The Manitoba Wildlife Federation (MWF) is urgently calling on the provincial government to reinstate a full moose hunting closure in the Duck Mountain and Porcupine Forest regions, following recently released population estimates that show a serious decline. Without immediate action, the MWF believes the chances of recovery for these vulnerable herds will continue to diminish.
Despite the alarmingly low moose numbers and the MWF’s formal request, the government has yet to respond. Harvest opportunities continue to be offered to Indigenous communities, raising further concern. The MWF maintains that a full closure—applying to all hunters—is critical to give the moose population a meaningful chance of recovery and ensure its long-term survival.
More than Three in Four Manitobans Support Full Hunting Closures to Conserve Moose Populations
Last week, the MWF called on the Provincial Government to enforce a full hunting closure for all hunters within the Duck /Porcupine area, given the dramatic decrease in moose populations. As described in our September 23rd, 2025 e-news, surveys in the area show the moose population is over 36% below the threshold that triggered the original hunting closure in 2011.
A recent poll conducted by Leger showed that over three quarters of Manitobans support closures to allow moose populations a chance to recover:
The weekly online poll was conducted by Leger from the 24th of September to the 26th of September 2025. The sample of 400 Manitobans yields a margin of error no greater than ±4.9%, (19 times out of 20).
The MWF reiterates its request that the Minister listen to Manitobans and introduce a full closure for all hunters, along with any other measures aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of this vulnerable population. Failure to enforce the closure and prohibit harvest would put the future survival of this moose population at risk
