The MRNF has verified numerous cases of appropriation of public lands in various forms through the establishment of hunting camps.
Hunting, fishing and trapping are authorized on public lands, complying with the laws that regulate these activities, we assure.
“However, the facilities supporting these activities must be temporary and dismantled. Under the state land law, any permanent use of public land requires an authorization issued by the Quebec government or a delegated regional county municipality (MRC), authorities say.
In the period between April 1, 2022 and March 31, 2023, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has cataloged more than 3,000 occupations without rights (OSD) in the province. During this same period, 822 liberations were carried out, that is, the eviction of the occupants as well as the collection of the premises, either at their expense when known, or at the State’s expense.
Added to this are 1,147 illegal landfills, although 282 places have been completely cleaned and another number are planned for this year.
For example, some people forget to remove their camping trailer or leave the infrastructure permanently to demonstrate their presence in order to “reserve” the land for the following year.
“These practices are prohibited,” the ministry states. The person temporarily occupying the territory must completely vacate the premises after occupation. It is common to see people taking over a portion of the territory using signs, tape or barriers such as “Hunters on the prowl – reserved territory”. »
“However, it is prohibited at any time to restrict or block access to a road on land owned by the State or to appropriate a public sector. »
Ten illegal landfills
Contacted by La Tribune, the MRNF claimed to have counted 156 OSDs and discovered ten illegal landfills on public land in the Estrie region. However, the MRNF cannot say whether there are more criminal hunters in Estrie than in the rest of Quebec.
“The MRNF does not impose fines or make arrests in the context of the management of OSD and illicit landfills,” explains the Public Relations Department.
As the peak hunting season approaches, authorities encourage hobbyists to show courtesy to other users by avoiding taking territory beyond the limits of the lease, to obtain all necessary permits for the construction of a building and to adopt eco-responsible behavior in the area. Management of residual materials.
“Intimidation, vandalism and theft of property have no place,” we affirm, while encouraging the population to report a threat against people or property at any time by calling 911 or 310-4141 to contact the Sûreté du Quebec.
For acts against wildlife or their habitats, you must contact SOS Poaching – Emergency Wildlife at 1 800 463-2191.
