Open letter to Yukon government’s minister of environment:
The Haines and Alaska Highway sections that border Kluane National Park and Reserve, in addition to the Southern Lakes region, should definitely be off-limits to roadside hunting, as these areas are actively promoted by the Yukon government and Parks Canada as prime opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Further, there is a public safety and legal issue discharging a firearm within a two-kilometre radius of a residence or across the highway right
of way.
“Hunting” is very loosely used in this circumstance, as it has no resemblance whatsoever to legitimate sport hunting. Few areas are left in Canada where residents and visitors can enjoy seeing wildlife from the roadside, particularly grizzly bears, and there remains more than ample wild country for true sportsmen to pursue their activities away from the highway corridor.
I would strongly urge the Yukon Party to take positive action on this issue and demonstrate a commitment to preserving our wildlife, which we all too often take for granted .
Brent Liddle
Haines Junction