Bonus for Ontario Deer Hunters!

Due to the overpopulation and low harvest rates in many regions of Ontario the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources is acting on a recommendation from the Fish and Wildlife Heritage Commission that would result in additional seasons, enhanced seasons, and modifications to the licensing and tagging system http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Newsroom/LatestNews/263525.html

One of the most significant changes being proposed is the addition of a winter “archery only” season for many WMUs with a high deer population. Another very significant change would be the addition of a “Hunters Choice Deer Tag”. That would allow hunters the flexibility to hunt multiple WMUs with the same tag.

I’m not sure that sitting in a treestand in the depths of our Southern Ontario winter at -20 c is at the top of my list of preferred outdoor activities for that time of year, but I am really excited about the proposed change that would allow me to hunt several wildlife units with the same tag.

I am very encouraged to see the MNR taking this proactive approach to sustainable management. These changes will benefit hunters while reducing the potential for vehicle / wildlife accidents in regions of overpopulation.

You are invited to review the proposed changes and offer comments. Read the proposals posted on the province's Environmental Registry and send in your comments:

New and Enhanced Seasons – Registry Number 010-5338 – until February 6, 2009
Hunter's Choice Deer Seal – Registry Number 010-5337 – until February 11, 2009
New Winter Archery Season in southwestern Ontario – Registry Number 010-5648 – until February 13, 2009.

Lloyd