ENFORCEMENT BLITZ IN HURON COUNTY SANCTUARIES

April 23, 2009

The Ministry of Natural Resources laid charges during enforcement patrols in Huron County over the April 17-19 weekend. The blitz focused on unlawful angling activity in sanctuaries. The areas targeted were the Nine Mile River in Port Albert, the Bayfield River in Bayfield and the Maitland River at Falls Reserve Conservation Authority.

Conservation officers contacted 21 people, laid 10 charges and issued one warning.

The violations included:

• Unlawfully fishing in a sanctuary
• Unlawfully angling with more than one fishing line
• Failing to produce fishing licence
• Consuming liquor in a public place.

The public is reminded that all fishing in a sanctuary is unlawful. Sanctuaries are in place to protect species and to ensure that species such as rainbow trout can reproduce with minimal human contact.

To report a natural resource violation, call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your local ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

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