NOTO PROVINCIAL ADVOCACY UPDATE
MNR Permit Reform Initiative: MNR is currently undergoing a massive permit reform and modernization initiative and there were several public consultations put forward for comments that all closed December 22nd. We put a strong emphasis on the importance of the Boat Cache program in the NW, ideas on how to simplify the process for Land Use Permits and remove red tape to allow operators to shift to leases, and more. NOTO staff also secured a meeting with the Ministry to discuss our submissions.
As these consultations are likely the first of many, we recommend operators continue to provide us with feedback on anything that could help simplify administrative burdens related to the multiple permits you all get year-over-year.
Proposal on Black Bear Management: Ahead of the holiday break, MNR also put forward a consultation on the proposed changes to Black Bear Management. Operators appear to be cautiously optimistic about the items put forward to date. There are still some areas of concern that were identified by bear operators that we echoed in our submission. This initial consultation period ended January 5th, 2026.
Public Consultations on Forestry: There are an additional 3 consultations that involve Forestry. We are working with Jeff Barton, a forestry consultant from First Resource Management Group that has done a lot of work in the Algoma region. He is very familiar with the RSA process, understands the value of tourism and he is looking to get more involved with the industry. He will help us identify potential positive impacts and/or areas of concern in these ERO postings. Stay tunned for more details.