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The province has decided not to approve the introduction of wild
turkeys to Nova Scotia at this time.
"There is no established business in the province dependant upon
the introduction of the species here and there are a significant
number of organizations which are firmly opposed to this
proposal," said Chris d'Entremont, Minister of Agriculture and
Fisheries on behalf of Richard Hurlburt, Minister of Natural
Resources. "These factors taken together have convinced us that
it is not in the best interest of Nova Scotians to introduce wild
turkeys."
In 2001, the Nova Scotia chapter of the National Wild Turkey
Federation submitted a proposal to the province seeking approval
to introduce wild turkeys to the area. Wild turkeys are not
native to Nova Scotia.
Since that time, the proposal has been reviewed by staff of both
the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of
Agriculture and Fisheries and a public consultation has taken
place. An independent scientific review has been held, a disease
risk assessment has been completed and supplementary information
on habitat and weather suitability has been provided. Focus
groups were recently held with key interest groups to review
information provided since the public consultation sessions.
"We've reviewed the matter carefully and are satisfied that we've
come to the correct conclusion based on the current situation,"
said Mr. d'Entremont. "If, at some point, new information is
presented to us to suggest otherwise, we'll revisit the issue."
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