Claim Categories

The program recognizes claims in five (5) categories:

• Damage to trapper assets

• Theft, vandalism and arson

• Temporary disruptions to trapping operations

• Long-term loss of livelihood, caused by industrial disturbances to the RFMA

• Cabins lost by naturally caused forest fires ($15/sq. ft., to maximum of $3,000.00)

Note: the Forest Fire Cabin Fund was established by the Alberta Trappers’ Association in 1997. $5.00 from each RFMA holder is collected annually ($8,000.00 approx.), and is placed in a separate account.

For claims that fall into the temporary disruptions and damaged assets categories, the trapper must first negotiate directly with the company responsible. Should this fail, and then the claim must be submitted through the district Fish and Wildlife Division office to the Alberta Trappers’ Compensation Board. All theft and vandalism must be promptly reported to the RCMP and a file number provided to the Fish and Wildlife Officer, who prepares the claim, then forwards for review to the board.

Requests for compensation must be made on the approved claim form and the proper documentation should be attached which includes:

• Photographs – especially for theft, vandalism, and arson, or of trail disruptions, etc.

• Description of equipment stolen and estimated value of items, receipts

• Dates of disturbance and/or when discovered

• Names of companies involved or others that can verify loss

If you have any questions about this program or the claims process and need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact the Alberta Trappers’ Compensation Board (780-349-6626) or your nearest Fish and Wildlife Division Office.