I emphatically oppose the…

I emphatically oppose the government's proposed changes to reduce regulatory and administrative burdens and enable increased economic opportunities for licensed trappers and fur dealers.

Financial gain for the fur trade must never come at the expense of animal protection, public safety, ecological health or transparency.

I am especially alarmed by the proposal to allow not only the sale of raw castoreum, but also the export of this prohibited substance to the global market. Given the thriving global markets for various animal parts and products, many of which are illegal, a previously prohibited substance such as raw castoreum may attract global attention. Coupled with weakened protections for fur-bearing mammals such as reduced reporting requirements and permitting the removal of beavers on Crown land during the closed season, the consequences may be devastating. Existing regulations restricting the sale of raw beaver castoreum must be respected and preserved!

No environmental impact assessments, scientific studies, or ecosystem data have been made available for public review. Without this information, stakeholders cannot properly evaluate the risks to wetlands, waterways, biodiversity, or animal welfare.

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 be informed by current, peer-reviewed science.

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.

Wildlife and ecological protections must be maintained, not weakened. These proposals have serious risks. Please ensure that regulations prioritize animal protections.