Index. Introduction: Letter from the President, Isaac Masty, B.Ed. 2. Programs 9 1. Cree Collective Insurance 10

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2 Index Introduction: Letter from the President, Isaac Masty, B.Ed. 2 Administration: Regional and Local 8 Programs 9 1. Cree Collective Insurance Camp Communication Transportation Subsidy Trapper Equipment Assistance Equipment Subsidy Trappers Loan Fund Trapline Cabin and Infrastructure Enhancement Cabin Construction Program Trapline Infrastructure Enhancement Regional Trail Network Local Trappers Committees Projects (CQA/CFA) Local Trappers Fund Projects (BOC) Cree Science & Technology Program Wildlife Management Core Wildlife Management Program Beaver Relocation Program Migratory Bird Studies Project Threatened Birds of Prey Education Project Arcview Mapping Project Trapline Re-Organization and the GeoConnections Portal CTA Internal Programs CTA Structural Review Business Development Addition of Washaw Sibi Community Implementation of Regulations Affecting Trappers Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards Federal Firearms Legislation Boat Safety Off-Road Vehicles 26 Capital Need 27 Summary of Funding 28 1

3 Introduction This is the five-year plan of the Cree Trappers Association (CTA) for the period 2008/2009 to 2013/2014. The plan describes the CTA s 10 core programs, with 21 separate components that will be implemented as funding becomes available. 1. Mandate of the CTA The CTA was established on March 10, 1978 pursuant to the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA). It is the main institution set up to ensure that the Cree hunting, fishing and trapping way of life could continue even in the context of development in the Territory one of the fundamental concepts of the Agreement. The Agreement set out the following: Quebec and Canada shall take all reasonable measures, within the scope of current programs or those programs which may from time to time be established, including economic measures, to assist the Cree and Inuit parties in establishing trappers associations, as well as a Native controlled and run trapping industry including functions necessary to the operation of such an industry, such as marketing, promotion, registration, collection, transportation, grading, dressing, dyeing, manufacturing etc The present system of Cree traplines and the disposition of the beaver reserves presently allocated to the Crees shall continue unless otherwise agreed to by the interested Cree community or communities The feasibility studies respecting the Cree Trappers Association shall consider and contain recommendations respecting the following matters: a) a trapline development program including measures respecting camps communication and travel facilities; b) improved trapper capability including measures to increase availability of and sources of funds for equipment, supplies and transportation; c) fur marketing and promotion to increase the trappers returns including fur collection services; d) improved biological production including habitat improvement, species rehabilitation and wildlife surveys; e) trappers training programs, courses on fur grading, marketing and fur depot management; f) transfer to the Association of appropriate government services and programs related to trapping; 2

4 g) possible development of other sectors of the fur industry; h) program management and administration; i) physical facilities necessary for the operation of the Association; j) objects, funding and administration of the Cree Trappers Association including, inter alia, the respective participation of the federal and provincial and Cree governments in funding. A feasibility study was completed in 1977 that led to the setting up of the administrative structure of the CTA in Feasibility studies in respect to programs and facilities were never completed. It was the stated intention in the Agreement that the CTA would have a commercial aspect concerned with the collection, sale, grading and other aspects of the fur industry. However, this commercial aspect is an adjunct, albeit an important one, to the Association s primary function. The main purpose of the CTA is to assist the Cree trappers to continue their traditional economy and way of life in the face of development in the territory, through programs that help resolve problems created by the changing context. Programs related to communication, transportation, trapline infrastructure, equipment, supplies, habitat improvement, wildlife surveys, and related government programs devolving to the CTA are all within our mandate. In other words, the Association is part of Canada and Quebec s guarantee that the traditional Cree way of life would continue. In this regard, the governments, including the Cree government, committed to the funding of the Association as follows: Subject to the results of the feasibility studies and in the event that a Cree Trappers Association is established, Canada, Quebec and the Cree Regional Authority, in a proportion to be mutually agreed upon, shall assist the Association to the extent possible with funding with respect to its objects including: a) programs to be operated by the Cree Trappers Association; b) capital funding for physical facilities in each Cree community as well as central facilities, if necessary, and for loan funds, c) costs connected with the operation of the Association. 3

5 2. Objects of the CTA Following the legal incorporation of C.T.A. on March 10, 1978, the objects of the Association were defined in its charter as follows: The objects of the Cree Trappers Association are: a) to represent and act on behalf of the Cree Trappers of Quebec with respect to problems involved in all sectors of the fur industry in Canada and to protect and defend their interests with respect thereto; b) to encourage the conservation of fur-bearing animals as a renewable natural resource and to encourage and promote humane methods of harvesting; c) to promote the sale and assist in the orderly collection and marketing of wild furs by its members in all markets of the world; d) to act as a regional council, group or association to solve and assist in solving all problems affecting the welfare of the Cree trappers of Quebec; e) to assist the Cree trappers of Quebec through all means permitted by law to affirm, exercise, protect, enlarge and have recognized and accepted their rights, guarantees, claims and interests; f) to foster, promote, protect and assist in preserving the way of life, values, activities and traditions of the Cree trappers of Quebec and to safeguard the system of the Cree traplines; g) to advise on methods and means of obtaining and to assist in obtaining the maximum possible benefits and advantages for the Cree trappers of Quebec; h) to protect and promote the rights, guarantees, claims and interests of the Cree Trappers of Quebec with respect to the effects of development, and to study, organize and implement remedial works and measures, as well as measures relating to the protection and enhancement of wildlife; i) to discuss and deal with all governments, public authorities and other agencies, all corporations and persons in relation to the rights, guarantees, claims and interests of the Cree trappers of Quebec and, particularly, with respect to the development and improvement of fur processing management and marketing and the transfer of the Association of appropriate government services and programs related to trapping; j) to carry on research and provide or arrange for the provision of training programs and of technical, professional, educational, and other assistance to improve the welfare of the Cree trappers of Quebec; 4

6 k) to provide, administer and manage regional services and programs with respect to trapline development, communication, camps, transportation, supplies, all aspects of fur processing, management and marketing, the construction and maintenance of physical facilities and all other activities which may affect or benefit the Cree trappers of Quebec; l) to act as a vehicle for the obtaining, management, holding, administration, investment, distribution and placement of funds or to be used for the benefit of the Cree Trappers of Quebec; m) to work with other trappers associations and other native organizations with respect to any common goals, aspirations and pursuits; n) to do all such other things as are necessary, incidental or conductive to the attainment of the foregoing objects. 3. Responsibility for Funding the CTA Under the New Agreements Quebec and the Crees signed a negotiated agreement in February 2002 devolving responsibility for funding the CTA to the Crees. The New Relationship Agreement reads as follows: 6.1 For the period from April 1, 2002 to March 31, 2052, the Crees shall assume the obligations of Québec, Hydro-Québec and the Société d énergie de la Baie James to the Crees under the provisions of the James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement set forth in section 6.3 of this Agreement and concerning Economic and Community development. 6.3 The obligations of Québec, Hydro-Québec and the Société d énergie de la Baie James contemplated by paragraphs 6.1 and 6.2 hereof relate to the following provisions of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement: a) Economic development: and : Cree Trappers Association (operation, capital and programs) 6.5 The provisions of this Agreement respecting the provisions of Section 8 and 28 of the James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement described in section 6.3 hereof and the funding thereof do not affect nor are they intended to affect in any manner the obligations and commitments of Canada in the James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement including all those set out in Section 8 and 28 thereof. Canada and the Crees of Eeyou Istchee signed a negotiated agreement in February 2008 devolving responsibility for funding the CTA to the Crees. The Agreement Concerning a New Relationship reads as follows: 5

7 4.1 Assumption of Responsibilities For the Term of this Agreement, the CRA, and subsequently the Cree Nation Government, shall assume the responsibilities of Canada to the Cree Nation and the Crees under the provisions of the JBNQA set forth in Section of this Chapter (herein the Assumed Federal JBNQA Responsibilities ). 4.3 List of Assumed Federal JBNQA Responsibilities The Assumed Federal JBNQA Responsibilities comprise the federal share of capital costs, operations and maintenance (including insurance), and programs and services, as applicable, for the Term of this Agreement respecting the items listed under the following provisions of the JBNQA: b) paragraph , sub-paragraph a) and Sub-section 28.5, regarding the Cree Trappers Association ( CTA ) 4.11 Funding for Certain Cree Associations The assumptions in relation to the provisions of the JBNQA contemplated by paragraphs 4.3b) c) and d) of this Agreement regarding the CTA, COTA and CNACA are premised on continued annual funding from Canada to the said associations for the Term of this Agreement. In the event such annual funding is not continued for any reason whatsoever, then the assumption of the said undertakings contemplated by paragraphs 4.3b) c) and d) of this Agreement shall cease as of the date such annual funding is not continued, and such undertakings shall be assumed by Canada from that date onward and shall no longer form part of the Assumed Federal JBNQA Responsibilities. 4. Necessity of CTA Programs for Trappers The Cree Trappers Association is a service entity set up to maintain and improve the hunting, fishing and trapping way of life of the Cree people. Over 30% of the Cree population still practice the traditional way of life of hunting, fishing and trapping as a full-time occupation. At least another 15% of the Cree population practice this way of life part-time or seasonally and it is hoped that this number will grow as more young people learn the skills of traditional Cree culture when the CTA s Science & Technology training program becomes a reality. The fur harvest remains very important to Crees socially, economically and culturally. Continuation of the traditional way of life is vital to protecting Cree culture and language, and even our health. The Crees of Eeyou Istchee have one of the highest rates of diabetes in the world today. Through its work in maintaining the trapping way of life, the Association guarantees an important source of high-quality and healthful food to the communities. Unfortunately, the costs of transportation, equipment and outfitting for trappers are very high, as our program descriptions detail. Without the subsidies and services provided through CTA programs, life in the bush would be impossible for many trappers. To support the trapping way of life, the Crees must make substantial financial commitments to the CTA programs that support our trappers. 6

8 The entire James Bay struggle was anchored in protecting the Cree way of life in living off the land. We want to be sure that our children and their children for generations to come will be able to choose to live on the land as Cree hunters have always done. The hunting, fishing and trapping way of life is the backbone of the Cree traditions and of the tough values of perseverance, hard work, honesty and self-motivation that are part of our way of life. Cree hunting, fishing, and trapping are the foundation of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement, and of the new Agreements with Quebec and Canada. Because of the clear nature of the funding obligation, resolution of the CTA programs should be straightforward. The Cree trappers are at the heart of the treaty, but somehow the CTA and Cree trappers needs have been neglected. Funding of the CTA is guaranteed in the JBNQA, but actual CTA funding has fallen short of our needs each year. Past requests by trappers for hunting cabins, transportation subsidies, and training could not be met due to lack of funds. The CTA must explore the new Agreements for additional funding for its operations, programs and capital needs. The time has come to recognize the importance that the Association has for the Cree Nation, and to support the trappers needs and programs. Yours truly, Isaac Masty, B. Ed. President 7

9 Administration: Regional and Local JBNQA: c) costs connected with the operation of the Association. The Cree Trappers Association (CTA) is a service entity that works to maintain and improve the hunting and trapping way of life of the Cree People. The CTA operates from a Regional Office in the Cree community of Eastmain and a regional sub-office (Fur Depot) in the Cree community of Mistissini. The Association also operates a local office in each of the nine Cree communities, managed by local CTA officers in conjunction with the Local Trapper Committees. With a total staff nearing 20 people, including the Executive, the CTA Administration works daily to meet the organizational objectives and services of more than 5,000 members. In many communities, local CTA officers have been working with office and storage space provided by the local Councils of the Cree First Nations. Moreover, local staff have been chronically underpaid and often work with lesser benefits than those provided to employees of other Cree entities. The CTA will rectify this situation where warranted in the coming years. We anticipate the following annual administrative expenses. Local Trapper Committee Expenses (Average Breakdown): Office Costs (rent calculated at $1000/month) $12,000 Local Chairmen Fees ($1,000/month) $12,000 Telephone ($750/month) $ 9,000 Stationery and Supplies ($333.33/month) $ 4,000 Travel ($666.66/month) $ 8,000 Sub-Total: $45,000 x 9 communities = $405,000 Regional Administrative Expenses: General Administration: $1,813,000 Executive Mandates: $ 308,000 Sub-Total: $2,121,000 Annual administrative expenditures at both the local and regional levels of CTA operation are thus anticipated as ($405,000 + $2,121,000) = $2,526,000. Total administration costs over the next five years, including a 3% annual increase, are: $2,526,000 2,602,000 2,680,000 2,760,000 2,843,000 $13,411,000 8

10 Programs 2008/ /13 JBNQA: a) programs to be operated by the Cree Trappers Association In 2008/ /13, the CTA will continue the core programs through which we have serviced trappers for decades: programs to assist with the high expenses of trappers insurance, equipment and transportation, to educate Cree youth in the trapping way of life, to maintain biological productivity in the territory, and to improve life in the bush through reliable communications, new cabins, and necessary trapline infrastructure. In addition to these longstanding programs, the CTA has undertaken several new multiyear programs to modernize our organization and help trappers adapt to the changing environment. New programs include: GeoConnections, an electronic tool that will greatly aid our Trapline Re-Organization efforts; internal restructuring and business development to ensure that the Association is prepared to meet future organizational demands; and wildlife surveys and educational projects undertaken with non-cree partners to supplement our core Wildlife Management Program. Four CTA programs will administer international, federal and provincial regulations and standards that directly affect all Cree trappers. The CTA has undertaken such administration in the past, and two of these programs are ongoing: the Federal Firearms Legislation and the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards. The burden of such administration is growing, however, with the addition of two new programs to implement government legislation: Boat Safety Regulations and Off-Road Vehicle Regulations. These new programs put unanticipated stress on the CTA s financial resources. However, they are critical matters of law affecting the day-to-day life of trappers, and there is no getting around them. While some operational costs are absorbed by the core CTA Administration, in most cases, the administrative costs for each program fall within the individual program budget. The following pages describe ongoing and new CTA programs, grouped into 10 core categories. The anticipated cost of each program over the next 5 years follows the program description. 9

11 1. Cree Collective Insurance JBNQA: b) improved trapper capability including measures to increase availability of and sources of funds for equipment, supplies and transportation Two years ago, the CTA joined the Cree Collective Insurance Program of the Board of Compensation. CTA has now obtained all risks insurance coverage for the 268 cabins that were built in the last five years. Equipment, not including skidoos, ATVs, and other off highway vehicles, can be insured by the trappers at a reasonable rate through the same program. Off-highway vehicles could be insured separately under a vehicle insurance plan. The Insurance Program is an ongoing activity funded out of the Cree Trappers Services Trust. The Trust assumes the loss of one cabin per year. Revenue for the program is generated from beneficiaries annual premiums. The annual premium for each cabin is $ The total annual premium for the 268 cabins is therefore $44,220. Equipment premiums are in addition to this amount. The formula to establish the annual premium for equipment is: (value of equipment ). Unfortunately, participation in the current insurance program is very low. It was reported in the CTA Annual Activity Report of 2006/07 that the balance of the Trust fund is at $202,545. If the program is not self-financing, the fund may require supplementation in future years for CTA to continue to cover the costs of the insurance program. However, no costs are expected to be required over the next five years. NIL NIL NIL NIL NIL NIL 10

12 2. Camp Communication JBNQA: a) a trapline development program including measures respecting camps communication Camp communication is important for personal safety, for successful travel and hunting, and for keeping trappers and their families in contact with the communities. Reliable communications are required because camps are often separated by more than 100 km, making face-to-face contact impossible. The CTA began its Radio Communication program in 1978 and it has since become the most effective and appreciated communications network on Cree Territory. The CTA uses high-frequency radios to provide low-cost emergency communications and to reduce the social isolation of bush life by creating a community of trappers on the air waves, able to keep in contact while at even the most distant camps. Radio communication among the 303 Cree traplines is coordinated from base stations in each of the nine Cree communities. In some communities, a local radio operator is hired to undertake this task. Portable high-frequency radios are available to trappers for use at the camps. The CTA requires 446 portable radios for this program. While there are 303 traplines, additional radios are needed in each community for spare replacements, safety back-ups, and for occasions when multiple radios are required at the camps. This occurs when satellite camps are set up within one hunting group. Trappers pay for batteries and rent the radios for $2-$3/day an amount sufficient to cover regular maintenance, insurance and licence fees, but insufficient to cover replacement costs. The existing radio sets are no longer manufactured, are nearing the end of their life, and are difficult to find parts for, and so they must be replaced. The CTA expects an average replacement rate of 30 radios per year. Annual Camp Communication Program Costs: Part-Time Radio Operator Salaries: $10,000 x 9 communities = $90,000 Annual cost for radio replacement: $3,000 x 30 radios/year = $90,000 Total $180,000 $180, , , , ,000 $900,000 11

13 3. Transportation Subsidy JBNQA: b) improved trapper capability including measures to increase availability of and sources of funds for transportation Since the signing of the JBNQA in 1975, life in the Territory has evolved to bring greater transportation costs to trappers needing to reach their camps. While roads have been built, the cost of vehicle travel has increased. Trappers who rely on trucks spend over $10,000 per year on their purchase, operation, and repair. These costs are expected to increase as gas prices continue to rise. Trappers who travel by air to their traplines pay thousands of dollars in addition to this each year. As air transportation has become divided between bush and passenger transportation, trappers have had to pay heavy shuttle costs to bring the appropriate aircraft into the area. While the Federal Government used to subsidize the cost of air transportation, this is no longer the case. Today in Whapmagoostui, for example, the cost to a family flying to a more distant trapline is approximately $15,000 per year. In addition, the trapper still has to maintain his household costs at the community. Finally, trapping has become more dependent on snowmobiles and boats. While these machines increase trapper comfort, safety, and the ability to cover large areas, their costs are high. Prices for the machines are determined by lucrative recreational markets, and have risen over the years while trapper incomes have not kept pace. These are rising costs the trappers did not have to bear in The CTA subsidizes these costs to ensure that the trapping way of life can continue and the Crees can occupy Eeyou Istchee as they have always done. Without the CTA s Transportation Subsidy Program, life in the bush would be financially impossible for many trappers. The Program provides two levels of subsidy: an air travel subsidy for trappers whose traplines are distant from their home communities; and a road travel subsidy to trappers whose traplines are nearer to the communities but who nevertheless must pay the high cost of transportation in the north. The average number of trappers is estimated at 650 families in any given year, with half on near and half on far traplines. Through the CTA Transportation Subsidy Program, the 325 families trapping on near traplines receive 4 drums of gasoline per year to subsidize road transportation. The 325 families trapping on far traplines receive $3,000 annually to subsidize air transport. Annual Transportation Subsidy Costs: Near traplines: $300/drum of gasoline 4 = $ families = $390,000 Far traplines: $3,000 air transport subsidy 325 families = $975,000 Total $1,365,000 $1,365,000 1,365,000 1,365,000 1,365,000 1,365,000 $6,825,000 12

14 4. Trapper Equipment Assistance JBNQA: b) improved trapper capability including measures to increase availability of and sources of funds for equipment 4.1 Equipment Subsidy The CTA Equipment Subsidy provides start-up funds for first-time trappers and subsidizes trapper families in the purchase of equipment. The Program is managed by the Local Trappers Committees, who decide upon the claims made, and who apply strict criteria to the types and quantities of equipment required by a starting-out trapper. The Program subsidizes up to $ in purchases of equipment required to carry on trapping, hunting and fishing. Individual trappers pay the balance of their equipment costs. Eligibility for the subsidy depends upon the amount of time spent on the trapline each year, the type of equipment to be purchased, and the percentage of cost subsidized. Most of the 650 families who trap each year are eligible for the subsidy. Annual Equipment Subsidy program costs: $750 x 650 families = $487,500 $487,500 $487,500 $487,500 $487,500 $487,500 $2,437, Trappers Loan Fund JBNQA b) capital funding for physical facilities in each Cree community as well as central facilities, if necessary, and for loan funds Today in the communities, it costs a trapper $6,000 to $10,000 for equipment and supplies each year not counting the costs of transportation, housing, and raising a family in the north. To pay these costs, trappers need access to funds they can borrow at a reasonable rate. However, because of trappers low average incomes, and commercial lenders unfamiliarity with trapping, trappers have chronic difficulty borrowing funds. Until 1995, the Hudson s Bay Company and other commercial fur traders provided loans against fur returns. This was a very important part of the northern economy, and trappers depended upon it. Since 1995, however, these lenders have no longer provided such loans. The CTA Trappers Loan Fund replaces this important element in the viability of the fur economy. The Trappers Loan Fund is calculated on the basis of the number of trappers in need of assistance: 650 trapping families $2,000 per family = $1,300,000. Total costs of the Fund will be divided equally over the next five years. $260, , , , ,000 $1,300,000 13

15 5. Trapline Cabin and Infrastructure Enhancement JBNQA: a) a trapline development program including measures respecting camps communication and travel facilities 5.1. Cabin Construction Program: New cabins are required across the Territory, with some communities requiring more than others. Replacement and improvement of existing cabins is also required on an ongoing basis. Therefore the CTA Cabin Construction Program is an ongoing program that helps meet CTA s trapline capital needs. In building new trapline cabins, existing trained crews will be used where possible to control costs, and new crews will be trained in order to keep jobs and revenues in the communities. On-the-job training provides an opportunity for Cree men, women, and youth to learn construction techniques, blueprint reading, and crew supervision skills that will give them employment advantages within and outside of the Cree First Nations. The Cabin Construction Program includes the costs of building materials and equipment, labour and supervision, and air and ground transport. The average total cost per new cabin is $30,000. The program aims for 80 new cabins each year. Niskamoon Corporation will help fund cabin construction in hydro-impacted traplines, and forestry enhancement programs will help provide cabins in forestry-impacted traplines. Therefore, only a portion of the following program budget will be funded by the CTA. Annual Cabin Construction costs: $30,000 x 80 cabins = $2,400,000 $2,400,000 $2,400,000 $2,400,000 $2,400,000 $2,400,000 $12,000, Trapline Infrastructure Enhancement: Diverse construction projects are required to address the needs of Cree trappers affected by development in the territory. Infrastructure projects will include waste disposal pits, wells, docking ramps, aircraft landing areas, outhouses and sheds, boardwalks, bridges, culverts and fire-breaks. Consultation will first be done with the 9 Cree communities to confirm trapline infrastructure needs. Information will then be mapped and used to identify standard procedures and/or construction techniques aimed at improving trappers living environment and day-to-day activities. Local field inspections may be required to assess the problems to be addressed before implementing the most appropriate project. Trapline Infrastructure Enhancement will require approximately $60,000 for preliminary consultative work, and $100,000 per year to implement projects. Forestry enhancement 14

16 programs may help fund infrastructure projects in forestry-impacted traplines, leaving only a portion of the program budget to be funded by the CTA. $160,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $560, Regional Trail Network: A regional trail for off-road vehicles including skidoos and ATVs, with portage routes and emergency shelters, is needed in the Territory. Work would begin with community consultations on the development of a trail, to confirm the need and identify corridors that should be part of the network. Further activities would include technical assessment and mapping of potential obstacles in the different corridors; determination of optimal trail alignment in the chosen corridors; and specifications of the trail and related facilities, including shelters and bridges. The Regional Trail Network Program will cost only $10,000 for preliminary consultative work, as this will be carried out concurrently with the Trapline Infrastructure consultations in the program s first year. The Program will require approximately $50,000 per year for mapping and implementation. As much as possible, the CTA will undertake this program in cooperation with COTA s Footsteps and Paddle Strokes ecotourism project, which includes community consultation, mapping, and infrastructure work to develop inland and coastal tourism routes within and between the Cree communities. $60,000 $50,000 $50,000 $50,000 $50,000 $260, Local Trappers Committees Projects (CQA/CFA): Cree hunting, fishing, and trapping are the foundation of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement, and of the new Agreements with Quebec and Canada. The Local Trappers Committees of (CTA) ensures that the Cree hunting, fishing and trapping way of life could continue even in the context of development in the Territory one of the fundamental concepts of the Agreement (JBNQA). Over 30% of the Cree population still practice the traditional way of life of hunting, fishing, and trapping as a full-time occupation. At least another 15% of the Cree population practice this way of life parttime or seasonally and it is hoped that this number will grow as more young people learn the skills of traditional Cree culture when the Cree Trappers Association s Science & Technology training program becomes a reality. Because of the clear nature of the funding obligation, ensuring CTA programs and projects should be straightforward. The Cree trappers are at the heart of the treaty, but somehow the CTA and Cree trappers needs have been neglected. Funding of the CTA is guaranteed in the JBNQA, but actual CTA funding has fallen short of its needs each year. 15

17 Past requests by trappers for hunting cabins, transportation subsidies, and training could not be met due to lack of funds. The CTA must explore the new Agreements for additional funding for its operations, programs, and capital needs. The time has come to recognize the importance that the Association has for the Cree Nation, and to support the trappers needs and programs. Even in the context these lack of funds there have been many different projects or programs supported and implemented by CTA and the Local Trappers Committees with the CQA funds. These projects include, but not limited to: Gas Subsidy Equipment Subsidy Ammunition Subsidy Air and Ground Transportation Youth Trappers Assistance Special Assistance to Elders Woodcutting Snow Removal Radio Operators $2,100,000 $2,100,000 $2,100,000 $2,100,000 $2,100,000 $10,500, Local Trappers Fund Projects (BOC): From the annual funding received from Board of Compensation, seventy-five thousand dollars ($75,000) is usually distributed to the nine (9) Cree communities as Trappers Fund for their Local projects, and these amounts are used for but not limited to these projects: Bush Radio Repairs & Batteries Trapper s material & supplies Communications $150,000 $150,000 $150,000 $150,000 $150,000 $750,000 16

18 6. Cree Science & Technology Program JBNQA: e) trappers training programs Since the opening of the Territory in 1975, young Crees have not had access to the opportunities their parents had to learn the traditional way of life, because of the demands of school, parents who go to the bush infrequently, and other obstacles. However, ISP participation figures show that young Crees are taking up trapping in growing numbers, as a way of embracing traditional Cree life. These people need training to help them master the skills they would normally have acquired while growing up in traditional Cree society. The CTA Trapper Training Program was first piloted in , funded by the Province of Quebec and the Cree School Board. It was very successful. It allowed experienced trappers to take students into the bush for forty days in the fall, thirty days in the winter, and thirty days in the spring. The students (male and female) were trained in seasonspecific traditional activities. Continuing this CTA training program on a permanent basis is essential to the continued transmission of traditional culture to the younger generations. The program name has recently been changed to the Cree Science & Technology Program, to reflect the fact that the program teaches a broad scope of Cree culture, and to better fit with the competencies of Quebec s Ministry of Education. There is an ongoing need to update the Program and integrate new modules as they arise, e.g., to include training to meet the new regulations on boat safety and off-road vehicles. In addition to traditional trapper training, the program could expand to include training in (i) HF Bush Radio Repair (ii) Cabin & Infrastructure Construction; and (iii) Wildlife Studies (i.e., Beaver Relocation). The Cree Science & Technology Program is designed to accept 75 students per year to be taught by approximately 30 trapping instructors. An instructor is paid $1,000 per term per student for each of the fall, winter and spring terms. A student receives a living allowance of $10,260 for three seasons of training. In addition, the material costs of delivering the course are $4,600 per student per year. Annual Cree Science & Technology Program costs: Instruction: $1,000 x 3 terms = $3,000 x 75 students: $ 225,000 Student Living Allowance: $10,260 x 75 students: $ 769,500 Equipment: $4,600 x 75 students: $ 345,000 TOTAL $1,339,500 $1,339,500 1,339,500 1,339,500 1,339,500 1,339,500 $6,697,500 17

19 7. Wildlife Management Programs JBNQA: d) improved biological production including habitat improvement, species rehabilitation and wildlife surveys The Crees take responsibility for wildlife programs in the Territory, as the health of the wildlife determines the health of the people. The CTA has a core Wildlife Management program, plus several new and ongoing wildlife-related projects. 7.1 Core Wildlife Management Program The CTA will hire a professional biologist to assist with our many ongoing wildlife management activities, which include the following: Work with biologists in the CRA, Canada, Quebec, Hydro-Québec and other agencies to undertake species relocation studies, wildlife surveys, habitat improvements, and wildlife management planning in the Territory; Continue the Big Game Survey to monitor the number of black bear, caribou and moose harvested by each community and hunting zone each year; Assist Quebec in recruiting Cree candidates for training as Wildlife Protection Officers (WPO), pursuant to Section of the Paix des Braves Agreement, and ensure that 20 WPO positions are filled by qualified Crees; Assist Quebec in training and conducting refresher courses for Cree Tallymen certified as Wildlife Protection Auxiliary Officers, pursuant to Section of the JBNQA and Section of the Paix des Braves Agreement; Participate in the Hunting, Fishing and Trapping Coordinating Committee (HFTCC), which is the main consultative body on regulatory and management related issues to wildlife in the territory. Annual Core Wildlife Management Program costs: Wildlife Biologist salary and benefits $ 90,000 Travel and expenses $ 20,000 Core program administration $ 50,000 Total $160, Beaver Relocation Program The CTA s beaver relocation program is the oldest animal restocking program in Canada. Trappers monitor beaver on traplines and relocate animals from areas where populations are large to those where they are dwindling. The relocation is done by Cree trappers trained in the procedure, working with Niskamoon Corporation. Unfortunately, monitoring of the Beaver Relocation Program is a disputed issue, and because of this, the program funding is in a state of deadlock. Niskamoon is responsible for funding beaver relocations in impacted areas, but refuses to pay unless the program results are monitored. The CTA Directors have refused to place monitoring objects (tags, radios) on wild animals. Thus the issue is unresolved. In some cases, monitoring devices 18

20 have been used with the support of the local tallymen. In other cases, the CTA has itself funded the relocation of a small number of beavers. Annual Beaver Relocation Program costs: Fee to Tallyman for removal of beaver: $50/beaver 50 beaver = $ 2,500 Live-trapping and delivery to community: $1000/beaver 50 beaver = $50,000 Shipping from capture community to release community $500/trip 3 $ 1,500 Shipping from release community to release site 10 $2000.each $20,000 Total: $74, Migratory Bird Studies Project The CTA participated in a 4-year pilot project on Migratory Bird Studies, funded by the Northern Ecosystem Initiative, with the objective of implementing a protocol for ongoing Migratory Bird data collection in Cree communities. Collected data is integrated into a data bank maintained by the CRA. This project will increase the capacity of the Crees to participate in wildlife research, design, implementation, and interpretation. Average annual costs to CTA: $20, Threatened Birds of Prey Education Project The CTA participated in a species at risk project, funded by the Canadian Wildlife Service and the Foundation de la Faune du Québec, developed to sensitive the Cree people to the threatened status of three species of raptors in the Territory (golden eagle, peregrine falcon and bald eagle). Communities were visited and a trilingual classroom information kit was developed for ongoing classroom touring in the coming years. Average annual costs to CTA: $20, Arcview Mapping Project The CTA and ISP databases will be linked to Arcview files for better information management through customized mapping capabilities. With staff training and technical support, this project will enhance Cree wildlife management practices, help complete a Cree Regional Land-Use Study, and incorporate the traditional names for landmarks and resources in territorial mapping. Average annual costs to CTA: $20,000. Total annual costs for the above five Wildlife Management Programs are $294,000. $294, , , , ,000 $1,470,000 19

21 8. Trapline Re-Organization and the GeoConnections Portal JBNQA: The present system of Cree traplines shall continue unless otherwise agreed to by the interested Cree communities. With the development of the Cree territory, the equilibrium between man and resources has been knocked out of balance. The landscape has been altered by hydroelectric reservoirs and infrastructure, vast areas of clear-cut forest, mining, urban development, and roads. For the trapper this means that some hunting areas have become fragmented or unproductive. Trapline boundaries no longer represent a fair division of Cree resources. The CTA is leading the effort to address these imbalances and equitably redistribute traplines to Cree trappers. Gradually, we are resolving disputes between individuals and communities over neighbouring trapline boundaries. This is difficult work requiring a long-term commitment and numerous meetings to discuss problems and solutions. To assist in the management of traplines and dispute resolution, we have drafted the Eeyou Hunting Law. This document is not a foreign law set out to govern the Territory, but a written from of how the Cree governed their land before European contact. The Law was developed in response to requests for CTA intervention in trapline conflicts. Much work has already been done on the drafting and consultations, but more work remains, including a large meeting with the Tallymen to confirm trapline boundaries. The GeoConnections Discovery Portal (GeoPortal) is an electronic mapping system that will help the CTA in our Trapline Re-Organization Program. The GeoPortal is a joint project of CTA and COTA, funded in part by Geoconnections. Through the GeoPortal, we will produce a digital Cree Trapline Atlas that allows for boundary adjustments, and develop a GIS Database with multiple functions for the CTA and its members. The GeoPortal will store data from Cree traditional ecological knowledge, and integrate it with maps and reference data from other sources. Cree communities will be able to use the Portal in numerous ways to research and monitor their lands and resources. For example, individual Crees can use the Portal to store privately-accessed information, to track broad-scale land-use changes, or to print modified trapline maps. The CTA can use the Portal to manage the cabin insurance program, track illegal and non-cree activities in the Territory, and incorporate the Big Game Survey with other trapline harvesting reports to enhance Cree resource management capacity. The Trapline Re-organization Program requires a meeting with Tallymen to confirm trapline boundaries, finalization of the Eeyou Hunting Law, publication of the Trapline Atlas, and development of the GIS Database. Dispute resolution and maintenance of the GeoPortal will be ongoing needs. Program costs are estimated at $300,000 per year, with $150,000 for development of the Eeyou Hunting Law and $150,000 for the GeoPortal. $300,000 $300,000 $300,000 $300,000 $300,000 $1,500,000 20

22 9. CTA Internal Programs The CTA is undertaking two programs to improve its functioning and its ability to service members in the face of an ever-changing environment. 9.1 CTA Structural Review JBNQA: h) program management and administration The CTA General Assembly of 2004 gave the Association its mandate to revisit fundamental issues including our mission, objectives and structure. Consultations on a CTA Structural Review were held in and an organizational restructuring document was drafted. A working draft for bylaws has been presented to the Directors, but the decision to proceed has been deferred thus far. Likewise, new staff policies remain in draft form. These issues must be resolved in the coming years, and work on a salary grid requiring the services of a professional consultant must be completed. The important work of updating the administrative tools for the Regional CTA will benefit the entire Cree Government and Cree Nation by allowing us to better serve our members. Annual Structural Review costs are expected to be $100,000. $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $500, Business Development JBNQA: c) fur marketing and promotion to increase the trappers returns [and] g) possible development of other sectors of the fur industry A core function of the CTA is to promote fur sales and assist in the orderly collection and marketing of wild furs by its members. The purchase of fur is financed by the Cree Fur Trust Account and general administration funds. In order to fully realize the objectives of the JBNQA, the CTA must have the capacity to develop proposals to improve fur marketing and add value to furs sold, so as to maximize the return to trappers. Possible projects include fur dyeing, knitting or processing, increased involvement in sorting and sales, and promotion of products through a Cree label development. To phase in such efforts, the CTA will hire a full-time Program Development Officer with in-house capacity to meet our business development needs, supplemented by occasional contracts of external business expertise, as required. 21

23 In addition, the CTA will continue to be an active member of the Fur Institute of Canada and the Fur Council of Canada, which act as watchdogs and information hubs concerning all issues affecting the trapping community in Canada. Business Development activities will include: Market research and feasibility studies on specific commercial proposals; Fund-raising and attracting potential investors; Oversight of CTA investments and implementation of proposals; Long-term monitoring of the fur sector and the performance of the Cree companies in this sector; Diversification of Cree involvement in the fur and fur-related industries. Annual Business Development Program costs: Salary and benefits for a Program Development Officer: $ 90,000 Travel and expenses $ 20,000 External Expertise contracts $ 50,000 Total $160,000 $160,000 $160,000 $160,000 $160,000 $160,000 $800, Addition of Washaw Sibi Community JBNQA: c) fur marketing and promotion to increase the trappers returns [and] g) possible development of other sectors of the fur industry The CTA will be servicing the community of Washaw Sibi through the years 2008/09 to 2012/13. Administration and communications costs for Washaw Sibi are expected to be comparable to costs in the other nine communities, at approximately $60,000 per year. This amount includes salaries, travel and office expenses for the local trapper committee and radio operator. Additional program expenses resulting from an increase in the number of trappers using CTA services are yet to be determined and are not included in this 5-year-plan. $60,000 $60,000 $60,000 $60,000 $60,000 $300,000 22

24 10. Implementation of Regulations Affecting Trappers JBNQA: f) transfer to the Association of appropriate government services and programs related to trapping The CTA has two ongoing and two upcoming programs to administer international, national, and provincial regulations affecting our members in 2008/ / Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards (AIHTS) Many issues over the years have affected the sale of Cree furs, with the European anti-fur movement and fur ban being particularly harmful. The AIHTS addresses concerns of the animal welfare movement and reduces the risk of future fur bans. Our conformity with the Standards is essential to ensure a continued European market for Cree furs. The Agreement was passed in 2002, and work on trap testing, research and development has since been ongoing. Implementation of the Agreement in Canada will occur in three phases. Phase I which covers the majority of Cree trapping was implemented in September 2007, and national trapping laws were amended accordingly. As of that time, all trappers including Cree trappers must harvest fur-bearing animals using traps certified as following AIHT Standards. No furs may be exported to Europe unless they are AIHTS certified. While the CTA has been working on this issue for the past five years, with trapper training and updating of manuals, the replacement of Cree traps with certified AIHTS traps is incomplete. The following work is still required. 1. First, we must hold a National Standardization meeting of Cree trappers to ensure familiarity with the new standards and the need to comply. 2. At the same time, we must obtain actual samples of AIHTS-certified traps for display at the local fur office in each community. 3. We must continue to replace any remaining old traps with AIHTS-certified traps via an ongoing trap exchange at the local fur offices. 4. Finally, the certification of furs harvested according to AIHT Standards will be undertaken by local fur technicians as part of the daily job. AIHTS 5-Year Program Costs: National Meeting (year one): $60,000 Sample Traps ($10,000 x 9 communities) (year one): $90,000 Trap Exchange ($150/member x 5000 members) $750,000 Ongoing certification of furs ($20,000/year x 5 years) $100,000 Total $1,000,000 Program costs divided throughout 2008/ /13: $320,000 $170,000 $170,000 $170,000 $170,000 $1,000,000 23

25 10.2 Federal Firearms Legislation According to the federal Firearms Act, all gun owners including Cree trappers must register their guns and be trained in firearms safety according to the revised Canadian Firearms Safety Course. The Course is now mandatory for anyone who wishes to apply for a Firearms Possession and Acquisition License. A License is required to purchase, borrow or receive a firearm in Canada, or to buy ammunition in Canada. The CTA provides the Canadian Firearms Safety Course in all 9 Cree communities, in cooperation with Securité Nature. This is a seven-hour course covering gun safety issues and the requirements of all relevant federal laws. Each student is responsible for paying the course fee of $ The CTA currently has 15 active instructors and one chief instructor who is able to qualify new instructors as required. A training kit is available at each of the nine communities. The CTA also assists Cree hunters and trappers in applying for gun licenses and registering their firearms. A course on hunting with firearms is also required by nonnatives who wish to hunt in Quebec and for Cree who wish to hunt outside of the Cree Territory. The Association is able to provide this course through the chief instructor. The CTA implements the Firearms Act with some funding assistance from the federal government. However, in addition to the registration fees paid to the government, there is an administrative cost for this program which has not yet been adequately resourced. In lieu of sufficient government funding, the Crees have invested their own money in this program even without knowing how those Crees without licenses and permits would be treated in the interim. Discussions continue between the Cree Regional Authority and Canada on these matters. Ongoing funding is required for the firearms safety courses, travel expenses for the Chief Cree Instructor, and other implementation costs for gun registration, licensing, and training. Annual program costs are estimated at $260, / / / / /13 Total $260,000 $260,000 $260,000 $260,000 $260,000 $1,300,000 24