Importance of Moose Harvester Reporting
Moose harvest time approaches and another season has stealthily crept upon us. For many it signals the need to reflect upon and experience the splendour and beauty of the Cape Breton Highlands. Clifford Paul, Moose Management Coordinator at UINR explains “As we partake in our yearly harvest of moose, it is universally recognized by hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike that...
Moose management–the next step
Moose management–the next step The release in August of Tiamuwel Netuklimkewe–Unama’ki Moose Harvesting According to Netukulimk was an historic moment for the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia. It showed that we accept the responsibility as stewards of the resource and that the time has come to assert our rights. Clifford Paul, Moose Management Coordinator explains, “The...
A giant leap
A giant leap After years of consultation, research and planning, Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq Chiefs released Mi’kmaq guidelines for moose hunting in Cape Breton. Tia’muwe’l Netuklimkewe’l–Unama’ki Moose Harvesting According to Netukulimk was created by the Mi’kmaq people of Nova Scotia and is an important step for Mi’kmaq self-governance over our traditional resources. If you...
Guidelines for Cape Breton Moose Hunting released
The Cape Breton Highlands have always been known as traditional Mi’kmaq hunting grounds. In fact, a Mi’kmaq hunter recently found a 4500 year-old arrowhead there, evidence that Mi’kmaq hunted there for thousands of years. However, in the 1800s, moose disappeared from Unama’ki and this ancient relationship came to an abrupt end that lasted for almost...
Moose
Moose have provided much to the Mi'kmaq through the years. The Mi'kmaq way of resource management includes a spiritual element that ties the people to the plants, animals and the environment as a whole. A Moose Management Plan will put into practice the responsibilities that accompany Mi'kmaq treaty rights.
Moose gathering findings
The findings of a two-day conference–Mawikwamk Wjit Tia’muk–Mi’kmaq Gathering on Moose have been released. Delegates representing Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq communities met and discussed developing guidelines for the native moose hunt in the Cape Breton Highlands. Dan Christmas, a conference facilitator explains, “The Mi’kmaq have treaty and aboriginal rights to hunt and we have taken an...
Moose symposium
Moose have provided so much to the Mi’kmaq through the years and now they will provide a model for self-government. Clifford Paul, Moose Management Coordinator explains, “The moose symposium is a significant event for Nova Scotia’s Mi’kmaq as it sets the framework for self-government. By empowering communities to take an active role in management, we...
Ethical hunting
Organized Youth Hunts There is a lot of work and responsibility involved in a moose harvest, and it takes great effort to ensure our youth are taught these things in a proper way. The Millbrook Youth Hunt has been setting the standard for Mi’kmaq communities with successful harvests in the last several years. Moose meat...
Ancient knowledge returns
While moose provide a fresh supply of meat, historically, the Mi’kmaq depended on moose for many things. Highly-prized moose hides were used for clothing, shelter, and drums, skins were used to make boats, hooves for rattles, and high density shin bones were carved and sharpened as spear tips. To bring some of that ancient knowledge...
Moose hide preparation workshop
Bringing back an ancient tradition As Mi’kmaq people become more involved in issues of moose management, benefits of harvesting moose can be looked at in creative, sustainable ways. We now recognize the need to use all parts of the moose to maximize the benefits of our relationship with this very valuable resource. Not only do...
Good Principles and Safe Practices
UINR’s Moose Management Initiative just published a brochure outlining Good Principles and Safe Practices for Mi’kmaq hunters in the moose hunt. Copies are being distributed throughout the Highlands. They are also available at the UINR office in Eskasoni and your Band office. Here are some of the principles and practices that are included in the...