The shocking drop in the local moose population is a primary concern for the Spruce Capital Wildlife Association.
The local conservation and outdoor recreation group wants to examine the science being used to study the decline, and they want the public to examine it with them during a symposium Saturday at UNBC.
"A lot of misinformation is in the public domain regarding the health and status of our moose herds. Thus SCWA wished to have a venue where the public could receive firsthand, accurate and factual information," said association member Jim Glaicar, one of the event organizers. "SCWA felt this was important as the regional moose numbers have dropped dramatically compared to counts around 2005."
Provincial biologists will bring their latest information, and historical data, to inform the discussion. Some have been involved in counting the animals and some in forming ideas to respond to the situation. Current wildlife management plans and land-use plans will be up for discussion.
"The Symposium has the full support of regional biologists as well as ministry staff from Victoria," Glaicar said. "Information on moose will be presented by Region 5 [Cariboo], Region 7 [Omineca] as well as the Nisga'a nation. Anticipated participants will be wildlife clubs from P.G., Vanderhoof, Mackenzie, McBride, Quesnel and surrounding areas as well as all members of the public who are concerned with the health of the moose herds."
Glaicar said plans are already underway for a provincial level symposium to follow up on the presentations made this week.
"Information gathered [Saturday] will be disseminated to all BC Wildlife Federation clubs and First Nation groups within northern B.C. as well as being posted on SCWA website and Facebook page," said Glaicar.
The symposium happens at UNBC lecture theatre 7-212 near the Wintergarden. Admission is $5 for the all-day event (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
