New Wildlife Regulations Provide Greater Access For Hunters With Mobility Impairments

Released on June 7, 2021

In advance of Saskatchewan's popular hunting season, the Government of Saskatchewan has introduced a number of changes to The Wildlife Regulations, 1981 - including improvements for people with mobility impairments using a motorized wheelchair for hunting.

"This new legislation provides greater access and less red tape for hunters with mobility impairments," Environment Minister Warren Kaeding said.  "Hunters will be able to take advantage of new technologies in motorized mobility equipment, without the requirement of obtaining a permit to use the equipment.  This is a great example of how a policy can evolve to meet the needs of Saskatchewan residents." 

In 2020,  mobility options for hunters with physical disabilities expanded to include the use of a motorized wheelchair, but permits were still needed. 

Changes to the legislation to better ensure fairness and equity were made following consultation with individual stakeholders and the Saskatchewan Wildlife Advisory Committee, as well as a group representing hunters with disabilities. 

Other amendments included in The Wildlife Regulations Amendment Act, 2021 will: 

• Prohibit the feeding of dangerous animals, to help alleviate increased concerns related to dangerous wildlife in the province.  This includes feeding wildlife on the side of the road.  This prohibition will not apply to the use of bait for hunting or trapping purposes, conducting agricultural activities or operating licensed landfills.
• Authorize the use of a Hunting, Angling and Trapping Licence (HAL) identification number to identify hunting baits and stands on Crown lands, as an alternative to an individual's full name and address.
• Authorize the disposal of inedible or diseased wildlife specimens to simplify the removal of carcasses deemed unfit for human consumption, including specimens infected with chronic wasting disease (CWD).

For more information, visit www.saskatchewan.ca/hunting.

-30-

For more information, contact: