Trap ban could catch on in Vernon

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: August 15, 2012 1:00 AM
The debate over hunting and trapping could reignite in Vernon.  Council directed staff Monday to determine what actions could be taken to prohibit hunting and trapping within city limits. “My biggest concern is the safety of residents,” said Coun. Catherine Lord, who made the motion. The city was lobbied last year to ban trapping of wildlife in Vernon. Ultimately, council decided that the matter was a provincial jurisdiction. Lord says the situation, though, has changed because she has received reports of bow hunting in the community. “That’s pretty scary,” she said, adding that the city may need to take action because there is limited enforcement from the provincial government. “There are 120 conservation officers in the province and that’s not a lot to cover the whole province. Their workload is heavy enough.” She is also concerned about people trapping nuisance pets and wildlife and putting residents at risk. While he didn’t oppose the motion to investigate the matter further, Coun. Bob Spiers has some reservations about the city getting involved. “This is rehashing old ground but I’ll await the report,” he said.