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Interim Metis Harvesting Agreement- Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of harvesting is recognized in the Interim Metis Harvesting Agreement?
The Metis Harvesting Agreement (“MHA”) recognizes that Métis have the right to harvest for food through hunting, trapping, and fishing and applies to animals, fish and fowl.
Does the Harvesting Agreement apply to fishing?
There remains an unresolved fishing related issue between the MNA and Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (ASRD). Some ASRD officers have been charging Metis subsistence fishers with ‘fishing without authorization’ when using a rod and reel.
It is the MNA’s position that subsistence fishing using a rod and reel is covered by the agreement. Moreover, the MNA asserts the way Metis fish for food can not be limited by arbitrary regulations.
The MNA has requested that this issue be addressed through the IMHA’s dispute resolution process and hopes a table with Alberta will be established soon to resolve the issue. The MNA will continue to provide Alberta Metis with updates on the issue, however, until it is resolved members should be aware that they may be charged.
Métis who fish for food using a net are required to get a Domestic Fishing Permit, at no cost, from Sustainable Resource Development (SRD). The permit will indicate the size of gill net to be used and the body of water the net will be placed in. Lakes closed to fishing for conservation-based reasons are closed to all fishers, including Métis. Similarly, a species of fish that’s closed to fishers for conservation based reasons are also closed to Métis.
Since this agreement is for subsistence purposes only, Métis who are fishing commercially or for sport must the appropriate licenses and abide by the regulations for sport or commercial fishing.
When can Metis harvest?
Alberta Métis will be able to harvest year-round, unless there is a closure for conservation reasons. Conservation closures will restrict the right to harvest and may take the form of restrictions on a type of animal, an area of land, or for a period of time. Alberta’s Department of Sustainable Resources Development will determine conservation closures and is committed to dialoguing with the Métis Nation on conservation matters. Conservation restrictions apply to all Albertans, including Métis.
Where can Metis harvest?
The Metis Harvesting Agreement applies to lands within the provincial borders of Alberta. The MHA recognizes that Alberta Métis can harvest on all UNOCCUPIED Crown lands, but NOT if there is activity or development on the lands that would make harvesting unsafe. Alberta Métis can harvest on all OCCUPIED Crown Lands, such as wildland parks, natural zones and some types of provincial parks and other protected provincial areas that have areas designated as harvesting zones. Alberta Métis can harvest on PRIVATE LANDS WITH PERMISSION FROM OWNERS OR OCCUPANTS.
For what purpose can Metis Harvest?
The Metis Harvesting Agreement recognizes that Metis can harvest for subsistence purposes. It also recognizes that Alberta Metis can occasionally share what they harvest between members of the Metis Nation of Alberta.
Conservation and safety:
All provincial laws and rules regarding safety and conservation measures apply equally to all Albertans, including Métis harvesters. Harvesting must conform to safety rules, such as not shooting a gun within a certain distance of a house or shooting across a road. Please check with the regional offices of the Department of Sustainable Resources Development (SRD) for updates on regional conservation issues.
Click here for regional SRD contact information.
Do quota restrictions apply to Alberta Métis harvesters?
Conservation based restrictions placed on a species at a certain time of the year or at a certain location for conservation purposes may apply to Métis. Alberta Métis may harvest the amount required to meet the needs of your family. Please check with the regional offices of the Department of Sustainable Resource Development for more information.
How will Alberta Métis harvesters be identified?
Fish and Wildlife Officers will recognize the Métis Nation of Alberta membership card as valid proof that a person is a Métis harvester. Alberta Métis without a valid membership card will have to prove their Métis status to enforcement personnel through other means. Detailed information about the MNA membership application process, including the application forms, is available through our Internet website under the membership section.
Who can harvest under the MHA?
The MHA applies to all members of the Métis Nation of Alberta and to people who are eligible to be members of the Métis Nation of Alberta.
Does the Agreement apply to Métis from other provinces?
The agreement applies to Alberta Métis who are members of, or are eligible to be members of the Métis Nation of Alberta. It does not apply to Metis who live in other provinces or territories.
How do I apply for membership with the MNA?
Membership information is available on our Internet website. Information is also available through the regional offices and provincial office of the Métis Nation of Alberta.
What other licenses are required?
Alberta Métis will require applicable licenses when: fishing with a net; engaged in commercial harvesting activity, or when using a vehicle or boat. Applicable licenses are also required for the possession of registered firearms.
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