Framework For Enhanced Black Bear Management in Ontario

What's Happening?

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  Once finalized, the framework will replace the outdated 1986 document entitled Management Policy and Program for Black Bears in Ontario.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.

Key elements of the framework proposed by MNR include:
 
• a black bear management goal
• guiding principles
• management objectives and strategies, and,
• a comprehensive harvest planning process with decision support tools.

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 Environmental Registry, Registry Number 010-4825, and sending in your comments no later than November 28, 2008.

The following links provide additional background and information on the proposed Framework for Enhanced Black Bear Management in Ontario:

• Backgrounder on Black Bears in Ontario - provides information about the current   knowledge/understanding about black bears and their management

• Summary of the Draft Framework for Enhanced Black Bear Management in Ontario   – summarizes the framework document
• Draft Framework for Enhanced Black Bear Management in Ontario – proposed framework for consultation.

What Happens Next

Comments provided by the public and stakeholders will be used to inform the development of the final framework in early 2009. 

The final framework document will be posted on the Environmental Registry in early/late winter 2009. 

If approved, implementation of the final framework is expected in 2010.