‘Very serious’: Ministry confirms deer poaching in Pointe Des Chenes

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry says it is are aware of reported unlawful hunting activities just west of Sault Ste. Marie.

In an email to SooToday, the MNRF shared that they have been monitoring the Pointe Des Chenes area for the illegal poaching of white-tailed deer.

“We respond to all tips that we receive from the public and monitor the area conducting proactive patrols,” they wrote.

While the ministry is not able to confirm how many documented cases they’ve responded to over the course of this year’s hunting season, they note that the illegal killing of these animals can come with hefty fines.

“The MNRF takes poaching very seriously,” the statement said. “Hunting big game without a license could be a ticket for $615 but legislation permits penalties as high as $25,000 and up to one year of imprisonment.”

Exact numbers of deer around Pointe Des Chenes are not known, but the ministry says the area is believed to support a healthy deer population.

The public can assist the ministry with catching poachers by reporting suspected natural resource violations, or providing information about an unsolved case, by calling their TIPS line toll-free at 1-877-847-7667.