YELLOWKNIFE (April 8, 2014) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) Genuine Mackenzie Valley Furs (GMVF) Program continues to build a strong and sustainable future for the Territory, with NWT trappers expected to see projected returns of approximately $700,000 in total sales to date this year.

The March 13-14 auction held in Helsinki, Finland saw top overall prices for NWT marten, lynx, wolf and wolverine pelts, outperforming trappers from across the rest of Canada and the United States. Auction prices were led by NWT wolf at an average of $327.45 (up 59% from 2013). GMVF marten alone attained $479,326 in returns for NWT trappers in the March auction.

“The GNWT is proud to support the Genuine Mackenzie Valley Fur Program and to promote our NWT furs as some of the highest quality wild fur money can buy,” said Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment David Ramsay. “This auction is a prime opportunity for local hunters and trappers to have their furs sold to an international market and receive all of the profits.”

Through the GMVF Program, the GNWT provides NWT trappers with access to the international fur auction market and works alongside the Fur Harvesters Auction to promote wild NWT fur while educating resident trappers to capitalize on their returns through best practices for trapping and pelt preparation.

By actively supporting the harvesting and marketing of wild fur, the GNWT is helping to create a diversified economy, a priority of the 17th Legislative Assembly.

The next auction will take place from June 1-2, 2014 in Helsinki.

For more information:

Alayna Ward
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Industry, Tourism and Investment 
Government of the Northwest Territories 
Tel: (867) 920-8696
Email: alayna_ward@gov.nt.ca