KENORA–RAINY RIVER – “Our government is committed to supporting the resource-based tourism sector, which has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak,” said Greg Rickford, MPP Kenora-Rainy River. “Resource-based tourism is a vital contributor to the Northwestern economy, and we are proud to provide immediate support to these businesses and encourage the people of Kenora-Rainy River to get outside and enjoy some of the great activities our beautiful region has to offer.”
Last week, Ontario’s Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry, John Yakabuski announced that the Ontario Government is providing immediate relief to the resource-based tourism sector by waiving certain licence and land-use fees.
The Ontario Government will not be charging resource-based tourism operations for certain licences and land use fees, as well as refunding revenues received for 2020 for:
- Licence to Provide Bear Hunting Services fees
- Bear Management Area fees (for land use associated with the Licence to Provide Bear Hunting Services)
- Baitfish Harvester and Dealer Licence fees
- Baitfish Harvest Area fees (for use of harvesting area associated with the harvesting licence)
Ontario is also providing relief from Land Use Fees for Outpost Camp permits or leases issued under the Public Lands Act and will release further details soon.
Fishing and hunting remain open in Ontario, with all rules and regulations in effect. Conservation Officers continue to patrol and protect natural resources during the COVID-19 outbreak. While no fees are being collected on resource-based tourism licences for the remainder of 2020, a valid licence or permit for 2020 is still required.
Quick Facts
- Hunters and anglers spend more than $560 million and $1.6 billion respectively each year in Ontario and support jobs in many rural and northern communities.
- Waiving fees is a temporary measure to respond to COVID-19, and the ministry will return to pre-existing fee rates effective January 1, 2021.
