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Environment and Conservation
November 20, 2009

Hunters Reminded of Snaring Requirements

Several recent pine marten deaths in the province have been attributed to the use of illegal snaring wire, and the Department of Environment and Conservation is reminding the hunting and trapping public of the small game snaring requirements. Only 22 gauge brass wire or six strand picture cord may be used for the purpose of snaring small game (snowshoe hare, ptarmigan and grouse) on the island portion of the province in areas where snaring is permitted during the open season.

�We implemented changes to small game snaring requirements in the 2008-09 hunting season, after considerable review and public input concerning the mortality of non-target animals, particularly the threatened pine marten,� said the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Environment and Conservation. �All hunters and trappers should be fully aware of these requirements, including the fact that wire types such as stainless steel can no longer be used.�

The minister also said that illegal snaring activities are very concerning, particularly for the majority of those who conduct their activities in a legal and conservation minded manner.

�Snaring small game is one of our most popular small game hunting activities and is an important part of our province�s culture,� said Minister Johnson. �The illegal use of improper wire is very disconcerting, not only from our wildlife management perspective but also for the many hunters who take the regulations very seriously. Any time that a threatened species is being negatively impacted, it is of the utmost concern for our government. It is vital that hunters and trappers act responsibly and review all necessary requirements related to this activity.�

For regulations associated with small game hunting and snaring, hunters and trappers should refer to the 2009-2010 Hunting and Trapping Guide which is available at //www.env.gov.nl.ca/env/wildlife/publications/2009-10 hunting trapping guide.pdf

The guide is also available at Department of Natural Resources and Department of Environment and Conservation offices throughout the province.

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Media contact
Melony O�Neill
Director of Communications
Department of Environment and Conservation
709-729-2575, 689-0928
moneill@gov.nl.ca

2009 11 20                         1:05 p.m.


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