The hunting season for big game begins this weekend in many parts of Newfoundland and Labrador. Most big game hunting seasons in central and western portions of the island and in Labrador opens on Saturday, September 8. The hunting seasons for other areas of the province open on October 6.

The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Environment and Conservation, reminded hunters and trappers to always keep safety in mind and to review all regulations outlined in the 2007-08 Newfoundland and Labrador Hunting and Trapping Guide before going in the field.

"I remind hunters to practise firearm safety at all times while hunting to ensure your safety and the safety of others," said the minister. "In addition, always wear life jackets when on the water and helmets when operating ATVs, and always carry emergency survival, first aid and navigational tools to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable and accident-free hunting experience."

The hunting and trapping seasons for coyote, small game, and waterfowl are open or will open in the coming weeks depending on the species and zones.

Detailed information about this year�s hunting seasons and bag limits can be found in the 2007-08 Newfoundland and Labrador Hunting and Trapping Guide available at Provincial Government offices, including the Department of Natural Resources and wildlife division offices. The guide is also available on the Provincial Government Web site at //www.gov.nl.ca/env/wildlife/hnttrapfish/index.htm

The minister encouraged all hunters to participate in the management of the province�s wildlife by submitting licence data information that includes the number of days hunted and the number of animals seen, and by participating and submitting biological samples for the caribou health monitoring program.

"I thank hunters and trappers for their contributions and involvement in our wildlife management efforts. The information supplied by hunters is very important to our wildlife managers in helping them understand and effectively manage our game and fur populations," said Minister Jackman.

Hunters interested in assisting with management efforts through the collection of samples or for information about hunting and trapping in the province, contact John Blake or Chris Baldwin, wildlife division, 709-637-2006.

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Media contact:

Diane Hart
Director of Communications
Department of Environment and Conservation
709-729-2575, 685-4401
dianehart@gov.nl.ca

2007 09 07                                                   10:20 a.m.