More hunting opportunities for new hunters

OFAH FILE: 842
August 31, 2012
For Immediate Release

More hunting opportunities for new hunters

Extra time in the field for youth in advance of regular season 

After long-time advocacy by the OFAH, other organizations, clubs, and individuals, the Canadian Wildlife Service, with support from the Ministry of Natural Resources, has confirmed that it will bring Waterfowler Heritage Day to the province. It will be implemented this September, during which time qualified, young hunters (age 12 to 17 years old) will be permitted to hunt under the direct and immediate supervision of a mentor who is a licensed, adult hunter.

“We welcome the news that Ontario will join several other provinces in giving our youth some extra time in the field in advance of the main season,” said OFAH President Bill Blackwell. “If you have the chance, I urge you to take a young hunter out during Waterfowler Heritage Day, which will be September 1 in Hudson-James Bay and Northern Districts, September 8 in Central Ontario, and September 15 in Southern Ontario. These hunting opportunities for new, young hunters are consistent with the goals of the long-standing OFAH hunter apprenticeship safety program.”

The mentor must be at least 18 years old and have their Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit (MGBHP) but may not hunt. According to the Ontario Hunting Regulations Summary (page 79), for the Waterfowler Heritage Day, “Qualified young hunters will not need to purchase the MGBHP and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp, but they must meet all mandatory federal and provincial requirements, including having a hunter apprenticeship safety card or small game license.” Full bag and daily possession limits apply. Please note that the youth hunter is only exempt from needing a MGBHP on Waterfowler Heritage Day. A permit is mandatory for the rest of the season.

With over 100,000 members, subscribers and supporters, and 675 member clubs, the OFAH is the largest nonprofit fish and wildlife conservation-based organization in Ontario. Visit www.ofah.org to learn more, and stay connected with Facebook and Twitter.

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