The Resource Enforcement Division of the Department of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands is seeking information related to moose poaching and wastage incidents on the South Shore of the Bay of Islands, in an area known as Snooks Pond.

In the past week, officers have responded to two separate complaints. Officers discovered two full moose carcasses at different locations, shown on the map. Both moose appear to have been shot and left. The incidents are likely to have occurred between September 12 and September 20.

Poaching is an offence under the Wild Life Act. The minimum penalties for poaching a big game animal start at $2,000, up to a maximum of $25,000 for a first offence. In addition, individuals potentially face a prison term between one to six months and in most cases, must forfeit the firearms and vehicles involved.

It is also an offence to willfully or intentionally allow the flesh of wildlife that has been taken or killed for food to be destroyed, wasted, or spoiled. Intentional wastage of meat carries a fine of not less than $500, up to a maximum of $25,000, and in default of payment, imprisonment up to three months.

The Resource Enforcement Division is asking anyone with information that may assist the investigation to call 709-637-2971 or make an anonymous report via the 24/7 Poaching Line at 1-877-820-0999. Reports can also be submitted anonymously at stoppoaching.ca.

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