Archived News Releases

October 21, 2004

Conservation Minister Stan Struthers announced today the Winter Beaver Subsidy Program will operate in conjunction with the 2004-05 trapping season.

The program is a continuation of a similar initiative that was implemented last winter to encourage the harvest of beaver from chronic problem areas and adjacent registered trapline districts.

"Low pelt prices in recent years resulted in decreased beaver harvests and subsequent increases in the beaver population and beaver-related problems. Estimates of beaver damage to provincial and municipal infrastructure and private property exceed $3 million dollars annually," said Struthers.

The Winter Beaver Subsidy Program will be operated in co-operation with municipalities in the open trapping area and through Manitoba Conservation District offices for registered trapline sections. Participating trappers will be paid $15 per beaver removed from designated sites authorized by municipal officials or natural resource officers.

The minister pointed out that the introduction of the Winter Beaver Subsidy Program and improved fur prices for beaver pelts are helping to increase the total harvest of beaver, which means fewer problems for rural municipalities.

"Many municipalities considered last year's Beaver Subsidy Program a success in assisting them with problem beaver. Trappers were also happy with the program as it enabled them to earn additional income from beaver trapping," said Struthers.

The Winter Beaver Subsidy Program will terminate on March 15, 2005.

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