Minister's Statement - Draft Algonquin Wolf Recovery Strategy

Today, Jeff Leal, the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs released this statement on the draft Algonquin Wolf Recovery Strategy:

The Algonquin Wolf, a species native to central Ontario, has an estimated population of less than 500 and is in danger of disappearing. As stewards of our land, it is important that we do our part to help protect wildlife and rebuild threatened animal populations in our province.

That's why the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry is looking for public feedback on a proposed strategy which contains scientific advice to government on actions that can be taken to help manage and recover the Algonquin Wolf population in Ontario. Recovery strategies are developed by experts outside of government and are not government policy.

It is important when working to manage species at risk that we carefully consider any potential impact increased protection may have on farmers' livestock and balance our approach accordingly. That's why I encourage our farm and food sector and the public to provide input on the draft strategy until February 14.

At the same time, we are reviewing recent updates to Ontario's Wildlife Damage Compensation Program (OWDCP) to ensure farmers are being fairly compensated when they lose livestock to predation.

To ensure a balanced approach to any measures we take, should the final actions to protect the Algonquin Wolf result in increased livestock predation, I will ensure that the necessary funding is available so that farmers continue to be adequately compensated for their losses.

Our government is committed to protecting our farmers, the environment, our wildlife and livestock. I will continue to closely monitor this process as it unfolds and encourage all interested parties to provide their valuable feedback along the way. Your input will help us strike the right balance and inform our actions to help manage the Algonquin Wolf while ensuring our farmers are supported.


For more information:
Toll Free: 1-877-424-1300
E-mail: ag.info.omafra@ontario.ca