Efforts of conservation officers result in increased
charges and written warnings in Western Region

Recent statistics from the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods reveal there has been a sharp increase this year in the number of charges and written warnings under the provincial Wildlife Act, Forestry Act and related legislation for the Western Region.

Statistics for the month of September 2000 indicate conservation officers in the Western Region laid of total of 90 charges and issued 98 written warnings. In September 1999, charges and written warning combined totalled 71 for the Western Region.

Forest Resources and Agrifoods Minister, Kevin Aylward, attributed the increase in charges and warnings to effective work being done by the department�s conservation officers. "Conservation officers throughout this province have a tremendous amount of responsibility when it comes to protecting the natural resources of this province," said Minister Aylward. "The increase in charges and written warnings reflects a strong commitment on their part to help ensure the level of abuse against our natural resources and the outdoors is minimized as much as possible.

"The increase in charges and written warnings also indicates the policy decision a few years ago to consolidate forestry and wildlife enforcement efforts is proving to be effective. Protecting our outdoor resources is a priority for this department. Those who choose to disregard regulations aimed at protecting our forests, wildlife and inland fishery will have to face the consequences."

The charges and written warnings for September were for a variety of offences. Included among these were transporting untagged moose, illegal possession of big game, hunting at night, illegal cutting of timber and breaches of forest fire and all terrain vehicle regulations.

In addition, a quantity of moose meat has been seized along with a pick up truck and firearms. Individuals facing charges are scheduled to appear in court over the next several months.

For further information contact: Jim Maloney, Regional Compliance Manager, (709) 637-2918.

2000 10 25 4:40 p.m.