New trespassing laws won’t affect hunters this season

A new set of trespassing laws won’t affect hunters this season.

White-tailed deer season started on Friday, and it’s business as usual for Saskatchewan hunters.

Darrell Crabbe, executive director of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation, explained the current rules to Brent Loucks.

“It’s still status quo for this year. So, if it’s not posted and there’s no indication that hunting isn’t allowed on the property, (and you take) the normal precautions — you have to be 500 metres from a building, as an example — (when) those types of things are taken into consideration, he or she would still be able to pursue an animal,” he said.

Even before the law change, Crabbe advocates respect for private property.

“We’re still very much trying to make sure that everyone takes every opportunity to have conversations with land owners and make sure you have permission to access their property,” he said.

Crabbe thinks most people tend to share this sense of respect.

“Just like any other part of society, there are a few bad apples out there that are causing issues, but I think the vast majority of Saskatchewan hunters have gotten done their necessary groundwork … and have permission on the lands they’re hunting in and around, and know where they can and cannot hunt,” he said.

“Most hunters do heed that requirement.”

Western Heritage is developing an app to make communication between land owners and hunters easier in preparation for the law change.

Crabbe thinks it’s a good idea, but is skeptical that the app will be in working condition for next season. He supports new development in communication technology.

“Hopefully we can come up with something that doesn’t impede the hunting community too much and still provides the necessary level of confidence with land owners,” he said.