Hunting Season Set to Begin

The cooler days and nights of fall bring a lot of activity outdoors as hunters take to the woods in anticipation of a successful and safe hunting season. Natural Resources Minister Tim Olive stresses the importance of hunters obtaining the proper training, permits and licences required to take part in the different hunting seasons in Nova Scotia.

"Hunting and trapping make a significant contribution to the rural economy of Nova Scotia," said Mr. Olive. "More than 50,000 people participate in hunting and trapping activities, so hunter safety and respect for landowner rights must be top priorities."

Hunting seasons wrap up for black bear and moose, while the general open season for deer opens today, Oct. 25, and runs until Dec. 7. Nova Scotia hunting seasons also provide opportunities for hunting pheasant, ruffed grouse, snowshoe hare (rabbit) and waterfowl.

All first-time hunters living in Nova Scotia are required to take the Canadian Firearms Safety Course through the Nova Scotia Community College and the Nova Scotia Hunter Education Course through the Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters. Bowhunters are required to take the International Bowhunter Education Program offered by the Bowhunter Instructors Association of Nova Scotia.

Hunter education has been mandatory in Nova Scotia since 1980. The delivery of these courses relies heavily on many volunteers across the province. Instructors schedule courses at various locations based on student applications received by the federation and the association.

"Our hunter safety record over the past number of years has been very good and is reflected in the low number of fatalities and accidental injuries," said Mr. Olive. "The volunteers who carry out the program in Nova Scotia deserve our thanks for a job well done. Without their dedication and participation it would be difficult for us to carry out this important program for new hunters."

Detailed information on changes to the 2002 hunting season can be found in the 2002 Nova Scotia Hunting and Furharvesting Licence and Summary of Regulations booklet produced by the Department of Natural Resources. Information is also available on the department's Web site at www.gov.ns.ca/natr/ .

The public is urged to report illegal hunting activities to their local Department of Natural Resources office or call 1-800-565- 2224.