We believe this proposal is…

We believe this proposal is long overdue. The issue of non licensed persons conducting bear hunts has always been a problem for the licensed outfitter. The outfitter has invested multi thousands of dollars in their business and needs to be respected as a commercial business. The outfitter also pays a annual hefty fee to use the BMA's. That in itself should limit the bear hunting to the outfitter. The parasite hunters take advantage of the already prepared, groomed and baited sites for their illegal gain and profit. This disrespectful behavior not only offends the outfitter and their ability to profit, it influences the bear management program. I believe all bear hunters, including residents must fill out the Form 33 so the exact count of harvested bears is recorded. It would be pertinent to know what rules and penalties will be involved with the plan to license the business of a bear hunting outfitter versus the wannabe.
I commend the MNR for their insight with this issue.