AMERICAN FINED $4,140 FOR WASTING GAME

An American hunter has voluntarily paid a fine resulting from a case of wasting migratory waterfowl.

In September of 2002, the proprietors of a Nipawin area motel alerted conservation officers that they had found parts from approximately 50 ducks and geese in one of their rooms.

The investigation that followed led to a 'wastage of game' charge, under the Saskatchewan Wildlife Act against a Seattle, Washington resident who was fined $4,140. In total, conservation officers discovered 65 abandoned ducks and geese. The offender also received a one-year suspension of Saskatchewan hunting privileges.

"For wildlife managers to ensure plentiful waterfowl resources for the future, those who use the resource have to respect all of the regulations around wildlife management," Environment Conservation Officer Doug Lucyshyn said.

Lucyshyn noted that wastage of game is considered a particularly serious problem, because some unscrupulous hunters have been known to dump birds in excess of their limits and continue hunting.

Lucyshyn encourages anyone who observes abandoned birds or suspects other fisheries, wildlife or environmental abuses to contact the nearest Saskatchewan Environment office or call the province's toll-free T.I.P. line at 1-800-667-7561.

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For More Information, Contact:

Doug Lucyshyn Environment Biggar Phone: (306)948-3588 Email: Biggar@SERM.gov.sk.ca