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Province launches Report a Poacher website

Nov 4, 2017 | 4:00 AM

EDMONTON — The province is making it easier for Albertans to report suspected poachers.

Beginning Friday, the government has launched the Report a Poacher website, allowing Albertans to report poaching activity, dangerous wildlife or public land abuse through their phones or computers.

“The Report A Poacher program helps ensure Alberta’s wide variety of wildlife species and diverse landscapes are protected for future generations,” said Kathleen Ganley, Minister of Justice and Solicitor General, in a statement. “Our hope is that by making it easier to report suspicious hunting or fishing activity, it will encourage more Albertans to act responsibly when enjoying the outdoors.”

Emergencies and incidents that need immediate attention should still be reported through the 24-hour Report A Poacher line at 1-800-642-3800. Phoning is still the fastest way to reach an officer, while the new website can be used to report issues that are less urgent. People reporting through either the phone or the web can remain anonymous and could be eligible for a reward. Rewards range from $100 – $1,000.

All information reported to the hotline remains confidential.

The province says between 2016 and 2017, the Report A Poacher toll-free hotline received14,894 calls from the public, with 3,097 calls about suspected illegal activity. A total of 9,133 enforcement actions were taken by fish and wildlife officers, including charges and written warnings under various legislation.

The website can be found here.