FREDERICTON (GNB) – Applicants who have been unsuccessful in the resident moose draw will have their chances increased this year due to changes being made to the Moose Hunting Regulation under the Fish and Wildlife Act.
“The annual moose hunt is a tradition in New Brunswick, and it was important to review the moose tag draw with an eye to fairness and to ensure more hunters have a real opportunity to participate,” said Energy and Resource Development Minister Mike Holland. “These amendments will address an ongoing concern that has been raised by hunters who have been unsuccessful in the draw for numerous years.”
The number of ballots available to applicants whose names have not been drawn for 20 years or more in the random computerized draw will increase to 243 from 81. This will increase their probability of success to 93.9 per cent.
Another change will require applicants to provide proof of proper training or previous hunting experience prior to applying.
“Members of the New Brunswick Wildlife Federation have been looking for positive changes like this for many years,” said Dean Toole, first vice-president of the federation. “We thank Minister Holland for listening to our membership and commend his department for its initiative. We fully support these changes.”
About 60,000 residents apply to the draw each year. There are 4,744 tags available for the 2019 moose hunting season.
Application for the resident moose draw opens on May 21. The list of successful applicants will be made public on July 8.
13-05-19
