This petition is in response to a motion made on Sept 3, 2008 by Public Works Committee to permit members of the Ontario Federation of Hunters and Anglers to enter the Niagara Road 12 Landfill areas to hunt and kill coyotes.

We are opposed to the decision to use taxpayers' land for hunting and would like to know why this decision was NOT made in a public meeting.

We are opposed to a select group of hunters taking priority in this important matter that effects not only the Coyotes but also our ecosystem and safety.

From what we understand there is no solid evidence that coyotes reside in the Niagara Road 12 Landfill, or the surrounding woodlots.

We feel that this could set a dangerous precedent for other regional lands, to be used by select groups. These groups consider Coyote hunting to be a recreational sport, often working packs of hounds with electronic shock collars and tracking collars to pursue the coyotes and shoot them when they are exhausted. Other methods include baiting or calling them from distances using electronic calls. These cruel and archaic methods of killing are not mentioned in the report.

We would like to know what type of research—and by who and/or what organization- has taken place to allow for humane, non lethal control of predators prior to passing this motion.

We understand that the motion will be reviewed on November 19th at 1pm and that anyone can show up and sign in at the door to speak.

If you are against a select group of hunters using public land for hunting please e-mail or phone your Regional Representative showing your opposition with this decision ASAP. You are welcome to use all or some portions of this letter to do so.

E mail addresses and phone numbers can be found on the Niagara Region Website
http://www.niagararegion.ca/government/council/default.aspx
Phone: 905-685-1571 or 1-800-263-7215