Alberta wolf pelt contest comes under fire by conservation groups [Video]

A contest launched in Alberta that incentivizes the killing of wolves has come under fire by conservation groups.

The Alberta Trappers Association launched a top wolf pelt contest at the start of October, offering a reward of a large cash prize for the best pelts.

“A harvest incentive for trappers to make a better effort to harvest wolves on their trap lines,” said Bill Abercrombie, the president of the Alberta Trappers Association.

“The incentive is to manage wolves effectively and try to get a better effort out of trappers by providing a bit of a subsidy for them.”

According to Abercrombie, the contest for the best pelt focuses on trappers using their skill to harvest the best quality and best prepared pelt. It is the first time the association has run the contest.

“It’s best for wolves and best for people if the trapper’s role on the landscape is maintained,” …