Liberals Waste Elk Resource

Hidden in the Liberal Government of Ontario’s Omnibus bill 212 “The Good Government Act, for
2009”, passed on November 4, 2009, is an amendment to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act. This
amendment gives the Minister of Natural Resources the authority to issue “kill” permits to landowners
and farmers who are experiencing problems with elk.

The re-introduction of wild elk in Ontario started in 1997 and the program has been a huge success
story. However, in several areas the over population of Elk has become a problem for landowners and
farmers crops. The Liberal governments knee jerk reaction of treating these magnificent elk like a
nuisance animal is simply typical of the Liberal lack of appreciation, understanding and poor management
of Ontario’s natural resources.

The fact that the MNR has not completed an elk management strategy should surprise no one. But
wouldn’t it be far more appropriate for the government to have the MNR complete an elk management
plan. This plan should include a strategy of a carefully controlled hunt. Such a hunt would assist
landowners by reducing the population, create unique hunting opportunities and stimulate economic
opportunities in local communities. I realize that planning that endeavours to benefit all is a foreign
concept to the MNR and their Liberal masters in Toronto but maybe it is a concept worth trying.

Gaye Smith
R.R.#3, Paisley, Ont.
519-353-7275