Who is the MWF to you, and what inspires your loyalty as a member? Are you a farmer, hunter, angler, trapper, avid shooter, or dedicated conservationist? Or perhaps you are simply a Manitoban with a deep passion for the outdoors and the diverse fish and wildlife that thrive here? The Manitoba Wildlife Federation (MWF) represents all of these and more. We stand as advocates for wildlife that cannot speak for themselves and for the people who cherish this lifestyle—individuals who embrace the responsibility of protecting the natural resources we rely on.
As a member of the MWF, you join a community committed to preserving the traditions and opportunities that future generations of Manitobans will enjoy. We work tirelessly to ensure that outdoor experiences remain accessible to all, safeguarding the legacy of our land and its wildlife.
In 2024, the MWF staff and board have remained dedicated to our mission. This year, we’ve made significant strides across various initiatives—from membership services and Hunter Education Safety Course delivery to outdoor programming and education. Our ongoing advocacy for public access to natural spaces (“Access for All”) and our relentless efforts to protect these resources highlight our unwavering commitment to the environment and the people who love it.
MEMBERSHIP
2024 PRELIMINARY TOTALS: MWF membership (includes direct members of the MWF and our Affiliate Club members) is up 15.93% from last year.
TOTAL CLUBS ENROLLED ONLINE: 30 clubs are now utilizing our online membership sales portal with 8 more in the queue.
CURRENT STAFF:
| Carly Deacon, Managing Director |
| Chris Heald, Senior Policy Advisor |
| Lynda McKerchar, Office Manager |
| Nolan Sawatzky, Manager of Conservation Stewardship |
| Chris Benson, Program & Events Coordinator |
| Dawn Scarfe, Membership and Events Coordinator |
| Josh Nenka, Admin/Membership Assistant |
| Chase Dreilich, Recreational Angling Coordinator |
| Trent Thomson, Membership Services Assistant |
| Rob Olson, Senior Scientific Advisor |
| Colin Robinson, Manager of Stakeholder Relations |
| Dennis Schindler, Senior Land Conservation Specialist |
| Elliot Sims, Director of Policy and Philanthropy Research |
HUNTER EDUCATION:
2024 HUNTER EDUCATION GRADUATES – In-class graduates are down 8.7% from 2023, however online graduates are up 8.22% from 2023.
HUNTER EDUCATION ACTIVE INSTRUCTORS – 163 Active Instructors
HUNTER EDUCATION CERTIFICATION MANAGER: Final stages of transferring the historical data and training staff.
HUNTER EDUCATION CLASSROOM AND MEETING ROOM – Grant from The Winnipeg Foundation MWF purchased new tables for the back classroom, and some IT equipment (projector, zoom conferencing equipment).
HUNTER EDUCATION WITH SAGKEENG FIRST NATION –MWF staff visited Sagkeeng First Nation to teach both youth and adults the Hunter Education course and certify a local instructor.
MWF 2024 PROGRAMS AND EVENTS:
REGIONAL MEETINGS – Conducted Regional Meetings in Thompson,Russell Game and Fish and Teulon Game and Fish.
OUTDOOR TRADESHOWS – MWF attended the Outdoor Show in January and the Ice Fishing Show in November to take part in stage presentations, sell memberships and merchandise, and distribute information on Hunter Education, our programs and advocacy files.
MWF ANNUAL FISH FESTIVAL – Delivered on March 16th at Fort Whyte Alive with 862 new anglers in attendance. The event gives new anglers a barrier free experience to try ice fishing in addition to access to industry leaders and educational seminars.
CBC Radio, English and French TV covered the event, links to those stories are below.
FORT WHYTE ALIVE GREAT ESCAPE EVENT – MWF participated as a vendor and assisted with seminars and casting demonstrations.
HIGH SCHOOL ICE FISHING CHAMPIONSHIP –
Staff attended the 1st Annual High School Ice Fishing Championship held near Balsam Bay on March 12th with John Taylor Collegiate in Winnipeg. The event attracted over 700 high school students from across the province, including as far away as Thompson.
NEW CANADIANS LEARN ABOUT HUNTING AND FISHING OPPORTUNIES – On April 23, MWF ran this program in partnership with the Regional Connections Immigrant Services, it was a hunting and fishing seminar evening for new Canadians in Morden Manitoba.
REPAIRS TO WARNER ROAD ACCESS – MWF receivedreports of vandalism on some portable toilets that were located at the Warner Road access, an access point that is popular with ice anglers. MWF launched a campaign to fundraise for new toilets and permanent barricades to be built. $1,220 was raised from the angling community.
LEARN TO FISH- RIVER EAST TRANSCONA IMMIGRATION SERVICES – MWF conducted a Fishing 101 class to River East Transcona Immigration Services.
LEARN TO FISH – YELLOW QUILL SCHOOL – MWF conducted a Fishing 101 class to the Yellow Quill School in Portage la Prairie.
MB JUNIOR RIFLE CHAMPIONSHIP IN MORDEN – May, MWF staff attended the competition and dinner, took photos, and completed an enews/mag posting.
BECOMING AN OUTDOORS-WOMAN – May 31 – June 2, 68 women participated and forty instructor volunteers at MWF’s 30th annual Becoming an Outdoors-Woman at Circle Square Ranch in Austin, MB.
Betty Sawatzky from Golden West Broadcasting covered the weekend and captured all the incredible moments with photos and interviews.
FISHING CLINIC TO THE CANADIAN MUSLIM WOMEN’S INSTITUTE – July 18, MWF conducted a learn to fish clinic in Selkirk with participants from the Canadian Muslim Woman’s Institute. Nadia Kidwai from CBC radio has covered the story: https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-367-the-weekend-morning-show-manitoba/clip/16081360-an-unlikely-partnership
BALSAM BAY, BEACONIA BEACH, AND ROAD 103 CLEAN UP – June 20,MWF staff and volunteers took hit Balsam Bay, Beaconia Beach, and Road 103 on Lake Winnipeg’s east side to collect garbage, as well as along the beaches on either side.
ARCHERY 101 – ELM CREEK SCHOOL – June, MWF conducted an Archery 101 session with the Elm Creek Elementary School.
NEW ANGLERS FILLETING SEMINAR – July 16th MWF hosted a fish cleaning class covering step-by-step seminar on taking the fish from the cooler to getting it ready for the plate.
“THE RIPPLE EFFECT” OFFICIAL VIEWING – Co-hosted event with the Manitoba Fly Fisher Association for the viewing of MWF’s “Ripple Effect” documentary featuring Manitoba’s Stocked Pond program.
GETTING BACK TO OUR ROOTS AT THE THALBERG TAKE ROOT FESTIVAL – August 11, 2024, MWF instructed a Wild Game Cooking Class at the Take Root Festival in Thalberg, MB.
NEW FORAGING SEMINAR – August 15, 2024, MWF lead an “Intro to Foraging with MWF” workshop at Birds Hill Park, covering the basics of foraging, accessible public areas for foraging, essential gear and packing tips, and, most importantly, ethical foraging practices.
LOGHAVEN OUTDOORS HOSTS “CHASE THE CLAY” FOR NEW CANADIANS – August 17th, MWF assisted Loghaven Outdoors with their annual “Chase the Clay” event near Gull Lake, Manitoba. The program aims to create an inclusive learning environment for people of all backgrounds, including newcomers to Canada to learn shotgun and waterfowl hunting basics from mentors.
1ST SHOT LEARN TO SHOOT EVENT – August 24, shotgun and rifle instruction day proudly hosted by Lac du Bonnet (LDB) Wildlife Association at the new LDB Outdoor Education Recreation Center and Range.
BECOMING AN OUTDOORS FAMILY – Sept 6-7, MWF launched BOF at the Circle Square Ranch to eight families. Included outdoor education seminars – fishing, archery, outdoor cooking, knot tying, and family crafts.
MENTORED HUNT EVENTS – Sept – Oct, MWF staff delivered or assisted in delivering the following events:
- Dauphin mentored waterfowl hunt
- Neepawa mentored waterfowl hunt
- Minnedosa mentored waterfowl hunt
- Women’s Waterfowl Hunt
- BOW Mentored Waterfowl Hunt
MANITOBA DEAF EXPO – October 25, 2024, MWF staff spoke on MWF and our outdoor lifestyles at the inaugural Manitoba Deaf Expo, organized by Winnipeg Director of the Manitoba Deaf Association, and the Manitoba Deaf Association.
BECOMING AN OUTDOORS-WOMAN PROGRAM FEATURED AT THE WAWANESA GAME AND FISH ANNUAL BANQUET AND BUCK NIGHT – Dec 7, MWF presented on “Becoming an Outdoorswoman” program, to the Wawanesa Game and Fish membership. which sparked the interest of several local women eager to learn outdoor skills.
WILD AT HEART FUNDRAISING EVENT – Nov 23, we celebrated our outdoor lifestyles with 410 attendees who support the MWF and helped us reach our our 2024 fundraising goals!
GIVING TUESDAY – raised just over $8000 in year-end contributions on Dec 3.
NEW GRANTS
APPROVED through Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Fund: DEVELOP THE NATIONAL ARCHERY IN THE SCHOOL PROGRAM (NASP) IN MANITOBA
MWF launched 2-year project to formally launch the National Archery in the Schools Program in MB. The National Archery in the Schools Program is an in-school program aimed at providing instruction in international-style target archery as part of the in-school curriculum. This program will be offered to grades 4 – 12. Students will learn how to properly shoot archery, in addition to improving their focus, self-control, discipline, patience, and the life lessons required to be successful in the classroom and in life. NASP stats indicate that 50% of the students who participate in NASP are more connected with their school, 40% are more engaged in the classroom, and 91% go on to pursue outdoor activities.
APPROVED through Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Fund: ENHANCE HUNTER EDUCATION AND HUNTER RECRUITMENT PROGRAM OUTREACH
MWF is working to modernize the Hunter Education Student Manual and Instructor PowerPoint that will correspond to the online course format. Also, it will contribute to funding supplies necessary to deliver hands-on training programs such as Mentored Hunts and 1st Shot Range Training Days across the province.
APPROVED through Wildlife Habitat Canada: BECOMING AN OUTDOORS-WOMAN
MWF received a grant from Wildlife Habitat Canada for program delivery and expansion of our BOW program, celebrating our 30th Anniversary.
ADVOCACY
ACCESS FOR ALL: MKO – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc/Moose Tag Reduction
- Provincial government has implemented a 75% reduction in tags for resident Manitoba licensed moose hunters in GHAs 9A, 15, 15A and 10. This knee-jerk decision was made in response to pressure from MKO (Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakinak), a non-profit, political advocacy group representing 26 First Nation communities in the North. The Manitoba Wildlife Federation (MWF) feels the decision lacks scientific justification because it was made without adequate information (such as data on moose populations and moose harvest by First Nations) and is contrary to the principles of conservation and reconciliation. Licensed hunters were not engaged in this process or decision, unnecessarily creating divisions between us and Indigenous communities.
- MWF has consulted with legal counsel and is proceeding with an application for judicial review. A judicial review application essentially asks the court to review and potentially overturn this decision, if it finds that the government acted arbitrarily or unreasonably, which we and our lawyers believe to be the case.
- MWF believes that if this decision goes unchallenged, it could lead to more attacks on licensed anglers and hunters, jeopardizing our access to public lands and wildlife resources throughout the province.
- Link to June 26, 2024, MKO Media Release:https://mkonation.com/mko/wp-content/uploads/06-26-2024-Media-Release-MKO-Sets-Record-Straight-on-First-Nation-Right-of-Top-Priority-FIN3.pdf
- Winnipeg Free Press Article: Minister Approves Northern Moose, Elk Hunt: https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2024/06/26/minister-approves-northern-moose-elk-hunt
- LETTERS TO THE EDITOR – MWF respectfully submitted the following response to the Editorial published in the Winnipeg Free Press titled: The spirit, and the language, of a deal; posted Friday, Aug. 30, 2024. To read the full editorial and MWF’s response visit: https://mwf.mb.ca/archives/10236
- Series of Events from May – Nov 2024
- June 17: Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) representatives met with the Premier and other provincial ministers to discuss issues related to moose hunting. The meeting was a key moment in the ongoing discussions about wildlife management and Indigenous rights.
- June 20: Within 48 hours of MKO’s demands, the Manitoba Wildlife Federation (MWF) was informed that the big game draw results, originally scheduled for June 21, would be delayed until July 12. No reason was provided for this delay at the time, prompting concerns about transparency.
- June 27: MWF issued a statement to the media and our membership, expressing dissatisfaction with the government’s approach and the potential impacts of a tag reduction.
- July 4: Minister Moses contacted MWF staff to discuss the situation. During this conversation, MWF outlined potential responses and actions they could take in response to a potential decision to reduce tags for licensed hunters.
- July 8: MWF consulted with legal counsel and sent a formal letter to Minister Moses, outlining their position and concerns about the potential decision, in hopes of having influence on the outcome before the official announcement.
- July 11: The Deputy Minister notified MWF of the final decision on the draw, confirming the 75% reduction in moose tags.
- July 12: The draw results were officially announced, confirming the reduction in tags.
- MWF legal counsel sent a letter to Minister Jamie Moses outlining MWF’s position and emphasizing the government’s responsibility to safeguard all Manitobans’ rights to hunt.
- Aug 12: MWF filed an application for judicial review. A judicial review application essentially asks the court to review and potentially overturn this decision, if it finds (as we feel) that the government acted arbitrarily or unreasonably.
- Aug 26: Pimicikamak Okimawin (Cross Lake First Nation) filed for an injunction to prohibit licensed hunting in GHAs 9A and 10 in advance of the start of the season on September 16, 2024.
- Aug 28: Court denied Pimicikamak’s request for an urgent hearing of their injunction motion before the hunting season opens on September 16. This result means that those hunters
- Sept 7: Pimicikamak Okimawin took out ads in the Winnipeg Free Press to advise non-Indigenous people not to hunt moose on their traditional territory and ask them to return moose tags, which are issued by the province, to Natural Resources Minister Jamie Moses.
- MWF legal counsel, Jonathan Andrews, Kevin Toyne and Jesse Rock, along with MWF staff Carly Deacon and Chris Heald were in court Nov.12 & 13th representing the MWF. After hearing all parties’ legal arguments the Honorable Judge Mr. Justice Brian T.D Bowman reserved his decision. MWF staff recorded a short video that offers you a chance to see our legal team explain how things transpired in the court room. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCwTeh0Z3Lc
ACCESS FOR ALL – INDIGENOUS PROTECTED CONSERVATION AREAS (IPCA’s)
- The Provincial and Federal government are contemplating turning over management control of a vast area in Northern Manitoba called the Seal River Watershed (the size of Nova Scotia) to First Nations as a new national park. This Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area initiative (IPCA) is one of 9 proposed for Manitoba. Of the 62 IPCAs currently planned for Canada by the federal government, the Seal River IPCA is the largest, comprising 50,000 squared km. These protected areas will contribute to a global conservation target establishing goals of protecting 30% of Canada’s lands and waters by 2030 (“30X30”).
- While the MWF supports the conservation of our natural spaces and the value of fishing, hunting and outdoor recreation to Indigenous and non-Indigenous Manitoban’s, we are firmly opposed to the establishment of a national park in the Seal River Watershed, given the historical and ongoing exclusion of licensed hunters from public lands designated as national parks.
- The Kitaskeenan IPCA was announced on September 4th, 2024, with specific details about its size and scope yet to be determined. This area, like other Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas, will focus on preserving ecological integrity while prioritizing Indigenous leadership in land management.
- Both the Seal River IPCA and Kitaskeenan IPCA will prohibit resource development activities, including mining, to protect the area’s natural environment. In addition to these restrictions, there is a potential for IPCAs to restrict licensed hunting and fishing activities, which could affect access for licensed hunters and anglers. These potential limitations could also have economic impacts, particularly for the 47 lodges and outfitters operating in the Seal River Watershed (SRW), as restricted access may lead to a decline in hunting and fishing tourism.
- While there are many alternative legal mechanisms available to conserve the Seal River Watershed while maintaining public access, designation of this area as a Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is the preferred option. Preserving public access for all to enjoy these activities, aligned with protected area goals, would foster a greater sense of cooperation and social support for these protected areas.
- Access to crown lands could be in jeopardy for hunters, anglers, trappers, ranchers, farmers, snowmobilers, cottage owners on leased land and other resource users.
- The Seal River Watershed Alliance (SRWA), Parks Canada and the Government of Manitoba opened a public consultation period from July 22 – Aug 23, 2024, to obtain public input and feedback on the feasibility of establishing this area as a protected area, including making it a National Park and an IPCA. The MWF has submitted our position to the Seal River Watershed Alliance on Aug 2, 2024.
ACCESS FOR ALL – ECOLOGICAL CORRIDORS
- To facilitate connectivity between protected areas or unprotected habitat
- Co-designated as IPCA, similar management strategy
- First Nations will have the primary role in protecting and conserving ecosystems through Indigenous laws, governance and knowledge systems
- Potential to impact private land use.
- Extension of Parks Canada mandate beyond National Park’s on to provincial crown land and private land.
- Vague wording in documents and on web sites, subject to interpretation with no transparency.
- What is the definition of compatible and incompatible activities – “mechanisms in place to prevent incompatible activities (incompatible with the corridor goals and objectives”.
- examples include indigenous law, legislation, by-laws, policy instruments or contracts.
- Provinces are able to transfer crown lands to the federal government without consultation through Order-In-Council.
ACCESS FOR ALL: METIS HARVESTING AREAS, REGULATIONS and RIGHTS
- Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) issued a letter to Metis Harvesters proposing a significant expansion of the Métis Natural Resource Harvesting Zone (MNRHZ) to include all the Prairie provinces, parts of the Northwest Territories, Ontario, and the United States. MMF also proposes to grant Metis residents living anywhere within this vast area the right to hunt in Manitoba without regard to provincial angling and hunting laws, including harvest limits established for conservation purposes.
- Staff has aligned stakeholders and the provincial Federation Directors to coordinated support against this proposal.
- A letter has been sent to our Premier and Cabinet Ministers expressing MWF’s position.
- Manitoba Government has instructed Conservation Officers to not enforce the law and is considering expanding Métis harvest zones without consulting with First Nations or the 350,000 anglers and hunters in Manitoba that share in the protection and sustainability of our wildlife resources. MWF wrote a letter to the province on July 23, 2024. Please also visit our MWF webpage (mwf.mb.ca) for further information and details on the proposal, MMF recognized harvesting areas, and the proposed expansion areas.
- Manitoba métis leader wins battle overfishing ticket as charge is stayed.
Links:
- MMF RECOGNIZED AREA FOR HARVESTING MAP
- MMF PROPOSAL TO EXPAND HARVEST AREAS
- CANADIAN PRESS ARTICLE: Manitoba Métis Federation president says he wasn’t breaking the law after ticket for fishing without license.
- MWF asks Manitoba Metis leader to change the narrativedue to an article written by MMF leader Will Goodon in the opinion section of The Winnipeg Free Press on Saturday, September 14th. Our response to Mr. Goodon’s article was published in the Winnipeg Free Press on Saturday Sept 21st and has been included in full print below. To read Mr. Goodon’s article in full visit: https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/analysis/2024/09/14/rights-arent-a-gift
ACCESS FOR ALL – MEETING WITH MINISTER MOSES
- MWF met with Minister Jamie Moses, with the Department of Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources, to discuss the concerns of anglers, hunters, and conservationists. Topics covered included the recent reduction in moose licenses in the North for licensed hunters, the proposed Seal River Watershed National Park and the proposed expansion of the Métis Natural Resource Harvest Zone.
- We asked for the government to support licensed anglers and hunters and include the MWF and all other invested stakeholders in future management decisions regarding Manitoba’s resources.
ACCESS for ALL – NATURAL RESOURCE TRANSFER AGREEMENT
- MWF became aware that the government was being urged to retreat from its constitutional responsibilities under the Natural Resources Transfer Agreement (NRTA).
- Capitulating to this advocacy would significantly compromise the province’s ability to manage all of our natural resources in a sustainable manner and put at risk the future of angling and hunting.
- MWF sent a letter to the Premier, Ministers, and government staff stating our opposition and requesting involvement in any discussions on any proposed changes to the NRTA and the management of our natural resources.
- Minister Ian Bushie responded on Dec 6, 2024, advising MWF that they are not revisiting or revising the NRTA.
ACCESS FOR ALL – OUTDOOR INDUSTRY SYMPOSIUM
- MWF attended the 2024 Annual Outdoor Symposium in Ottawa with well over 120 representatives of hunting, angling, trapping, industry and conservation organizations present. Discussions were broad but the main issues discussed were AIS, firearms, CWD, anti-hunting movements and IPCA’s.
- MWF staff were asked to present to the group on the Federal Government/United Nations 30 by 30 (designate 30% of land and water to protected areas by 2030) initiative and the use of Indigenous protected areas to meet their goals and the potential effects they will have on access for hunters, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- After MWF’s presentation, public access to public spaces quickly became the number one issue discussed over the three days and numerous questions around the subject were asked of the Members of Parliament in attendance.
ACCESS FOR ALL – THE NATIONAL FISHING AND HUNTING COLLABORATIVE
- The National Fishing and Hunting Collaborative (NFHC) has been meeting to strategize about dedicated funding, improved conservation, and public access across Canada. The NFHC is comprised of Provincial Wildlife Federations representing hunters, anglers, and trappers from coast to coast to coast.
- MWF (past chair of this group) presented our recently completed National Election Platform Paper in Ottawa to MP’s and the Conservative Outdoor Caucus. This document can be found on the MWF website.
ACCESS FOR ALL – TOWN HALL MEETINGS
- MWF hosted a series of town hall meetings Manitoba, including Thompson, Snow Lake, The Pas, Russell, Swan River, Pilot Mound, Portage and Brandon.
- Focused on ensuring fair and sustainable access to wildlife resources.
- The meetings are used as a venue to educate on the federally-driven Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas initiative, Moose Tag Reductions and Metis Expansion/Harvest/Enforcement.
- Rallied members, clubs, hunters, anglers, conservationists, Industry leaders, FN elders, Metis, Ag and cattle producers etc.
- Very well received, positive and respectful messaging all around.
- Generated membership growth, donor support, identified thought leaders, and cultivated new relationships with stakeholders.
- The PREMIER PUBLICLY COMMENTED ON MWF TOWN HALLSthrough anarticle published in the Pembina Valley online, Written by Chris Sumner Friday, Nov 15, 2024. To access this article click here: https://www.pembinavalleyonline.com/articles/premier-comments-on-manitoba-wildlife-federation-town-halls. MWF publicly responded through an enewsletter.
FIREARMS POLICY
- Bill C-21 is now poised to become law as Senators voted 60 to 24 at the third reading, in favor of Bill C-21 to restrict handguns, increase penalties for firearm trafficking, and curb homemade ghost guns. The legislation includes measures to:
- Tighten gun laws to include “red flag” and “yellow flag” provisions related to a gun owner posing a risk to themselves or others.
- Impose a “freeze” on the sale, purchase, or transfer of handguns in Canada.
- A prospective Criminal Code “technical definition” of what constitutes a prohibited assault-style firearm, meant to “cement in law” a permanent ban on future models once the bill comes into force.
- A series of provisions meant to make it illegal to make or buy ghost guns and to combat firearms smuggling; and
- Wording making clear the government’s intent to uphold Indigenous treaty rights.
- 324 FIREARMS ADDED TO THE PROHIBITED LIST IN CANADA wasannounced a surprise gun ban, immediately declaring 324 different types of firearms to be prohibited. Ottawa has also promised to eventually seize the firearms as part of a buyback program, with some of the firearms slated to be sent to the Ukrainian military. To read the National Post article click here. The detailed list of the 324 makes and models of the newly prohibited firearms can be found at https://www.gazette.gc.ca/rp-pr/p2/2024/2024-12-06-x3/html/sor-dors248-eng.html
COMMERCIAL FISHING FORUM
- The Manitoba government held fishing forums to engage with commercial fishermen and stakeholders about the Lake Winnipeg Fishery.
- MWF staff attended to represent anglers and conservationists and were very pleased with the engaging format the government developed.
- The views expressed very much reflected what MWF has been advocating for years including proper science, a well-funded and staffed Fisheries Branch, laws, and regulations that apply to all, and the need for rigorous enforcement to protect the resource. While some concerns about the Eco-certification process still exist, the majority accept that it is the right path to protect and sustain the industry for future generations.
- The MWF was also pleased to learn more about the work being done by the IndigiNorth Fisheries Group to educate Manitobans on the importance of commercial fishery. Some quick facts:
- Over 80% of commercial fishers are Indigenous.
- The sector employs 3,000 people.
- Over 25 Indigenous communities depend on commercial fishing as their #1 source of livelihood.
- Manitoba accounts for 12 million kgs of Canada’s total inland commercial fisheries catch of 28 million kgs each year.
These statistics underline the important role that commercial fishing plays in the provincial economy. When combined with the $650 million contributed annually to Manitoba’s economy by our 150,000 plus anglers, the protection and sustainability of this precious resource is of utmost importance to all Manitobans.
NEW SIGNS FOR ANGLERS AT POPULAR FISHING LOCATIONS
- The MWF installed signage at popular angling locations with area specific recreational angling regulations to increase communication on the new angling regulations. These signs have a scannable QR code on them that leads to the area specific regulations translated to five different languages to help new Canadians. In addition to the translations anglers can also find a direct link to the current fishing guide through the same QR code.
2024 RED RIVER CREEL SURVEY
- During the 2024 ice fishing season the Manitoba Wildlife Federation managed a Creel Survey that took place on the Red River between Lockport and the End of Main. The project was funded by the Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Fund, while survey data will be organized and analyzed by provincial fisheries biologists.
- The information gathered on this survey (to help fisheries biologists better understand use and productivity).
- River access points that were utilized throughout the survey were Cats on The Red in Lockport, the floodway access in Lockport, CIL road access, Selkirk Park access and the End of Main access.
- Full article with results has been published in Outdoor Canada West Mag, presented at AGM, and was distributed at the Ice Fishing Show.
- Tom Usiner, a Creel Clerk, was honored with a Rescue Commendation during National Drowning Prevention Week. This prestigious award was presented for Tom’s quick actions and bravery in rescuing individuals from a truck that had fallen through the ice last winter in Lockport, showcasing his commitment to safety and the community.
Chronic Wasting Disease Case Detected Near Winkler
- Detection of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in the southern-central region near Winkler.
- First detected in Manitoba in 2021, a total of 26 cases have been identified including 22 mule deer and four white-tailed deer. The latest case, a female white-tailed deer, was identified by a biological sample submitted by a hunter from the Winkler area. This new detection is in an area of Manitoba with no previous detections. Until this time, positive cases have occurred only in two districts and localized areas along the province’s western border.
- To read more about CWD and the latest positive case near Winkler, read and listen to Chris Heald’s (MWF Senior Policy Advisor) interview with Discover Westman:
- MWF assisted the government with aligning clubs to participate in picking up deer heads which has improved turnaround times for testing and given some clubs a source of revenue.
WATERFOWL MODERNIZATION STRATEGY
- Set new limits on outfitters and makes all foreign non-residents apply through a draw to hunt in MB has been passed through legislation. New regs are for the 2023 waterfowl season. MWF staff participated as guests on Ramsey Russell’s podcast “Duck Season Somewhere” to discuss Manitoba’s new waterfowl hunting regulations. This podcast clearly explains the issues waterfowl hunters are facing across North American and the benefits these new regulations will have for all hunters, residents, and non-residents.
- MWF, MLOA, and Delta Waterfowl met with the Conservative Caucus to discuss the regulations in response to push back from specific members.
- MWF requested a meeting with conservation officers on the enforcement of new waterfowl regulations. The Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters Assoc., Manitoba Wildlife Federation, and Delta Waterfowl met with CO service to discuss curtailing illegal outfitting and the underground cash economy that will greatly assist in maintaining access for both residents and freelance foreign resident hunters and ensure the viability of reputable MB outfitting businesses.
PROVINCIAL CABINET SHUFFLE/DEPARTMENT CHANGES AND NEW MANDATE
- The premier of Manitoba recently shuffled his cabinet and has changed department structure and staffing. Summary as follows:
- The Department of Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources has become the Department of Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures.
- The Honorable Minister Jamie Moses has been replaced by the Honorable Minister Ian Bushie.
- Deputy Minister Dana Rudy has been replaced by Deputy Minister Bruce Gray.
- The Premier also sent down a new mandate to his Ministers. We have provided a summary of the issues that affect hunters and anglers most in the bullet points below. To read the full mandate letter please click on the following link: https://mwf.mb.ca/archives/10362
- Develop and implement natural resource laws and policies that unite Manitobans, recognizing everyone has a role to play in the responsible stewardship of the land.
- Explore ways to expand hunting opportunities for all Manitobans and support outfitters.
- Listen to Conservation Officers, Indigenous Land Guardians, and the communities they serve, and work with them to improve respect, relationships, and workplace culture in the spirit of reconciliation.
- Take new steps to support commercial fishers in Manitoba.
- Support the forestry industry, working with Indigenous nations and industry to establish good relationships that advance economic reconciliation, protect wildlife and the environment, and grow the economy.
- Advance economic reconciliation by partnering with new, and existing Indigenous developments and pursuing future opportunities with Indigenous communities through the Indigenous Economic Development fund.
- Work with Indigenous nations and industry to protect heritage resources and ensure the permitting process is efficient.
- Work with Indigenous communities, hunters, anglers, and outfitters to establish protected areas that safeguard our natural resources and allow Manitobans to enjoy hunting, fishing, and recreation in other areas of the province.
- Work with Indigenous communities on the goal of protecting 30% of Manitoba’s diverse landscapes by 2030.
CARP SCREENS DELTA MARSH WORKING GROUP
- MWF advocated to have the Delta Marsh working group reestablished and were successful at getting Delta Waterfowl established as the primary caretaker (in cooperation with Prov. and DFO) of the carp screen project. We anticipate the project will be administered better than it was previously under Ducks Unlimited leadership.
MWF CONTENT CREATION
CONTENT/VIDEO CREATION in 2024
- Advocacy Update: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCwTeh0Z3Lc
- Turkey Trap and Transfer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z2mf77FJl24
- The Ripple Effect: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rOqdga83QFs&t=61s
- How to Trap #1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WoAyqDTYaOE
- How to Trap #2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m83GEs4CTtk&t=497s
- How to Trap #3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=giXhlJ8jw_w
- How to Trap #4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WxVa19zOv0&t=117s
- How to Trap #5: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7J2s3Lbf8wo&t=28s
- How to Trap #6: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4o7ENslntCQ&t=66s
- WMA – Ecosystem: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=siPpe3-V_aw&t=159s
- WMA – Rotational: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YADT396xToI&t=11s
- WMA – SAR: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gNMWeeSesmI
- CO/PARKS Promo Videos: Manitoba Patrol Officer (youtube.com)
