After ca

After carefully reviewing the proposed policy and having been involved in the process for years I personally think it’s the best proposal that has been presented by the MNR.
I would have liked to see leeches free to move across the province as they are harvested in small lakes and swamps which have a very slim chance of carrying unwanted species and are also transported with little water which prevents the movement of unwanted species, this will create a massive shortage of leeches in southern Ontario which has practically no leeches present to be harvested and a big demand for the sport fishery.
For the baitfish aspect in northern Ontario I support the proposed changes and the industry can thrive with the proposed changes. Due to the elimination of the lake Simcoe emerald shiner supply it may create a short term scarcity of bait until northern harvesters adapt to the increased demand but without a doubt the northern part of the province will be able to supply the demand for baitfish used within our zones.
The only other restriction that I and other local harvesters would support is the total elimination of the use of emerald shiners in the North-east and North-west region to prevent the possible transportation of southern emerald shiners into northern waters. Due to the fact that some emerald shiner harvest is possible in the northern zones it could be tempting for unscrupulous individuals to “smuggle” southern emerald shiners in the northern zones for financial gain and it would be very hard for the scarce MNR personals in the field to investigate the origin of emerald shiners being marketed in the northern zones. A total ban on use of emerald shiners in the northern zones is a simple and effective solution to the enforcement aspect of illegal transportation or baitfish across zone boundaries.
In conclusion I applaud the latest much simpler proposed policy and believe it would be in the best interest of the industry and to the northern ecosystems to have this proposed policy legislated in effect as soon as possible.
Thanks, a northern harvester.