Local fish and wildlife officers are seeking assistance from the public in their search for suspects in a moose-poaching incident dating back to April 26.
Officers came upon the remains of a moose south of Hwy 1A on Range Road 51, where more than 40 pounds of edible meat was left to waste. The skinned hindquarters of a moose were found wrapped in plastic and on a Styrofoam snow sled. This area is within four miles from the Town of Cochrane and according to fish and wildlife, has become a common dumping ground.
“From my point of view, there was a significant amount of meat that could have been utilized by a family in need,” said fish and wildlife officer Mark Drummond. “It’s a complete waste and it’s needless.”
Poaching carries some hefty penalties, including up to $50,000 and one year in jail for wildlife-related offences and up to $100,000 and one year in jail for fisheries-related offences.
“As the hunting season has started, we’re looking for any public assistance on this matter,” said Drummond, who wished to remind readers to “make yourselves aware of the hunting and fishing regulations, have all the appropriate tags and make sure you’re hunting in the right areas.”
Sheep hunting season opened Aug. 25 and other hunting seasons get phased in throughout the early fall. Those who wish to look up fishing and hunting regulations can refer to esrd.alberta.ca to learn more.
Anyone with information on this matter or any other poaching offences or suspicious activities are asked to call the Report a Poacher line at 1-800-642-3800. Callers can choose to remain anonymous and info that leads to charges may qualify for a reward.
