Big Game Hunting

Near-urban Wildlife Strategy

The concept of a Near Urban Wildlife Strategy was initiated in part, by safety concerns related to the use of centrefire (high powered) firearms during the general deer season, as well as expanding wildlife populations and related human/wildlife conflicts in and around Winnipeg. With this new strategy, Manitoba Conservation will address human safety and property damage concerns, while maintaining and expanding hunting opportunities in the near-urban area. The primary goal of the strategy is to effectively manage wildlife in an urban/agricultural setting. Manitoba Conservation developed the Near Urban Wildlife Zone (NUWZ) in consultation with municipal governments around Winnipeg to provide a focus for implementing the strategy.

In 2005, a provincially regulated prohibition of centrefire rifles for big game hunting was implemented in the NUWZ. This prohibition was introduced in all or portions of the Rural Municipalites of Headingly, Rosser, Rockwood, St. Andrews, West St. Paul, East St. Paul and St. Clements as shown on the map. Manitoba Conservation will continue to consult with all Rural Municipalities in the NUWZ to address wildlife issues. No further additions to the strategy will be implemented in 2009.

Hunters should note that the use of centrefire (high powered) rifles in the rifle deer season is prohibited in the identified area of the NUWZ. However, hunters may still use any other legal equipment type (shotgun, muzzleloader, archery, crossbow) during the rifle deer season where this season is offered. A separate licence is not required to hunt in the NUWZ.

Hunters should be aware that some municipalities in the NUWZ prohibit or further restrict the use of firearms. For more information hunters should contact the municipal office in the area they wish to hunt.