The Hunter Conservationist Podcast (Blood Origins Canada Foundation)

Welcome to Episode 1. In this episode, Doug and Mark introduce the show, the premise behind it and then provide updates on recent fur prices and the drivers behind the changes as well as providing a recap of the spring 2024 seal hunt. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark and Dana discuss the implications of increased mountain lion harvest quotas in Alberta, the management of chronic wasting disease in British Columbia, and the controversial deer cull on Sydney Island. Other topics covered include moose population control in Terra Nova National Park, the complexities surrounding wolf reintroduction in Colorado, and eating urban feral rabbits.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark summarizes a coyote diet study that looked at what coyotes across North America eat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Mark and Curtis are in Cranbrook, British Columbia talking all things deer with Senior Wildlife Biologist, Pat Stent and resident hunter dude, Jeff Berdusco. Pat gives us a run down on the findings from his mule deer research studies in Southeastern BC. He explains the factors influencing mule deer populations, what’s happening with predation and how mule deer survival rates in this part of BC compare to other mule deer jurisdictions. Pat also discusses a new whitetailed-deer study that he is getting ready for this year. The group also covers deer harvest management, antlerless seasons, why some hunters are against hunting does and, everyone’s favorite deer topic, the urban deer problem.  Show Notes: Ecology and Conservation of Mule Deer in Idaho: Management Strategies for Restoring Populations Dr. Mark Hebblewhite, University of Montana https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNOH627-WqU Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brought to you by Community-Minded Alpine Toyota   In the episode Mark and Curtis talk turkey with Matt Besko, Director of Wildlife and Licensing for the province of Alberta. The topics they cover include the moving wild turkey from BC to Alberta, the difference in attitudes towards managing wild turkey in BC versus Alberta, the philosophy of non native wild turkeys in an altered landscape, valuing wild turkeys, wild turkey-human conflict, myths about wild turkey, adaptive management, Alberta’s wild turkey Minister tags, hunting wild turkey, iconic hunting cocktails to represent the regions of Canada and gator tails. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark and Curtis claw into the future of black bear hunting in Canada. The guys talk about the black bear’s unique evolutionary story in North America, all the different races of black bears in Canada, including the ancient glacial insular bears of British Columbia and how many black bears there are. Bearing in mind those discussions, Mark and Curtis provide encouragement for new hunters interested in black bear hunting that includes where to hunt spring black bears, what clues to look for to find bears, how to differentiate a black from a grizzly bear track, how to cook bear meat and what proportion of a harvested bear is utilized.  The guys examine the return of the Ontario spring black bear hunt after its ban in 1999 as well as the lessons learned from the grizzly bear hunt ban in British Columbia and how these events apply to the future of black bear hunting in Canada. Rounding out the episode the hosts dive into the topics of baiting, hunting bears with hounds, non-resident guided black bear hunting, the narrative around bear hunting, why you should be proud of Canada’s history of black bear conservation and what things hunters could do right now to protect the future of black bear hunting in Canada. Finally, find out how to help ensure hunting and fishing in Canada can continue during the COVID-19 pandemic and figure out how many times a drumming ruffed grouse beats its wings.    Show Notes   Cover Image Copyright © Curtis Hall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chapter 2, The Awakening: This chapter explores the awakening of conservation efforts in Canada as awareness grew about the impacts of market hunting. Laws were enacted to regulate hunting and protect wildlife. Attitudes towards conservation changed and efforts were made to end commercial hunting. The chapter also discusses the remarkable tale of how Canada acquired the last bison herd from the United States as well as the signing of the International Migratory Bird Treaty is highlighted as one of the greatest conservation achievements in North America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark wraps up the year by putting the top 5 stories from 2023 on a naughty and nice list with a bit of Caddyshack humour thrown in! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dana interviews Teddy Cosco from Cast and Iron, discussing his background in the Yukon and his role in the outdoor cooking and conservation community. Teddy talks about his experiences with cooking, the relevance of mental health, and his initiative with the Spey Foundation to promote steelhead conservation. The discussion addresses the relationship between outdoor activities, cooking, and mental well-being, as well as the importance of ethical hunting practices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark and Curtis break the barrier of pandemic isolation and are joined virtually by Dr. Adam Ford (not the dentist in Arizona) to talk about the best ways to protect your expensive fly rod, what happens when an elephant doesn’t like you and the emerging idea of misplaced conservation. Misplaced conservation is a multifaceted phenomenon going on right now involving misinformation and polarization and it is affecting the ability of conservation to focus on priorities. Adam explains the unintended and intended consequences of misplaced conservation including conservation that causes direct harm to wildlife populations, misallocation of conservation dollars, throwing conservation partners under the bus, and merchants of doubt messing with your minds. The gang also talks about why using honeybees as the poster child for saving native pollinators is like using a cow to save endangered caribou, raising money to outlaw something that is already prohibited and British Columbia’s controversial grizzly hunt.  Wrapping it up the guys talk about the role of academic research in wildlife management and offer a few parting thoughts on what people can do to mitigate the impacts of misplaced conservation.       Show Notes Follow Dr. Ford on Twitter at @adamTford Check out Adam’s WiRE Lab website - Wildlife Restoration Ecology Lab at http://atford.weebly.com/ and look for the land rover with the door crushed in by an elephant. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Michelle McLellan delves into the reintroduction of grizzly bears into the North Cascade ecosystem in Washington state, exploring the challenges, implications, and potential impact on the ecosystem and neighboring regions. The discussion covers the history of grizzly bear reintroduction, genetic diversity, habitat quality, and the potential for bear migration across borders. The conversation delves into the challenges and considerations surrounding the reintroduction of grizzly bears in British Columbia and Washington State. It explores the social, political, and ecological dimensions of this issue, highlighting the need for funding, public support, and wildlife management strategies. The conversation also touches on the impact of human-wildlife conflict and the importance of coexistence with apex predators in the ecosystem. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dylan Eyers is a legend in the Canadian hunting community. Dylan is the face of the EatWild brand and in this episode he explains what EatWild’s mission is all about and why he mentors new hunters. As a skilled hunter, teacher and mentor Dylan is all heart and passion when it comes to hunting as a way of life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark covers stories of great white sharks in Canadian waters and new science about shark populations, as well as the anniversary of the 1992 Atlantic cod fishery moratorium, commercial herring quota cutbacks, Gulf of St. Lawrence cod fishery, more Northern BC salmon closures, endangered steelhead science being withheld, Southern resident killer whales, different perspectives on ocean-based fish farms, whether speed reductions help save wildlife from collisions, whether to relocate grizzly bears or not in Alberta, the story of the white bear that came back - we thought he was gonner but he just wouldn’t stay awayyyy, new Manitoba CWD hunting zones, lawsuit filed against the Alberta government over coal, charges against Ontario’s new Minister of Natural Resources and feral rabbit – hate or love em. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The final chapter in this series explores the challenges of balancing Indigenous hunting and non-indigenous hunting rights in Canada. It discusses the importance of hunting for food security and the role of hunting in Indigenous cultures. The conversation also delves into the legal framework surrounding Indigenous hunting rights, including treaties and Supreme Court decisions. It highlights the complexities and conflicts that arise from these rights and the need for reconciliation and collaboration between Indigenous and non-indigenous hunters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tammy joins Mark to share her story with listeners in hopes that someone out there might know something. Tammy explains the events of when Tom failed to return from his sheep hunt, the ongoing search effort and her emotional roller coaster as reports have come in over the years of items that hunters have found including a tent camp that might be Tom’s. Tammy shares her heart and lets us know how she is really doing and what keeps her going every year. Tammy talks about what it’s like each fall when she sees hunters in her community gearing up for the fall and how the hunting community has helped her and her family. It’s an emotional and inspiration episode!  The Leonard family GoFundMe account: Fundraiser by Tammy Leonard : Help Search & Rescue end 16 year search for Tom! (gofundme.com) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brought to You by Community-Minded Alpine Toyota In this episode, Curtis and Mark are joined by Ryan Kole, Vice President of the BC Trappers Association, and wildlife scientist Dr. Clayton Lamb. A recent research paper has reported that some grizzly bears in Southeastern British Columbia have lost toes on their front feet because their paws had gotten stuck in traps at one point in their lives. Topics discussed include understanding where and when bears might be at risk of being exposed to traps set by licensed trappers, whether bears can pull their foot out of a small trap, private land versus licensed use of commercial traps, humane trap design, speed and power of small traps, exclusion plates on marten trap boxes, other ideas to prevent incidental catch of grizzly bears, why this might just be a Southeast BC problem, regulations versus best management practices and collaborative opportunities to test preventative traps designs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Mark and Curtis are joined by Doug Chiasson, Executive Director of the Fur Institute of Canada. Doug provides a summary of the Fur Institute of Canada and its main role and different programs. Doug talks about the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards, how modern humane traps work, how traps are scientifically tested and certified, coupling best management practices with trap technology as well as how the Fur Institute works with trappers and trap manufacturers to continually improve traps for commercial trapping as well as wildlife research trapping. Doug also gives an update on the testing and certification of modern power snares and the guys have some fun learning about how far back Doug’s family history in Canada extends.   Show Notes:   The Fur Institute of Canada   https://fur.ca/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brought to you by Community-Minded Alpine Toyota Joe Northrup , Research Scientist Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Mark Ryckman, Manager of Policy Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters. Joe was the lead scientist on the recent study looking at the question of whether the Ontario spring black bear hunt reduced or increased human bear conflict. Joe discusses how the study was conducted and what its major findings were. Topics discussed include the spring bear pilot hunt, changes in bear populations, changes in human-bear conflict, baiting, age and sex of bears taken by hunters, possible explanations of the human-bear conflict phenomena, limitations of the study findings and whether the research will bring about changes to the spring bear hunt. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark covers a wasted meat crime in the NWT, the status of Alberta's caribou recovery program, the closure of the Nova Scotia and New Brunswick elver fishery, avian flu in Ontario, Saskatchewan hunter fines, the dilemma of elk in the Yukon, trapping coyotes in Vancouver and new agreement in BC for a First Nation and the implication for issuing tags for hunting.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Andrew Derocher is a polar bear researcher from the University of Alberta, and he is a hunter. He muses about the stress of researching bears and how research is his work, but hunting is his escape. Andy reflects on his hunting skills and whether they help him as polar bear researcher and explains what his favorite way to hunt is. He discusses the differences between how he hunted 20 years ago versus how he hunts today. Andy laughs at how dumb luck factors into hunting and whether being a hunter makes a person a better wildlife scientist.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Curtis and Mark are joined by Mackenzie Clarke, wildlife biologist and researcher, Fredric Hanner, CEO of the Blaser Group UK, and team member of the Wild Boar Fever show on My Outdoors TV, Matt Besko, Director of Wildlife and Licensing in Alberta, and Dr. Lee Foote from the University of Alberta. Topics discussed include a check up on the state of wild pigs in Canada, how wild boars are hunted across Europe, how driven hunts are run, wild boar population control and management principles in Europe, the reality of managing wild pigs with hunting vs eradication in Canada and whether Canada could develop a wild boar driven hunting culture based on the methods used in Europe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Bart George is on the show to discuss cougars, their ecology, and management. Bart shares his experience working on a research project that aimed to deter cougars from human-populated areas using non-lethal methods. Bart also discusses the importance of science in wildlife management and the need for proactive approaches to cougar depredations. The episode covers cougar hunting, the principles of managing cougar populations, hound hunting, the social dynamics of cougars and the potential impact of removing dominant males. The role of hunting in mitigating conflicts between cougars and humans or livestock is also discussed.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark bring you up to date on an feral/wild horse crime in BC, destruction of fish habitat, endangered caribou recovery in Manitoba, Jasper National Park and Ontario, wolf control in a National Park and whether firearms are worth more than endangered caribou. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brought to you by Community-Minded Alpine Toyota Curtis and Mark are joined by Dr. Keith Munro, wildlife biologist for the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters to talk all things moose.  Dr. Munro describes the moose sub-species in Canada, and the guys debate whether the Canada moose is real or not. As well, Keith talks about some of the key aspects of moose ecology, biology, habitat requirements, and population dynamics considered when managing moose. Other topics covered include the big health threats facing moose, moose management and the number of moose and moose hunters in Ontario, harvest management, moose predation, the unique candid predators in Ontario, the new permit system for hunter tags, simple versus complex moose antler regulations, group tag hunting, OFAH’s priority moose management issues, moose research, counting moose, how the deer season is going thus far and the correct or incorrect way to pronounce Shiras moose. Show Notes Book Ecology and Management of the North American Moose, Second Edition Edited by Charles C. Schwartz, Albert W. Franzmann, and Richard E. McCabe https://www.ubcpress.ca/ecology-and-management-of-the-north-american-moose-second-edition   Ontario’s moose populations and population objective ranges can be found here: https://www.ontario.ca/page/moose-population-management   Show Sponsor Alpine Toyota https://www.alpinetoyota.com/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brought to you by Community-Minded Alpine Toyota In this episode Mark and Curtis are joined by Dr. Nikolaj Bichel. Nikolaj completed a PhD thesis on trophy hunting, hunting, hunters, and anti hunters. Nikolaj explains his definitions of trophy hunting and trophy and where those concepts originated. As well, he explains the difference between utilizing animal parts and displaying animal parts, collectors versus non-collectors. Nikolaj talks about the history of hunting as training for war and as a war tactic, and he covers trophy scoring, the benefits, and consequences of trophy records, how anthropomorphism facilitates anti-hunting, the moral issues of trophy hunting including deontology, consequentialism, virtue ethics and the worst-motive fallacy. Other topics covered include trophies as a type of currency, trophies as proof of rightful land ownership, hunting and revolutions, and what anti-trophy hunters really hate more than the death of a wild animal. Nikolaj explains how far hunting trophies go back in human history and how old oldest known Euro mount is. Show Notes Follow Nikolaj on Twitter @Nikolaj_Bi The Hunters’ Underground Podcast https://www.patreon.com/thehunterconservationistpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is bear spray or a firearm better at stopping an aggressive charging brown bear? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

BC recently tabled a series of controversial hunting regulations changes that have compounded the hunting opportunity taken away from licensed hunters over the last several years. In this episode, Dr. Adam Ford, who is a scientific advisor on BC's hunting regulations committee, Scott Ellis, Executive Director of the BC Guide-Outfitters Association, and Jesse Zeman, Executive Director of the BC Wildlife Federation are on the show to debrief the regulation changes and provide their thoughts on the trajectory of wildlife management in the province.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Doug and Mark discuss: The Dallas Safari Club Convention Paul Watson's Legal Troubles: A Missed Chance for Justice  Insights from the Fur Harvesters Auction Convention Looking Ahead: FIC AGM and Community Engagement      Fur Promotion Campaign Overview       The Impact of Influencers on Fur Marketing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark covers some controversial fake new stories from across the country including sponsored hunting regulations, wild turkey culls, dreaming about salmon fishing, new measures to address hunting social media, new research on hunting-related social media content, a proposed bait and switch caribou recovery plan, a whale of post pandemic economic recovery plan and how it’s all just fake news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Doug and Mark cover: The resurgence of vintage and recycled fur in fashion, managing urban coyote populations, the Quebec Trappers Association conference,        BC Trappers Association wolf pelt fundraiser, Alberta's compensation program for trappers affected by industrial activities, the economic value of fur in forest management and intriguing research on polar bear fur and its potential applications. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by The Heid Out Restaurant and Brewery and supported by iHunter app. In this episode, Mark and Curtis are joined by Matt Besko and Dr. Lee Foote. Matt is the Director of Wildlife and Licensing for Alberta Environment and Parks and Lee is a retired professor from the University of Alberta. Matt and Lee delve into the deep nuances of hunting and cover everything under the sun including, being honest with why you hunt, mastering the skills, death, blood rituals, time-compression, flow experiences, out-of-body experiences, hunting as a means to make us better human beings, conservation vs preservation, human-wildlife conflict, primacy, carrying capacity, managing wildlife by the happiness quotient,  social media, bringing in new hunters and the currency of hunting. Throw in some food, why having fun while you hunt is okay, mismatched bullets, Cabela’s vs the thrift store, and of course, why the food angle of hunting, while inspiring is wearing thin. Show Notes: Sponsor: HeidOut Restaurant and Brewery  Kootenay Fresh Local Legendary https://www.theheidout.ca/   Supporter: iHunter App iHunter lets you see which game seasons are open where you are or where you plan to go. Right on your mobile device. https://www.ihunterapp.com/   Get a 20% discount on iHunter using the PROMO CODE: THCPODCAST   The Veteran Hunters Program https://theveteranhunters.com An Alberta based non-profit chartable organization helping veterans and first responders with PTSD and injuries by providing hunt opportunities. Support, donate, and if you are a veteran or first responder – go to the website an apply for a hunt today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by the Heid Out Restaurant and Brewhouse and supported by iHunter app. In this episode, Mark and Curtis are joined by Paul Irngaut, Director of Wildlife and Environment for Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. Paul talks about growing up in Igloolik and his memories of being on the land with his family. Paul describes his experience when his family was moved off the land to a matchbox house by the government and the challenges that relocation created for Inuit. Paul explains the Nunavut Act and Nunavut Land Claims Agreement and how important wildlife is to Inuit. Paul also describes the Nunavut Harvester Support Program and National Inuit Strategy. Paul goes into detail about hunting and living off the land as well as how the polar bear harvesting program in Nunavut is structured, polar bear populations, impacts of climate change, the impact that the global bans on polar bear and seal fur trade had on Inuit, his concerns about polar bear research and his perspective on eco-tourism wildlife viewing. Find out the difference between an igloo and a quaggiq, why getting married depends on knowing how to build an igloo and learn some Inuktitut words.  Show Notes: Sponsor: Heid Out Restaurant & Brewhouse Kootenay Fresh. Local Legendary https://www.theheidout.ca/ Supporter: iHunter App iHunter lets you see which game seasons are open where you are or where you plan to go. Right on your mobile device. https://www.ihunterapp.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark covers a controversial reduction in moose hunting for BC hunters, polar bear problems, polar bear quotas, polar bear harvest research, narwhal hunting, firearm regulations, problem geese, snow geese deaths, bear attacks, conflict bear management oversight, class action lawsuit over the BC grizzly hunt, a half-baked deer rescue plan,  Newfoundland Labrador’s new helmet laws for hunters, urban coyotes versus super pigs, more cormorant culls, seized elvers, mackerel for tuna fishers and tipping points – the line between when Canadians love and then hate wildlife. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse Zeman, Executive Director for the BC Wildlife Federation joins Mark and Curtis to provide the Federation’s analysis of the new draft grizzly bear management plan for British Columbia. Jesse talks about whether there is dedicated funding for grizzly bear science and population monitoring, how many grizzly bear experts there are in the province now, grizzly bear management objectives and accountability of government for grizzly bear management. Other topics covered include how much money BC spends on taking care of wildlife and habitat, how many grizzly bear scientists there are in Montana compared to BC, who and what is killing grizzly bears now that hunting is banned, how much money hunters still commit to grizzly conservation, where hunters can go to comment on the draft management plan and the need for a pro-hunting voice on the future of grizzly bear management in BC.    Take Action:   Provide input on the draft Grizzly Bear Management Plan before September 8th here:  https://engage.gov.bc.ca/govtogetherbc/engagement/grizzly-bear-stewardship-framework/   Sponsored by Community-Minded Alpine Toyota Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Everett Hanna, Kelsey Gourlie and Marcela Leija Montoya from the Wildlife Analytics Lab in Alberta explore the importance of data collection in understanding animal populations, the nostalgic beginnings of hunting programs, and the intricate process of aging animal teeth to inform wildlife management strategies. The team shares insights into their roles, the lab's genesis, and the exciting technological advancements that are shaping the future of wildlife research. This conversation delves into the intricate relationship between wildlife growth patterns, research innovations, and the importance of age data in wildlife management. They also share personal anecdotes and insights from their experiences in wildlife research and education, emphasizing the need for trust in scientific findings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark updates you on a major salmon fishing closure, the Big Bar landslide on the Fraser River, Canada Goose Fur without fur, Banff elk, the cost of the federal gun buy back program, seal culls, the science of bear relocation, grizzly bears without toes, grizzly bear habitat carrying capacity, a poacher loosing truck and boat, Canada’s protected areas report card, narwhal hunters versus mining company, new parasite in coyotes and people and yoga biting coyotes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark and Curtis are joined MLA Mike Morris from Prince George, British Columbia. Mike is a hunter and trapper and has been an MLA since 2013. Mike is an advocate for better forest practices and biodiversity conservation in the province. Mike reflects on his years of experience in politics and offers a ton of advice to hunter conservationists on how they can best work with their MLAs. Mike explains how government works and who the real decision makers are in government, what the difference between policy and regulations are, how to find wildlife management policy, how to prepare an effective letter or email to an MLA, what the best way is to build a relationship with an MLA, how form letters and nasty grams get filed in MLA's offices and whether hunters can ask for judicial reviews of wildlife management decisions.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark and Curtis are joined by new hunters Bryce McKinnon and Derek Johnson. These young men didn’t grow up in hunting families, but they are having fun finding their way in hunting by trial and error. This episode will help other new hunters and established hunters will hear what it’s like for a new hunter to try to get started in hunting. Topics discussed include how the guys got into hunting, what’s missing from the hunter training course, what the essential supplies for game processing are that should be in your pack, how and when to use the gutless method, whether you can age meat in your refrigerator, building your own game cooler with a Cool Bot, how many guns should one own, advice for new hunters and whether making eye contact and walking straight at a deer actually works. Show notes Check out the great hunting and butchering courses and workshop with Dylan and the crew athttp://www.eatwild.ca/The best video to learn the gutless method of field dressing an elk is from Randy Newberg Hunter:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ny5z3kJWbn8The CoolBot device if you want to make your own game cooler:https://www.storeitcold.com/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brought to you by Community-Minded Alpine Toyota In this episode Curtis and Mark are joined by John Schneider, host of The Food Afield Podcast and member of the From the Wild film series in northern Alberta. The gang compares hunting spring black bears in BC’s Rocky Mountings versus the Alberta’s Northern Boreal Forest. John talks about the atmosphere and tempo of hunting spring bears versus fall deer and his general strategies to find bears in Alberta. Other topics the group muses over include how and where to find spring bear, early spring success versus late spring success, bear meat, cooking, bear organ meat, using the brains, baiting hunting bears form a tree stand, what to do with the hide, hunting outcomes, what size of bear should you take, rifle calibers, game rating systems for black bears, shot placement, getting messed up, Star Wars tribute and assless bear fur riding chaps. Show Notes: The Food Afield Podcast https://www.foodafieldpodcast.com/ From the Wild https://www.fromthewild.ca/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark explores bear baiting by first looking at the way all hunting is conducted and then secondly, by assessing baiting by the 2 principles of Fair Chase hunting.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brought to you by Community-Minded Alpine Toyota       Mark and Curtis are joined by Tim Killey, President of the BC Trappers Association to talk about fisher trapping and conservation in British Columbia. Tim explains the current trapping restrictions on fishers in Central part of the province and new regulation proposals being tabled. As well, Tim explains the two fisher sub-populations in BC, and trappers concerns about how the endangered status of the Columbia sub-population was established and the estimates of how long it will take fishers to go extinct with and without trapping.            Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark discusses his assessment of the veterinary photographic records of wolves killed in the caribou recovery areas of BC, some great news from the Nakusp caribou maternal pen, Canada’s commitment to the 30x30 biodiversity initiative, the future of hunting in Northern Manitoba and another anti-trapping campaign. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr Erick Lundgren from Aarhus University in Denmark joins Mark and Curtis to talk about a new research study he was part of. The study addresses the question of whether there’s a need to eradicate non-native large herbivores to protect ecosystems. Topics discussed include small picky eaters vs generalist bulk feeders, the role of individual body mass vs total mass of all animals, the millions of dollars spent on eradications, eradicating native species as well as eradicating endangered species and whether the functional niche a species occupies within an ecosystem is more or less important that the concept of "nativeness".  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brought to You By Community-Minded Alpine Toyota       Charles Whitwam, founder of Howl for Wildlife joins Mark and Curtis to discuss hunter activism. Charles explains how the Howl for Wildlife call center works and cites several great examples of where Howl has helped organize hunters’ voices to make a difference in protecting science-based wildlife management, hunting and trapping. The guys discuss trends in hunter engagement, the idea of hunters becoming activists, the four quadrants of activism, getting hunting brands and influencers to promote action campaigns, reclaiming the wolf as a symbol of hunting not anti-hunting, fostering the pack mentality, howling across borders, hitting anti-hunting groups in the pocketbook and anti-hunting t-shirts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Curtis and Mark are joined again by Dr. Marco Festa-Bianchet – professor wildlife researcher at the Unversité de Sherbrooke in Quebec and Jesse Zeman – Executive Director of the BC Wildlife Federation. Topics discussed include Mountain Goat ecology and biology and what makes goats unique, what some of the newest science is telling us about goats, shifting age of primiparity, whether selective hunting pressure is an issue in goats, Mountain Goat management and harvest, the state of Mountain Goats in BC and Alberta, whether we are doing a good job counting goats, the conservation priorities for goats and other white animals including the wild turkey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark covers the story of what’s going on with invasive wild pigs in Canada, Ontario’s new legislation regarding invasive wild pigs, grizzly bear attacks in the Yukon and Alberta, more grizzly bears shot and left, Douglas Lake Ranch access court appeal update, urban deer turned into food in New Brunswick and a hefty penalty paid for feeding bears in Whistler BC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark and Curtis take the opportunity on their 1-year anniversary of podcasting to dive into the super complex and controversial issue of coal mining, cutthroat trout, and bighorn sheep in the Elk Valley of Southeastern British Columbia. The guys describe how coal was formed in the Rocky Mountains and describe the complex industrialized-wilderness blended landscape that defines the Elk Valley. Topics include the history of water quality problems in the Elk River, the Minister’s Order, how water quality guidelines work, where selenium comes from and how it gets into fish, what selenium does and doesn’t do to fish, the myth of shortened gill plates on trout, how a water treatment plant works, what happened to the trout in the upper Fording River, the impact of coal mining on the future of Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, the need for protecting sheep winter range, spanking the media and fear mongering as a new form of misplaced conservation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Mark and Curtis are joined by Tim Killey, President of the BC Trappers Association. Hang on as the guys take a deep dive into furbearer conservation and the business of trapping. Topics covered include learning whether trapping is a business or a hobby, the fur market ups and downs, the economic value of trapping in Canada, who's who in the furbearer world, what is happening with furbearer populations, the greatest threat to furbearers, the controversy over fisher trapping, how trappers manage their trap lines, public acceptance of trapping, trapping on social media, how people get into trapping or at least how they can buy organic natural furs and whether your conservation committee should have a trapper on it or not. Find out what the most valuable fur on the market is today and why beavers build dams.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are larger wolf packs more effective at finding a killing prey than smaller packs?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark is joined by life long Ontario hunter Sean Foster to uncover the truth about hunting coyotes in Ontario with hound dogs. Sean describes a typical day hunting coyotes, how hunters put dogs onto the coyotes, and the farm areas that hunters focus on. Sean talks about hunting regulations, ethical hunting, the importance of calling dogs off a hunt, mange, exploding populations, how coyotes are actually taken, whether a chase harms the coyotes, the hound hunting community and respect for coyotes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does general wolf hunt hunting make a difference to ungulate populations? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Perry McCormick, president of Pheasants Forever Canada discusses the importance of habitat diversity for pheasants and other bird species. He highlights the need for shorter cover and the benefits of vegetation diversity. The conversation also touches on the impact of landscape changes, such as the transition from smaller farms to commercial farms, the use of pesticides, and the development of green infrastructure like wind turbines and solar farms. Perry emphasizes the importance of conserving ditches and right-of-ways as valuable habitat and the need for awareness and education on their natural benefits. The conversation concludes with a discussion on favorite pheasant recipes and the role of hunters in conservation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brought to you by Community-Minded Alpine Toyota Episode supporter – The Rocky Mountain Goat Alliance In this episode, Curtis and Mark unpack the entire topic of hunter mistakes. The guys discuss the 3 types of hunter mistakes, cancel culture, the idea of a path to redemption, some hunting fines, and prohibitions from around Canada, the conundrum for wildlife management if fines are too high, the certainty of punishment versus the certainty of detection, what peoples’ thoughts whether social media fuels hunters to take uncertain shots or not, whether kick em in the nuts type attitudes are helpful, extreme ownership, all the things hunters can to do help their fellow hunter not make honest mistakes, whether hunting regulations are too complicated and the underlying reason why there are strict antler and horn regulations in place. Plus, the guys recount a close encounter of the elk kind and how to reconcile when your hunting partner must work the next day.   Show Notes Check out the Rock Mountain Goat Alliance at https://goatalliance.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark tries to make sense of the Wyoming wolf incident by filling you in on what he has uncovered about hunting laws that contributed to the incident. Mark discusses the heart of this issue - why are snowmobiles allowed as a legal form of hunting in some jurisdictions? The use of snowmobiles to run coyotes and wolves over is evaluated against the two principles of Fair Chase and the three tests of ethical hunting. The episode boils down to a single broad message that is relevant for every hunter in North America.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Bruce McLellan, author of the newly released book Grizzly Bear Science joins Mark and Curtis to discuss his life researching grizzly bears. Bruce discusses why he moved to a cabin in the remote Flathead Valley with his life partner Celine, what his grizzly bear research was about, raising his kids Michelle and Charlie in the wilderness, why there aren’t more grizzlies, the future for grizzlies, his advice for emerging scientists and how important Celine was to his life’s work.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Blayne Prowse shares his experiences living on Haida Gwaii, a remote archipelago in British Columbia. He discusses his journey into archery and arrow making, his childhood experiences with hunting and foraging, and the importance of sustainable living. Blayne also reflects on the challenges of running a small business, the dynamics of community life, and the impact of regulations on hunting and fishing. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the value of mentorship, the joys of homeschooling, and the beauty of a slower, more connected lifestyle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark brings you up to date on CWD in Manitoba, new CWD research, court challenges to the federal fish farm ban in BC, Nova Scotia’s moratorium on fish farms, goldfish the size of footballs, the state of the mackerel fishery closure in Atlantic Canada, Saskatchewan deer depredation permits, and Alberta’s new Firearms Act. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark and Curtis provide an update on how their spring turkey hunt went and they give a short recap on the recent announcement about hunting and fishing in BC during COVID-19. In addition to turkeys and social distance hunting, the fellas chat about an important aspect of wildlife management - the enhancement of habitat with the use of fire. Topics covered include when the era of fire began, fire tolerant and fire dependent species, fire regimes, how fire creates resilient ecosystems, top down and bottom up population regulators, the drivers of wildlife populations and how fire effects said wildlife population drivers. The guys also talk about how often critical habitats should be burned, the value of burnt snag forests, whether clearcutting emulates natural fire, the disruption of natural fire cycles, the size of fires in BC, whether forest fires nowadays are bad, how big habitat burns should be, how wildlife habitat burns can benefit humans and why moose have long legs.   Show Notes EatWild BC Podcast. COVID-19 Can you hunt in BC? https://eatwild.podbean.com/e/eatwild-podcast-covid-19-can-you-hunt-in-bc/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by Fisher Peak Brewery and supported by iHunter App. In this episode Mark and Curtis talk with Alexia Constantinou from the University of British Columbia. Alexia recently completed her Master of Science degree and defended her thesis. Alexia’s research looked at the response of small and large mammals to clearcut logging and selection harvesting across three study sites in British Columbia. If you have ever flown across BC, you know that clearcut logging is the dominant method of logging and the most noticeable human impact on the land. But is it all bad? Which wildlife are the winners, and which are the losers when it comes to clearcutting and selection harvesting? Alexia breaks down her study by explaining which mammals, all the way from mice to moose, do well in clear-cuts, which ones preferred partially logged forests, and which ones liked unlogged forests. Find out how species behavior in clear-cuts and why hunters say there are no white-tailed deer left.  Alexia provides her thoughts on the general scale of logging in BC and the crew discusses forest fires versus logging, whether wildlife habitat is properly cared for during logging and what you can do to help support wildlife management. Show Notes: WildCam project https://wildcams.ca/ Dr. Suzanne Simard’s Mother Tree Project https://mothertreeproject.org/ Ted Talk Dr. Suzanne Simard https://youtu.be/Un2yBgIAxYs   Sponsor: Fisher Peak Brewery Kootenay Fresh Local Legendary - Cranbrook, BC    https://www.theheidout.ca/   Supporter: iHunter App iHunter lets you see which game seasons are open where you are or where you plan to go. Right on your mobile device. https://www.ihunterapp.com/ Get a 20% discount on the Public Lands subscription at http://web.ihunterapp.com using the PROMO CODE: THCPODCAST Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Kaylee Byers discusses the serious issue of chronic wasting disease (CWD) affecting wildlife in North America and the role of genomics in understanding and managing wildlife health. Kaylee shares insights into her work in genomics and the importance of understanding animal populations for effective wildlife management. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding genetic susceptibility in animals, the societal impacts of CWD beyond hunting communities, and the role of genomics in managing wildlife diseases.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brought to you by Community-Minded Alpine Toyota In this episode, Curtis and Mark are joined by Bill Abercrombie – president of the Alberta Trappers Association. Bill provides a snapshot of the Alberta Trappers Association and everything that they are involved including owning and operating their own trapping and bushcraft centre. Bill describes several of the major conservation and research projects that Alberta trappers play a key role in. The guys then break down the different types of traps and discuss how each one work, why a trapper might use them, and what some of the misperceptions are around trap types in Canada.  Bill also provides a history on snares in trapping, the advancement in snare lethality, and new scientific research being conducted on the snares as a humane trapping tool. Other topics include snowmobile mishaps, being dialed in, science-based trap research, certified traps, and rural versus city drivers. Show Notes Alberta Trappers Association https://www.albertatrappers.com/ Alberta Centre for Trapping & Bushcraft https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFehtd7dVN9gIrZSLDurV2Q The Hunters’ Underground Podcast https://www.patreon.com/thehunterconservationistpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ryan Garrett joins Mark and Curtis to explore the changing narrative surrounding hunting, the impact of social media, and the importance of effective communication in advocating for hunting rights. Ryan discusses personal experiences, the role of rhetoric in shaping public perception, and the need for hunters to evolve their storytelling to connect with a broader audience. Ryan addresses common myths surrounding hunting, particularly regarding genetics, and emphasizes the role of advocacy in changing public perceptions.  Cover photo (c) Jillian Garrett Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Mark updates you on the outcome of the government’s decision to expand dog hunting training areas in Ontario as a well as, the reversal of the Alaska commercial fishery closure for salmon headed for Canadian rivers to spawn, a lawsuit over spotted owls in BC, the feds threating Ontario over endangered caribou protection, rounding up geese in Toronto, a land use plan for Nunavut, a highway overpass for BC bighorn sheep, a national conservation award for the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation, the mackerel fishery closure extension in Atlantic Canada, anthrax in NWT bison and whether the stage is set for a fight over who gets to kill bison in Banff National Park.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dana talks with Tim and Wren Hepworth about their experiences in hunting, fishing, and parenting outdoors. Tim discusses his transition from hunting to guiding fishing, and the joys and challenges of raising an outdoor-loving child. Wren shares her perspective on their adventures and memorable hunts, along with the influence of social media on their family life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Dr. Lee Foote joins Mark to discuss the 2023 waterfowl breeding survey. Lee discusses what the population trend numbers mean for overall duck population health and for hunters this fall. Topics discussed include the top duck species harvested by hunters, population trend numbers for each duck species, ecological and environmental factors affecting numbers of breeding ducks, why mallard drakes will mate with a fence post and how cosmic events might affect migrating birds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Each year Steve Hossack volunteers in the winter bison hunt school program that takes place in the Yukon wilderness. Steve explains what this hunting program is about, the logistics that go into planning it, the immense life changing lessons the kids gain and the changes he sees the kids as they become leaders in their communities. Steve talks about why helping with the school bison hunt program is special to him and why he will keep volunteering as long as he can. This is an inspirational story and a must listen for teachers and school administrators across Canada. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mark looks at the evolution of the concept of coexisting with wildlife and he discusses whether cohabitating with wildlife in our communities is the right thing to do for wildlife. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brought to you by Community-Minded Alpine Toyota In this episode, Curtis and Mark are joined by Mateen Hessami, Dr. Adam Ford, Matt Besko, and Dr. Lee Foote. Mateen and Adam are co-authors of a new paper titled Indigenizing the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. Matten and Adam walk through each of the seven tenets of the North American Model and explain how and why they modified the tenants to be more inclusive and better reflect Indigenous values in contemporary wildlife management.  Matt and Lee wield their years of experience to further break down the North American Model and the challenges it has created due to the nature of the model’s colonial history. Other incidental topics covered include a vote on whether a 270 or 30-06 is more popular, a goose on one’s head, and talking so slow that others can’t understand.  Show Notes Indigenizing the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation - https://www.facetsjournal.com/doi/10.1139/facets-2020-0088 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ed Tetley explores the profound connections between hunting, family, and personal growth. Ed shares his journey from being a butcher to a welder, reflecting on the lessons learned through his experiences in both professions. The discussion delves into the ethics of hunting, the importance of gratitude in the process, and how hunting has shaped Ed's perspective on life and family. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the deeper meanings behind hunting and the joy it brings to family bonding and personal fulfillment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cynthia Prefontaine, a motorsport enthusiast and hunter, shares her experiences in racing and hunting. She discusses her participation in the RAG, a nine-day navigation rally through the Sahara desert, where she became the first Canadian team to win the SSV challenge. Cynthia also talks about her love for hunting and how it became a part of her life after moving to a small town in Alberta. She emphasizes the importance of educating others about hunting and breaking down misconceptions. Cynthia is a role model for women and girls interested in motorsport and hunting, and she has started a business called Untamed Wilderness Events to help women navigate the backcountry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark and Curtis are joined by Brenda McLennan and Mance Visetin. The lady’s husbands were both Conservation Officers whose unique career paths brought them together. In this episode we learn what it was like for the newly married spouses of Conservation Officers back in the old days when officers were called Game Wardens. We find out what it was like being a Game Warden in Canada’s high arctic and British Columbia’s remote north before traditional ways of life were gone forever. Other topics discussed include Game Wardens that had to work alone without radio communication and were gone for days or weeks on end, safety of the officers and their families, polar bears in the family basement, late night phone calls about hunting regulations, how pssing off a Conservation Officer’s wife is not the best idea and a historic event involving the RCMP, a Game Warden and his school teacher wife, a bride and a groom who were all commandeered by the Prime Minister to secure the sovereignty of a disputed island in Canada’s high arctic.     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lindsay Thomas Jr., Chief Communications Manager for the National Deer Association is on the show to explore the complex dynamics between whitetail deer populations and endangered caribou in North America. The dialogue emphasizes the need for responsible management practices to ensure ecological balance and the future of deer populations amidst changing environmental conditions. In this conversation, Lindsay and Mark discuss the complexities surrounding the classification of whitetail deer as invasive species, the implications of human activity on wildlife distribution, and the future of ungulates in North America amidst climate change. They explore the ecological roles of whitetails, the challenges of defining native versus invasive species, and the importance of adaptive management strategies involving hunters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gray Thornton, President & CEO of the Wild Sheep Foundation, discusses the challenges facing wild sheep populations and hunters' role in conservation. The focus is on bighorn sheep recovery, disease challenges, non-native species, habitat restoration, and predator management. He highlights the importance of auction tags for funding conservation and the role of philanthropists. The discussion also touches on hunting regulation controversies and Alberta's significant contribution to bighorn sheep conservation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark and Curtis are joined By Chad Day, President of the Tahltan Central Government in British Columbia and Jesse Zeman, Director of the Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program for the BC Wildlife Federation. President Day explains where Tahltan Territory is located, who the Tahltan people are, how he became President of his Nation, what life is like as the President and how governance is structured in Tahltan Territory. Jesse gives a summary of how the grizzly bear hunt ban came about in BC and President Day explains how Indigenous hunting rights work in Canada with respect to grizzly bear hunting. Getting into the nitty gritty of grizzly hunting, President Day talks about what Tahltan people are seeing on the land today, why he is planning to go on his first grizzly bear hunt this fall and what his plans are if the province does not reinstate the grizzly bear hunt in Tahltan Territory. President Day reflects on all the Tahltan families and their relationship to guide-outfitting, explains how Tahltan used to manage predators and he shares the incredible story of the Tahltan Bear Dog. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark covers a story about wildlife getting their own money, wolf control public input survey, Stanley Park coyote update, reversal of a commercial fishing closure decision, getting gored in the pit, Canadians who think hunting firearms should be banned, Ontario sandhill crane and mute swan hunting season proposals and ice-hurling polar bears. Show Notes Predator (wolf) management public input link: https://engage.gov.bc.ca/caribou/predator-reduction/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark discusses a grizzly that was killed in BC and whether it is another indicator of shifting social attitudes. Other stories covered include mining lithium in protected caribou habitat in Manitoba, a coyote attack in Cape Breton, a request from First Nations in BC about moose hunting, caribou funding in Ontario, protecting species at risk habitat in BC, and some new funding for seal and sea lion research that may lead to a hunting season, maybe, who knows.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark covers a bear attack in BC, illegal crocodile meat in Alberta, killing fish in Banff National Park, coyote attacks in BC, a coyote transmitted disease in Alberta, a whale hunter-ed course in Nunavut, a new Alberta bison hunt, crab poaching fines, cuts to conservation in Manitoba, feral pigs in BC as well as convictions for illegal polar bear exports and moose hunting in Ontario. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Maya Basdeo grew up in a non-hunting family and actually considered herself an anti-hunter. Maya found a unique path into hunting through birds of prey. Maya shares her amazing story of hunting with falcons, what’s that taught her about hunting, how the birds have inspired her to become a hunter and how supportive and welcoming the hunting community has been to her. Maya is also a scientist pursing a Masters degree. She shares her thesis topic and her passion for publishing research that shows the positive sides of hunting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Jessica Haines is a wildlife scientist, professor at MacEwan University in Northern Alberta and a hunter. Jessica shares talks about how being a scientist helps her as a hunter and vice versa as well as how her students and co-workers react to her being a hunter. Jess talks about the peacefulness of hunting, reading the subtle clues of nature, hunting with dogs and mentoring students who are interested in hunting. Jess is truly an inspirational leader-hunter in Canada's post-secondary education system.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brought to You by Community-Minded Alpine Toyota Wildlife biologist/scientist Mateen Hessami joins Mark and Curtis to scrutinize a new research paper that looks at whether the newly reinstated spring black bear hunt in Ontario has reduced human-bear conflict in the province. Mateen discusses key things that wildlife scientist looks for in setting up research studies as well as concepts such as confounding factors, before and after studies, length of time, change in human population and hypothesis testing. Matten discusses whether this research study provides a robust conclusion about bear hunting and human-bear conflict in Ontario.  Other topics discussed include motivations of hunters for spring bear hunting, spatial overlap of bear hunters and human-bear conflict areas as well as the efficacy of hunting for reducing bear populations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Mark and Curtis are joined by the fun, energetic, and inspiring Land Tawney, CEO of the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers. The purpose of their conversation is to help Canadian hunters and anglers be effective in advocating for public land and water in Canada. With that purpose in mind, Mark and Curtis get Land to explain what makes BHA such an effective voice for conservation. Land explains what the new Great American Outdoor Act is, how much funding the Act dedicates to conservation in the United States, and how hunters and anglers helped get the bill approved. Land also talks about how BHA can rally its members behind important causes and how the grassroots approach of BHA helps the organization prioritize its campaigns. Land also imparts his philosophy about BHA as a-tell-it-like-it-is organization and why your voice is so important to politicians. The gang talks about the growth of BHA in Canada, the value of public celebrity figures who support BHA, and the common issues facing hunting, fishing, and public land conservation in Canada and the United States. Find out what challenge Mark accepts from Land for the BHA Rendezvous gathering in Missoula Montana in 2021. Land shares his vision for BHA in Canada but his answer will probably surprise you! Also, tune in to hear an important safety message about storing gas inside your SUV and Land’s take on 70’s avocado-coloured kitchen appliances.   Show Notes:   BHA Membership Giveaway Entry Details! BHA in British Columbia, Alberta and the Yukon are sponsoring a 1-year free membership to one Canadian listener of this podcast episode from each province and territory in Canada who is not already a BHA member!  To win one of these BHA members here is what you need to do: Find the Instagram post for Episode 31 on The Hunter Conservationist’s IG account @the_hunter_conservationist. Post a comment that says, “I listened to Land Tawney and survived”. Tell us what province or territory you live in. The contest will run for the entire month of October 2020 and we will randomly select winners from each province and territory. We may give a membership or two away during the month so submit your entry early. Tell your friends who live in Canada too! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Curtis Hall and Raphael Braga discuss the implications of gun control policies, drawing parallels between Brazil's experience with firearms restrictions and the current situation in Canada. Raphael shares his personal experiences and observations from Brazil, highlighting the dangers of disarming law-abiding citizens and the rise of crime in the absence of responsible firearm ownership. He warns Canadians about the potential consequences of government overreach and emphasizes the importance of being vigilant in protecting their rights. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Taylor Nairn is a father and a hunter from British Columbia. He joins Mark in this episode to talk about his experience with hunting, conservation, and outdoor activities. Taylor delves into his motivation for hunting, family involvement, conservation efforts, and the challenges of wildlife management. Taylor shares his passion for hunting and the importance of conservation work, highlighting the need for mentorship and the impact of environmental changes on hunting experiences. The conversation covers various topics related to hunting, conservation, and the involvement of children in outdoor activities. It also delves into the challenges and rewards of hunting with kids and the importance of fostering a love for the outdoors. The discussion highlights the balance between hunting for oneself and involving children in the hunting experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we are joined by grizzly bear researcher Clayton Lamb, from the University of Alberta. We discuss the facets of grizzly bear conservation and biology, Clayton’s PhD work in the Elk Valley, hangry bears, science of the obvious, source-sink dynamics, the ominous Olsen Pit, modern day raptors trying to kill prehistoric raptors and using data to make flooring decisions. Clayton's website. Follow Clayton on Twitter at ClaytonTLamb  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark and Curtis are in the studio respecting the social distancing rules. But the show must go on, so in the absence of a guest the guys take an in-depth look at wolf hunting and the story surrounding the recent death of a well-known coastal wolf in BC. Topics discussed in this episode include an analysis of British Columbia’s Wolf Management Plan, wolf population dynamics, wolf species and subspecies, wolf extinctions, theories of why some people trophy hunt, predator management in the North American sustained yield model, why some people find wolf hunting so disdainful, the possible motives behind why some resident hunters will kill a wolf, whether carnivore meat is edible, is this really going to be Cecil the wolf?, the current wolf hunting narrative, the shaming hunter tactic, trophic cascade, plural breeding and some solutions on how a wider range of social values around wolves can be incorporated into wildlife management and conservation without all the conflict and controversy.    Show Notes Wolf Management Plan in British Columbia Globe and Mail Op-Ed Article Takaya the Grey Wolf Will Become BC’s Cecil The Lion       Cover photo Credit: Copyright © hkuchera / Adobe Stock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Douglas Clark discusses trophy import bans, polar bears as climate change symbols, and Indigenous rights in managing polar bears. He covers the history of polar bear conservation, research challenges, and climate change impacts. The conversation includes Arctic sea ice changes, hunting regulations' effects on Indigenous communities, and economic implications. It highlights 'super providers,' cultural significance, and community autonomy. Sustainable harvesting practices and the gap between Indigenous communities and government policies are also addressed, alongside the fragility of co-management systems and U.S. policy impacts on Canadian wildlife management. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark covers stories about the new amendment to Canada’s firearms Bill C-21, salmon and sturgeon deaths in BC, Yukon sockeye, COVID spike in rockfish poaching, a permanent rat poison ban in BC, censoring old growth stats, urban goose hunting permits, more coyote attacks, a rabbit viral disease in Alberta, an update on the NWT First Nations hunting camp search and possible implications for narwhals in Nunavut from an increase in mining production.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark covers an interesting and chaotic fishery for the American eel in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, a controversial amendment in Ontario for training dogs to hunt coyotes, whether addling goose eggs will work, a judge's ruling on salmon fishing in Alaska, spotted owl rewilding effort in BC and new legislation in Haida Gwaii.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The truth about spring black bear hunting with respect to the claims that hunters orphan thousands of cubs each year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special podcast, Mark explores the movement to abolish the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation and what that really means for the citizens of the United States and Canada.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ross Hinter is with the Alberta Trappers Association and he is also a member of the Fur Institute of Canada’s Trap Research and Testing Committee. Ross joins Mark and Curtis to talk about the recent technology improvements, testing and certification of kill snare systems for trapping in Canada. The guys address some of the misinformation about killing snares and anti-trapping campaigns before discussing the mechanisms of how a snares works. Topics discussed include the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards, the testing of snare systems, veterinary assessments, certification of snare components, trapping ethics and Canada as the leader in trap development and testing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Mark and Curtis are in Edmonton Alberta with archaeologist and author Jack Brink. Jack was instrumental in helping uncover and tell the story of Aboriginal communal bison hunting at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is situated in the Porcupine Hills in southern Alberta. Jack discusses how bison were coaxed over the deadly jump using highly sophisticated hunting methods involving trickery, mimicry and an unrivaled understanding of bison behavior. Jack explains how the animals were processed at the butchering grounds and what a monumental task that was. We chat about what the best season was for driving bison to the buffalo jump, what specific animals were preferred as food, how long the jump was in use and why it came to an end. We also learn why Head-Smashed-In was the largest single gathering of food in the history of humankind.   Show Notes:  Jack’s book: Imaging Head-Smashed-In. Aboriginal Buffalo Hunting on the Northern Plains. Athabasca University Press. Jack W. Brink 4th printing 2017.  The proceeds from Jack’s book goes to the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton, Alberta.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dana Dykema talks with Seb Lavoie, a retired Sergeant Major with a rich background in military and law enforcement. They discuss Seb's journey through adversity, including a significant health challenge that led to an elective amputation. Seb shares insights on personal growth, the importance of ethical hunting, and the philosophy of embracing discomfort as a pathway to growth. The conversation highlights Seb's commitment to service, resilience, and the lessons learned from his experiences. In this conversation, Seb Lavoie shares his transformative journey from urban life in British Columbia to a rural lifestyle in Alberta. He discusses the profound impact of this change on his family, the importance of mentorship in hunting, and the spiritual connections he feels with nature. The conversation also touches on the significance of raising children in a rural environment, the challenges of victimhood in society, and the value of community and personal growth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark covers changes to fall migratory birds' flights, caribou and the pinnacle of perfection for the white-tailed deer, the mystery of coho deaths solved, Montreal deer control, ducking hunting in the NWT, who's fault is the bass, the transfer of Haida Gwaii, conservation success and the Coombs wolf-dog.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brant MacDuff, author of the book Shotgun Conservationist - Why Environmentalists Should Love Hunting joins Mark and Curtis in this episode. Brant discusses his journey into hunting as well as his top reasons why non-hunters should love hunting. Other topics covered include the nuanced differences between a conservationist versus an environmentalist and an anti-hunter versus a non-hunter, who uses the term non-hunter the most, the ethics of trapping, issues in hunting, taxidermy and questions about hunting and conservation in Canada.  The Hunter Conservation Podcast is supported by: J Martin Taxidermy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark covers the impact of the fall time change on wildlife, a wildlife feeding ban in Alberta, Alberta Sunday hunting rules, wild pigs in Jasper National Park, a First Nation not included in the hunting agreement for Jasper National Park, e-licensing in Manitoba, gun and ammo exports from the USA, 1 billion dollars for conservation in BC, phragmites control in Ontario, a massive hunter check in Quebec, a BC trapper standing up for black bears and what changing bird names means for Stone’s and Dall’s sheep.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the first episode of 2021, Mark and Curtis are joined by Dr. Marco Festa-Bianchet from the Unversité de Sherbrooke in Quebec. In addition to studying roos down under Marco has been researching bighorn sheep in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta for many decades. Marco covers when and how wild sheep got to North America as well as the species and subspecies that now inhabit the continent. Marco explains the role of small horns and the role of big horns when it comes to mating success in bighorn sheep.  The guys learn about the current harvest strategy for bighorn sheep in Alberta and its role in the evolutionary change in the size of ram horns. Marco also talks about what shrinking horn size means at a population level. Other topics covered include genetic recovery, minimum population size that triggers inbreeding, pedigree-based research, lumping versus splitting in wild sheep taxonomy, intensive selective hunting pressure versus trophy hunting, full curl hunting restrictions on mountain sheep, the evolutionary effect of hunting horned animals versus antlered animals, peak ram harvest periods in Alberta, the difference in the age of rams harvested near versus further away from the National Parks, the declining ram harvest in Alberta versus the rest of North America, the reactions of the hunting and anti-hunting communities to Marco’s research and ice fishing on thin ice.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode Mark is joined by Romy Vaugeois, Program Manager at Seals & Sealing Network. Romy provides a summary of the Seal Summit held in St. John’s Newfoundland in early November including who organized the summit, who was in attendance, the main topics that were presented, some actions that came out of the event and what participants thought of the Summit when it was over. Show Notes: https://canadiansealproducts.com/ https://proudlyindigenouscrafts.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark does a deep dive into a controversial subject unfolding in British Columbia. The BC Lands Act is being amended to add decision making powers for First Nations People. Topics covered include the history of Canadian law that has led up to this, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the right to prior and informed consent, shared and consent-based decision making, what this amendment means for public land access, political framing, the fears about hunting in BC and the need for truth going into the fall election.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Mark and Curtis join Dylan Eyers from EatWild BC, Jenny Ly, from the Chasing Food Club and Kelly Molnar and Mike Pedersen from the Rookie Hunter Podcast for a live podcast which was recorded in Vancouver, BC on January 30th.  The crew shreds up the question – Why is Hunting So Hard?  For many new and first-time hunters, hunting can be frustrating and maybe even demoralizing. Folks tell us they have gone years since starting hunting and never been able to harvest an animal. In order to help new hunters be successful, the lot of us offer perspectives on why hunting is hard and impart our ideas and advice how to fill your freezer this fall. Topics discussed include everyone’s hardest physical and mental hunts, how to develop hunt plans, best animals to hunt when starting out, expectations when planning a hunt, a bit on the spiritual awareness side of hunting and Dylan’s recent bison hunt. If you are a new hunter that has not grown up in a hunting family and you feel the hunting struggle is real, download this episode and listen to the conversation.  The live podcast was sponsored by the BC Chapter of the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Filsons store in Vancouver and Stanley Park Brewing. Proceeds will go to an on-the-ground-project managed by the Region 2 chapter of BHA.   Show Notes: As promised in the podcast, here is a good resource for mule deer hunters: Ecology and Conservation of Mule Deer in Idaho: Management Strategies for Restoring Populations Dr. Mark Hebblewhite, University of Montana https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNOH627-WqU Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices