The Manitoba Wildlife Federation (MWF) is extremely disappointed by the response from the Commanding Officer of the RCMP regarding the ongoing blockade at the Bloodvein First Nation (BFN) check-stop.
On September 22, MWF wrote to the RCMP calling for immediate action after receiving five reports of Manitobans being stopped and turned back by BFN personnel while attempting to travel on Provincial Road 304 to access public lands for hunting.
In its September 23 response, the RCMP acknowledged that the issue dates to August 2025, and recognized the considerable efforts made by MWF and the Manitoba government to find a solution. However, the RCMP did not commit to taking enforcement action to ensure Manitobans can travel on the public highway.
Instead, the RCMP stated that BFN has declared a state of emergency concerning the moose population in the area and that it is awaiting further information and direction from the Manitoba government.
MWF has been provided with the results of the province’s aerial moose surveys for GHAs 17A and 17B, and both GHA were described as relatively stable. MWF has not been advised, nor has the province released any declaration of a state of emergency in the area. Wildlife management decisions should be informed by these scientific assessments, not an informal road blockade that prevents Manitobans from travelling on a public highway.
MWF believes the roles and responsibilities of government and law enforcement must remain clear. Wildlife management decisions belong within the appropriate provincial regulatory and management framework. Enforcement agencies, meanwhile, must uphold the law and protect public safety and lawful access within their jurisdiction.
The actions taken by BFN to blockade the highway may violate provisions of the Criminal Code,the Charter’s section 8 protections against unauthorized search and seizure, and section 9 protections against arbitrary detention.
MWF is reviewing its legal options and will continue to pursue every avenue available to protect public access and the rights of Manitobans.
The RCMP’s response letter is attached. To read more about the issue, see the featured articles from the Winnipeg Sun, Winnipeg Free Press, and Wire Service Canada at these links:
The Winnipeg Sun: Hunters again report being turned away at Bloodvein Checkstop
The Winnipeg Free Press: Extremely disappointed hunters being turned away near Bloodvein First Nation Manitoba Wildlife Federation says
Wire Service Canada: Manitoba Wildlife Calls for RCMP Action Over Bloodvein Highway Access
