News Releases

Conservation Minister Stan Struthers today announced the 2006-07 Manitoba Trapping Guide which identifies changes in seasons and licensing for the coming year is now available.

 

“Manitobans are recognizing the importance of fur-bearer management and the valuable contributions made by trappers,” said Struthers.  “Trapping has assisted landowners and livestock producers in reducing their losses.”

 

The wolf trapping season has been extended by one month in the western registered trapping district. The season, which started Oct. 14, now runs to March 31. Wolf populations are healthy and are a growing concern for livestock producers. The revised season has been adjusted to coincide with the close of the licensed wolf hunting season. 

 

Producers can remove problem predators from their own land if a danger is posed to property and livestock. Producers are encouraged to use licensed trappers to deal with predators. Any fur-bearers including coyotes and big game species like wolves and bears that are removed must be reported to Manitoba Conservation within 10 days of being taken. However, certain species such as antelope, cougars, elk, deer and game birds cannot be destroyed.

 

Another change for 2006-07 is the opening of muskrat seasons in the Camper Duck A and B registered trapping sections from March 15 to April 30, 2007. The area was closed several years ago because of poor water levels in Lake Winnipegosis.  The increased water levels have improved muskrat habitat and populations.

 

“The opening of muskrat seasons in these areas will be welcome news for trappers in the area as muskrat prices also increased dramatically this year,” said Struthers.

 

The profession requires more trappers to deal with the growing number of losses from problem beaver and predators.  Youth Trapping Permits are provided free of charge to qualified individuals who are 12 to 17 years of age by Oct. 1, the opening day of beaver season throughout the province, or on the day they obtain the permit. This change makes age requirements for youth permits the same as youth hunting licences. 

 

“Trapping plays an important role in many Manitoba communities,” said Struthers.  “Introducing youth to trapping will help to strengthen their connection with the land.”

 

Trapping Guides are available from Manitoba Conservation District offices, trapping licence vendors and online at http://www.gov.mb.ca/conservation/wildlife/trapping/index.html.