Changes to Hunting Regulations
Some changes have been made to Nova Scotia hunting regulations for 1999-2000.
This year, when hunters pick up a copy of the Hunting and Furharvesting Summary of Regulations, it will include a new base licence form for hunting and trapping. A free Habitat Conservation Stamp is needed to validate the base licence, which is required before hunting any wildlife, including rabbits, crows and coyotes. In the past a licence was not needed to hunt them.
The stamp has been included as one way of keeping track of the number of hunters and to encourage people to contribute to the Habitat Conservation Fund. Hunters are being urged to participate in the fund, which helps to protect and enhance wildlife habitat. Donations are used to finance such projects as land purchase, habitat improvement, research and education programs.
Once a hunter has obtained the base licence, a separate stamp is needed to take part in specific hunts or trapping. For example, a person wanting to hunt deer would buy a separate deer hunting stamp and apply it to the base licence. There are no changes to licence fees.
Another change this year includes more opportunities for moose hunters. Winners of moose licences are allowed to name two companion hunters who have the same privileges as the licence holder but must hunt within hailing distance of the licence holder. The hunting party can take only one moose, and companion hunters must pay a $20 fee for a hunting stamp.
Other changes should make hunting easier for disabled people. The definition of a disabled person has been changed so it is less restrictive and consistent with definitions in other provinces. Previously, the definition of a disabled person was anyone who was permanently unable to walk.
Under the new regulations, the definition includes people whose mobility is limited as a result of external factors and severe physical disability caused by paralysis, lower limb amputation, heart or lung disease or other disability impairment. Disabled people may apply to the Department of Natural Resources for a weapons discharge permit to hunt from a vehicle.
"The changes are aimed at making it more convenient for hunters, especially disabled hunters and people who want to hunt moose," said Natural Resources Minister Kennie MacAskill.
There had been reports that changes were made to the deer hunting season and bow-hunting regulations but none was made. The bag limit remains at one antlered deer, but all hunters may apply for an antlerless deer permit in five of the seven deer zones. The deer population has increased and the number of available permits is double last year's number.
Details on applying are available at Department of Natural Resources offices, licence vendors or the Internet at www.deerdraw.hmcgroup.ca.
Details on hunting seasons and bag limits can be found in the 1999 Hunting and Furharvesting Summary of Regulations. It will be available later this month at all Department of Natural Resources offices and vendors throughout the province.