The Forest Service seeks assistance from the public in reporting any violation of provincial forest resource legislation (Forestry Act, Endangered Species Act (non-wildlife) Animal Health and Protection Act, Wilderness and Ecological Reserves Act, Motorized Snow Vehicle and All-Terrain Vehicle Act and associated regulations).
Introduction
Newfoundland and Labrador’s crown timber, wildlife and other forest resources are the common property of the people of the Province. The resource is everyone’s responsibility to maintain and protect. Unfortunately, not everyone shares this responsibility. Provincial Conservation Officers patrol the province for illegal activities such as; illegal timber harvesting, animal health, unauthorized forest removal practices, the damaging of habitat, and other offences.
We need your help to protect our resources from those who choose to break the law. The following are tips on what to observe, record and report if you encounter or suspect illegal activity.
Observe, Record and Report
As crimes against forest resources increase and offenders adopt more sophisticated methods, there is a need for people to assist officers by following the Observe, Record and Report protocol described below.
What to Observe
The types of violations to look out for include:
- Illegal timber harvesting;
- Illegial burning;
- Animal neglect or abuse; or
- Habitat degredation and unapproved use.
Your ability to recognize a violation improves by becoming more familiar with current provincial laws and regulations. Feel free to contact your local Forest Management District Office if you have any questions about applicable legislation.
Important Safety Consideration: Do not to approach or confront a suspected violator.
What to record
Accurate observation and reporting is essential to help prevent these illegal activities, and to bring violators to justice. Important information to record in writing, include:
- Date and time of Violation;
- Description of Violator;
- Name (if known);
- Sex;
- Age;
- Height;
- Weight;
- Eye Colour;
- Physical Marks or Scars; and
- Clothing and Peculiarities.
Details of Violation
- Type of Offence
- Action of Violator
- Type of Timber Harvesting Equipment Used
- Location
Description of Vehicle, Vessel or Aircraft
- Licence No.
- Province or State
- Make and Model
- Colour
- Unusual Marks
Witness(es)
- Name
- Address
- Telephone
How to Report
Once the important facts have been recorded, contact your local Forest Management District Office, Crimestoppers, or other authority to report the violation.
Please act immediately
With timely, accurate information a violator may be apprehended and convicted without it being necessary for you to appear in court as a witness. It is frequently vital for an officer to contact you directly, however, to confirm details of the event you have reported. For this reason, it is requested that you provide your identification information. Anonymous reports have low priority for investigation because of the difficulty of corroborating information, getting warrants, etc. Your name will not be released to any person without your consent.