The events that occurred at Nueltin Lake Lodge are disheartening to say the least. Nick has been a member of the Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters Association (MLOA) for over a decade and was previously a strong economic driver of the North. Our lodges and outfitters go to great lengths to establish and maintain their property and manage the fish and wildlife they build their businesses on. Fly-in operators face significantly greater barriers given the cost to getting supplies and labor into their remote facilities. At the end of a season, they winterize their facilities and leave expecting to return to find it in similar condition. Sure there is always the risk of inclement weather or wildlife damage. But the last thing these operators should have to worry about is returning to destruction at the hands of humans. The damage done to Nick’s lodge and buildings is despicable, illegal and will come with an outrageous price tag to restore it to its previous condition. And for what? To have this happen again? 

Nick’s lodge is situated in Nueltin Lake Provincial Park, which was established in 2010 largely to protect the caribou’s winter migration range that connects the boreal forest to the tundra, where they ultimately travel to have their young. It should go without question that harvesting female caribou during that late winter season when the cows are preparing to have their young, displays an utter disregard for the animal or its conservation, regardless of one's race. This is a simple matter of what’s right and wrong and respecting the animal and the future of the species.

This discussion has been front and center in recent months when discussing the management of moose populations as well. The MLOA has been calling on the government for a unified management system for all users which includes a ban on harvesting females. The MLOA has also been consistent in our messaging to Ministers, that leadership from each party needs to be brought around the same table to discuss big game management and resources. We have been encouraged by our discussions with the Ministers and acknowledge that they have a challenging task ahead, but if all parties put wildlife conservation first, we’re confident there’s a solution. 

The recent events at Nueltin Lake Lodge are sensitive and difficult to discuss. However, we are calling on these events not to be in vain, but rather a catalyst to necessary discussions regarding the future of big game management in our province. In addition, the MLOA is calling on enforcement officials to recognize the seriousness of this vandalism and uphold the law. As the advocacy body for the province's lodges and outfitters, it is our duty to ensure the safety, viability and success of these operators. Leaving heinous acts such as this without justice, sends a dangerous message to the public and leaves our operators in a precarious position.