The large remote areas of northern Ontario seem like the last place trappers would feel concern over access. But that’s just what’s happening, as reported by Wayne Snider, city editor for Timmins Daily Press in Ontario.
Outfitters granted exclusive rights in public areas are pushing out trappers and other sportsmen. Although tourism is important, Snider argues outdoor traditions need consideration, too.
From Snider’s column:
Andy Chartrand, president of the Timmins Fur Council, said there was a recent incident in the Foleyet area.
“Some trappers have lost access to some of their areas,” he said. “They were going to set up traps, but trees were cut down across the trail.
“They checked with the MNR and were informed they no longer have access to that area.”
It’s not just being denied access that is upsetting to outdoors people. It’s a lack of information about the practice that makes it more disconcerting.
“There should have been information provided at Local Citizen’s Committees,” Chartrand said. “I sit on a LCC. No information has come up about new areas being given out to outfitters.
“It’s very disturbing. The trappers were planning work for the next few months, and now everything is upside down for them.”
He is also concerned that if changes are widespread, it could actually have a negative impact on the environment.
“Trappers have quotas for specific animals every year,” Chartrand said. “The idea is to control the population, so we have a healthy animal population.”
If quotas are just taken away, so is the wildlife management for these species.
As with all outdoor sports, this is a trend that doesn’t show signs of fading. Click here to read the rest of the article.
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