Volunteers are being sought in the Peace Region to take part in the Province's seventh annual Public Winter Wildlife Count.

Anyone can participate - First Nations, hunters, agricultural producers, naturalists or just families who want to get outside and do something together. All it takes is an interest in wildlife populations and a willingness to spend a bit of time on a Saturday or Sunday experiencing the breath-taking beauty of the Peace Region's winter wonderland. Some participants will win prizes for participation.

The count, which takes place the weekend of Jan. 18 and 19, 2014, is held once each winter to collect data on trends in population size and location of deer, elk and moose. The information gives wildlife biologists a snapshot of local ungulate populations, and provides residents a great opportunity to learn more about how these species are sustainably managed.

The count occurs in areas around the communities of Fort St. John, Chetwynd, Dawson Creek, Tumbler Ridge and Hudson's Hope. Areas are first divided into 25-square-kilometre geographic blocks which volunteers then search, recording any wildlife they spot during that time. Searches can be conducted in a variety of ways, including driving, off-road transport (such as snowmobiles or ATVs), cross-country skiing, and even walking.

Dividing the area into blocks and keeping a record of when animals are spotted helps ensure the data is as useful as possible, and reduces the possibility of duplication for biologists. Over many years, the data provides valuable information on local wildlife population trends.

The count is focused on ungulates, but provincial biologists are also interested in any predators that may be spotted. Sharp-tailed grouse are a focal point as well, as information about their winter distribution will help inform future management. Volunteers will be asked to record if they see any obviously unhealthy or diseased animals as well.

To sign up for the wildlife count, please contact FrontCounter BC in Fort St. John at 250 787-3415 or contact Julie Kline directly at 250 787-3294 or by email at: Julie.Kline@gov.bc.ca

Please submit your name by Jan. 10, 2014, to allow ministry staff time to co-ordinate the count. Last year's Winter Wildlife Count had 48 participants who surveyed 87 blocks, counting a total of 1,097 ungulates and 34 predators.

Media Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261