From the ATA
July 22, 2016
Re: Announcement from your President
ATTENTION: All Registered Fur Management Area Holders
Recently, Alberta Environment and Parks (AEP) have released a Memorandum notifying trappers of impending changes coming to the trapping industry in Alberta. As well, a Trapping Interim Administration Reference Document, mostly pertaining to Registered Fur Management Areas (RFMA’s) in Alberta, has been released. Both of these documents have been circulated to the membership by the Alberta Trappers’ Association (ATA).
While looking towards 2017, this interim document is already being used by some Regional and District AEP biologists as an operating guideline.
It needs to be understood that this document was developed by AEP staff alone. The ATA was not invited to provide any input prior to its release and it appears to be quite separate from prior discussions that the ATA was having with AEP.
While the intent may be fine, without further clarification, we find points in this document to be problematic. Especially troubling is the area around RFMA transfers and relinquishments. As a result, we request that all current RFMA holders considering or intending to transfer an RFMA to immediately suspend doing so until the ATA can meet with the AEP Fur Management Team. We need to receive clarification and learn the intent behind some of the decisions in this document. Please do not relinquish any RFMA’s to the Crown.
We are in talks with the appropriate officials, a meeting has been arranged, and preparations are being made. Until further notice, it is important that all trappers are alerted to this important message.
It is also important that all trappers, if not current members of the ATA, join immediately. We must have the strength of numbers when meeting with the GOA. Non-members will not have as strong a voice as what we will all have if we work together collectively.
We will continue to keep you advised through your local Presidents.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation,
Yours Sincerely,
Anne Coles
President, Alberta Trappers Association
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