Short Hills hunt returns

A controversial Short Hills Provincial Park hunt is back on for the late fall.

In a release, the provincial ministry of natural resources and forestry advises that it will be hosting a First Nation deer harvest, in recognition of their treaty rights.

The park will be closed to the public Nov. 19 and 20, Nov. 26 and 27 and Dec. 1 and 2 for the hunt.

The harvest will begin one halfhour before sunrise and end one half-hour after sunset.

It is to take place in the southern portion of the park, which has the fewest trails, the release says.

Park staff will be monitoring access points to make the public aware the park is closed for public safety.

First Nation harvesters will use archery equipment and follow mandatory safety protocols.

Harvested deer will be used by the local First Nation community.

In past years, Ontario First Nation deer harvests have also been held in The Pinery and Rondeau provincial parks.

The ministry adds the province “respects Aboriginal and treaty rights, as recognized and affirmed under the Constitution Act, 1982, and is committed to meeting the province’s constitutional and other obligations regarding Indigenous peoples.”

Previous hunts have met with protesters at park entrances voicing concerns about safety and the appropriateness of the hunt in the park.

Counter-protesters supporting the hunting have also been a presence.

BOB TYMCZYSZYN/STANDARD STAFF A group of people were out at the Pelham Road entrance to Short Hills Conservation Area protesting the deer hunt in this file photo. Another hunt is planned for several days in November and December.