WTFN Notice re Sanctuaries April 24 2015

Protection, conservation and sustainable collaborative management are a priority for the Williams Treaties First Nations in the exercise of our harvesting rights. As such, the First Nations have determined that the harvesting of fish, wildlife, trapping and gathering will be carried out in Treaty 20 in accordance with these values.

The First Nations of the Williams Treaties, including Alderville First Nation, Beausoleil First Nation, Curve Lake First Nation, Hiawatha First Nation, Georgina Island First Nation, Scugog Island First Nation and Rama First Nation have determined that in an effort to support the protection, conservation and sustainability of the harvesting of fish, that members will refrain from harvesting within the fish sanctuaries during spawning season.

Unfortunately, the Williams Treaties have recently received reports that a small number of members from several of our First Nations have been observed fishing at Lock 19 in particular. To assist us in promoting the above values and in the spirit of collaboration, we would respectfully request that you not participate in fishing in that area or other sanctuaries at this time.

Finally, it should be noted that harvesting for food, social and ceremonial purposes within Treaty 20 is a right of status members of those First Nations. A person other than a status member may be charged, convicted and penalized if harvesting without a license or in an area where such activity is prohibited.

A map identifying the location of the sanctuaries may be viewed at:

http://www.williamstreatiesfirstnations.ca/harvesting/#fish-sanctuaries

Should you have any questions, please contact your Chief or inquiries@williamstreatiesfirstnations.ca