Letter to the Editor

The following letter has been delivered to the District of Invermere…

Mayor Taft and Councillors

District of Invermere

There is not a more contentious issue for the District of Invermere than that of our resident mule deer population. The increase of the mule deer population within our town boundaries is taking place while the exact opposite appears to be happening in rural areas.

Though the majority of Invermere residents would like to see action taken to reduce the numbers, the thought of a cull does not sit well with anyone.  This is especially true amongst our members who have first hand witnessed the decline of rural ungulate populations over the past 10 years.

Our club, which includes three retired conservation officers, wildlife biologists, professional guides, and ranchers, would like to volunteer our manpower, equipment, and expertise to the district for the live capture, transport, and relocation of mule deer.

The Lake Windermere District Rod & Gun Club has an extensive history in wildlife capture and relocation assistance (bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and elk) and will be involved again in a mule deer capture and collaring project north of Radium Hot Springs with the BC Wildlife Branch in 2015.

We understand the difficulty in obtaining the province’s approval for relocation; however, wildlife management is their sole responsibility, and as such, should not become a burden to the district. If the Provincial Government decides to add conditions for a relocation permit such as veterinarian examinations, collaring, and post relocation monitoring, then the province should provide funds to cover these additional expenses.

The provincial biologist in our area is;

Patrick Stent, R.P. Bio. – Wildlife Biologist

Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations

205 Industrial Road G. Cranbrook, BC, V1C 7G5

Ph: 250-489-8578, email: [email protected]

Richard Hoar – President,

Lake Windermere District Rod and Gun Club

Article Share