Overview

The Alberta Trappers’ Compensation Program provides a framework for compensating operators of Registered Fur Management Areas (trappers) for trapping losses related to industrial activity, theft and vandalism, and cabins lost to naturally caused forest fires.

In 1997, Stakeholders in the program agreed that the Alberta Trappers’ Association would administer the program previously administered by the Alberta Government since 1980. Funding is jointly shared by industry and government.

The Alberta Trappers’ Compensation Board will provide as much service to trappers/industry as possible. The Stakeholders meet annually to improve the program as required and discuss various operational concerns to improve the program. On-going meetings are planned, and you can look forward to an improved program. Please submit any recommendations or concerns you may have; they will receive consideration. Administration of this program can become very time consuming, due to the need to negotiate and communicate with trappers, industry groups, and other agencies. Communication has been identified as a primary goal to inform and educate all resource users of the Compensation Program and proper operation procedures. Therefore, a communications plan was developed and implemented by the ATCB. Improved results have been achieved.

It appears from the low number of inquires/claim load this year that industry must be cooperating well with trappers. Also, theft and vandalism must be reducing, however the Board has no way of obtaining data as industry does not report compensation payments / negotiations with trappers.

Hopefully the government will review the conditions they place on industrial development operating on RFMAs. There are many illiterate trappers who cannot deal with the many registered mail notifications they receive. Further they cannot possibly negotiate compensation, so it is imperative that personal notifications must be made to completely review the industry operation. It is long overdue.

It is interesting to note that this program is the only operating trapper compensation program in Canada, and many inquiries have been received from throughout the nation. The Stakeholders are continually working to improve the program; everyone should cooperate, and hopefully the program can be improved.

There is an ever-increasing need for trappers, industry, and all agencies involved with trapping to work together to avoid costly and time-consuming conflicts. It is very encouraging to see cooperation resulting and we are hopeful that good working relationships will continue. Please inquire if we can be of service, provide information, or attend meetings. Have a good trapping season. Best regards.

Sincerely,


Lew Ramstead
Chairman
Alberta Trappers' Compensation Board (ATCB)
Tel.: (780) 349-6626
Fax.: (780) 349-6634
Email: info@albertatrappers.com