Trapping opportunities extended to youth

Trapping program to provide recreational and outdoor benefits to youth

The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) and the Ontario Fur Managers Federation (OFMF) congratulate the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) for introducing a youth trapping program in the province. The announcement was made at the OFMF annual general meeting held in Napanee over the weekend.”Trapping is a heritage activity and by providing an opportunity for youth to be involved, it will enhance their appreciation for the outdoors and instill a lifelong dedication to conservation,” said OFAH Executive Director Angelo Lombardo. “The OFAH is pleased that the MNR recognizes that a youth trapping program will not only provide recreational and outdoor benefits, but also pass along knowledge of an activity that is part of the cultural fabric of Canada.”Beginning this fall, youth between the ages of 12 to 15 will be eligible to obtain a trapping license. The license will permit youth to possess, prepare and sell pelts commercially. To qualify, youth must successfully complete the Fur Harvest, Fur Management and Conservation Course (FHFMCC) and be accompanied by a licensed trapper 18 years of age or older. The FHFMCC provides training with an emphasis on safety, humane trapping techniques and sustainable wildlife management practices.

“The Ontario Fur Managers Federation has worked closely with the MNR to make this program a reality, and we are delighted that the government has agreed to move forward on this vital and timely initiative. The introduction of a youth trapping program will allow us to teach young people about the rich history associated with trapping in Ontario, and ensure that future generations understand the key role that trapping and trappers play in terms of conservation, sustainability, wildlife management, protection of crops and livestock and public safety,” said OFMF President Karl Lindstrom.

“Trapping is considered an activity of significant historical, social, cultural and economic value in Ontario for centuries, and one that results in economic benefits to the communities and individuals. Ontario trappers have worked tirelessly for many years towards a program like this which will guide youth to be safe and responsible trappers,” said Minister of Natural Resources David Orazietti.

For more information, including how to apply, visit www.mnr.gov.on.ca orwww.furmanagers.com.

The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters is Ontario’s largest, nonprofit, fish and wildlife conservation-based organization, representing 100,000 members, subscribers and supporters, and 710 member clubs. To learn more,visit www.ofah.org.

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As an avid lifelong angler and hunter, Peter’s outdoor knowledge and experiences keep expanding through his hundreds of hours of hunting and fishing podcast interviews with like minded experts. He has received numerous national writing awards. With thousands of outdoor pictures on Ripple Outdoors and many full-length articles with outdoor magazine and video clips you might say that he not only enjoys his outdoor lifestyle, but he’s quite the fanatic! In 2015 he earned fifth overall on the King of the Wood Contest hosted by Canada In The Rough team, pretty good for a baby boomer deer hunter. His buck was also one of the top bucks taken that season. Through Peter’s deer hunting seminars or by attending outdoor trade shows, like the Toronto Sportsmen Show and The SWOC Big Buck Show, he has connected with thousands of like minded people that love hunting and fishing. As a volunteer or member of local and national outdoor groups like QDMA, SWOC, Outdoor Writers of Canada, Archery Trade Show Association he continues to learn and hone his craft. Read his many articles, listen to his podcasts and rifle through thousands of photos on Ripple Outdoors. Discover Peter’s latest posts about outdoor gear, destinations, how to articles and interviews and you’ll be a better angler and hunter for the experience.