FINED FOR TRAPPING WITHOUT A LICENCE

[Some Old Guy 968]

ATIKOKAN - A local man has been fined $575 for trapping without a licence.

Clayton Stimson, 30, was convicted under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act.

Court was told that on January 18, 2007, a Ministry of Natural Resources Atikokan area conservation officer, on routine snowmobile patrol, inspected a trap line in Quetico Provincial Park. He met with three men clearing a portage and setting marten traps. When he returned to the office he checked to see if the men were licensed to trap for the 2006-2007 season. The Ontario Fur Managers Federation confirmed that Stimson did not have a licence.

Justice of the Peace Pat Clysdale-Cornell heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Atikokan, on June 7, 2007.

The ministry reminds the public that issuing licences for trapping is one of many regulations used to protect the sustainability of wildlife populations.

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).