The Resource Enforcement Division of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture is seeking information related to a moose poaching and wastage incident near Highlands River on the province’s south west coast.

Upon receiving a complaint from a member of the public, Resource Enforcement Officers responded and searched an area of Cabbage Patch Road, near Highlands River; they found a full carcass of moose. The department initiated an investigation and officers have collected evidence from the area, observing that the moose had been shot on the road and then dragged by a vehicle for approximately four kilometers where it was then dumped into a brook on the side of the road. It is believed the moose was poached sometime between October 11 and October 12.

Poaching is an offence under the Wild Life Act. It is also an offence to willfully or intentionally allow the flesh of wildlife that has been taken or killed for food to be destroyed, wasted, or spoiled. The fine for intentional wastage of meat carries a fine of up to $200. The minimum penalties for poaching a big game animal start at $1,000, up to a maximum of $5,000 for a first offence. In addition, individuals potentially face a prison term of between one to six months; and in most cases they must forfeit the firearms and vehicles involved.

Anyone with information that may lead to the identity of the persons involved in this incident is asked to call 1-877-820-0999 anonymously or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous reports can also be submitted online: www.nlcrimestoppers.com or stoppoaching.ca.

-30-

Media contact
Erin Shea
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-729-3733
erinshea@gov.nl.ca