Guide Outfitters Association of British Columbia

GOABC Office
Suite 103, 19140 -
28th Avenue
Surrey, BC V3S 6M3
Tel: 604 541-6332
Fax: 604 541-6339
Email: info@goabc.org

International Wildlife Management Symposium

On December 8-9, 2011 the GOABC held its first International Wildlife Management Symposium in Richmond, BC. Based on an assumption that there is something universal about the challenges we are facing here in BC, the event brought together experts from across the globe to discuss social, political, economic and environmental pressures on wildlife management. By gleaning from other jurisdictions, we can begin to strategize on how to manage wildlife in the next century.

A broad range of topics were discussed in the course of the two days, but several strong themes emerged. What will the 21st century hunter look like? How will the relationship between hunters and government evolve? How will we defend hunting to those who do not hunt? These questions and other topics arising from the symposium will be discussed in GOABC’s post-event publication Conservation Matters, which will be available in spring 2012.

Poster

Coming Soon!

Presentations:
Al Martin
Andrea Barnett
Bobby Fithian
David Beranek
Don Peay
Doug Heard
Ian Hatter
Keith Balfourd
Marcel Mennink
Michael Kjelland
Mitch Taylor
Rob Cahill
Ron Thomson
Ross Peck
Saku Kyrgyzstan
Thomas Baumeister
Vince Crichton

CONSERVATION MATTERS WITH SHANE MAHONEY

Shane Mahoney is considered one of the leading international authorities on wildlife conservation. A rare combination of historian, scientist and philosopher he brings a unique perspective to wildlife issues that has motivated and inspired audiences around the world. Named one of the 10 Most Influential Canadians Conservations by Outdoor Canada Magazine and nominated for Person of the Year by Outdoor Life Magazine, he has received numerous awards including the Public Service Award of Excellence from the government of Newfoundland and Labrador and International Conservationist of the Year from Safari Club International. Born and raised in Newfoundland, he brings to his writings and lectures a profound commitment to rural societies, and the sustainable use of natural resources, including fish and wildlife.

Spring 2011

Fall 2011

Winter 2011

NORTH AMERICAN WILDLIFE CONSERVATION MODEL

In 17th century Europe, wildlife was closely managed by private land owners and hunting was an activity for the wealthy. For the early settlers, the New World seemed to promise unlimited resources and there were few constraints on the use of wildlife. As a result, by the late 1800s some wildlife populations were noticeably impacted.

Hunters and anglers began to advocate for a new way of looking at the use of natural resources that ensured sustainability for the future and the preservation of tradition. The principles coming out of this movement eventually coalesced into The North American Wildlife Conservation Model. This model has been critical to the success of wildlife management throughout North America.

The Guide Outfitters Association of British Columbia (GOABC) is a strong supporter of The North American Wildlife Conservation Model. Guide outfitters have a rich tradition of sustainable hunting practices and are conservative in their use of wildlife. The GOABC believes this model is consistent with the stewardship and good hunting ethics purported by guide outfitters. In British Columbia, successes from this model include whitetail deer, Rocky Mountain elk, Roosevelt elk and black bear. All of these populations were nearly extinct in the early 1900s, but are now healthy and growing.

The North American Wildlife Conservation Model

Wildlife is a public resource.
In the United States and Canada, wildlife are held in the public trust and managed by government for the benefit of all people.
Eliminate the market for wildlife.
Strong laws and enforcement in the United States and Canada make it illegal to sell the meat or parts of any wild animal in North America.
Manage wildlife through law.
Hunters are allowed to harvest surplus wildlife. Laws and regulations exist to protect wildlife populations and ensure fair opportunity.
Hunting should be democratic.
In North America, every citizen has an opportunity to hunt and fish in compliance with the law. Hunting is not limited by private land owners or special privilege.
Wildlife should only be killed only for legitimate reasons.
There must be a balance between opportunity and regulation. Many states and provinces have laws and regulations protecting against the “wanton waste” of wildlife. In North America, the broad guidelines that restrain use are for food, fur and predator control.
Wildlife species are an international resource.
Wildlife management in one country will affect wildlife elsewhere. Working collaboratively, the United States and Canada manage land and wildlife to make sure that no country takes more than its share of the common resource.
Use science to guide wildlife management decisions.
Wildlife management based on population estimates and habitat research helps ensure stewardship and prudent decision-making.

WILDLIFE STEWARDSHIP SERIES

In 2006, GOABC launched the Wildlife Stewardship Series, a program designed to address relevant and timely issues in wildlife management. Bringing together guide outfitters, government regional managers, First Nations and consultants, the series stimulate meaningful discussion and form recommendation for government.

Stone's Sheep