Government of Ontario News - Natural Resources and Forestry

22 April 2021

Natural Resources and Forestry

• Ontario Taking Action Against Invasive Species, Including Wild Pigs

  TORONTO —The Ontario government is protecting the economy and environment by expanding protections to prevent invasive species from establishing or spreading in the province.

• $5,500 in Fines and Hunting Suspension for Member of an Illegal Moose Hunt

  The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) wants to remind hunters that abandoning hunted wildlife suitable for human consumption is illegal. Individuals should contact a conservation officer if the wrong animal is hunted.

• Bear Encounters: Who Do I Call?

  Bears may wander into urban areas in search of food, but not every bear sighting is an emergency situation. Learn who to call if you encounter a bear:

• Be Bear Wise and Prevent Bear Encounters

  The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) remind you to exercise caution as black bears begin to come out of hibernation this spring.

• Ontario Supporting Resource-Based Tourism Jobs

  TORONTO - The Ontario government is providing $1.3 million in financial relief for the resource-based tourism industry by waiving certain licences and crown land use fees. Licensing fees have been waived for bear hunting and baitfish harvesters and dealers.  Additionally, Land Use Fees for Commercial Outpost Camps, Bear Management Area fees and Baitfish Harvest Area fees have been waived. This initiative is part of the 2021 Budget, Ontario's Action Plan: Protecting People's Health and Our Economy. Total support from the Ontario government for the tourism, culture, sports, recreation, and heritage industries specifically since the start of COVID-19 now totals $625 million.