choice second chance nonsense. If my second choice is available when I am at the front of the line, assign me my second choice then and there and then go on to the next person in line.

What to do about WMU loyalty? You could initialize lines for each WMU but this does not allow hunters to switch units without losing tag history priority, so I'd suggest resisting that obvious tweak.

What to do about new hunters? Here you could go a number of ways. The most aggressive hunter recruitment strategy would be to seed them at the front of the line each year. The most off putting would be to put them at the end of the line. A little less off putting seed into the randomization of last years successful in the draw end of the line group. A middle of the road approach would seed them at random throughout the entire line.

The idea of limiting party size to limit harvest success has merit. The proposal method keeps the government involved the in the party business though (not desirable), and it also interferes with the history of free association that is traditional in Ontario. I believe it could be a source for dissatisfaction with the program that the reinvented program does not need.

This two cents brought to you by the retired MNRF biologist who first proposed a line up draw.