As hunting season ramps up with the opening of the rifle season for white-tailed deer, Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) are asking hunters to be respectful of the property of members and to observe all provincial regulations.
MBP has heard from producers who have expressed concern with some hunters entering their property without permission, and causing damage. Other concerns have been raised about some hunters not closing gates as they enter or leave the property.
“The majority of hunters are respectful and observe posted signage and regulations,” said MBP General Manager Melinda German. “However, we have received calls from members who’ve had hunters enter their private property illegally. Others have had issues with hunters that failed to close the gates behind them allowing cattle to leave the pasture, creating a potential safety hazard for the animal and motorists.”
If a producer has posted a no trespassing sign on their private property, hunters cannot enter unless they have spoken with the landowner and gained permission. Among the other topics MBP would like hunters to be mindful of are:
- Because of the warm fall, many cattle are still on pasture, please do not shoot in their direction;
- do not shoot in the direction of homes, buildings or equipment;
- due to the recent rains in parts of the province, the ground is soft in areas. Do not cause damage to pasture or forage land by driving in these areas and creating ruts;
- when hunting on Crown lands we ask that hunters contact the land lessee to discuss any potential concerns or issues;
- close all gates after passing through them;
- be mindful of biosecurity. The possible spread of disease or noxious weeds is a serious concern to producers and the industry at-large. Do not drive on multiple fields and potentially spread disease and/or weeds;
- observe all provincial hunting regulations and rules. The provincial hunting guide is an excellent source of information for both hunters and producers.
If a producer has a concern regarding hunting, they are asked to call the MBP office at 1-800-772-0458.
