The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture’s Resource Enforcement Division is investigating a possible poaching incident near the Cowboy Creek cottage area in Labrador West.

During a patrol on August 7, Resource Enforcement Officers observed an oddly placed pile of dirt and disturbed vegetation at the end of a trail on the southern edge of the transmission line adjacent to Cowboy Creek. Black fur seen protruding from the pile resulted in the discovery of a deceased black bear.

Officers believe this bear was illegally killed and discarded sometime between July 25 and August 7. There was no open season for black bear in Labrador during this timeframe. There are significant penalties for anyone killing black bears out of season.

Anyone who may have information about this incident is asked to contact the Wabush Detachment at 709-944-4897.

Information from the public plays a significant role in assisting Resource Enforcement investigations. The public can report suspicious activity anonymously at any time by calling 1-877-820-0999 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous reports can also be submitted online at www.nlcrimestoppers.com or www.stoppoaching.ca.

-30-