I can not stand when our hunting and fishing license fees go up and we GET less for our trouble. In Ontario, this is what is going to happen in the Ontario Government’s budget. Before you drain your wallet and yell at the fan – YOU can do something about it. The OFAH has facilitated an information sheet and link that will allow Ontario hunters and fisherman to voice their opinions to the Government.
Did you know that the budget of the Ministry of Natural Resources is down 24% from levels in 1992-1993? Their budget 2006-2007 is down by 5% since the previous year.
OFAH also shares that,
“It is estimated that a sound Fish and Wildlife program requires funding of at least $120 million. (Which results in an annual economic return of $6.7 billion value added and over 77,000 person years of employment). The base budget for the 2006 Fish and Wildlife program was flatlined at $78 million. The Special Purpose Account (SPA) which captures revenues related to hunting, fishing, commercial fishing and trapping now provides over 75% of base program funding. At about $60 million in 2006 its contribution to program funding has increased more than 40% over the last decade.
Despite growing interest by the public in the protection of biodiversity and ecosystem integrity, and the achievement of resource sustainability the provincial governments contribution to the base fish and wildlife program funding decreased from $23.4 million in 2000/01 to $15.9 million in 2005/06!”
Visit the OFAH site to see other details about funding cuts and lack of funding in other areas. Help the MNR (Ministry of Natural Resources) to get their funding back by letting the Government know your thoughts on the matter.
Use this link to give some input into pre-budget consultations for the next budget.
Keep in mind the MNR is doing the best they can with the funds they are given. Support them by letting your voice be heard.
We are all in this together. Let’s Get ‘Er Done because I want more for my wildlife dollars!
Bill Anderson
Muskoka Outdoors
