I am once again dismayed by…

I am once again dismayed by the lack of evidence of an environmental assessment, the illusion that leg hold traps continue to be considered humane, and the continuing erosion by this government of what it defines as humane (e.g. allowing moré enclosed “training “ sites, where live wildlife is entrapped in an enclosed space and hunting dogs are allowed to chase, harass and torment the wild animal.) Allowing trapping of beavers on Crown Land, during the closed season, when this is a time of reproduction for beavers, is not sound wildlife safeguarding. Where is the transparency to support that this trapping is essential for structural integrity of roads when there may very well be alternative humane strategies for controlling water flow for example?

Key takeaways:
The government must provide full scientific documentation, environmental impact assessments, and data to support its claims.

It should also consider extending the public comment period to allow stakeholders time to review this information and provide informed feedback.

Laws around trapping need to prioritize animal welfare and should be informed by current, peer-reviewed science.

Small financial gains for the fur trade should never come at the expense of animal protection, public safety, or ecological health.

Beavers are keystone species that create wetlands, support biodiversity, and regulate water systems. Policies should safeguard habitats on Crown and private lands from increased or indiscriminate trapping, especially during the closed season.

Strong reporting and regulatory oversight are essential to ensure that trapping practices comply with required standards.