With the big game hunting season now open, the Department of Natural Resources is reminding hunters to familiarize themselves with the rules and regulations under the Wildlife Act as violations can result in serious charges.

Provincial conservation officers are investigating a number of alleged violations in relation to big game hunting in September, including hunting out of season, killing animals prior to the start of the season and killing animals before daylight.

Big game hunting season opened September 12 and continues until December 13 in most areas on the island. Hunters are advised to check the Hunting and Trapping Guide or their big game licence for end of season dates. Alleged violations to date have resulted in the seizure of moose meat, firearms, a spotlight and ammunition. Charges are pending.

The department has an ongoing partnership with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) that includes joint patrols. If violations for which the RCMP is responsible are detected, the Department of Natural Resources will contact the RCMP.

The department detected 470 violations for various offences, including violations under the Wildlife Act, from April 1 to July 31, 2009. Violations for the fiscal year April 1, 2008 to March 31, 2009 total 1,745.

The department reminds hunters to follow all regulations and to practice safe hunting techniques. The public is encouraged to report any information on illegal activity harmful to the province�s natural resources to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-363-TIPS (8477).

For information on reporting illegal activity, please visit www.gov.nl.ca/forestry/contact/violation.htm

Copies of the Wildlife Act can be found at: www.assembly.nl.ca/legislation/sr/statutes/w08.htm

Copies of the Hunting and Trapping Guide can be found at: www.gov.nl.ca/env/wildlife/hnttrapfish/

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Media contact:

Tracy Barron
Director of Communications
Department of Natural Resources
709-729-5282, 690-4701
tracybarron@gov.nl.ca