Changes to the Genuine Mackenzie Valley Fur Program were made earlier this year to encourage harvesting and trapping, with new payment increases now in effect. The Government of the Northwest Territories has increased the following:

• Grubstake payments for wolf, wolverine, bear, lynx and beaver now receive $10/pelt, up from $5/pelt previously. Grubstake payments are financial support provided to trappers to offset costs for equipment and food.
• The Prime Fur Bonus for beaver pelts is now $35/pelt, from $25/pelt previously. This program offers trappers an incentive to deliver high-quality, well-handled pelts.

The Genuine Mackenzie Valley Fur Program provides trappers in the Northwest Territories with the opportunity to access international fur auction markets. Through this program, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) buys prime furs at a guaranteed price from trappers, providing protection against sudden, unanticipated declines in market prices. The program facilitates the sale of furs, and if a fur sells above the preset GNWT rates, a bonus is issued to the trapper. The program also covers the associated costs and fees of selling furs at auction, including commissions, shipping, and drumming fees.

The payment increases within the Genuine Mackenzie Valley Fur Program are meant to encourage harvesting and trapping in the Northwest Territories and will help to better support traditional way of life and sustainable livelihoods.

Related links:
https://www.gov.nt.ca/ecc/en/services/genuine-mackenzie-valley-fur-program

For media requests, please contact:
ECC Communications
Environment and Climate Change
Government of the Northwest Territories
ecc_communications@gov.nt.ca