A sure sign of fall, hundreds of hunters will take to the fields, woods and waters of Prince Edward for the opening day of the migratory bird hunting season Monday, October 2.
"Opening day is always an exciting day for waterfowlers so we remind them to exercise caution to ensure the season gets off to a safe start," said Art Smith, director of the Fish and Wildlife Division, Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment. "It's important that everyone enjoying the outdoors this time of year be aware of others and respect the rights of others."
The Department has conducted several firearm safety courses across the province this month in preparation for hunting season. Approximately 160 Islanders have taken the Canadian Firearm Safety Course. Of those, 102 went on to take the Hunter Ethics Course which focuses on the role of the hunter in wildlife management and conservation, as well as the safe use and handling of firearms and hunter ethics and responsibilities.
"Over the years these courses have contributed to a significant decrease in hunting accidents and an increased understanding of the responsibilities a hunter accepts when purchasing a hunting license," Smith said.
Also this past month, 93 Islanders between the ages of 12 and 17 participated in the Department's first annual Youth Waterfowl Hunting Workshop designed to encourage youth involvement in the sport of waterfowl hunting and ensure beginning hunters learn about environmental issues related to the conservation and stewardship of wetland habitats and wildlife. Through both classroom presentations and field activities, participants were taken through all the preparation for a safe, ethical and successful waterfowl hunt.
"The number of young people who participated in the workshop was actually much higher than we anticipated so I think that indicates there is a strong interest in preserving the hunting heritage in Prince Edward Island," Smith said.
The Hunting Summary 2000 is an excellent source of information on hunting regulations, safety tips and hunter ethics and responsibilities. Copies of the publication are available at the Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment, Access PEI sites, and license vendors across the province. The summary and hunting license information can also be accessed online at .
For further information on hunter safety, open season dates, bag limits and possession limits, contact the Fish and Wildlife Division at (902) 368-4683, or speak to your local conservation officer.
Hunter Safety and Ethics: Treat every gun with the respect due a loaded gun; Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction; Always be sure of the target before pulling the trigger; Let someone know where you plan to be and when you will return; Ask landowner's permission to hunt on private land; Know the rules and regulations and practice good sportsmanship.