In October and November 2008, the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) will be consulting with the public on its proposed Framework for Enhanced Black Bear Management in Ontario.

This proposed framework is intended to improve how black bears are managed in Ontario.  Once finalized, the framework will replace the outdated 1986 document entitled Management Policy and Program for Black Bears in Ontario.

The goal of the consultation is to gather public comments on the MNR's proposed framework in order to develop a black bear management program that:

• is ecologically-based

• has a transparent and common planning approach/process

• incorporates ecological, social and economic factors in determining harvest levels, and,

• provides for greater stakeholder involvement and local consideration in management decisions

The ministry is consulting on the framework by seeking public comment on the proposed framework through a notice on the Environmental Registry.  You can take part in this important process by reading the proposal on the province’s EBR website: www.ebr.gov.on.ca/ERS-WEB-External/displaynoticecontent.do, Registry Number 010-4825, and sending in your comments no later than November 28, 2008.

Click on the Offsite Link below to view full article.