B.C.'s new NDP government is ending the grizzly bear trophy hunt as of November 30th. Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations Minister Doug Donaldson says the government is also stopping all hunting of grizzlies throughout the province, with the exception of food purposes.
There are an estimated 15,000 grizzly bears in B.C. Each year, approximately 250 are taken by hunters.
Donaldson says by bringing trophy hunting of grizzlies to an end his government is delivering on a commitment to British Columbians, adding the action is supported by the vast majority of people across the province.
He says the action goes beyond the commitment to Coastal First Nations made as part of the 2016 Great Bear Rainforest agreements. Government will consult with First Nations and stakeholder groups to determine next steps and mechanisms as B.C. moves toward ending the trophy hunt.
As well, government will be moving forward with a broader consultation process to create a renewed wildlife management strategy, to include dedicated funding for wildlife and habitat conservation, and developing short and long-term plans for wildlife resources.