Manitoba Moose Quotas Spark Controversy Over Hunting Access, Use Rights

Hunters and anglers headed to Manitoba this season should be aware of a developing situation there with First Nation groups over land access and use rights. Several First Nations have contested the moose hunting quota, claiming that moose numbers have declined enough that indigenous hunters cannot harvest enough moose to satisfy their communities’ needs for subsistence and cultural uses. This has led to several efforts to block nonindigenous hunters, anglers and trappers from accessing land traditionally used by all Manitobans.

The First Nations say the Manitoba government has not properly managed moose populations, that the current quota is unsustainable and that it will further endanger First Nations’ food security. They have taken various forms of action, from posting no-trespass and no-hunting signs, to setting up roadblocks to deny passage, and calling on nonindigenous hunters to return their moose licenses to the government. The Bloodvein First Nation succeeded in having the provincial government create buffer zones barring nonindigenous hunters. Most recently the Misipawistik Cree Nation filed a lawsuit to have licensed hunting for moose cancelled in traditional territories.

The situation remains fluid and its sensitive nature requires a resolution by the Manitoba government that fairly addresses all stakeholders without further inflaming passions. SCI is monitoring developments and is in constant communications with conservation partners on the ground, providing support as possible. Hunters and anglers planning to visit Manitoba should stay in close contact with their hunting or fishing operators or the Manitoba Wildlife Federation for the latest developments in their intended destination.

SCI strongly believes that conservation of wildlife is imperative. Sound management must be driven by scientific data, and when government agencies collect data through surveys, it is vital that this information be shared transparently with the public, so all hunters understand how it is applied in determining tag allotments. This situation in Manitoba could have been avoided had the provincial government been upfront and forthcoming with that data.

“SCI stresses the importance of collaboration,” said Chair of SCI Canada Committee Eric Moland. “The best path forward is one that respects access to public lands and the rights of First Nations, and that protects the wildlife resources both groups rely on to feed their families.”  Moland added, “Pitting groups against one another over access to resources is dangerous, and risks not only division but potential harm to individuals.”

SCI calls on the provincial government to uphold the law, ensure fair access to public lands, and work with all wildlife organizations to find a balanced, collaborative solution that avoids further escalation.