Illegal Bear Guiding Results In Fine And Lifetime Suspensions
Two Temagami-area tourist operators have been convicted of a variety of offences related to bear hunting services. One was banned for life from bear hunting and guiding, and the other was fined a total of $3,000.
Gary Mercer, owner and operator of Angus Lake Lodge, was convicted of violating the conditions of his licence to provide bear hunting services and of illegally issuing a bear hunting validation certificate to a non-resident. He was fined a total of $3,000.
Lawrence Dorman, Operations Manager of Temagami Shores Inn and Resort, was convicted of illegally providing black bear hunting services. He was banned for life from hunting black bears and from participating in any aspect of operating a Bear Management Area.
The court heard that in August 2008 Dorman served as an unlicensed bear hunting guide and outfitter for hunters from the United States. He put out bait for bears and guided the hunters in Angus Lake Lodge’s Bear Management Area. Mercer violated the conditions of his licence to provide bear hunting services by transferring the operation of the Bear Management Area to Dorman and issuing a validation certificate to a non-resident hunter who was not his client. Mr. Dorman had been warned about similar activities in 2007.
Justice of the Peace Michel Moreau heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, City of Temiskaming Shores, on September 17, 2009.
A third defendant is to appear in court on October 22, 2009, to address a related charge resulting from this investigation.
To report a natural resource violation, call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Mike Regis, North Bay District, (705) 475-5596
Mike Schenk, North Bay District, (705) 647-6988
