On behalf of the Alberta Fish & Game Association,

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3 On behalf of the Alberta Fish & Game Association, we welcome you to the 89th Annual Conference. Whether you are a delegate, companion, youth or guest we are sure that you will have an exciting experience. We thank all the volunteers that have contributed. A lot of time and effort has gone into making this event possible and without their efforts this task would have been unmanageable. We also thank the sponsors. It doesn t matter what you donated, your generosity is greatly appreciated. With your assistance, the Alberta Fish & Game Association, with its 25,000 plus volunteers, can continue to conserve and improve Alberta s habitat. We hope that everyone has a great time this year at Conference. Learn a little, laugh a lot, meet some new people, visit with some old friends. Sincerely, The Alberta Fish & Game Association 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 1

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5 Welcome...1 General Information...4 Past President/Life Member List/Honorary Life Members...6 Companion and Youth Itineraries...8 AFGA Affiliated Clubs...9 Sponsor Acknowledgements...10 Volunteer Acknowledgements / Conference Committee...12 Executive and Staff List...13 Annual General Meeting Agenda Minutes...15 AFGA Budget...30 Glossary of Acronyms...31 Resolutions...32 Annual Reports...59 Wildlife Trust Fund Properties AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 3

6 General Information Registration & Information Desk: On Thursday February 22nd, 2018 & Friday February 23rd, 2018 the registration & information desk is located in the Hotel lobby. If you did not recieve your registration package, please contact the AFGA office located in the Victoria Room. Hours of operation are as follows: Thursday, February 22 10:00 am 5:30 pm Friday, February 23 8:00 am 5:30 pm Saturday, February 24 see AFGA office Victoria Room The AFGA office is located in the Victoria Room and has the following hours of operation: Thursday, February 22 10:00 am 5:30 pm Friday, February 23 8:00 am 5:30 pm & 8:00 10:00 pm Saturday, February 24 8:00 am 2:30 pm Name Tags: All conference participants must wear their nametags to gain admittance to conference sessions. Tickets: Tickets are required to be eligible for meals: (2) Breakfast (Friday and Saturday am) (1) Friday Luncheon (1) Delegates Dinner (Friday evening) (1) Saturday Luncheon and (1) President s Banquet (Saturday evening). If you are missing tickets in your registration package, please contact the AFGA office in the Victoria Room. Smoking: All sessions and social functions have been designated non-smoking. Smoking is permitted only in smoking areas located outside the building. For more information, please refer to the Hotel Front Desk. Dress: Meet & Greet Night AFGA Luncheon General Sessions President s Banquet Casual Attire Casual Attire Casual Attire Semi-formal Emergencies: In the event of an emergency, please contact the information desk for assistance or use the hotel house phone to contact the front desk. Liability: The Alberta Fish and Game Association cannot be held responsible for any loss of property or damage, or injury to persons during the conference or any affiliated social functions AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

7 General Information Function Room AFGA Office Plenary Sessions Youth Program Companion Program Executive Room Life Member/Past President Meeting Delegate Breakfast Dining Room Lunch Room Meet and Greet Registration & Information Zone Meeting Room Victoria Room Niagara Ballroom Calgary Room Cascade Ballroom Cascade Ballroom Calgary Room Niagara Ballroom Niagara Ballroom Niagara Ballroom Niagara Ballroom Front Lobby TBA 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 5

8 Past Presidents *Adam H. Esch *Bob Scammell *A. Kinnaird *Budd Traver *E.P. Hall 1927 *Tony Ferguson *Charles Hayden Don Hayden *Dr. W.A. Wilson *Roy Ozanne *Frank Farley Ron Gladish *A.P. Burns *Jack Shaver *Norman Frazer *Nestor Romaniuk *H.L. Wyman Jack Graham *L.E. Wize Doug Rumsey 1990 *William Fisher Niels Damgaard *Dr. R.A. Rooney *Horst Fauser *J.A. MacGhee Vern McIntosh *G.E. Watt Andy von Busse *C. E. Brown Dave Powell *F. E. Mitchell Gerry Pittman *Curt Paul Smith Rod Dyck *J. E. Carr Ray Makowecki *Elmer Kure Randy Collins *Gordon Cummings Maurice Nadeau *Ben Rosnau Quentin Bochar *Henry Lembicz Conrad Fennema *Joe Balla Gordon Poirier *Gordon Peel Wayne Lowry *Tom O Keefe * Deceased AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

9 Life Members Don Appleby * Vern McIntosh Sherwood Park Fell Balderson * Jack Munro * Joe Balla * Maurice Nadeau Bonnyville D. B. Blacklock * Tom O Keefe * Quentin Bochar Morinville Eve Ozanne Edmonton Andy Boyd * Ray Ozanne * C. E. Brown * George Page * W. Clark * Gordon Peel * Bryce Chase Calgary Gerry Pittman Lethbridge Randy Collins St. Albert Heinz Plontke Raymond Niels Damgaard Innisfail Dave Powell Lacombe Rod Dyck Drumheller Jim Robison * John Eglinski * Carole Romaniuk Edmonton Horst Fauser * Nestor Romaniuk * Conrad Fennema Leduc Ben Rosnau * Norm Ferguson * Toni Rosnau * Tony Ferguson * Doug Rumsey Red Deer Gerald Foster * Bob Scammell * Ron Gladish British Columbia Vic Scheuerman * Jack Graham Edmonton Gene Scully * Don Hayden Pincher Creek Jack Shaver * Lloyd Hakes * Darryl R. Smith Crooked Creek Stan Henders * Sam Smolyk * A.L. Hogg * Bruce Stewart * E. S. Huestis * Bob Tanghe * Them Kjar * N.E. Tanner * Elmer Kure * Budd Traver * Nils Kvisle * Andy von Busse Big Valley Frank Lee Sherwood Park Steve Witiuk Sherwood Park Henry Lembicz * Ken Yank * Neville Lindsay * Urban Young * Ray Makowecki St. Paul Honorary Life Members J. B. Cross * Grant MacEwan * Brad Fenson Strathcona County * Deceased 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 7

10 Companion and Youth Itineraries Companion Program - Cascade Ballroom Thursday, February 22nd 2:00-2:30 pm Opening remarks 2:30-4:30 pm Wine / Cheese / Tea - Painting -- Cascade Ballroom 7:00-11:00 pm Zone Meet & Greet Friday, February 23rd 7:00-8:00 am Delegates Breakfast - Niagara Ballroom 8:30 am Meet in Hotel Lobby for Bus 9:00 am Escape Emporium - Off Site 12:00-1:30 pm Lunch - Moxies 2:00-4:00 pm Rig Hand Distillery - Off Site 6:30-7:00 pm Pre-Dinner cocktails 7:00 pm Delegates Dinner - Live & Silent Auction Saturday, February 24th 7:00-8:00 am Delegates Breakfast - Niagara Ballroom 9:00-10:30 am Yoga / Chakra s 10:00 am Coffee Break 12:00 pm Delegates Lunch 1:30-4:00 pm Young Living Session: Wellness make & Take (Essential Oils/Bath Soak rub) 2:00 pm Coffee Break 6:30 pm Pre-Dinner Cocktails 7:00-11:00 pm President s Banquet- Dinner and Awards Youth Program - Calgary Room Thursday, February 22nd 2:00-2:30 pm Opening remarks 2:30 pm Coffee/Refreshment Break 2:45-3:15 pm President Visit 3:15-4:15 pm Ice Breakers 4:15-5:00 pm Youth Club Discussion 7:00 pm Meet & Greet Scavenger Hunt Friday, February 23rd 7:00-8:00 am Delegates Breakfast - Niagara Ballroom 9:30-11:30 am Strathcona Wilderness Center: Outdoor skills - Off Site, Outside - Dress for the weather 12:00 pm Delegates Lunch 1:00-3:30 pm Taxidermist Presentation 3:30-3:45 pm Coffee/Refreshment Break 3:45-5:00 pm re/elections & Choose Resolutions 7:00 pm Delegates Dinner 8:30 pm Launch Pad Saturday, February 24th 7:00-8:00 am Delegates Breakfast - Niagara Ballroom 9:30-10:30 am Escape Emporium- Off Site 11:15-12:00 pm Minute To Win It 12:00 pm Delegates Luncheon 1:00-2:15 pm Youth Resolutions 2:15 pm Coffee Break 2:45-5:00 pm fly tying/wire worm making presentation 6:30 pm President s Banquet- Dinner and Awards 8:30 pm Movie & Games NOTE: Itineraries are subject to modifications that coordinators will address AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

11 Alberta Fish & Game Association Affiliated Clubs ZONE 1 Bow Island Fish and Game Assoc. Brooks & District Fish and Game Assoc. Cardston & District Fish and Game Assoc. Claresholm Fish and Game Assoc. Foremost Fish and Game Assoc. Fort Macleod Fish and Game Assoc. Hillcrest Fish and Game Protective Assoc. Lethbridge Fish and Game Assoc. Magrath Rod and Gun Club Medicine Hat Fish and Game Assoc. Picture Butte Fish and Game Assoc. Porcupine Hills Wildlife Assoc. Southern Alberta Outdoorsmen Taber Fish and Game Assoc. Vauxhall Fish and Game Rod and Gun Club Vulcan & District Gun Club Willow Valley Trophy Club ZONE 2 Alberta Falconry Association Big Horns Club Of Standard Calgary Fish and Game Assoc. Drumheller & District Fish and Game Assoc. High River Fish and Game Assoc. Hussar Fish and Game Club Okotoks & District Fish and Game Assoc. Sarcee Fish and Game Assoc. Wheatland Conservation & Wildlife Assoc. ZONE 3 Alberta Black Powder Assoc. Battle River Fish And Game Assoc. Camrose & District Fish and Game Assoc. Castor Fish and Game Assoc. Cenalta Youth Conservation Academy Dickson Fish and Game Assoc. Innisfail Fish and Game Assoc. Lacombe Fish and Game Assoc. Leduc Fish and Game Assoc. Millet Fish and Game Assoc. Ponoka Fish and Game Association Provost and District Fish and Game Assoc. Red Deer Fish and Game Assoc. Rimbey Fish and Game Assoc. Rocky Mountain House Fish and Game Assoc. Sundre Fish and Game Assoc. Thorsby & District Fish and Game Assoc. Wimborne & District Fish and Game Assoc. ZONE 4 Barrhead Fish And Game Assoc. Busby & District Fish and Game Assoc. Devon Fish and Game Gun Club Edmonton Old Timers Fishing Club Edmonton Trout Fishing Club Morinville Fish and Game Assoc Onoway & District Fish and Game Assoc. & Gun Club Spruce Grove Fish and Game Assoc. St Albert & District Fish & Game Assoc. Stony Plain Fish and Game / Wabamun Gun Club Whitecourt Fish and Game Assoc. Wildwood & District Rod & Gun Club ZONE 5 Athabasca Fish and Game Assoc. Beaver River Fish and Game Assoc. Clandonald & District Fish and Game Assoc. Edmonton Fish and Game Assoc. Fort Saskatchewan Fish and Game Assoc. Innisfree & District Fish and Game Assoc. Irma Fish and Game Assoc. Lamont & District Fish and Game Assoc. Lloydminster & District Fish and Game Assoc. Mundare Fish and Game Assoc. Narrow Lake Conservation Centre Sherwood Park Fish & Game Assoc. Spedden Fish and Game Assoc. St Paul Fish and Game Assoc. Two Hills & District Fish and Game Assoc. Vegreville Wildlife Federation Viking Sports & Wildlife Society Vilna Fish and Game Assoc. Willingdon & District Fish and Game Assoc. WillVil Walleye Trounament Club ZONE 6 Dunvegan Fish and Game Assoc. High Level Sporting Assoc. Monkman Fish and Game Assoc. Peace Wapiti Fish & Game Association Red Earth Creek Rod & Gun Club Slave Lake Rod & Gun Club 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 9

12 Thanks - Sponsors & Donors Alberta Fish and Game Association recognizes the following organizations for their sponsorship and financial donations to the 89th Annual Conference. All sponsorships and donations will be formally acknowledged during the Conference in varying ways. Sponsor and financial donation acknowledgements are current up to the date of printing this guide. We apologize to those organizations we were unable to acknowledge at print time and thank you for your continued support. Sponsor/Donations Access Life s Adventure Inc. Alberta Conservation Association Alberta Fish & Game Association Brian Dingreville Cabela s Calgary Fish & Game Association Caribou Gear Conrad & Hilda Fennema Cy & Eileen Hallett Doug & Robyn Butler Grizzly Outfitters Heartland Electrical Services Heron Printing Jack & Phyllis Graham John K.J. Campbell Barrister & Solicitor Kingston Ross Pasnak LLP Martin & Louise Sharren Nootka Island Lodge North Eastern AB Fish & Game Association Onoway Fish & Game Association Rig Hand Distillery Riverside Honda & Ski-Doo Robert & Deanna Loewen Robert Bateman Rosedale Concrete Works Sarcee Fish & Game Association Sawridge Inn Secure Energy Stony PlainFish & Game & Wabamun Gun Club Truck Claws Whitecourt Fish & Game Association Willingdon Fish & Game Association Wild Sheep Foundation Zone 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Our sincerest thank you to all of the individuals and clubs that donated financially and in-kind to the 88th Annual Conference Auction. We regret if we missed you due to an oversight, or a submission after our print deadline AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

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14 Volunteer Acknowledgements The Alberta Fish & Game Association gratefully acknowledges the countless hours of volunteer time everyone dedicated to making the 89th Annual Conference one to remember Conference Committee Conference Committee Faran Schaber Randy Collins Doug Horner Ingrid Horner Doug Butler Robyn Butler Martin Sharren Sandie Buwalda Leduc Edmonton Gibbons Gibbons Lamont Lamont St. Albert Edmonton AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

15 Executive and Staff List 2017 AFGA Executive: President Doug Butler Lamont Past-President Wayne Lowry Stirling 1st Vice-President Brian Dingreville Coalhurst 2nd Vice-President Ian Stuart Innisfail Finance Chair Robert Loewen Sherwood Park Environment Chair Chelsea Jaeger Barrhead Program Chair Elton Hunter Edmonton Hunting Chair Jim Clarke Calgary Fishing Chair Darryl Smith Crooked Creek Life Member Representative Carole Romaniuk Edmonton Zone One Director Greg Bird New Dayton Zone One Director Glenn Heather Medicine Hat Zone Two Director Deb Clarke Calgary Zone Three Director Kevin Wingert Red Deer Zone Four Director Faran Schaber Leduc Zone Five Director Robyn Butler Lamont Zone Six Director Jamie Donald Widewater 2017 AFGA Staff: Executive Vice President Martin Sharren St. Albert Accountant Rolly Evangelista Edmonton Project Coordinator Sandie Buwalda Edmonton Membership Coordinator Cheryl Specht Ardrossan Administrator Rhonda Segura Edmonton Habitat Development Coordinator Brad Fenson Strathcona 2017 AFGA Contractors: Regional Wildlife Project Facilitator TJ Schwanky Cochrane Operation Grassland Community Don Watson Lethbridge 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 13

16 THE ALBERTA FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING President: Doug Butler Saturday, February 24, 2018 Four Points Sheraton South 7230 Argyll Road, Edmonton, AB T5G 3J5 AGENDA 1. Call to Order by the President Doug Butler Introductions & Moment of Silence 2. Rules of Order 3. Adoption of Agenda 4. Adoption of Minutes of the February 25, 2017AGM 5. EVP Report 6. Nomination Report Wayne Lowry a) Executive Elections President Vice Presidents Fishing Hunting Environment Program 10:30 am refreshment break AFGA Auditor s Report Budget Approval 9. Appointment of the Auditor for Parade of Donations (11:30 am) 11. Youth Resolution 12. New Business 12 noon 1:00 pm lunch break 2:30 pm refreshment break 13. Adjournment 5:00 pm a) Resolutions b) Recommendations c) Announcement of Date, Time and Place of 2018 Conference d) Membership Prize Draws e) Other AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

17 ALBERTA FISH & GAME ASSOCIATION 2017 Annual General Meeting Minutes, February 25, 2017 The Annual General Meeting has held on Saturday, February 25, 2017 at the Four Points by Sheraton, Edmonton. 1. Call to Order The President and Meeting Chair, Wayne Lowry, called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and welcomed everyone to the 2017 Annual General Meeting. General housekeeping announcements were made. The membership was asked to partake in a moment of silence in recognition of those members who are ill or have passed away. The Head Table of the Senior Executive and Recording Secretary were introduced. Past Presidents and Life Members were introduced and recognized. Special guests were welcomed. 2. Adoption of Agenda The agenda was included in the conference manual on page 14. Moved by Sheila Ferguson / Seconded by Wayne Bird THAT the agenda be adopted, as circulated; CARRIED Prior to the start of the business meeting, special presentations were provided. Ray Makowecki was introduced and a slide/photo presentation was provided in memory of Bob Scammell who passed away in An overview was provided of Bob Scammell s life achievements and dedication to conservation. Jack Graham was introduced, provided background of the Wildlife Awards and suggested changes are needed, including increased participation in measuring schools to gain consistency. The following suggestions were offered to improve the Wildlife Awards program: 1. Hunting competition is for the best animal to recognize the species and it was suggested that special categories be eliminated (e.g. bow, etc.) to put the focus back on the animal, regarding of the legal means of getting that animal 2. Fishing there are challenges keeping records consistent across the province as they must be weighed on a government scale. It was suggested that this be changed from weight to length, remove any special means of getting them and focus back on the fish itself 3. Bird no changes proposed 4. Photograph contest great pictures received, no changes proposed 3. Rules of Order Parliamentarian, Frank Lee, was introduced and provided an overview of the meeting s Rules of Order and explained that the Annual General Meeting will be operating under the meeting procedures of Roberts Rules of Order AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 15

18 2017 Minutes 4. Adoption of Minutes The minutes, included in the conference manual on pages 15-28, were reviewed and the motion made just prior to 11. Youth Resolutions was corrected to read: THAT the floor be opened to invited guests to speak on resolutions, as needed To allow mike time for our invited guests for clarification purposes and the youth mike time to speak on Resolutions F and W Moved by Randy Collins / Seconded by Greg Bird THAT the Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on February 20, 2016 be adopted, as corrected; CARRIED 5. EVP Report The Executive Vice President was introduced and provided a screen presentation on the 2016 highlights of the Alberta Fish and Game Association on: Wildlife Trust Fund Land management Operation Grassland Community Government action Camps Wildlife Awards Competition Committees Membership statistics Insurance Minister s Special Licence Minister s Special Licence projects AFGA office relocation AFGA Business Plan 6. Nomination Report Past President, Gordon Poirier, presided over the elections. The assembly was advised of the nominations and election process. 6.1 Election for President Doug Butler was nominated for President by the Nomination Board. After three calls and no further nominations, nominations ceased. Doug Butler was declared President by acclamation AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

19 2017 Minutes 6.2 Election for Vice Presidents Brian Dingreville and Ian Stuart were nominated Vice President by the Nomination Board for two positions. After three calls and no further nominations, nominations ceased. Brian Dingreville and Ian Stuart were declared Vice Presidents by acclamation. 6.3 Hunting Chair Jim Clarke was nominated for Hunting Chair by the Nomination Board. After three calls and no further nominations, nominations ceased. Jim Clarke was declared Hunting Chair by acclamation. 6.4 Fishing Chair Darryl Smith was nominated for Fishing Chair by the Nomination Board. After three calls and no further nominations, nominations ceased. Darryl Smith was declared Fishing Chair by acclamation. 6.5 Environment Chair Chelsea Jaeger was nominated for Environment Chair by the Nomination Board. After three calls and no further nominations, nominations ceased. Chelsea Jaeger was declared Environment Chair by acclamation. 6.6 Programs Chair Elton Hunter was nominated for Programs Chair by the Nomination Board. After three calls and no further nominations, nominations ceased. Elton Hunter was declared Programs Chair by acclamation. 6.7 Past Presidents It was reported that Wayne Lowry will be the Past President for the next year. 6.8 Life Members/Past Presidents Representative It was reported that Carole Romaniuk has been reappointed as the Life Members/Past Presidents Representative by the Life Members/Past Presidents Committee. 6.9 Finance Chair It was reported that Robert Loewen has been reappointed as the Finance Chair by the Senior Executive AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 17

20 2017 Minutes AFGA Auditor s Report Finance Chair, Robert Loewen, presented the 2016 Audited Financial Statement, as circulated as an addendum in the conference kit. An overview of the auditing process was provided. The Audit Committee members were introduced and thanked for their review of the report. In the opinion of the Auditor, except for the possible effects of the matter in the Basis for Qualified Opinion listed in the report, these financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Alberta Fish and Game Association as at September 30, 2016 and the results of its operations and its cash flow for the year the ended in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations. The Finance Chair presented a summary of each statement and schedule. A detailed list was provided of the Miscellaneous expenses included in Administrative and General expenses. It was noted that many of the line items on the Statement of Operations are further clarified in the Notes located at the end of the report. The floor was opened for questions and no clarification was needed. Moved by Robert Loewen / Seconded by Wayne Lowry THAT the Audited Financial Statement for the year ending September 30, 2016 be adopted as presented; CARRIED Budget Approval The Financial Chair presented the proposed Budget, included in the conference manual on page 29. The floor was opened for questions and no clarification was needed. Moved by Robert Loewen / Seconded by Wayne Lowry THAT the Budget be accepted as presented; CARRIED 9. Appointment of the Auditor for Moved by Robert Loewen / Seconded by Wayne Lowry THAT Kingston-Ross-Pasnak LLP be appointed as the Auditor for ; CARRIED 10. Parade of Donations The following donations were announced: Parade of Donations Amount BEAVER RIVER $5, CAMROSE $1, DICKSON $ DRUMHELLER $3, EDMONTON FISH & GAME $5, EDMONTON OLD TIMERS $ FORT SASKATCHEWAN $5, HIGH RIVER $2, INNISFALL $2, AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

21 LAMONT $1, LEDUC $1, LETHBRIDGE $5, LLOYDMINSTER $10, MEDICINE HAT $2, MILLET $1, MUNDARE $ ONOWAY $2, RED DEER $3, SARCEE $50, SHERWOOD PARK $5, SPRUCE GROVE $5, ST. PAUL $1, STONY PLAIN $1, WHITECOURT $2, WILLINGDON $ Gord Poirier $ Zone 5 $5, Minutes TOTAL $122,850 A total of $122,850 was donated to the Alberta Fish & Game Association during the Parade of Donations. Special Guest, Blaine Calkins, Minister of Parliament for Red Deer Lacombe, was introduced and welcomed to the podium. Mr. Calkins reported on the work being done by the Conservative Hunting and Angling Caucus and provided an overview of its purpose and achievements, as well as national and regional issues currently being working on. AFGA is voice of tens of thousands who hunt and fish in Alberta. It was emphasized that the time for active engagement is needed now more than ever. Members need to know their elected officials, create relationships and actively engage. 11. Youth Resolutions Moved by Faran Schaber / Seconded by Brian Dingreville To allow mike time for our invited guests for clarification purposes and the youth mike time to speak on Resolutions W and W ; CARRIED The Youth Executive members were introduced: Miyah Clarke, President Sophia Bird, Vice President Chase Storms, Vice President Teri Lynn Nice, Secretary WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 19

22 2017 Minutes BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta amend legislation to allow hunters to use leashed dogs to track and recover downed game in the field; Amendment #1: Moved by Rod Dyck / Seconded by Brian Dingreville To amend the resolution to replace the word downed with the word wounded ; Amendment DEFEATED Amendment #2: Moved by Gordon Poirier / Seconded by Brian Dingreville To amend the resolution to insert the word big between downed and game ; Amendment DEFEATED Original Resolution W was brought back to the floor and CARRIED with approximately 99.3% in favour (~133/1) WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta shorten the pheasant, grouse and partridge seasons back to November 30 th ; DEFEATED with only 37.5% in favour (54/90) 11. New Business a) Resolutions SPECIAL RESOLUTION NUMBER SP BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association mandate a minimum voting age of eighteen (18) years of age on all matters dealing with the by-laws, policies, procedures, and objectives of the Association; DEFEATED with less than 75% majority vote EXTRAORDINARY RESOLUTION NUMBER EX BE IT BE RESOLVED THAT Section 5.0 Resolution, Recommendation & Policy Statement Procedures; Article 5.4 within the Alberta Fish and Game Association Operations Manual be amended to read:...prior to the following year fall zone meeting. The response to the resolutions from the body/agency/ government that it was sent will be posted on the Alberta Fish and Game Association website and forwarded to each affiliated club, zone and the executive of the Alberta Fish and Game Association.; CARRIED with no opposition EXTRAORDINARY RESOLUTION NUMBER EX BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association develop a standard reply and a procedure for media requests that are out of the ordinary for all future Executives of the organization to follow. Resolution EX was withdrawn by the submitter. EXTRAORDINARY RESOLUTION NUMBER EX BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association Policy Statement 2.5 Commercial Fishing be rescinded and replaced with: 2.5 Selective Harvest of Fish AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

23 2017 Minutes The AFGA recognizes that fish are an important source of food for mankind. The harvest of fish must be done in ways that allows for the successful live release of incidental catch (non-target species). Further, monitoring and research activities related to fish population should employ strategies and techniques that allow for the live release of fish and incidental species (e.g. amphibians, birds, mammals) After an extensive debate regarding the resolution, Resolution EX was withdrawn by the submitter. GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop a control program that would reduce the number of Double Crested Cormorants; CARRIED with no opposition GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop regulations that prohibit transportation of all boats from high risk invasive species waters being brought across Alberta borders; Amendment: Moved by Davan Russell / Seconded by Oscar Long To amend the resolution by replacing the word water with jurisdiction and to add without a certification of disinfection after the word borders ; Amendment CARRIED Amended Resolution G now reads: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop regulations that prohibit transportation of all boats from high risk invasive species jurisdictions being brought across Alberta borders without a certificate of disinfection; CARRIED, as amended, with approximately 78.1% in favour (~125/35) GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Canada amend Section 263(3)(a) of the criminal code to better define the as stated requirements (i.e. adequately guard and warn publics ) for installing lake aeration devices on public waters; CARRIED with approximately 92.5% in favour (~148/12) GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta establish an annual check-off of $1.00, from existing fees, on each wildlife certificate and angling license, payable to the Alberta Fish and Game Association; CARRIED with approximately 95.0% in favour (~152/8) GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G BE IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association actively speak for the formation of a Fish and Wildlife Commission, made up of user groups not affiliated with the government, to set the fish and wildlife regulations for the Province of Alberta; DEFEATED with only 44.0% in favour (59/75) 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 21

24 2017 Minutes GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta maintain the practice of legal spear and atlatl hunting in the Province of Alberta; Moved by Ray Mackowecki / Seconded by Davan Russell THAT the resolutions be tabled; DEFEATED (52/82) Original Resolution G was brought back to the floor and CARRIED with approximately 87.3% in favour (~117/17) GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association support all legal forms of hunting outlined in the most current hunting regulations booklet; CARRIED with approximately 98.5% in favour (~132/2) GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association support all legal forms of fishing outlined in the most current fishing regulations booklet; CARRIED with approximately 98.5% in favour (~132/2) GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta create a waiting period for new residents of Alberta before they are able to apply for their hunting license and tags; CARRIED with 60.3% in favour (70/46) GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta change the definition of Alberta Resident within the Wildlife Act to require that an individual must reside within Alberta for a minimum of one year and possess a valid Alberta Health Care card in order to be eligible to participate in Alberta Resident hunting draws or to purchase an Alberta Resident Hunting License; DEFEATED with only 41.9% in favour (52/72) GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta allow the use of noise suppressors on hunting rifles; Amendment: Moved by Jordan Dorozio / Seconded by Oscar Long To amend the resolution to insert the words and that Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Federal Government remove restriction on Firearms Act prohibiting suppressors from being used for the purpose of hunting after the word rifles ; Amendment CARRIED AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

25 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 23

26 2017 Minutes Amended Resolution G now reads: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta allow the use of noise suppressors on hunting rifles and that Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Federal Government remove restriction on Firearms Act prohibiting suppressors from being used for the purpose of hunting; CARRIED, as amended, with 62.7% in favour (84/50) FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop a plan endorsed by the public that increases the consumptive and/or recreational use of Alberta s underutilized fish resources; Amendment: Moved by Ray Mackowecki / Seconded by Brian Dingreville To amend the resolution to place the words and implement between the words develop and plan ; Amendment CARRIED Amended Resolution F now reads: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop and implement a plan endorsed by the public that increases the consumptive and/or recreational use of Alberta s underutilized fish resources; CARRIED, as amended, with approximately 99.3% in favour (~133/1) FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop a plan endorsed by the public that increases the availability of tiger trout and splake to the list of fish species permitted for aquaculture on private fish farms; Amendment: Moved by Ray Mackowecki / Seconded by Brian Dingreville To amend the resolution to place the words and implement between the words develop and plan ; Amendment CARRIED Amended Resolution F now reads: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop and implement a plan endorsed by the public that increases the availability of tiger trout and splake to the list of fish species permitted for aquaculture on private fish farms; CARRIED, as amended, with no opposition FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop and adopt a policy that confirms no net loss of fish habitat for Alberta; CARRIED with no opposition FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop fish habitat protection and compensation legislation for Alberta; CARRIED with approximately 98.5% in favour (~132/2) AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

27 2017 Minutes FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta and the Alberta Conservation Association (ACA) increase fish habitat by installing and managing winter aeration of numerous lakes that are at risk of winter fish kills; CARRIED with approximately 97.0% in favour (~130/4) FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta amend Alberta Fishery Regulations to permit the stocking of yellow perch, obtained from private fish farms or from approved government locations by permit, into the waters totally enclosed within private lands with no connection to natural waterways; DEFEATED with 14.9% in favour (20/~114) FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta increase angling opportunities by introducing/stocking yellow perch into the suitable fish habitat waters such as small ponds, dugouts and borrow pits; CARRIED with approximately 90.3% in favour (~121/13) FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Alberta of Government and the Alberta Conservation Association (ACA) revise fish program priorities to emphasize the protection and development of fish habitat; CARRIED with no opposition FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta revise angling regulations to allow for the harvest of walleye and northern pike in underutilized Alberta waters including 40 to 50 lakes in NE Alberta that have had zero walleye catch and keep limits for over 20 years; CARRIED with approximately 97.8% in favour (~131/3) FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta promote and require deep pool fish habitat be developed in fish-bearing watercourses in conjunction with watercourse crossings and road development; CARRIED with no opposition FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop a plan endorsed by the public that restores the consumptive use of Alberta s underutilized fish resources with a modified commercial fishing industry in waters where no conflict with recreational or domestic fishing exists; Moved by Ray Mackowecki / Seconded by Rod Dyck THAT the resolutions be tabled; CARRIED Resolution Number F was tabled AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 25

28 2017 Minutes FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta or the Alberta Conservation Association improve the fish habitat on lakes and ponds that experience winterkill and summerkill mortalities; CARRIED with no opposition FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta change the fishing regulations to allow Alberta residents to harvest northern pike, lake whitefish, yellow perch, burbot and walleye in Wabamun Lake; CARRIED with approximately 94.8% in favour (~127/7) FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta disclose the number of Walleye tags available in each lake and each class prior to the beginning of the annual draw application process; CARRIED with no opposition FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta adopt throughout the Province a slot size for walleye of, for example, from 43 cm to 70 cm. All walleye caught in that size slot must be immediately returned to the water from which it came. In addition, and also throughout the Province, all bodies of water that contain walleye should be opened for walleye fishing by rod and reel with a daily limit of two (2) walleye under the slot size and of which one (1) walleye may be over the slot size; DEFEATED with only 5.2% in favour (7/~127) FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta make it illegal to put live fish on a stringer or chain; CARRIED with 69.0% in favour (89/40) FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta compose and include a section in the Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations to outline and clarify the rules and regulations regarding youth fishing; CARRIED with 71.6% in favour (83/33) FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request the Government of Alberta to adopt a fishing license fee structure for non-residents that is similar to other Canadian provinces in order to increase revenue; CARRIED with approximately 97.8% in favour (~131/3) FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta change the size limits on the walleye tag system with the following size changes: AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

29 Change the A Class tags from over 50 cm to any size Change the B Class tags from 43 to 50 cm to 50 cm and under Leave C Class tags at under 43 cm ; DEFEATED with the vast majority opposed WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that if the Government of Alberta determines that, in addition to action on predator management and habitat enhancement, it is necessary to reduce harvest of mature bighorn rams, that the option of a draw system be used as it is the fairest way to distribute the available harvest when demand exceeds supply of a limited resource. Moved by Ian Stuart / Seconded by Dave Powell THAT the resolutions be tabled; CARRIED Resolution Number W was tabled Minutes WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta reduce the number of non-resident trophy bighorn sheep allocations to a maximum of 10% of the allowable harvest; CARRIED with approximately 99.3% in favour (~133/1) WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta add a fall cougar season to all 300 series WMU s; CARRIED with no opposition WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta increase resident waterfowl hunting opportunity by restricting the number of days, or the timing of the hunting season, or other means, that an outfitter may operate and in so doing, reduce the conflict and competition for receiving access to hunt on private lands; CARRIED with approximately 93.3% in favour (~125/9) WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta establish a partner license for elk be established similar to the current partner license system for moose draws; CARRIED with approximately 97.0% in favour (~130/4) WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta introduce a policy for mandatory head submission for any ungulate harvested in a CWD zone by all harvesters; CARRIED, with the brief removed, with no opposition 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 27

30 2017 Minutes WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W BE IT RESOLVED THAT if the Government of Alberta will not shorten the game bird season to end November 30 that they limit the pheasant hunting extended season beyond November 30 to release sites only after that date; CARRIED with approximately 77.6% in favour (~104/30) WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta implement a mandatory big game registration system for all big game. The registration system would apply to all legally licensed Alberta hunters, status Indian hunters and Métis hunters; CARRIED with 65.0% in favour (89/48) WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta establish a draw for Antlered Mule Deer Archery special license similar to the one that currently exists for Antelope Archery special license in all WMUs where a bow hunter, currently is required to enter a draw system to hunt antlered mule deer; DEFEATED with only 14.2% in favour (19/~115) WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta introduce a 6-point general elk season to replace the current 3-point regulation in WMUs , 400 and 402. Remaining as NON-DRAW zones; DEFEATED with only 17.9% in favour (24/~110) WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta introduce a General Elk Either Sex season for all WMU s surrounding CFB Suffield; CARRIED with 59.1% in favour (68/47) WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta change the rules related to all Landowner Special Tags such that they be restricted to Antlerless Only for any given species; CARRIED with 72.4% in favour (89/34) ENVIRONMENTAL RESOLUTION NUMBER E BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop and adopt a policy that confirms no peatland drainage will be permitted in Alberta unless adequate compensation (wetland policy) replaces these wetlands; CARRIED with no opposition ENVIRONMENTAL RESOLUTION NUMBER E BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request the Government of Alberta develop and adopt a policy that requires sedimentation incidents in public watercourses, lakes and wetlands, be reported publicly to ensure government transparency; CARRIED with no opposition AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

31 ENVIRONMENTAL RESOLUTION NUMBER E BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta increase the monitoring and enforcement effort on sedimentation incidents that affect public watercourses, lakes and wetlands; CARRIED with no opposition Upon completion of the resolutions, the following motion was brought to the floor: Moved by Rod Dyck / Seconded by Deb Clarke THAT the leadership grant be increased from $1,500 to $2,000 per zone effective January 1, 2018; CARRIED b) Recommendations There were no recommendations submitted. c) Announcement of Date, Time and Place of 2016 Conference It was announced that the 2018 Conference will be on February 22 to 24. A host and location have not yet been determined. d) Membership Draw Membership draws were held and the following winners were announced: Zone 1 Jason Block Zone 2 Matt Zuzula Zone 3 Beth Skyes Zone 4 Joe Prociuk Zone 5 Jamie Lowes Zone 6 Darlene McLeod 2017 Minutes e) Other Todd Zimmerling, President and CEO of the Alberta Conservation Association was welcomed to the podium and provided an overview of a few projects that ACA has been involved in over the past year. Heath Dreger of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation was welcomed to the podium. Mr. Dreger brought greetings on behalf of his members and thanked everyone for the opportunity to participate. AFGA was commended for the excellent involvement with the youth participation in the resolutions process. Rick Bates, Canadian Wildlife Federation was welcomed to the podium and commended AFGA on the number of programs and services offered through Alberta. Members were reminded that Alberta will be hosting the 2017 Wildlife Summit in Kananaskis from November 29 to 31, Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 4:50 p.m AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 29

32 ALBERTA FISH & GAME ASSOCIATION BUDGET AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

33 GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 31

34 ALBERTA FISH & GAME ASSOCIATION RESOLUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 2018 EXTRAORDINARY RESOLUTIONS EX-1 Election Prerequisite Zone 4 Zone 4 EX-2 Commercial Fishing Policy AFGA AFGA Executive GENERAL RESOLUTIONS G-1 Damaged Road Signs Zone 3 Red Deer Fish & Game G-2 Check-Off Zone 5 Zone 5 G-3 Heightened Awareness of AFGA Zone 1 Medicine Hat Fish & Game G-4 Private Land Registry Zone 1 Medicine Hat Fish & Game G-5 Double Crested Cor orant Control Zone 5 Zone 5 G-6 Use of Noise Suppressors Zone 2 Calgary Fish & Game G-7 Hunter Harvest Data Zone 1 Medicine Hat Fish & Game G-8 Wait Period Zone 2 Calgary Fish & Game FISHERIES RESOLUTIONS F-1 Stocking of Multiple Species of Trout Zone 4 Edmonton Trout Fishing F-2 Underutilized Fish Resource Zone 5 Zone 5 F-3 Private Fish Farms Zone 5 Zone 5 F-4 Increase Fish Harvesting Opportunities for Specific Lakes Zone 5 Zone 5 F-5 Yellow Perch Introduction into Private Lakes and Dugouts Zone 5 Zone 5 F-6 Deep Pool Fish Habitat Enhancement Zone 5 Zone 5 F-7 Wabamun Lake Fish Harvest Regulations Zone 5 Zone 5 F-8 Fish Management Website Surveys Zone 5 Zone 5 F-9 Fish Habitat Protection and Development Priorities Zone 5 Zone 5 F-10 Lake Trout Angling Regulations in Cold Lake Zone 5 Zone 5 F-11 Spearfishing Zone 5 Athabasca Fish & Game F-12 Walleye Angling Regulations in Lac Bellevue Zone 5 Zone 5 F-13 Walleye Tagging Zone 3 Camrose & District AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

35 ALBERTA FISH & GAME ASSOCIATION RESOLUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 2018 WILDLIFE RESOLUTIONS W-1 Outfitter / Guide Allocation Policy Guidelines AFGA AFGA Executive W-2 Separate Draw Codes AFGA AFGA Executive W-3 Limited Entry Harvest Draws AFGA AFGA Executive W-4 Game Harvest Surveys AFGA AFGA Executive W-5 Land Owner Special Licenses Zone 1 Medicine Hat Fish & Game W-6 Extended Elk Season Zone 1 Medicine Hat Fish & Game W-7 Black Bear Baiting Zone 5 St. Paul Fish & Game W-8 Crossbows Zone 5 St. Paul Fish & Game W-9 Mandatory Head Submission Zone 2 Calgary Fish & Game W-10 Tracking Dogs Zone 2 Calgary Fish & Game W-11 Pheasant, Grouse and Partridge Season Zone 2 Calgary Fish & Game W-12 Pheasant Hunting Extended Season Limitation Zone 2 Calgary Fish & Game W-13 Black Bear Harvest Regulations Zone 2 Sarcee Fish & Game W-14 Federal Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations Zone 3 Red Deer Fish & Game W-15 Sharptail Grouse Zone 5 Athabasca Fish & Game W-16 Big Game Registration System Zone 4 Whitecourt Fish & Game ENVIRONMENT RESOLUTIONS E-1 Restoration of Disturbed Land Zone 1 Medicine Hat Fish & Game E-2 Invasive Aquatic Species on Boats Entering AB Zone 5 Zone AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 33

36 EXTRAORDINARY SOLUTIONS 2018 EXTRAORDINARY RESOLUTION NUMBER EX SUBMITTED BY ZONE 4 DRAFTED BY ZONE 4 EXECUTIVE ELECTION PREREQUISITE BE IT RESOLVED THAT every officer outlined in Article 4.1 of the Alberta Fish and Game Association s existing bylaws must be an active, card carrying member of an affiliated Alberta Fish and Game club. To seek election at the annual Alberta Fish and Game Association Annual General Meeting this prerequisite must be followed. This addition would be added to the bylaws under Section 4 Officers (Election and Terms) and would be an addition, article 4.17 BRIEF: This addition would exclude life members, or the finance chair whose duties are outlined in articles 4.6 and 4.8 in Section 4. Passed: Defeated: Amended: EXTRAORDINARY RESOLUTION NUMBER EX SUBMITTED BY AFGA EXECUTIVE DRAFTED BY AFGA EXECUTIVE COMMERCIAL FISHING POLICY BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association Policy Statement 2.5 Commercial Fishing be rescinded and replaced with: 2.5 Selective Harvest of Fish The Alberta Fish and Game Association recognizes that fish are an important source of food for mankind. The harvest of fish must be done in ways that allows for the successful live release of nontarget fish species; target fish species that fall within protected size ranges or other overlying restrictions; and incidental species such as amphibians, birds and mammals. In addition, monitoring and research activities related to fish populations should employ strategies and techniques that allow for the live release of fish rather than current lethal sampling protocols. Passed: Defeated: Amended: AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

37 GENERAL RESOLUTIONS 2018 GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G SUBMITTED BY ZONE 3 DRAFTED BY RED DEER FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION DAMAGED ROAD SIGNS BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that a study be done to determine the cost incurred annually to replace these shot signs by the Municipalities. This study would then be used by the government to determine if an extra fee on the firearms PAL card could be used to cover the cost associated with this negative activity by unethical firearm owners. This would do much to remove the negative attitude when ethical hunters ask permission for hunting access. BRIEF: Whereas all Alberta municipalities have traffic, safety and other signage on country maintained roads that are damaged by unethical firearm operators, and every single day these signs are in full view of the ratepayers of those municipalities and reflect and portray a negative image of firearm owners and hunters. Passed: Defeated: Amended: GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ZONE 5 CHECK-OFF BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta establish an annual check-off of $1.00 from existing fees, on each wildlife certificate and angling license, payable to the Alberta Fish and Game Association. BRIEF: The AFGA believes that our organization, established in 1908, is unique in representing a large number of both hunters and anglers throughout the Province. With over 80 clubs and 6 zones spread across Alberta the AFGA truly represents grassroots citizens throughout the province. The provincial, zone, and club executives and AFGA members represent the concerns and interests of these Albertans in numerous government, industry, and varied agency task groups, committees, and requests. The AFGA provides this unique service for all Albertans. AFGA manages large numbers of lands that have been acquired for fish and wildlife conservation and does conduct some habitat programs and projects. Additionally, our role of advocacy is of utmost importance to all Albertans in securing these natural resources in the future. We believe our organization is unique in Alberta in delivering such a necessary role for Albertans. With 25,000 members across all parts of Alberta, we represent both fish and wildlife interests and thus are unique. Additionally, as Alberta s representative to the Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF), the AFGA serves the Province in national issues and interests associated with hunting, angling and conservation. These are unique contributions to the longterm natural resource conservation interests of Albertans. AFGA believe that there are numerous precedents for establishing such a financial plan and our proposal describes some of those other check-off agreements or grants. Organizations such as the Alberta Professional Outfitters Association, the previous Commercial Fisherman s Association and the Alberta Trapper s Association receive annual funds from either license fees or grants. We believe our Association should also receive such consideration. AFGA has proposed a $1.00 contribution to the AFGA from each wildlife certificate and each angling license on an annual basis. Such a fee could certainly be taken from the existing fees and no increases to license fees would be required. Passed: Defeated: Amended: 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 35

38 GENERAL RESOLUTIONS 2018 GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G SUBMITTED BY ZONE 1 DRAFTED BY MEDICINE HAT FISH AND GAME HEIGHTENED AWARENESS OF AFGA BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that Alberta Environment and Parks provide a check box on the draw application form, WIN application and other points of direct contact with the hunting and fishing population where they may indicate willingness to be contacted by or receive information about the Alberta Fish and Game Association or other approved organizations. BRIEF: The proportion of citizens that hunt and fish in the province of Alberta is quite small. This small group is responsible for a large amount of funding for the management of wildlife in the province through license purchases. There is no effective way for stakeholder organizations to identify the hunting and fishing population in order to make them aware of issues and opportunities to express their wishes and so to improve representation of this group. Increasing the awareness of the hunting and fishing public regarding the activities of these stakeholder groups will encourage membership and bring better awareness and more participation resulting in increased funding for AEP programs. Voluntary agreement on a draw application or other point of contact would then allow AEP to provide contact information to a selected organization. Passed: Defeated: Amended: GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G SUBMITTED BY ZONE 1 DRAFTED BY MEDICINE HAT FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION PRIVATE LANDS REGISTRY BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association requests the Alberta Conservation Association (ACA) and relevant departments of the provincial government to develop and operate a website to coordinate access to private land by interested hunters, trappers, fishers etc. BRIEF: There is no effective way for hunters to identify and contact landowners, who would allow access to private land for hunting etc., for permission of access. Recent comments in the press and presented at the Rural Municipalities Association annual meeting by the M.D. of Greenview No. 16 and Mountain View County indicated that severe impacts on agricultural operations were occurring in various areas of the province as a result of elk predation. It was also reported that the success of hunters holding licenses to hunt elk was in the range of 20%. A significant obstacle to hunter success is the availability of landowner contact information for the purpose of obtaining permission to access potential hunting areas on private land. This resolution envisages a system very similar to the process for Recreational Access to Agricultural Lease lands. A similar solution has been developed for several areas in the USA. Land owners could indicate hunting opportunities and relevant contact information. Hunters could get contact information for landowners without the arduous task of searching county maps and struggling through often outdated contact information based on county landowner registry and telephone directories. Initial responses from The ACA and the counties of Greenview and Mountain View have been positive. Some initial action has been initiated by ACA however continued development and support by AFGA, AEP and ACA are required for full implementation of this process. Passed: Defeated: Amended: AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

39 GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ZONE 5 DOUBLE CRESTED CORMORANT CONTROL GENERAL RESOLUTIONS 2018 BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop a control program that would reduce the number of Double Crested Cormorants. BRIEF: Double Crested Cormorants have a major impact on fish availability in many Alberta lakes. The large number of cormorants reduce the amount of fish available to anglers as they consume up to two pounds of fish daily. Cormorant numbers are significant on many Alberta lakes and could be reduced. A 10-year cormorant control program in Lac La Biche reduced the population from over 16,000 to 2,500. Similar programs should be developed in other areas. As well Wildlife Damage Permits could be issued to reduce the cormorant numbers. Cormorant control efforts are occurring in other provinces and northern states and in so doing allowing more fish for human consumers. Passed: Defeated: Amended: GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G SUBMITTED BY ZONE 2 DRAFTED BY CALGARY FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION USE OF NOISE SUPPRESSORS BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association requests that the Government of Alberta allow the use of noise suppressors; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association requests that the Federal Government removes restrictions on Firearms Act prohibiting suppressors. BRIEF: Suppressors are devices which help reduce the noise of gunfire to hearing safe levels when attached to the end of a firearm s barrel. They have been proven to help mitigate the risk of hearing loss and noise pollution which is beneficial to both firearm users and the surrounding community. Using suppressors can make shooting firearms safer, more enjoyable and help make shooting ranges more neighborly. It is noted that any exposure to noise of more than 140 db causes immediate and irreparable hearing loss Passed: Defeated: Amended: 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 37

40 GENERAL RESOLUTIONS 2018 GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G SUBMITTED BY ZONE 1 DRAFTED BY MEDICINE HAT FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION HUNTER HARVEST DATA BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that Alberta Environment and Parks modify the presentation of the Hunter Harvest data to include the estimated hunter success for each hunt rather that for each WMU as is now provided. BRIEF: This data is collected according to a survey which can or does provide the draw code where defining where and when the harvest takes place. In some cases, there are 3 draw codes defining separate hunting periods within a single WMU for a single species. The historical harvest success in the various time periods is useful information in choosing a draw code when completing an application and will assist an applicant to make a draw choice. Passed: Defeated: Amended: GENERAL RESOLUTION NUMBER G SUBMITTED BY ZONE 2 DRAFTED BY CALGARY FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION WAIT PERIOD BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association requests that the Government of Alberta create a waiting period for new residents of Alberta before they are able to apply for their hunting license and tags. BRIEF: There is currently no waiting period for new residents of Alberta, as there are in other provinces, to apply for hunting licenses and tags. Unlike other provinces, Alberta currently does not have a waiting period for new residents seeking a license. Examples of provincial waiting periods are given as follows: In order to obtain an Alberta Health Care card, one must reside in Alberta for a minimum of 183 days within a 12-month period. In order to qualify for a license in the province of British Columbia, individuals who are permanent residents or citizens of Canada must have maintained a principle residence within the province for a minimum of 6 calendar months within the 12 months immediately preceding the license application. To hunt in Saskatchewan, one must be a Canadian resident whose principal residence is in Saskatchewan, who has been living in the province for three months prior to applying for a license and possesses a valid Saskatchewan Health Services Card. In order to qualify for a license in the province of Ontario, individuals who are permanent residents or citizens of Canada must have maintained a principle residence within the province for a minimum of 6 calendar months within the 12 months immediately preceding the license application. Passed: Defeated: Amended: AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

41 FISHERIES RESOLUTIONS 2018 FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F SUBMITTED BY ZONE 4 DRAFTED BY EDMONTON TROUT FISHING CLUB STOCKING OF MULTIPLE SPECIES OF TROUT BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that Alberta Environment and Parks Department consider stocking of multiple species of trout in more pothole lakes that are now just stocked with one species. (Usually just rainbows) BRIEF: Area lakes around Edmonton and other urban areas that have been stocked with more than one species have shown great success. Muir Lake west of Edmonton is one example. With the future on some trout streams being shut down in the near future, it would be a good exercise in enhancing some fisheries to stock them with multiple species of trout. At one time, Spring Lake (Stony Plain) was considered for Tiger or Brown Trout. Perhaps now would be an excellent time to reconsider this stocking idea for more pothole lakes in the province now that some areas of trout fishing might become closed to angling activities. Passed: Defeated: Amended: FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ZONE 5 UNDERUTILIZED FISH RESOURCE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop a plan endorsed by the public that increases the consumptive and/or recreational use of Alberta s underutilized fish resources. BRIEF: Some of Alberta s fish resources are currently underutilized and with reduced or changing economic conditions in Alberta, diversification of the employment opportunities is needed to keep Alberta children working at home. There are a number of waters and fish species that are currently not being used as food items. Developing a plan that protects existing users and especially the health of the fish resource could provide economic diversity and also increase the value and importance of fish resources and fish habitat to all Albertans. By increasing the value and use of fish resources, it is expected that the protection of fish habitat will become more important to government and the general public. Passed: Defeated: Amended: 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 39

42 FISHERIES RESOLUTIONS 2018 FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ZONE 5 PRIVATE FISH FARMS BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop a plan endorsed by the public that increases the availability of tiger trout and splake to the list of fish species permitted for aquaculture on private fish farms. BRIEF: Some fish species such a tiger trout and splake are available from fish hatcheries and such species could be added to the list of fish species that could be stocked and utilized in private fish farms at no risk to native fish stocks. By increasing the production of special species in private fish farms for food or recreation would potentially reduce the pressure on fish stocks in public waters but also increase the interest in fish and fish habitat. Increased fishing opportunities in any available waters in Alberta, is considered a plus. By increasing the value and use of fish resources, it is expected that the protection of fish habitat will become more important to government and the general public. Passed: Defeated: Amended: AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

43 FISHERIES RESOLUTIONS 2018 FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ZONE 5 INCREASE FISH HARVESTING OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPECIFIC LAKES BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta revise angling regulations to allow for the harvest of walleye and northern pike in underutilized Alberta waters including 40 to 50 lakes in NE Alberta that have had zero walleye catch and keep limits for over 20 years. BRIEF: Alberta anglers are generally not certified professional biologists; however, they collectively conduct a census of fish stocks through angling, through fish cameras and through site specific frequent visits to specific lakes. Further, Alberta anglers are aware of the regulations that restrict harvest with zero catch limits, size restrictions, and likely low harvest on several specific lakes. Meetings of large numbers of stakeholders including MLA s, Mayors, Reeves and various community groups and individual people have expressed the need for change in the current angling regulations that would allow for consumptive use but would allow for sustained and healthy fish stocks. With insufficient numbers of government biologists, numerous lakes will never be monitored effectively in a reasonable time and in so doing restrictions will never be adjusted to allow for a fish harvest. Underutilized fish stocks will remain. With the elimination of commercial fishing and the continued restrictions on anglers and the inability for government biologists to monitor and assess all the lakes and the fish populations, there is a need to develop angling regulations that will lead to safe harvests. Several options should be considered to establish simplified fish harvests in all Alberta lakes. Several methods should be considered including limiting numbers of fish kept on daily basis, catch seasons restricted to a number of days, catch and keep days limited by groups of lakes and numerous other methods that could simplify the regulations and still allow a safe and reasonable sustained harvest of perch, pike and walleye. Some of Alberta s fish resources are currently underutilized and with reduced or changing economic conditions in Alberta, diversification of the employment opportunities is needed to keep Albertans working at home. There are a number of waters and fish species that are currently not being used as food items. Developing a plan that protects existing users and especially the health of the fish resources could provide economic diversity and also increase the value and importance of fish resources and fish habitat to all Albertans. By increasing the value and use of fish resources, it is expected that the protection of fish habitat will become more important to government and the general public. Numerous lakes have been identified and include but not limited to the following: Lac La Biche, Heart Lake, Kehiwin Lake, Winefred Lake, Wabamun Lake, Lac Ste Anne, Lac Bellevue, Wolf Lake, Calling Lake, Whitefish Lake, Goodfish Lake, Seibert Lake, Lac Bellevue, Bangs Lake, Barnes Lake, Gull Lake, Ethel Lake, May Lake, Bourque Lake, Gregoire Lake, Ironwood Lake, Hilda Lake, Marie Lake, Touchwood Lake, etc. Passed: Defeated: Amended: 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 41

44 FISHERIES RESOLUTIONS 2018 FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ZONE 5 YELLOW PERCH INTRODUCTION INTO PRIVATE LAKES AND DUGOUTS BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta amend Alberta Fishery Regulations to permit the stocking of yellow perch, obtained from private fish farms or from approved government locations by permit, into the waters totally enclosed within private lands with no connection to natural waterways. BRIEF: The change in this legislation would allow for self-sustaining yellow perch populations on private ponds and in so doing would improve provincial angling opportunities and reduce the angling pressure on public waters. Yellow perch are suited for small ponds and are more tolerant of low dissolved oxygen when compared to salmonids. The source of the yellow perch will require specific regulations that allow specific locations to be acceptable sources of yellow perch. Provincial fish hatcheries were at one time considering the production of yellow perch for stocking, for sale to other jurisdictions, and possibly for sale to licensed fish farms. Passed: Defeated: Amended: FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ZONE 5 DEEP POOL FISH HABITAT ENHANCEMENT WITH ROAD CONSTRUCTION BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta promote and require deep pool fish habitat be developed in fish-bearing watercourses in conjunction with watercourse crossings and road development. BRIEF: The development of roads that cross fish-bearing watercourses has the potential for harming fish and fish habitat. For minor costs and specified designs useful fish habitats can be created. The deep pool fish habitats that may occur on the downstream side of culverts are well-known by anglers to provide useful fish habitats. The hydraulic factors associated with road crossing could provide useful flows for the development and maintenance of such deep pool fish habitats. Care must be taken to ensure for fish passage at such crossings. Passed: Defeated: Amended: AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

45 FISHERIES RESOLUTIONS 2018 FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ZONE 5 WABAMUN LAKE FISH HARVEST REGULATIONS BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta change the fishing regulations to allow Alberta residents to harvest northern pike, lake whitefish, yellow perch, burbot and walleye in Wabamun Lake. BRIEF: Wabamun Lake allowable harvest of fish has been prohibited for all fish species since 2005 (oil and pentachlorophenol spill from railway accident). As well no commercial fishing allocation has occurred since Several catch and release anglers have indicated that numbers of lake whitefish, northern pike and yellow perch are present and could be harvested. Some anglers are reporting thin (i.e. poor condition) pike are now evident as are the newly introduced walleye. FWIN testing in 2007, 2010, and 2013 indicate that these fish populations appear to be similar to many Alberta lakes that currently have allowable catch limits for these fish species. Discussions on the fish populations have been occurring with Government of Alberta biologists. Reports are still unavailable on the website. The contaminant levels of the fish tissues have been examined by the Government of Alberta and only large-sized northern pike (great than 7 pounds) have a guideline on the number of servings per week. All other contaminants are no longer at risk as indicated by the Government of Alberta. Passed: Defeated: Amended: FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ZONE 5 FISH MANAGEMENT WEBSITE SURVEYS BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop stakeholder fisheries management surveys and a public communication plan that includes input from the various conservation organizations, public meetings and the public, including those that are not using computer communications. BRIEF: The recent use of the government websites to address fisheries management issues and concerns have caused concern from a large number of the users and interested public and Alberta Fish and Game members. Many of the people were simply not aware of the surveys and many people who tried to use the surveys were unable to submit their answers. As well, many persons who reviewed the survey questions indicated that the questions were misleading and leading/biased. Questions were forcing answers that the government wanted. A need for an effective communications plan without biased and misleading information is necessary. The resolutions presented by the AFGA (greater than 25,000 members across Alberta) should play a key role in the decision-making associated with fish and wildlife management in Alberta. Passed: Defeated: Amended: 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 43

46 FISHERIES RESOLUTIONS 2018 FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ZONE 5 FISH HABITAT PROTECTION AND DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop fisheries management objectives that place fish habitat protection and development, and supplemental fish stocking as priorities. BRIEF: Instead of the Government regularly closing and restricting fisheries in Alberta, more priority should be placed upon maintaining fish habitats, developing more fish habitats and increased supplemental stocking. Many Albertans seek more consumptive use as a way of ensuring that fish productivity is maintained of increased. Fisheries management efforts should be placed on extending the resource use opportunities rather than increasing regulatory restrictions on use. Passed: Defeated: Amended: FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ZONE 5 LAKE TROUT ANGLING REGULATIONS IN COLD LAKE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta revise the Sportfishing Regulations for Cold Lake to provide the harvest of one lake trout in a slot size that sustains the lake trout population and may also reduce the catch and release mortality. BRIEF: The current angling regulations allow in possession one Lake Trout greater than 75 cm in total length. Numerous anglers are currently catching large numbers of Lake Trout with almost zero fish greater than 75 cm in total length. The angling is occurring in relatively deep waters and anglers are catching and releasing large numbers of trout. In so doing, some anglers claim considerable mortalities are occurring as anglers try to catch a fish greater than 75cm in total length. Many anglers indicate that most anglers would be satisfied to catch a single Lake Trout and then would stop angling rather than continuing to catch and release with a higher risk to increased mortality and wasting fish. Some anglers claim that large numbers of dead trout are observed at ice out. By allowing a smaller slot-size it is expected that less fish will be caught trying to catch a size that is not present. Passed: Defeated: Amended: AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

47 FISHERIES RESOLUTIONS 2018 FISHERIES RESOLUTION NUMBER F SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ATHABASCA FISH AND GAME ASOCIATION SPEARFISHING BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that Alberta Environment and Parks allow spearfishing/bow fishing of northern pike in water bodies where there are no size limit restrictions on northern pike. BRIEF: For many years there has been limited opportunity for spearfishing and bow fishing in Alberta. Limitations on this type of fishing were initiated due to size limit restrictions being put in place on many species of fish including the northern pike. Allowing spearfishing/bow fishing of northern pike in water bodies where there are no size limit restrictions on Northern Pike will create additional recreational fishing opportunities via different fishing techniques. Passed: Defeated: Amended: FISHERIES RESOLUTION F SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ZONE 5 WALLEYE ANGLING REGULATIONS IN LAC BELLEVUE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta revise the Sportfishing Regulations for Lac Bellevue to provide the harvest of one walleye in a slot size that sustains the walleye population and also may reduce the catch and release mortality. BRIEF: The current angling regulations allow for a zero catch and keep limit except for a special walleye draw of tags. In 2017, 2500 Class B (43-50 cm total length) walleye tags were assigned. Many anglers were currently catching large numbers of walleye with almost zero Class B walleye between cm in total length. The majority of the walleye were just under 43 cm. Walleye greater than 50 cm appeared to be in very poor condition with large heads and small bodies. The Government of Alberta walleye population density information from 2017 was at a Catch per Unit (CUE) level of 74.3 which was the highest recorded in Alberta or any other lake being sampled by these methods (FWIN). Many anglers indicate that most anglers would be satisfied to catch a single walleye and then would stop angling rather than continuing to catch and release with a higher risk to increased mortality and wasting fish. By allowing a smaller slot-size it is expected that less fish will be caught trying to catch a size that is not present. Passed: Defeated: Amended:

48 FISHERIES RESOLUTIONS 2018 FISHERIES RESOLUTION F SUBMITTED BY ZONE 3 DRAFTED BY CAMROSE AND DISTRICT FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION WALLEYE TAGGING BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta introduce a new tagging system for Walleye that is user friendly and fool proof. A suggestion would be to go to a numbered plastic ty wrap or similar locking device to be attached through the mouth and gill. The number on the tag is to be transferred to the licence holder. BRIEF: Whereas the present system for tagging walleye is very inadequate and has resulted in many charges for improperly or untagged fish and is very unpopular with fisher men and women. Passed: Defeated: Amended: AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

49 WILDLIFE RESOLUTIONS 2018 WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY AFGA EXECUTIVE DRAFTED BY AFGA EXECUTIVE OUTFITTER / GUIDE ALLOCATION POLICY GUIDELINES BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association recommends to Alberta Environment and Parks that when the next outfitter/guide allocation policy is finalized the following guidelines are used: The previous policy stated that allocations shall not exceed 10% of the harvest goal, which was only an absolute ceiling. That got turned around in many cases to be interpreted as the outfitters get 10%. That clause should be changed to read: Outfitter/guide allocations shall never exceed 10% of the harvest goal for any species in any WMU. This to include bighorn sheep in WMUs for any species that resident tags are on a draw, that number be reduced to never exceed 5%. In WMUs for any species that resident wait times reach 5 years, that number be reduced to never exceeding 3%. In WMUs for any species that resident wait times reach 10 years, outfitter allocation cease to exist. In addition, this same condition applies for Antelope but also have a ceiling of 55 permits, although as this turns into a once in a lifetime draw for residents it is possible the allocations should start to be phased out. In addition, there shall be no allocations for moose or elk in 100 and 200 series WMUs. In addition, there shall be no allocations for special hunts such as Camp Wainwright, Suffield, bison, goats, etc. Passed: Defeated: Amended: 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 47

50 WILDLIFE RESOLUTIONS 2018 WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY AFGA EXECUTIVE DRAFTED BY AFGA EXECUTIVE SEPARATE DRAW CODES BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association recommends to Alberta Environment and Parks that if separate draw codes are to be used for archery and general seasons in areas where all hunting is on a draw, then the proportion of tags available in each draw code be directly proportionate to the number of applicants in each draw choice. BRIEF: Management should be by opportunity so the wait times and hunting opportunity for all Alberta residents should be equal, regardless of their choice of hunting style or season. Example, once AEP has the harvest goal set, and the expected success rate set, then the number of available tags can be determined. If we wanted 100 tags available in a particular WMU which had separate archery and general draw codes, the number of each be determined from the number of applicants in each. If 100 hunters applied in the archery season and 900 applied in the general season, then the tags drawn would be 10 in the archery season and 90 in the general season. This would give the same percentage chance of being drawn and the same wait times for all applicants. At the 2017 Big Game Awards, almost half the awards were Archery kills, including both mule deer categories, moose, wolf and black bear. Resolution stating the above and/or for keeping a common draw code and overwhelmingly carried at each of the past 4 AFGA Conferences. Resolutions asking for different draw codes have also been strongly defeated during this same period. Resolutions to include Crossbows in Archery seasons have also been carried strongly over the past 7 conferences. Resolutions have also carried to have all hunting on a draw for any species in any area if any hunting is to be on a draw. Passed: Defeated: Amended: AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

51 WILDLIFE RESOLUTIONS 2018 WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY AFGA EXECUTIVE DRAFTED BY AFGA EXECUTIVE LIMITED ENTRY HARVEST DRAWS BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association recommends to Alberta Environment and Parks to continue to allow Non-Resident Canadians to enter the Limited Entry Harvest Draws under current conditions. BRIEF: There are other options which show a greater benefit than removing Non-Resident Canadians, which represent less than 1% of the resident opportunities. Passed: Defeated: Amended: WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY AFGA EXECUTIVE DRAFTED BY AFGA EXECUTIVE GAME HARVEST SURVEYS BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that Alberta Environment and Parks make mandatory completion of all Game Harvest surveys. BRIEF: Proper scientific management of our game animals, birds, and fish require this information to make proper and sound management practices. Passed: Defeated: _ Amended: 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 49

52 WILDLIFE RESOLUTIONS 2018 WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY ZONE 1 DRAFTED BY MEDICINE HAT FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION LAND OWNER SPECIAL LICENSES BE IT RESOLVED that Alberta Fish and Game Association put forward a request to the Government of Alberta that all land owner special licenses be restricted to antlerless (females) only for any given species in order to allow consistent treatment with all species while providing better control of problematic herd numbers and helping to open land access for respectful hunters. BRIEF: In 1991, the landowner mule deer special license was created for landowners that were denied on their first-choice draw application in a specific wildlife management area (WMU). It was initially designed to benefit the landowner by reducing depredation of feed stocks and over population of ungulate species. The policy and procedures allow any given landowner with 160 acres or more of deeded land the chance of obtaining a mule buck license every year. The property owner simply must show proof of title or a property tax notice to support the ownership requirement. Currently in Alberta we have observed many landowners who create companies for income tax benefits. This allows different family members who are shareholders (father, mother, grandpa, grandma, son, daughter etc.) to apply to obtain multiple special landowner mule deer tags within a WMU. On paper the landowner special license is to be used for land designated on the license, but far more than not is used for all the land the landowner has, including lease land, which is common in the southern part of the province. Furthermore, landowners with landowner special licenses have, in some cases, been known to abuse the licenses by hunting off their own land base and with the lack of officer presence goes undetected for the most part. The harvest of antlerless animals would be a more common-sense practice to the herd management approach as designed in the elk special license landowner draw. Lastly, by giving the landowner antlered mule deer special licenses each year, it restricts access as opposed to more open access as landowners, in some cases, are denying permission to access in order to harvest trophy class mule deer themselves. Passed: Defeated: Amended: AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

53 WILDLIFE RESOLUTIONS 2018 WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY ZONE 1 DRAFTED BY MEDICINE HAT FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION EXTENDED ELK SEASON BE IT RESOLVED THAT Alberta Fish and Game Association put forward a request to the Government of Alberta that an extended season either sex elk license for all WMUs surrounding the military training base be opened in order to reduce, or alleviate, nearby landowner concerns with crop and livestock feed depredation and fencing problems while at the same time, helping to control the resident elk population at an established level as developed in a proper herd management plan for the Suffield military base. BRIEF: For some time now, the Suffield elk herd population growth has been a big problem for adjacent landholders who have been subjected to a constant battery of damage by elk to crops, feed stacks, fences, and equipment. More and more elk are leaving the base where they are finding better feed and water supplies. For the last ten years, seasons outside the base have been opened for limited numbers of bulls and cows on a draw basis. Land owners are still frustrated as bull hunters come out dreaming of taking huge bulls and are reluctant or refuse to harvest any of the many immature bulls that are encountered. On top of this the hunts taking place within the base are forcing more elk to leave the base to avoid the extreme pressure within. Opening a general season either sex hunt for WMUs surrounding the base running from September 1 to January 31 would serve to help keep the herd within the confines of the base where the herd size can be better controlled with hunts therein. Benefits derived from this would be: Land owner s damage from elk herd would be minimized. Friction arising between Native and non-native hunting groups would be reduced as everyone would have the same opportunity to participate. Better measurement of herd size and ability to control it with on the base hunts as determined in an established Herd Management Plan. Passed: Defeated: Amended: 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 51

54 WILDLIFE RESOLUTIONS 2018 WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ST PAUL FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION BLACK BEAR BAITING BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta permit the baiting of black bears in WMUs 230, 232, 234, 236, 238, 240, 252, 254, 256, 258, and 260 where recent reported sightings of grizzly bears have not been noted. BRIEF: In responding to the 2013 resolution W that the AFGA sent to SRD, Shannon Flint, Assistant Deputy Minister at the time, noted that SRD wants to avoid conflicts between grizzly bears and humans through the baiting of black bears. Yet Alberta Fish and Wildlife has several publications including the SRD s Alberta Grizzly Bear Recovery Plan in which they clearly indicate in print and on maps that when the recovery plan was completed they expect the grizzly bear range to be west and mostly north of Edmonton occupying mountain ranges and the foothills. Furthermore, if you overlay the maps of Alberta s WMUs on top of that of the expected grizzly bear range at the end of the recovery period, and the map of those WMUs within the grizzly bear range that have permitted the baiting of black bears for several years, you will find that there are 21 WMUs that in whole or in part where the baiting of black bears in permitted, one will find it very difficult to understand the reasoning behind SRD s response and the currant Alberta Fish and Wildlife s policy on the matter. Also, for the past few years, the number of black bears reported by landowners in the WMUs indicated has increased dramatically. Many landowners report that these black bears show little or no fear of their farm equipment and has been reported as one of the reasons for high calf mortality during and following the calving season. This resolution was submitted and approved at the 86th conference in Lethbridge. Passed: Defeated: Amended: WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ST PAUL FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION CROSSBOWS BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta permit the use of cross bows during the regular archery seasons. BRIEF: When I inquired at the AFGA Conference in 2014 in Fort McMurray as to why crossbows were not allowed during the regular archery season, the response given me was that in an internet survey conducted following the past couple of hunting seasons, a majority of Alberta s hunters rejected the use of crossbows during the archery season. The AFGA has since agreed that this survey was not conducted in a proper manner. I submit that most of the hunters responding to the survey were rifle hunters and naturally, the response was negative. It s all in who you ask and how you ask in these surveys. Weather the game is taken using a rifle, bow and arrow or crossbow and bolt, it is still only one animal. The AFGA is all about not limiting hunting or fishing. This resolution was submitted and approved at the 86th conference in Lethbridge. Passed: Defeated: Amended: AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

55 WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY ZONE 2 DRAFTED BY CALGARY FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION MANDATORY HEAD SUBMISSION BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association requests that the Government of Alberta introduce a policy for mandatory head submission for any ungulate harvested in a CWD zone by all harvesters. BRIEF: The mandatory submission of harvested ungulates would provide for accurate counts on harvested animals as well as allow for the continual monitoring of the ungulate s health within these zones. Passed: Defeated: Amended: WILDLIFE RESOLUTIONS 2018 WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY ZONE 2 DRAFTED BY CALGARY FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION TRACKING DOGS BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta amend legislation to allow hunters to use leashed dogs to track and recover big game in the field. BRIEF: Alberta government legislation currently prohibits the use of dogs in the field; however, the legislation is poorly worded and should be amended in order to allow a dog and/or tracking dogs to accompany hunters or recover downed game, in particular, on multi-day hunts. Dogs used in this manner are not intended to pursue game. The use of dogs will allow for more game to be recovered. We therefore, request a review and revision to existing legislation prohibiting the use of dogs to recover downed game. The recommendation above was passed at the 2017 AGM conference and was put forward to the provincial government by AFGA. We would like to follow up on the Alberta government s response (listed below) to this recommendation. During the consultation portion of the Regulation Amendment (Wildlife Act) in 2015, it was expressed quite strongly that the use of dogs while hunting big game was not supported. There was, however, more tolerance for the use of dogs while tracking wounded game. Overall, the use of dogs in the field to recover big game is a proposal requiring considerable support from the hunting public with training standards, regulation for leash requirements, handler requirements, and other elements to ensure public and wildlife safety. If there is enough public support on this issue on a provincial basis, however, we will revisit this proposal in the future. Passed: Defeated: Amended: 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 53

56 WILDLIFE RESOLUTIONS 2018 WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY ZONE 2 DRAFTED BY CALGARY FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION PHEASANT, GROUSE AND PARTRIDGE SEASON BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta shorten the pheasant, grouse and partridge seasons back to November 30th. BRIEF: Current seasons vary by region, with the majority running into the months of December and January. The extended bird hunting season places stress on bird populations and therefore have a negative impact on conservation efforts conducted throughout the province. Over harvesting and stress from the cold can cause high mortality and the extended hunting season also diminishes the effectiveness of bird release programs funded and managed by fish and game clubs like the Calgary Fish and Game Association. The extended season also creates greater stress on landowners. Passed: Defeated: Amended: WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY ZONE 2 DRAFTED BY CALGARY FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION PHEASANT HUNTING EXTENDED SEASON LIMITATION BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that if the Government of Alberta will not shorten the game bird season to end November 30th, that they limit the pheasant hunting extended season beyond November 30th to release sites only (after that date). BRIEF: The extended bird hunting season places stress on bird populations and therefore have a negative impact on conservation efforts conducted throughout the province. Over harvesting and stress from the cold can cause high mortality and the extended hunting season also diminishes the effectiveness of bird release programs funded and managed by fish and game clubs like the Calgary Fish and Game Association. The extended season also creates greater stress on landowners Passed: Defeated: Amended: AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

57 WILDLIFE RESOLUTIONS 2018 WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY ZONE 2 DRAFTED BY SARCEE FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION BLACK BEAR HARVEST REGULATIONS BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta change the current harvest regulations of Black Bears to enable the harvest of Black Bears for skin or meat or both. BRIEF: Currently the Government of Alberta mandates through regulations that only the skin of all black bears harvested must be salvaged by classifying it as a fur bearing animal. Many Albertans would like to harvest black bears for the meat and do not want or need a bear hide that they would be forced to salvage. A taxidermist s charge for tanning is cost prohibitive for hunters to simply tan a hide so that they can harvest and eat the meat. Taxidermists have also refused hides that have been offered to them from hunters that simply want the meat. Current regulations dictate as per below: 1. Allow the skin of any bear or cougar to be wasted, destroyed, spoiled or abandoned. See exception for salvaging skin - Access for Control of Livestock Predation. * It is not legally necessary to salvage pelts of fur bearing animals (includes coyote and wolf) or black bear taken in accordance with regulations authorizing the control of problem wildlife set out in this part This forces hunters to only salvage the hides and heads of Black Bears with the exception of problem wildlife animals harvested. What we are asking for is the option to hunt just for the meat. Passed: Defeated: Amended: WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY ZONE 3 DRAFTED BY RED DEER FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION FEDERAL MIGRATORY BIRD HUNTING REGULATIONS BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Alberta Government enter into discussion with the federal government to clarify the migratory bird hunting regulations with respect to using archery equipment to hunt waterfowl. BRIEF: The federal migratory regulations prohibit the use of crossbows for waterfowl hunting. The confusion comes from the archery community that uses long bows, recurves, and compound bows, as long as they purchase the bow hunting permit. There is no regulation of the arrow tip, or type of arrow that is legal. This forces a lot of bird hunter s frustration, trying to find out if it is okay to use bows and shoot at birds coming into decoys in fields. A clearer definition would help to understand what the regulation is saving. Passed: Defeated: Amended: 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 55

58 WILDLIFE RESOLUTIONS 2018 WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ATHABASCA FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION SHARPTAIL GROUSE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that Alberta Environment and Parks develop a sharp-tailed grouse recovery strategy to return sharp-tailed grouse numbers to a sustainable, harvestable level in WMUs where harvest has been prohibited and to maintain healthy populations in those where it is currently allowed. BRIEF: Sharp-tailed grouse numbers have deemed to have dropped to levels unable to support harvest of this species in many WMUs in Alberta. There needs to be a strategy developed to return these numbers to a sustainable, harvestable number and to maintain healthy populations throughout the province so that the sharp-tailed grouse do not join other species which have declined in numbers and remain closed to harvest in Alberta. Passed: Defeated: Amended: AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

59 WILDLIFE RESOLUTIONS 2018 WILDLIFE RESOLUTION NUMBER W SUBMITTED BY ZONE 4 DRAFTED BY WHITECOURT FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION BIG GAME REGISTRATION SYSTEM BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that Alberta s department of Environment and Parks implement a mandatory big game registration system for all big game. The registration system would apply to all licensed, status Indian and Métis hunters. BRIEF: A significant number of big game animals that are harvested each year by licensed, status Indian and Métis hunters are not accounted for. This results in wildlife biologists implementing big game management actions using estimates without the benefit of this catchable data. Currently some big game animals (i.e. cougar and trophy sheep) are subject to mandatory registration by all aforementioned hunting groups. This resolution would allow for an expansion of an already existing system. A user-friendly system whereby registrations could be completed would need to be developed (i.e. online, toll free telephone number) at Alberta Environment and Parks offices, at Band offices or at other locations or by other means deemed appropriate. Alberta Environment and Parks should further implement a system, whereby licensed hunters would not be able to participate in the draw system or purchase new big game licenses until required registration information had been completed for big game in any applicable previous years. Alberta Environment and Parks could further implement an educational initiative for licensed hunters, status Indians and Metis whereby the principles of the province s big game management plans and the benefits of a mandatory registration process would be explained. Applying big game mandatory registration requirements to status Indians or Metis is not an infringement on their hunting rights as the registration occurs after the hunting has occurred. Mandatory big game registration for all big game hunters would greatly assist in the development of big game management plans. Passed: Defeated: Amended: 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 57

60 WILDLIFE RESOLUTIONS 2018 ENVIRONMENT RESOLUTION NUMBER E SUBMITTED BY ZONE 1 DRAFTED BY MEDICINE HAT FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION RESTORATION OF DISTURBED LAND BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association requests that Alberta Environment and Parks implement a requirement that the granting of surface use or access permits on public land be offset with reclamation or reforestation requirements of an area 2 to 5 times the area impacted. BRIEF: Roads and linear disturbance which are the consequence of human activity represents a significant and increasing footprint on public land. An offsetting formula as a condition of development approval that leads to reclamation, restoration or reforestation of both ongoing and past habitat deficits is required. Passed: Defeated: Amended: ENVIRONMENT RESOLUTION NUMBER E SUBMITTED BY ZONE 5 DRAFTED BY ZONE 5 INVASIVE AQUATIC SPECIES ON BOATS ENTERING ALBERTA BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Fish and Game Association request that the Government of Alberta develop regulations that prohibit transportation of all boats from high risk invasive species waters being brought across Alberta borders. BRIEF: The large number of boats being brought into Alberta from waters that have unwanted invasive species (i.e. zebra mussels) pose a high risk that would likely lead to such harmful aquatic life inhabiting Alberta s waters. By prohibiting all boat entry, the risk would be minimized. Persons wanting to use boats in other jurisdictions would need to use local boats and leave their boats at home. Passed: Defeated: Amended: AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

61 PRESIDENT S REPORT Back to back years in Edmonton now, but before that we held AGM s in Calgary, Red Deer, Fort McMurray, and Lethbridge and we re going back to Calgary next year. Our AGM s have certainly covered the province lately. That goes to show, our organization covers Alberta in its entirety from top to bottom. Thanks to our Zone 4 for sponsoring this one and to Zone 2 for next year. I m really looking forward to this weekend and chatting with as many of you delegates as I can. I expect Zone 4 will put on a good show this weekend. This past year has been another very busy and active one for us, always lots on our plate and your entire executive has been involved in many aspects of our role as outdoor enthusiasts and stewards of the land. It s also been a frustrating year for me but maybe I expect things to change too fast. I had hoped to have great announcements and victories to send to you but I have to realize that progress is slow! We didn t have many great announcements or media releases but have been extremely busy internally. We ve spent a great deal of time this year trying to improve our communications within, along with working on membership submissions, office billing, club mail-outs and other office improvements. We re working on an improved membership incentive program and whatever else we can to benefit our members. Our new Provincial headquarters has also been very time consuming and I m sure you ll find out all about it this weekend. However we do have a new home and we can also make a fresh start on some new innovative plans to keep up with the times. Still not a lot of cooperation from our AE&P Ministry in this NDP Government. While we have sent much literature to the Minister, very little in the way of replies have been seen? However the Fish and Wildlife department from within have been quite willing to converse with us and I expect you ll see them here this weekend as well. We met several times with the Fish & Wildlife staff. Much great discussion occurs at these meetings and I thank Travis Ripley, Matt Besko and Dave Park and their staff for this. We continue to work close with them on the new Fish and Wildlife Policy which is in the works, as well as being very active on the AGPAC (Alberta Game Policy Advisory Council) and especially the subcommittee Allocation policy. You ll also hear more about this over the next couple days. We also met with them strictly to go over our resolutions and the entire resolution process. Your committee chairs have been over loaded and dealing with many issues all the time. Hopefully Chelsea, Jim, Elton, and Darryl will fill you in with their reports. Any new faces stepping forward would be welcome! Wayne, Brian, Ian are also always there to help. Our Provincial youth president, Miyah Clarke has also dome a fabulous job, both through communicating and having not only excellent, but also very important issues in her magazine reports. (I know both her parents so I think this stuff is in her blood) She s also ahead of me in Wild Turkeys so I have more work to do! The Past Presidents and Life Members continue to help and offer suggestions which I appreciate (most of the time!) Other members serve on various committees, giving their time for the cause and there is always room for more! I can t thank enough, the staff, executive, committee members and all others who step forward to help us achieve our goals. Our habitat programs and projects keep flying and our Wildlife Trust Fund has banner year after banner year. Other projects like the Antelope corridor work are also ongoing. Our summer camps, Awards night, Presence at outdoor shows and everything else continue to fly! 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 59

62 PRESIDENT s REPORT continued This past year I did represent us at the ACA (Alberta Conservation Association) Annual General Meeting, the Canadian Wildlife Federation Director s meeting and on the Federal side, we re still waiting on word from the Trudeau government to see where and if the HAAP (Hunter, Angler Advisory Board) is going but we have high hopes it will continue. I attended several meetings over the Elk Island Park hyper abundant ungulate issue and gave our opinion. I also spent 2 days on a tour with the Beaverhills Initiative group as they were awarded an International Biosphere designation which is a great honor. I helped out at both our Becoming an Outdoor Woman summer camps as well as worked Trade shows and pushed our MSL ticket sales. I attended the Narrow Lake Conservation Centre s AGM as well and this place continues to excel. I ve been pushing hard on our Wild Turkey management plan. but it remains stalled, as is many items such as Sandhill Crane and Mourning Dove seasons, Firearm restrictions on OHV s, Crossbows to name but a few. We re also involved with the Caribou Range plans and how it affects our other ungulates as well. CWD and Whirling Disease are also major concerns for everyone! I attended a few Zone meetings and we had Sr. Executive attend them all, and we stress communication and hearing from clubs and zones with any issues. We keep trying but we can t fix something if we don t know it s broke, so fill us in. Bottom line is that we all have to work together to achieve results and AFGA shines in this regard. The Six zones and 100 clubs all have great projects ongoing both in local and provincial scope. It s nice to have 25,000+ members that believe in this, so your membership continues to be so important (it should be double this). With increasing human populations and more and more industrial takeover in Alberta it s a must to stay on top of things. We still are quite lucky to live in Alberta and it does have a lot to offer. Our job is to keep it that way! Thank-you all for your support throughout the year. I was told several years ago (and heard several President s stressing) how busy they were etc. etc. and although I didn t believe them at the time, I do now. My hair is a little greyer but I do it for all of us and having your support is what keeps me going. So, have a great conference, make some new, and re-kindle some old friendships, get some new ideas and keep the big ship sailing! And as always tight lines and straight shooting Doug Butler AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

63 PAST PRESIDENT S REPORT As I reflect on the past year, it will be remembered as a year of changes as I have moved into the role of past president and have tried to find my way within the role. It has certainly not been as busy for me however I have tried to stay as informed and active in the business of AFGA as possible and continued to try to move the Association forward on the many initiatives and challenges that we have had. There have been continued successes in some areas and some new successes that have occurred. For me, and most noticeably is the acquisition of the new office building. This has been a long time coming and it is SO good to see that it has finally happened. This has been talked about through all my years on the executive and has occupied a significant amount of discussion both within the special meetings that were held as well as within the executive meetings over the last number of years. I am very excited about the new location and what it can offer our staff as well as the AFGA as a whole. I think that it is in a great location that is easy to get to and has ample parking, something that we never did have at the old location. There is a lot of history at the old location as the office has been there for many decades. I hope to see a lot of new history being made at the new location and I expect that it will serve the Association well over the next number of decades. There is good space at the new location and it does provide some room for expansion going forward. It also has a great storage area with a large overhead door in the back that makes the loading and unloading of material much more convenient for the staff. If any of you are in the Edmonton area over the next while be sure to take some time to visit the new building and become familiar with its location and operations. I also want to take this time to thank all the members of the executive of AFGA for all their dedication and hard work over the last year. There are so many hours put in by these folks on your behalf and so much of it goes unrecognized. Doug has done a great job in leading the group and I want to commend him for his efforts there. (Especially since it meant that I did not have to do that anymore!!) I also want to thank all the members and volunteers of the association that make it the great organization that it is. We do not get to hear of all the great work that is going on out there but we know that it is being done and we thank you for that. As far as the meetings and events that I have participated in over the last year I will leave the reports on that to the other members of the executive that have been at those same meetings and not duplicate them here. I do want to say that I love this Province and the diversity and opportunity that it provides us. The recreational opportunities are many, even though some are being curtailed, but overall there are so many natural places to go and enjoy. I do take the opportunity to visit many areas but still have some on my list to get to. I travel to many areas of the province to hunt with friends and family and this past year was no exception. I missed some opportunities due to time restraints however when I look back on the year I did get out in the field for many days, not only with people that I have known for a long time, but also with some new people that I always enjoy getting to know. I look forward to what this next year will bring for us and I look forward on continuing to be involved in the meetings and the business that is AFGA. As we begin this new chapter at our new location I hope and anticipate that it will reinvigorate the Association, the staff, the executive, and all its members. AFGA is a great organization and I am so proud of its history, it s current impact and influence, as well as the significant opportunities that are there for us in the future. May we continue to be strong and unified and have our influence felt in the future direction of the fish, wildlife, and the habitats that they depend on for now and the many generations to come. I wish you and your loved ones all the best in 2018! Wayne Lowry 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 61

64 EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT S REPORT Welcome to the 89th Annual AFGA Conference! The past year has been extremely busy with items ranging from the Minister s Special Licence to migratory bird licences to office relocation intertwined with a myriad of other things. Space is limited so I ll only touch on a few below. Provincial Service Awards The Association grants a number of awards for outstanding achievements in the areas of conservation, membership service and volunteer commitment. Any AFGA member can submit nominations in writing to the provincial office by the first of December to be eligible for the award presentations made at conference in February of the following year. The following deserving people were honoured for their efforts at the 2017 AFGA Annual Conference. Congratulations to all! Fulton Award - For most outstanding long term contribution to conservation and well-being of AFGA - Darryl Smith J.B. Cunningham Memorial Award - Highest membership number increase Sherwood Park Fish & Game Association with 484; Highest percentage increase Morinville Fish & Game Association with a 102% increase. Darwin Cronkhite Memorial Award - Awarded to the club that has done the best job with regard to bird rejuvenation, e.g. habitat, stocking, introduction of species, or disease research - Lethbridge Fish & Game Association Eileen Christensen Lady Conservationist of the Year Award - Awarded to the sports lady of the year who has contributed the most to conservation, and/or the Alberta Fish and Game Association - Robyn Butler G. E. Stevens Memorial Award - Awarded to the club or individual who has contributed the most to firearm safety. Criteria for selection may include the following: instructing in the program, coaching in the program, development of facilities and other programs with direct application to shooting sports - Scott Sweetman (Lethbridge Fish & Game) G. M. Spargo Memorial Award - Awarded to the club that has the best junior program for youth, resource education, and outdoor education or has given great support to youth groups in their area, e.g. Forest Wardens and other junior programs - Fort Saskatchewan Fish & Game Henry Lembicz Clean Air, Clean Land, Clean Water Award - Awarded to the club or individual who has done the most outstanding job toward pollution control or cleaning up of our environment - Duane Radford, Keith Rae Junior Conservation Award - Awarded to a junior citizen or a junior group for an outstanding effort in conservation - Lamont Fish & Game Youth Group Life Membership - Awarded by the Executive, such memberships to be restricted to members of the Association who, through long service to the Association or through other contributions to the aims and objects of the Association, merit in the opinion of the Association, special recognition for their services. Every Life Member of the Alberta Fish and Game Association is permitted to attend, participate in and vote as a delegate at large at any Annual Conference or Special General Meeting - Conrad Fennema AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

65 EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT S REPORT continued Lifetime Achievement Award - Presented to the member(s) of the Association who, through long service to the Associated Clubs and through other contributions to the aims and objectives of the Association at the Club level merit, in the opinion of the Association, special recognition for their lifetime service and achievement - Sheila Ferguson (Lethbridge Fish & Game) Outdoor Canada West Communication Award - Awarded to the club who uses the best method of informing their membership, e.g. newsletters, club handbooks, local newspapers, electronically, etc. - Scott Sweetman (Lethbridge Fish & Game) Rural Outdoor Education - Gerry Gibson Memorial Award - Awarded to the rural club or individual that has done an outstanding job teaching outdoor education programs in Alberta - Phil Faubion (Big Horns Club of Standard) Club Operations New Club Operation Manuals were produced in hardcopy and digital format and are available to all Clubs by contacting the office. While on the topic of Club Operations if your Club requires any assistance or training in any aspect of its day to day business please call the office to make arrangements. We ran several membership sessions at the last Conference and feedback suggests they were worthwhile. During the year I was able to attend Zones 1, 2, 4, and 5 meetings to get some idea as to individual Club needs when it comes to membership. Actions resulting thus far from said meetings are revision to the club roster and remittance forms for ease of handling, as well as sending a list of Clubs current expired list every 2 months to assist in membership retention. Not all Clubs are able to attend these meetings so we are available to come to you to assist in membership registration any way that we can. All you need to do is call and we ll set something up. Remember we re here to help! I am pleased to report that once again AFGA was over the 25,000 member mark at 25,103 thanks to all the hard work by Club membership chairs and their leadership teams! U.N. Firearm Marking Protocol You ll remember that effective June 01, 2017 the Government of Canada would be enforcing the U.N. Firearm Marking Protocol which was passed in 2004 but had not been enforced. This meant that every individual, business or public service agency that imported a firearm had to ensure that the firearm was marked in accordance with section 4 before the 60th day after its release as defined in subsection 2(1) of the Customs Act or before transferring the firearm, whichever occurred first. Well enough people sent messages, letters, s to the government that this Protocol has been delayed until at least December 2018 proof positive that you CAN have an impact when you raise your voice in unison, However, we must remain diligent because after all it is currently just a delay in implementation meaning we have to keep the pressure up for the next 15 months to make sure this whole silly idea gets scrapped altogether. We have some breathing room if you will AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 63

66 EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT S REPORT continued Enhanced Insurance Coverage We have been working towards enhancing the insurance coverage that comes with being a member. Lyme Disease With Lyme disease becoming an ever-increasing concern even in Alberta we have negotiated a coverage which would be a straight forward diagnosis and would not matter when or how the member got infected. It would be too difficult to try and pin point the infection to something that happened while doing a covered activity. Reimbursement of expenses to travel for medical treatment that is needed under any covered loss if the insured has to travel farther than 175 km from their home and the treatment cannot be done within the 175km radius of their home. The expenses would be for public transportation and accommodations for the insured and 1 accompanying person if the person needed to have someone with them, as in the case of a child. Coverage amounts for these 2 benefits will be $2,000. USA personal excess liability sub limit: $ 500,000 This coverage is Excess Only - subject to policy wordings terms & conditions. Defense expense is included in limit. DAS: Legal Expense Reimbursement This is an optional program that individuals can participate in and is applicable to legal costs as a result of fines i.e. Illegal transportation of firearms etc. subject to policy terms, wordings and conditions. It does not pay for awards or fines. Highlights of this coverage are: i - coverage is blind to innocence/guilt ii - must have valid firearms license iii - coverage extends to archery including cross-bows iv - first dollar coverage According to the June, 2015 edition of the Canadian Lawyer Magazine Survey the average hourly rate of an experienced lawyer is $407 and the cost of a 2 day civil trial is $31,330. This coverage will deal with firearm offences, and licencing. Annual premium is $100 per person, subject to change. Contact the office if you are interested in this coverage. Federal Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permits In early summer of 2017 your AFGA received notice from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) who manages the migratory permits, that we would no longer be allowed to sell licences as we did not sell enough last year (106) and that potential purchasers could more easily purchase permits online. Their letter states which gives hunters the opportunity to purchase and print their permits from the comfort of their home,. A very noble sentiment and while online sales have and will continue to increase the first step is to make sure that the darn thing works which in this case it did not from August 01 when online sales were to start until sometime in mid-september! A definite disincentive to purchase these permits. Needless to say this caused much frustration among hunters who regularly come to our office to purchase not only big game and upland bird licences but also migratory permits with the end result that decreasing opportunities to AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

67 EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT S REPORT continued purchase permits/licences by throwing up artificial roadblocks will negatively impact interest in hunting. We requested of the ECCC Ministry to provide us permits to sell, unfortunately to no avail. Wildlife Awards Revision A revision to all fish categories was made to honor the fish regardless of whether it is kept or released and the measurement of the fish has been changed to length measured in accordance with provincial regulation effective January 1, Boone and Crockett Measuring School July 30th to August 3rd saw twenty-three enthusiastic Fish & Gamers participate in a Boone & Crockett measuring course held at Leduc Fish and Game Association s Clubhouse. Thanks to all who instructed, participated and LFGA for the use of their facility. Minister s Special Licence The MSL permits provide the opportunity for recipients to enjoy a longer season and hunting in more areas of Alberta in accordance with all provisions of the Wildlife Act and Wildlife Regulations. Two Special Licences are issued for each of these three species: rocky mountain bighorn sheep, antlered elk, and antlered mule deer. The first group of licences is awarded through a raffle ticket purchase open only to residents of Alberta and the second group is sold by auction that anyone can bid on. AFGA has been managing these events since 2013 but the program has been going on since 1997 or so. The restricted funds raised by the MSLs are used by AFGA to fund conservation programs that benefit fish and wildlife in Alberta and are solely for the purpose of covering the costs of implementing and carrying out conservation programs in Alberta. In order to achieve this, AFGA creates partnerships with other organizations involved in conservation in Alberta. To fulfill its mission and provide a framework for restricted fund expenditure, AFGA uses the Public Advisory Committee or PAC (a committee comprised of various conservation organizations) process to make recommendations for conservation programs related to habitat improvement, and fish and wildlife management. Any conservation organization/affiliate can apply for grants with the deadline being January 31. Applications are available on the AFGA website in autumn of each year. Summary of Grants During the course of the first three years funding, more than $800,000 was granted and spent on projects such as: Ecological resilience of bighorn sheep populations to climate change and human disturbances in the Northern Rocky Mountains Prevention of Bighorn Sheep Die-off Due to Pneumonia Bighorn Sheep Surveys Northstar Elk Enhancement, Restoration Persistence of the Ya Ha Tinda elk population: the role of calf survival Increasing and enhancing wildlife habitats on Alberta s working ranches Antelope Corridor Enhancement Hunting for sustainability: Using bear rubs to monitor black bear populations in southwestern Alberta Enhancing wildlife movement by installing wildlife friendly fencing Youth Hunter Education Camps 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 65

68 EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT S REPORT continued Hunting promotion Women s hunting activities In May of 2017, the PAC met for the fourth time and another $183,000 was allocated to a number of projects with $105,000 going straight to wildlife focused projects while $78,000 went towards youth and women s hunting, fishing and conservation education. Over the first 4 years of grant allocations approximately 80% of the monies went directly to on-the-ground conservation projects and the balance to educational events and materials. AFGA is proud to have been chosen as the manager of this esteemed program! New Office Building It took a bit of time researching and viewing prospective properties but your AFGA found a new home at Street, Edmonton. The 3,900 square foot condo bay is close to St. Albert Trail, Yellowhead Trail and Anthony Henday Drive and features 6 offices, a board room, second meeting room, wide open reception, as well as a storage/ warehouse area with overhead door. There is also ample parking available around this complex. Another feature was that it was move-in ready resulting in lower costs to the Association. AFGA put $522,000 from sale proceeds of the 104 Street office and monies that came in prior to the official start of a fund-raising campaign towards the purchase and has now set a goal of $275,000 to become debt free at the earliest date and to have a set-up cushion for things like signage, IT and phone systems. Because AFGA s mission is not purchasing buildings it is imperative that the incurred debt be gotten rid of in a short a time as possible so that dollars raised can be once again used for conservation purposes. In order to accomplish this we are asking Zones, Clubs, individuals, outside grantors, businesses to contribute and insofar as they do will be recognized in the following manner: 1) The Zone, Club, individual, whoever makes the largest donation has the Board room named after them, 2) The Zone, Club, individual, whoever makes the second largest donation has the 2nd meeting room named after them, 3) Other donors will be recognized on a group plaque with individual shields according to the following donation levels: a. bronze-$100 and over, b. Silver $500 and over, c. Gold $1,000 and over, d. Platinum $5,000 and over. A big THANK You to Zone 5 for donating $30,000 and Zone 1 for their contribution of $5,000! Blessed by t-shirt weather, staff with the aid of super volunteer Cam Reid, saved the Association a stack of money by performing the move themselves and the bulk of the move, read heavy stuff, was in place by Friday the 12th at the close of business! Thanks to the good folks at PCL Construction we were the recipient of matching, almost new office furniture to give the office a more proficient look. On behalf of the AFGA Staff I look forward to continuing the great working relationship with all our dedicated Clubs and members! AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

69 PAST PRESIDENT / LIFE MEMBER S REPORT OUR DREAM - THEIR FUTURE...let s hope that we can fulfill our dream for the future of our children and grandchildren. Our Fish Chairman Darryl Smith and Hunting Chair Jim Clarke are doing their utmost that this happens along with all members of the Alberta Fish and Game Association Executive. Zone 4 has to be commended for stepping up to the plate to host the 89th Conference. Much time and effort has been has been spent to make sure that the Conference is a success and that each and every one of us has an enjoyable time...and that can only happen if we all take some time to participate in the events planned. Our Senior Executive works hard on our behalf in trying to meet with the Minister...however, there seems to be a road block. All we can do is keep plugging away and hopefully something will happen in the future. As you all know, the Alberta Fish and Game Association has found a new home and is in full operation. When in Edmonton and you have a few minutes to spare, take time to tour the new premises at Street. Access to the premises can be reached off the Anthony Henday, the Whitemud and Yellowhead. Past President Gordon Poirier has stepped back from spearheading the AFGA Fund Raising Project to get the debt off our backs. If anyone has any ideas how to raise funds, please contact the AFGA Office with your thoughts and ideas. THANK YOU to those of you who volunteered your time - even though it was Father s Day weekend - for our Casino at Century on the 18th/19 th of June, Our take for the two day event was $75, Our next Casino will be in the second quarter 2019 at Century. On the 10th September, 2017 the Alberta Fish and Game Association and Conservation Community lost a very dedicated and respected Life Member. Andrew (Andy) Boyd passed away in Edmonton after a courageous battle with cancer. Andy was a Past President of the Sherwood Park Club and served on the AFGA Executive as Environment Chair. He sat of several Boards - North Saskatchewan Regional Planning as well as the South Saskatchewan Regional Plan; Northern Gateway Pipeline Project; CEMA and AEMERA Boards. He was involved in the Grizzly Bear Recovery Plan; Al Pac and Lakeland Backcountry Cabins. Andy was a great asset and will be greatly missed. It s that time of year again when the Alberta Fish and Game Association will be handing out Wildlife Awards at the Polish Hall on the 21st April, Plan to be there and to those of you who were lucky enough - make sure you enter that BIG fish or animal you hooked or shot. Enjoy the Conference Carole Romaniuk 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 67

70 1ST VICE PRESIDENT S REPORT This past year of 2017 Andrea & I were given the opportunity to attend a number of fish and game banquets in the south, all of which were well attended and their meals were excellent. If your club would be interested in having us attend any of their functions over the year; please let me know, and time permitting I would be more than happy to go. I was given the opportunity to attend a meeting here in Lethbridge to do with the Watershed Resilience & Restoration Program. Numerous user groups whom have obtained funding from the government over the past year were asked to present a summary on the projects they had been working on. This was well attended and those whom provided the summary put on very interesting presentations. In April I attended Zone 3 meeting held in Ponoka, this too was well attended. A huge thank you to Kevin for stepping up as Zone 3 director for this past year. It was good to see a few new faces stepping up as well, Eric long is now Vice Director, Kevin Richie stepped up for Fish Chair, Treasurer Lorne Ferguson, and Rob Schultz Hunting and Resolutions, thank you Zone 3 for your hospitality. On April 21st I headed to Edmonton to attend firstly our senior executive meeting that evening and then our full executive meeting on the 22nd. Right after our meeting we all attended the Wildlife awards banquet held at the Polish hall a short drive from where we all stayed. Hats off to the hall group who put on the meal, I m sure if you came away hungry you must have left the building. Congrats to all the Wildlife Award winners! Over the past few months I have had the opportunity to spend a fair amount of time in the Castle area doing the things I love to do. I have noticed a strong presence of Parks people who for the most part have been keeping things in good order with the quading groups as well as making sure those who are random camping are doing what is allowable. The one thing which I was very impressed with is the road conditions throughout the whole area. It can be a bit dusty at times but all in all they are in excellent conditions for those hauling in to their favorite camping spots. I do have some concerns over how things will evolve over the next year with regards to hunting, camping and OHV usage. One thing I have come to learn from government is you can t put any trust in what they will do from month to month. With all the pressure that has taken place from the many user groups, is this just the lull before the storm? Time will tell. On July 4 th President Doug Butler, 2 nd Vice Ian Stewart & Past President Wayne Lowry and myself, attended our first meeting with AE&P in Edmonton relating to a number of issue regarding hunting and fishing. On August 10th I was invited to Medicine Hat by wildlife biologist Joel Nicholson to attend a meeting with regards to an information session of the elk on the CFB Suffield. This meeting was well attended by many of the local ranchers surrounding the base as well as many of the local AE&P staff. Approximately two years ago Past President Wayne Lowry and I met with AE&P; and at that time the management plan was to reduce the heard by approximately 50%. They feel based on current fly over surveys they have come fairly close. They also feel, based on this survey, they have issued more bull tags because the ratio was approximately 2.2 bulls to one cow. There is a plan to do another aerial survey in 2018 as part of the future management plan. Many of the ranchers have shown a great concern over fires, because of the lack of rain throughout this entire area, fires are a place looking to happen. Also it seems many hunters are not asking for proper permission to access areas. I urge everyone to use respect when hunting in any area. These ranchers have been very accommodating to many as long as you use respect when entering their property. How would you feel if someone walked in your back yard and decided to do whatever they please? Sadly whenever there is any kind of disturbance on the base, elk will do what elk do and that is move and if something is in the way they will take it out. I urge you as common courtesy if you want to gain a little hunter rancher relations lets lend a helping hand. One rancher said it was not uncommon to find hundreds of yards of fencing taken down AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

71 1ST VICE PRESIDENT S REPORT continued As many of you know once elk did test positive this past year for CWD on the base. They do plan to do more testing this coming year throughout the entire hunting season. The weekend of August 18 th, the AFGA executive meeting was again in Narrow Lake. Always a long drive but it was well attended by many of the zones and senior executive. AFGA Past President Randy Collins did a great presentation on ACA activities and provided all those present with some very colourful hats; along with brochures and magazines, thank you Randy. This past summer we did our annual trail ride with 17 in the group, everyone had a wonderful time and all want to come back again next year. A huge thank you goes out to Dennis and Bruce for helping to haul in and out all the gear for everyone. A special thank you to Andrea my wife for preparing many of the meals which were totally enjoyed by all, also thank you to Corey and Chelsea for the moose, everyone loved it. In October the senior executive took a day to go look at a few buildings for consideration to buy for our new office building. We did find one that we feel would meet all our needs and I am sure as your read this we will have finalized all and will be in the process of making the move. Hopefully speaking! We once again meet with AE&P people in Edmonton and a special thank you goes out to Travis and Matt as well as Dave and Stewart for taking time out of there very busy schedule to meet with us. Again we went over many items regarding fishing & hunting matters that have come up by many of you over the past months. Zone 1 meeting took place as well in October where Greg Bird asked to step down because of health issues. Glen Heather has agreed to step up until elections take place next year to fill in as acting zone 1 director. The Meeting was well attended by a number of clubs in the south as well Martin Sharren made the trip down to answer questions from any of those clubs which may be of concern. A huge thank you goes out to Sheila Ferguson for all she does for zone 1. In November I attended a meeting in Cardston regarding the Pole Haven Community Pasture. This meeting was well attended by a number of people. Cardston Fish & Game, The Poll Haven Grazing Association, Cardston County sent a representative and Town of Cardston along with Bill Groves, land use rep from Zone 1 as well as a number of local people from the community were present. The Minister of Environment and Parks, Shannon Phillips was invited but she gave no response, as per her usual way of dealing with things, also, the Oldman Watershed Council did not attend. Rod Shaw, founder/president of Public Land Alliance, put this meeting on and asked each of us to give our views on what would be a good solution to getting this area put back in the public s hands with proper management. Sadly most that are involved with this grazing lease are friends and neighbours of those at this meeting, it seemed that they were not well liked by most, likely because of all the restrictions that have been placed on this lease which they have to enforce. At present this area has been completely shut down for any public access except walk in only and then you must get permission from one of the association members. My personnel view was this is public land and if handled RESPONSIBLY we all should be able to gain access. All in all it has been a very busy year, I want to say thank you for your support this past year and I look forward to providing you with more in the years to come. Brian Dingreville brianad@shaw.ca 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 69

72 2ND VICE PRESIDENT S REPORT As is always the case for your AFGA executive, there are a myriad of issues to deal with, and every position will take as much of the person s time as they are able and willing to dedicate to it. We can t keep up with all of this without the volunteers who make up the AFGA, at the Club, Zone and Executive level, and I sincerely thank our membership and dedicated volunteers. I won t attempt to name them as I would undoubtedly miss someone, but certainly every contribution is valued whether it s a few hours on a local club project, representing your AFGA at a trade show, habitat stewardship, or an extensive research project. But there are always opportunities for further involvement for everyone, including Executive and committee positions! Please step up! The past year has brought new challenges and learning to me as I transitioned into my new role on the Senior Executive, and continued with some of the things I was previously involved in, one of which was following up on PETA s boast Huge Canadian Retailer Drops Fur! Small positive steps that your AFGA contributed to are that the Victory propaganda banner on PETA s web site has been removed and Canadian Tire branded stores continue to support utilization of Fish and Wildlife resources via hunting, fishing and trapping. (other brands such as Atmosphere owned by the parent Corporation are not carrying fur products at this time though). Another attack on consumptive utilization of Fish and Wildlife resources loomed last year with the emergence of an organization calling itself Ban Trophy Hunting Limited. The claims of this organization are so outlandish that they are easily debunked, but undoubtedly there will be further attacks, and a library of resource materials is available from ACA to respond when necessary. Fires aside, a bigger issue is the fact that Alberta s population continues to grow, and the resources each person uses puts more pressure on the natural world we all depend on. Rather than fight with other concerned stakeholders over the ever shrinking pie, I believe we must utilize common ground where it exists, and work harder to slow the decline in habitat (and reverse it where possible) through well managed multi-use areas rather than further expansion of parks, and balanced management of wildlife. While we have historically focused on the species we harvest and been less concerned about the rest, that thinking must shift if we are to stay relevant as a conservation organization in a time changing climate on top of direct human competition for resources. It is also very important that we take a hard look at our own activities and both the reality and perception of our own impact. This does not at all mean that we should be shy about the positive aspects of responsible and sustainable utilization of fish and wildlife, quite the opposite in fact. But many of us, me included, must rethink that some of the things we took for granted or ignored in the past, and as an organization we need to review out positions to make sure they are still relevant and defensible. (Frankly, I think some need updating). Change is hard, and all of us are naturally resistant to it, but like any other individual or organization we must adapt, or become irrelevant. On that note, we have put a considerable amount of thought and effort in to modernizing our business practices, starting with membership and invoicing. There has been some progress, certainly much slower than I had hoped for. But we cannot give up moving towards modernization, and all options are under consideration. Communication within the Executive and especially with our Membership is another area in need of modernization. Personally, I spent over 30 full or partial days both travelling to or in AFGA related AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

73 2ND VICE PRESIDENT S REPORT continued meetings in the past year, and logged over 7,000 km, and I am sure others did more. Travel time and expense aside, from a conservation perspective unnecessary travel should be reduced. Face to face meetings are often necessary, but many could be avoided using internet meetings, conference calls and constructive use of social media, (the latter which I have not yet embraced!). The resolution process is another area that does not always serve us well. It is too cumbersome for newly emerging issues, and at the same time weighs us down by sheer volume. As an organization, we need to figure out how to separate the critical few issues from the trivial many, which is difficult, as no resolution is trivial to the drafter! But, we often have so many resolutions on the convention floor that there is not enough time for critical thought on both sides of an issue from the delegates, and when we present government with an overwhelming list of demands, none of them get the attention they should. And when we pass or defeat resolutions that are contrary to previous positions or resolutions, it is easy to understand how we confuse government as to what is that our membership wants. I think this process needs a better method of prioritization, but I do not know what that is. What do you, our members, suggest? We did try something new to get membership input on the eight draft recommendations put forth by the APCAC subcommittee for a Big Game Allocation policy, and for a first attempt that seemed to work quite well. We had a pretty decent return rate and I thank all those who took the time to respond. And we learned some things that will improve any subsequent use of that technology going forward. Please give your executive your feedback on this method of communicating and whether it could supplement or improve the resolution process. I am certainly not suggesting we discard all our traditions and past practices. But as one is learning, responses to a question such as no one has ever questioned it before or because we have always done it that way indicates to me that as an organization, we have room to improve. If I remain on the Executive, I will continue to question, and strive for greater efficiency and effectiveness. Yours in support of the wise use of the earth s resources Ian Stuart 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 71

74 FISHING CHAIR REPORT Normally in this report describe what transpired in the last year and the expected path forward. The recent consultations related to the Northern Pike and Walleye Management Framework and the North-Central Native Trout Recovery Plan have created friction within the angling community and with Alberta Environment and Parks. The perception from much of the angling community is that the Government of Alberta is embarked on My way or the highway approach to fishery management in Alberta. The debate has a positive side as it has brought out concerns and issues related to fishery management that go beyond angling regulations. The real question is whether the department and other ministries in the Government of Alberta are listening. The path forward is not as simple as changing angling regulations. Multi-factorial issues must be addressed through substantive actions that are negatively impacting aquatic ecosystems. Anglers do not want to be questioning whether they are only being used as a pawn in an internal power struggle or as a statistic to demonstrate consultations occurred. Personally, tired of the communication from the department that uses generalizations and selective science to advance internal ideology. How often do we have to hear that polar bears should be roaming the streets of Edmonton? How the failure of angling regulations changes at Amisk Lake or Vincent Lake demonstrate alternative angling regulations such as harvest slot size limits do not work in Alberta? How the stocking of walleye is too costly, genetically dangerous and ineffective? How habitat programs can not be implemented owing to internal conflicts within the Government of Alberta. These are all truths but at the same time inaccurate. They are as much about marketing as about science. It is time to clear the baggage. Alberta has pushed the bar in terms of developing conservation based angling regulations, supporting assessment tools, benchmark setting and science. The phrase precautionary principles has become ingrained in language and culture. The real question is how precautionary are we prepared to go? Is it time to shutdown sportfishing in Alberta? Alberta Anglers are accepting of highly restrictive sport fishing regulations. We want comprehensive plans that deal with all the issues that are impacting our fishery resource and aquatic ecosystems. Such plans must be tied to actions not words. The siloes within the Government of Alberta must fall. Tradeoffs the Government of Alberta is willing to make for social, economic or environmental reasons must be clearly outlined and transparently disclosed. We expect fishery mangers to use all the tools available to them including fish stocking and habitat enhancement where appropriate. Multi-jurisdictional consensus based science must be the foundation for establishing realistic benchmarks and metrics with stakeholder agreement. While we support angling regulation simplification and standardization, this must not lead to a sterilized digitized decision-making process. Sufficient alternative regulation options must remain. Collaborative and ongoing engagement with stakeholders by fishery managers must be the cornerstone. By the time we are at conference decisions will likely already have been made as to what angling regulation changes will be in place for Alberta in The Alberta Fish and Game Association sent a letter to the Minister of Environment and Parks, the Honorable Shannon Phillips in early January. It stated: We are asking the government of Alberta to put on hold planned changes to angling regulations for 2018 related to these plans. The AFGA is prepared to work with the Government Alberta and other stakeholders to develop the necessary comprehensive plans which must include appropriate resources, manpower and funding that lead to long term aquatic ecosystem function and health that is the foundation of sustainable fishery management AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

75 FISHING CHAIR REPORT continued Whatever the government decides, it is important that the Alberta Fish and Game Association input into possible future decision-making processes in timely and comprehensive fashion. The historical resolution process that the Alberta Fish and Game Association uses has limitations during this time of change. To spur the necessary conversation, the Alberta Fish and Game Association has developed and provided to its members, others in the angling community and the Government of Alberta a discussion document related to fisheries management in the province. The first component, with a focus on the North-Central Alberta Native Trout Recovery Plan was circulated in December of The second component was released in January 2018 that concentrates on the Northern Pike and Walleye Management Framework. They will be available at conference and are posted online at Feedback has been positive and supportive. The Fish Session at the AGM will be another venue to gauge support and identify missing elements. We are often portrayed as the fish fryers. What exactly this stereotype implies is unknown, especially considering the broad base of our membership. Most national health agencies are recommending that it citizens eat at least two servings of fish per week. Some are even suggesting 4 or 5 weekly servings should be recommended. Why should sportfishing not be a means for Albertans and Canadians to gather fish for the table? Is going to the supermarket to buy fish that is sourced from unstainable commercial fisheries or aquaculture with related risks, a more environmentally responsible and ethical means? Obviously other issues such as whirling disease will be on the minds of delegates. Try to cover many of the important topics through the Outdoor Canada West publication. In addition, also host a regular forum with the angling community that allows two-way conversation and exchange of information on a regular basis. To join just give me your address. I want to acknowledge Jack Graham, Past President and Life Member of the Alberta Fish and Game Association. Through his guidance, the Alberta Fish and Game Association has become the official keeper of fish, bird and big game records for Alberta. He brought to the attention of the membership and the executive that it was time to change how FISH should be recorded. Catch and release or size limits are common angling regulations put in place for fishery management purposes. The Alberta Fish and Game Association supports selective harvest of fish. Large fish are rare and an important genetic resource. Even when legal to retain, the Alberta Fish and Game Association encourages anglers to release these fish. For successful release, minimal handling is essential. For these reasons the Alberta Fish and Game Association is adopting a record format for SPORTFISHING based on LENGTH ONLY. Want to thank the Executive, Life Members, Zone Fish Chairs, Alberta Fish and Game Association members, the broader angling community plus those responsible for managing the resource for your support over the last year. Go out and enjoy what Alberta has to offer. Regardless of where we come from in the angling community, whether as a biologist or angler, we are neither right nor wrong, WE JUST CARE! Darryl Smith 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 73

76 HUNTING CHAIR REPORT As the past year has gone by, it has been a steep learning curve on the issues facing hunting for the AFGA. For the first half of the year, it was a lot of information (and still is) from both Doug Butler and Ian Stewart. My thanks to both of them for getting me caught up on previous issues and the work that was done leading up to dealing with current issues. My thanks also goes to the Fish & Game members that contacted me with concerns. I passed them on as applicable to other members of the executive at the proper venues or to AE&P personnel. A very special thanks to Colin Jackson from the Medicine Hat Fish and Game club for representing the AFGA on the Caribou Recovery meetings and keeping us informed about the results. I attended zone meetings in the fall and again this year already. It was tough to get to many of them as quite a few were scheduled for the very same date. I also attended the spring AFGA meeting at the Narrow Lake Camp. Unfortunately, I was not able to attend the December AFGA meeting due to a family event but I was able to pass on a report for the executive at that time. January has been very busy with scoring events so far and many more are still scheduled. The item that was the greatest priority for me this past year was getting prepared for the AGPAC meeting and dealing with 8 recommendations that were brought forward from a subcommittee of the group. In preparation for the meeting, I presented the 8 proposals at the Zone meetings I attended and had others do the same. We received feedback and actual voting of level of support for the proposals at that time. In order to get an even more accurate response from all Fish and Game members, we presented them via an survey out to as many members as possible. This was great information we received quickly and enabled me to voice our overall opinion and percentage of support of our members! I hope to use this procedure again when we need a timely response in order to move forward on this or any future issues. We have another scheduled meeting of the AGPAC committee coming up early in the year and I hope to be able to report some type of progress on some of the proposals soon after. Thank you to everyone for your support this past year! Jim Clarke AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

77 The past year has been busy to say the least. We welcomed our son in April and life got busy after that. Unfortunately I have not been able to give this position all the attention that it needs this year and I want to thank everyone for their patience and understanding about this. The meetings with AE&P have been encouraging however it is still very clear that the government lays out a policy and everyone is expected to go along with it. I do not fault the AE&P staff for this as I think they are getting as frustrated as everyone else with this process. ENVIRONMENT CHAIR REPORT I attended a meeting regarding the caribou range plan in Whitecourt. The range plan will have wide reaching social, economic, and environmental impacts because of its scope and its mention of protected areas. Caribou are listed as a `threatened` species provincially and federally under the Species At Risk Act (SARA). Their designation means that it is law for provinces to develop a plan to assess, protect, and recover the species. All of which makes it a very complicated species with many different hurtles and public consultation is a huge part of the plan. From the meeting it was made apparent that there was different information presented in different towns, particularly in relation to protected areas. This seems to be a common trend of the NDP government and I encourage people to take notes of what they hear at public meetings as the message may change quickly. The plan was due to the Federal government on October 5th, 2017 and was supposed to go out for public consultation before that time; however at the time of writing this, that document has still not been released to the public. The Castle region remains controversial; there are many images of the construction going on in the area which raises questions as to the true motivation for creating the park. Areas just north of the Castle region are in line to become protected areas; and it is known that the NDP government is in talks with Y2Y (Yellowstone to Yukon). While I agree with protecting areas, I do not agree with how the government is going about doing it and I want to see a more transparent and honest system be put into place. The roles within the AFGA executive are large but I encourage people to step in, you will be amazed about the things you learn. Chelsea 2018 AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 75

78 ZONE 1 REPORT On December 8th and 9th I attended my first Alberta Fish and Game Executive meetings. I was amazed at all the information sharing and initiatives that our people are actively pursuing. I had no idea how many organizations and committees we are attending and contributing to. Additionally, I m now recognizing, the constant communication and education required in sustaining our Hunting and Fishing heritage, in today s ever changing electronic world. For Zone 1, this year, we have had challenges. To name a few: Invasive species concerns on irrigation waterways Land access Wildlife Management in Zone 1 WMU s Suffield Elk management Fishing pressure in Zone 1 lakes and waterways, have been increasing. Therefore fish populations are continually scrutinized, by both the angler and biologist. Additionally hunting pressure has increased, our population in Alberta has risen but more so, access is decreasing. Upland Game numbers were up in 2017, with high hunter yield. Migration Bird numbers are visibly up, although the Zone 1 area does not pass in a major flyway, there were plenty of birds. Deer and Antelope numbers have been increasing with milder winters, success rates for hunters in 2017 was quite high due to these numbers. If 2018 winter turns out to be a mild winter, I suspect numbers to be excellent with additional tags in Of course CWD is of major concern in the Zone 1 eastern WMU s, however early information indicates CWD in new WMU s, with an increase in CWD positive numbers Suffield Elk Management Although exact numbers are not in, success rates is still much higher than in any Alberta Elk unit. The days of large mature bulls are basically over, with the 2017 statistic of 2.1 bulls per cow within the Suffield base, there is an overabundance of small bulls. Glenn Heather AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

79 ZONE 2 REPORT Congratulations to the many committee volunteers and AFGA staff that did a fine job in putting together and organizing the annual AFGA 89 th Annual Conference. Every outdoor enthusiast wants to see our future generations have the same or better experiences in the outdoors. Again, the theme partners with why we are so passionate about what happens to our fish, wildlife and habitat in our outdoor surroundings. Thank you to all the clubs, individuals and organizations who also contributed financially or otherwise to this annual event. While at Conference take advantage of the opportunities to talk face-to-face with others and gain a broader perspective of the issues facing our province and association (wildlife and habitat concerns, camps/programs available, etc.). Whether you are a delegate, companion, youth or guest who is attending, please share the experiences and knowledge you gain with your club members and those you know. The Zone 2 club members are consistently busy with a variety of projects and events, such as: informational booths at the Calgary Sportsmen show and youth fishing pond; fun fishing days for the disabled; archery and skeet shooting events; pheasant raising/releasing programs; duck nesting tunnels; campouts; organized group hikes/hunts/fishing trips; youth mentor hunts; gopher hunts; construction of bird houses, bird feeders and bat boxes; informational booths at outdoor-related events, fund-raising garage sales; habitat stewardship on conservation properties; land restoration/conservation projects; along with maintenance and posts to websites/facebook accounts. As always, a big thanks to you the passionate volunteers who contribute so much to keeping clubs active and involved in your communities! Hunting and fishing issues are not unique to only certain parts of Alberta; Zone 2 is also facing its share of challenges too. Stay vigilant and pressure our Government to do more regarding testing and stopping the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease. For current CWD updates go to: Low membership numbers are affecting many clubs. Always promote your fish and game club and the AFGA in any way you can, for example, at club meetings, local outdoor-related events, Scouts Canada meetings, youth groups, etc. There is so much good work we do that so many are not aware of. Members and supporters are what keep us going. Our AFGA Wildlife Trust Fund is in desperate need of funding! Trying to keep up with our involvement in the owned conservation properties and working with partner organizations in obtaining and preserving new ones takes money. Please consider donating to this flagship program of our association. Also, consider as an individual or club, becoming a habitat steward. There are properties out there needing inspections done, etc AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 77

80 ZONE 2 REPORT continued Looking for a good meal and night out on the town? There are still a few upcoming Zone 2 fish and game club banquets: Wheatland - March 3; Sarcee - March 10; High River - March 17 and Calgary - April 28. Find a club delegate here at conference, search club websites/facebook pages for more information or contact me. Our next Zone 2 spring meeting will be hosted by the Drumheller & District Fish & Game on Saturday, May 6 th in Drumheller beginning at 10:00 am. For additional details please contact me. Again, it has been a pleasure to represent Zone 2, be part of the AFGA Executive and a board member of the Wildlife Trust Fund. Enjoy the rest of the year outdoors! Deb Clarke ZONE 3 REPORT This year s Convention Report is about a year that was. I happened to be filing a lot of correspondence from years past ( ), and I realized that a lot had happened since then. The Zone held its first ever Casino fundraiser, a new Government was installed for the first time in many decades; as a result, thinking changed for the way things would be done by government in the future. Also, sadly some members had passed on that were very involved in conservation with Alberta Fish and Game Association. Also, by now you know that there is a new office for the AFGA. Invasive Species of all sorts are in the news; flooding, forest fires, extreme wind events, and warming earth are the new norm. This is affecting not only us on the land, but also the oceans of the world. Sablefish and Mackerel are moving into Salmon waters which could affect the salmon stocks for years to come. Whirling Disease directly affected the Trout Pond that the Zone sponsored with the intent to get it back on the public stocking list. No fish were available for the summer of 2016, until Sam Livingstone Fish Hatchery was shut down to install new systems to protect the fish from the disease, we got a total of 500. I put out a plea for some funders for electricity access fees to keep the fish alive through the winter as our previous benefactor moved. Four local funders came forward to double the diffusers from 3 to 6 and the Alberta Conservation Association grant system paid to repair the compressor which got hit by lightning. So far it looks good for May of 2018 and maybe someone will come forward to help pay those fees so people can fish for trout next year. I attended the Narrow Lake Executive meeting and welcomed the feedback from all the staff and directors of the other Zones. I consulted with Camrose for the Zone 3 meeting they agreed to host AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

81 ZONE 3 REPORT continued in April, 2017, a good bunch of folks there. I have missed seeing them at the Zone meetings since my involvement in Red Deer Fish and Game is celebrating 60 years in Congratulations to them for breaking their membership record this past year. Hope to see all Zone 3 clubs in February at the Conference, although it is a bit overwhelming for me. I have two people who stepped up to help with the Executive duties and Ernie Long who is our Vice Director as a successor to my term which is nearing 5 years. It is not healthy to be involved so much as it gets people stuck in one direction. I am limited in what help I can be to others as things come at me from every angle. Have a great conference and see you there. Kevin Wingert Kaydence with her Rainbow Trout -- Winner at Family Campout AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 79

82 ZONE 4 REPORT Welcome to the AFGA Conference This is a time to renew old friendships, meet new friends, and congratulate colleagues on their achievements. We might even have time to glean some new information and get some organization business accomplished. This year is being hosted by Zone 4. The conference committee has spent a lot of time brain storming. There are some old ideas, some new ones, and we might even come up with some on the fly, always open to spontaneity. I hope that everyone enjoys themselves, and let s keep the evening networking down to a dull roar, just saying. I would like to thank the Zones, clubs, members, organizations and individuals for their generous support for this year s conference. I would like to send a special thank you to this year s conference committee; your help was greatly appreciated. I think that the companions and youth should really enjoy themselves, from what I have heard during planning. Makes me want to leave the meeting sessions and join them. I am trying to get out to club meetings this year. If you have an event that you would like me to attend, just let me know. This is the season of club fund raising, also known as Banquet season. I am going to try and attend a few in my zone. From the reports at the zone meetings, all the clubs have activities that keep their members active and interested. The Ladies League is a real growing force in the zone as well as the Organization as a whole. Congratulations to all involved with this endeavor. My old address and my home phone no longer work. My cell phone is still active and my new is: schaberfaran@gmail.com if you don t already have it. Have a great and enjoyable conference, and I will see you all on the conference floor. Faran Schaber AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

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84 ZONE 5 REPORT As Zone 5 Director on behalf of the executive and its members; I would like to welcome you all to the 89th AFGA Conference. Another year has flown by and we are embarking on a new year of challenges, commitments and adventures to ensure what you, the membership of AFGA hope to achieve in the future. I know the AFGA executive and staff are always busy working to ensure a better future for tomorrow, so a huge thank-you to them for their efforts. The time, commitment and passion the Zone 5 Executive display is unbelievable. I would like to thank each and every one of you for the drive and desire you have shown. Vegreville and Sherwood Park hosted our 2017 meetings and thank-you to them for doing so. Both were well attended and many topics were discussed as well as putting through many resolutions. Alberta Fish and Game executive also attended and gave great updates and provided much appreciated information. Communication was stressed, so please clubs, keep us and the head office informed of any issues. Our next Zone meeting will be in April and hosted by the Lamont Fish and Game club. First, thanks to you all for supporting me as your director again. I ll try and meet your expectations. It s great to see some new faces on board and special thanks to those who have served their terms. On a sad note, losing Andy Boyd is a great loss to not only our zone but to all outdoorspeople. No one can replace the dedication and sacrifices this man has put forth over many years and we will all miss him dearly. Please continue to keep me informed of your club activities. Keep your youth involved and I hope you had some registered for the winter camp that was just held. Also be ready to register them for next summer s youth camps. The BOW camp registrations will also be opening soon and it would be great to see your women attend. Keep an eye on the AFGA web site for all these registrations. I always look forward to Conference, I find it very informative, educational and a great time to meet up again with all the clubs and reacquaint with friends. Thank you to the AFGA, Zone 4 and all the volunteers for hosting this conference. It is a very busy and demanding job, so take the time to let them know you appreciated what they have done for you. There will be many resolutions passed or defeated here this weekend. This is our voice. Don t be discouraged if one doesn t go your way, just keep your head up and fight for our rights. Please keep writing your resolutions as it is our voice that counts in the end. Please remember by standing united we have built an organization you can all be proud of, this organization has a bright future for you, your grandchildren and their children to come. Feel free to bend my ear this weekend with your ideas, complaints and informative conversation. I hope you had a great fall and your experiences in the outdoors were enjoyable and safe. I hope your festive season was heart-warming and 2018 is another banner year. Robyn Butler AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

85 OPERATION GRASSLAND COMMUNITY REPORT VISION & MISSION: Operation Grassland Community (OGC) has a vision of a sustainable prairie landscape where communities thrive, diverse interests are balanced, and wildlife and their habitats are in abundance. We are working to achieve this vision through collaborative efforts with diverse stakeholders across Alberta s prairie region to develop, implement, evaluate, and adapt management actions that protect and enhance wildlife habitats, promote sustainable food production, and support diverse socio-economic interests. CONSERVATION NEED: The Grassland Natural Region of North America is one of the most intensively-utilized (i.e., urban, energy development, farming, ranching) landscapes in the world. This loss and degradation of native habitat is widely considered the cause of continental declines in many populations of endemic prairie species. In the province of Alberta, the prairie region represents only 14% of the land base, yet 75% of the province s species at risk are prairie species. Because 95% of this region is either used for farming or ranching, successful protection of prairie wildlife and their habitats will clearly require inclusion of the social and economic realities of these land-uses. Endemic prairie species evolved with large grazing animals (bison) and, as a result, disturbances such as grazing are essential to generate the preferred shifting habitat mosaic within which these grassland species evolved. Properly managed ranching may therefore provide us not only the greatest opportunity to prevent further declines in these populations, and to sustain, enhance, and increase the habitats upon which they rely, but also to sustain human communities and livelihoods. ACTIVITIES: 1. Implementation of Ranch-Wide Monitoring and Adaptive Management using Land EKG Widely utilized within the U.S., Land EKG is a relatively new management approach in Canada and was selected because it provides a simple, systematic approach to adaptive management that will enable OGC and its members to measure our progress toward the mutual goals of optimizing both the economics and the environmental sustainability across the landscape. We continue to work one-on-one with our membership to assist landholders as they add this management regime to their annual ranch routines. Our work on this project has been on-going since 2013 and we are beginning to see some trends in habitat quality that we can measure. This on-going relationship will help to ensure this approach sustains in the long term. 2. Estimates of Burrowing Owl breeding pairs in 2017 taken from OGC landholder-member census. Our landholder membership is working with OGC in large part out of their own passion for wildlife and wildlife habitat conservation; Over the past 28 years, the annual Burrowing Owl census has been conducted by our membership and the results compiled and delivered to our members and other conservation partners. The 2017 estimates are showing the third consecutive year of increase which is encouraging, however these values are still a long way from the numbers observed in the early 1990 s. 2. Habitat Enhancement Projects Each year, OGC continues to increase habitat quality and quantity through our habitat enhancement activities (examples include: re-seeding cultivated areas back to permanent cover; fencing to assist grazing management, and to protect riparian areas and shrub/tree complexes; installation of artificial nesting platforms for Ferruginous Hawks) AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 83

86 WILDLIFE TRUST FUND REPORT 2017 In 2017, the Wildlife Trust Fund (WTF) continued to grow securing five new properties totaling acres. Partnerships were once again the main building blocks to our success, working with a variety of groups including Alberta Conservation Association, Ducks Unlimited Canada, and Alberta Fish & Game affiliates. Conservation-minded landowners were instrumental in making the WTF grow in the past year. The Pomrenk, Scheerschmidt, and Coulson properties were either donated in whole or in part, or left to conservation in a legal will. The WTF has celebrated over 25 years of success, and landowners have heard of the trust and now utilize it to ensure their long-term conservation values are carried forward. The WTF now manage over 43, acres of conservation properties, and continue to strengthen relationships and expand partnerships. We continue to build corporate partnerships in conjunction with our conservation initiatives and are always looking for new ways to expand. Affiliate clubs and zones have been generous over the years with donations and support and we are looking for help to fund securement work. We have a couple large proposals for early in the new fiscal year and require support in order to partner on the projects. The only form of funding for the WTF is donations from clubs, zones and private individuals. We have continued to leverage dollars generated in the past and what the properties provide in revenue. Our partnerships have been pivotal to our success and help us manage our properties with collaborated staff efforts. Securing five new properties in a single year generates a significant amount of administration with agreements, management plans, and legal work. The donated properties have legal costs associated with them that the WTF must cover in order to receive title. We will also need to find volunteer stewards for all the new sites and plan for spring inspections. We have volunteer stewards for the majority of our properties but are always looking to expand existing groups and welcome new volunteers into the stewardship movement. If you, your club, family or friends would like to get involved, it is a great way to spend some time outdoors and see the true value of the habitat on WTF properties AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

87 WILDLIFE TRUST FUND REPORT 2017 continued We currently do not have any surplus funds available for securement, which limits our ability to be proactive when good habitat lands become available. Please consider donations to the WTF so we may continue to grow and provide benefits to all wildlife and people in Alberta AFGA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 85

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