Mandatory Signage for Bear Traps

Year
2020
Number
EB60
Sponsor(s)
Maple Ridge

Whereas dogs are accidentally killed yearly across British Columbia when they are unintentionally lured Into a baited bear trap often resulting in a gruesome death; And whereas people are unable to avoid bear traps because there is no requirement for signage to be posted warning of said traps: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM request the Province of British Columbia to impose a mandatory requirement for trappers to post signage warning of active bear traps in the area to prevent accidental harm to those in the area.

Provincial Response

Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operatons and Rural Development The provincial government recognizes that domestic animals are sometimes inadvertently injured or killed in traps. The Province regulates trapping activities in order to maintain healthy wildlife populations, protect public safety and ensure the humane treatment of animals. Provincial regulations aim to achieve these objectives while providing opportunities for the sustainable use of wildlife, as well as for the control of wildlife populations where necessary. BC trappers are trained and certified to trap in a safe and humane manner through the Trappers Education Program, which is required for licensing in BC. The provincial government remains committed to working to continue to reduce risk to dogs from traps. The Ministry is considering several measures to reduce this risk, including the use of trap signage. The Ministry intends to engage with First Nations and stakeholders on the proposed measures.

Convention Decision
Endorsed