As Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, I am excited to present the online Newfoundland and Labrador Hunting and Trapping Guide for 2022-2023. The guide provides a summary of my Department’s game management plan and also contains important information about quotas, season dates and regulations for the next hunting and trapping season.
In the fall of 2021 my Department embarked on a series of public consultations seeking input from hunters and the general public to help guide the new 2022-2026 Moose Management Plan for the province. Our plan is expected to be completed and shared with the public in the spring of 2022. Feedback received during the public consultation process also contributed to several other important decisions on hunting and trapping related policies and legislation that are outlined in this year’s game management plan and published in this year’s Guide.
The sustainable management of our wildlife resources involves ensuring that we continue to monitor and implement effective programs that allow us to better understand impacts on wildlife behavior and habitat. To support this approach we have re-established the black bear monitoring program, created new restrictions for firearms used for coyote and wolf shooting on the island of Newfoundland, established new bag limits for Rock ptarmigan and implemented a separate licence for ptarmigan shooting. All of these changes for 2022-2023 are a result of suggestions and interest provided by hunters, trappers and stakeholders throughout Newfoundland and Labrador and support responsible and sustainable wildlife management objectives.
Beginning this year, we have also made a number of important changes designed to improve client access to the big game licencing system. Shifting to a primarily online service is expected to increase efficiency and improve service delivery for residents applying in the big game licence draw. Click here for an informational video regarding the Wildlife Management System. We are also strengthening the conditions and improving equal access for charitable organizations interested in obtaining a moose licence for fundraising purposes through the Not for Profit Licence Program.
Hunting and trapping continue to be important cultural and recreational pursuits cherished by thousands of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. The COVID-19 global pandemic has served to remind us how rewarding and important these experiences can be to our overall health and well-being. As we prepare for the upcoming hunting and trapping seasons, I encourage each of you to join with family and friends to responsibly and safely enjoy our wildlife and outdoor resources. Please accept my best wishes for a safe and successful hunting season.
Sincerely,
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture