Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation to hold its 95th annual convention in Saskatoon, from Feb 15 to 17

The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation is gearing up to host its 95th annual convention, with delegates from across the province expected to gather at the Saskatoon Inn and Conference Centre from February 15 to 17. While the full convention agenda was still tentative as of mid January, two keynote speakers had been confirmed to address the convention.

Sean Brilliant, a marine biologist with the Canadian Wildlife Federation, is slated to discuss the need for conservation groups to take a more global approach and expand their influence outside of their home provinces. And Amanda Lynn Mayhew, host of the TV show That Hunting Girl, is booked to speak about her hunting adventures around the world and how to engage more women in conservation and hunting.

According to Darrell Crabbe, the SWF’s executive director, officials from various ministries and non-governmental organizations, including Ducks Unlimited Canada and Delta Waterfowl, will also give presentations on fish and wildlife issues impacting the province.

Along with the educational seminars, the convention will also give SWF members opportunities to connect and socialize. The highlight will be a fundraising banquet on the Saturday night, where various awards will be presented to members and branches.

Meanwhile, Crabbe says he expects Saskatchewan’s new trespass laws will generate a lot of discussion among conference participants. “The major issue that we’re facing is the effects that the trespass legislation is having on hunting,” he says. Previously, if a parcel of land wasn’t posted with a no-hunting sign, hunters were allowed to access it without first seeking permission. “Now that isn’t the case, and you have to get permission from the landowner.”

The problem, Crabbe says, is that the Freedom of Information Act makes it very difficult for hunters to even contact some landowners. “A lot of the focus at the convention will be us trying to identify or develop some programs that will help the hunting community connect with landowners.”

Learn more about the SWF’s programs and positions at www.swf.sk.ca.