The PC Natural Resources and Forestry Critic is expressing concerns businesses in Northern Ontario will suffer due to changes made to this year’s Spring Black Bear hunt. The hunt is set to begin on Monday, but Prince Edward-Hastings MPP Todd Smith says the province is now limiting the amount of non-resident hunters who will be allowed to take part. Smith says a lot of the non-resident hunters will be disappointed when they arrive. Smith says the reason for the spring black bear hunt was to improve tourism and economic development in Northern Ontario, but these changes could leave a black eye on these industries. He says there could be a solution, like honouring the permits during the spring hunt, and making necessary changes before the fall season begins. There is no limit to the amount of resident hunters who are allowed to take part in the season.
