The Moose Management Initiative has been visiting communities across Nova Scotia, holding discussions on Mi’kmaq natural resource management issues that are at the forefront of our self-governance initiative. The community sessions have been going at a productive pace with notable attendance and impressive dialogue. Discussion is the key element for increased Mi’kmaq input into the management of the moose herd. Communication between the communities and the Moose Management Initiative also assist communities towards organizing their own Hunter Advisory Groups.

Communities visited so far include:  Potlotek, Membertou, Wagmatcook, Waycobah, Patqnkek, Pictou Landing, Millbrook, Bear River, Annapolis Valley, Halifax Mi’kmaq Native Friendship Centre, and Acadia’s five communities in Yarmouth, Shelburne, Milton, Gold River and Halifax.  At the time of the sessions, Eskasoni and Indian Brook were busy with their elections so community sessions will be held after the Christmas break to allow their Chiefs, Councils and community members to settle in. Our Glooscap community session will also be held after the break.

As always, discussion is lively and informative, and the opinions and advice from these meeting are an important part of developing an enforceable management plan for Mi’kmaq moose hunters.

clifford@uinr.ca