Manitoba Wildlife Federation says anglers and hunters need better access to province’s waterbodies

Manitoba’s anglers and hunters need more and improved access points to the province’s waterbodies. That’s the word from the Manitoba Wildlife Federation, which has long advocated for the creation and maintenance of boat launches and regular road improvements throughout the province.

“There are areas where we see boat launches deteriorating, or where access is nearly impossible,” says the MWF’s managing director, Carly Deacon. To raise awareness around the issue, the federation is reminding its members, as well as all non-profit conservation groups in the province, about the Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Fund (FWEF).

Comprising 10 per cent of the annual fees collected from recreational angling, hunting and trapping licences, as well as all restitution payments from fish and wildlife infractions, the FWEF can be used to pay for infrastructure improvements across the province, such as the installation of boat launches and floating docks. As well, non-profit groups, local agencies and research organizations can apply for funding for initiatives that conserve and enhance Manitoba’s fish and wildlife populations.

The MWF is one of the organizations on the FWEF board that reviews and essentially scores project proposals, then recommends which ones the province should approve. That includes projects that would provide public access to angling and hunting opportunities.

While the call-out for project ideas had not yet been announced at press time, Deacon says the FWEF board hopes to receive proposals for infrastructure improvements. Good access points not only benefit anglers and hunters, but also anyone else who uses the province’s lakes and waterbodies, she says. In addition, the ripple effect is felt by local businesses. “A lot of the local stores, hotels and restaurants rely on anglers coming in,” Deacon says. “They’re important for our economy.”

Learn more about the MWF’s programs and positions at www.mwf.mb.ca.