ULUKHAKTOK (May 15, 2013) - A workshop in Ulukhaktok today will give hunters and trappers additional training to help ensure trappers get top dollar for their quality pelts at auction.

As part of the Genuine Mackenzie Valley Furs (GMVF) program, representatives from the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI), in partnership with Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) and Fur Harvesters Inc., will be holding this one-day workshop. Located at the ENR Shop, the workshop will run from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., with evening sessions available if necessary. A stew and bannock lunch will be provided for all participants.

Representatives from both ITI and Fur Harvesters will give live demonstrations using traditional tools on how to grade and handle seal. The workshop will also provide high quality beaver pelts and sealskin for sale to local crafters.

“Training is vital to ensure continued success in the international fur market, and we want our trappers to get the best financial returns for their hard work,” said ITI Minister David Ramsay. “Workshops demonstrate industry best practices in pelt handling and fur grading, and help ensure the wild fur harvested in the NWT remains of the highest quality.”

The GMVF program helps the Government of the Northwest Territories work in partnership with local harvesters and the fur industry to promote the traditional fur economy in the territory. Trapper workshops are an integral part of the ITI mandate to keep trappers knowledgeable about current trapping regulations, trap standards and new technology as it arises.

For more information, please contact:

Colin Okheena (Ulukhaktok)
Renewable Resource Officer I, Inuvik Region
Environment and Natural Resources
Tel: (867) 396-4505

Francois Rossouw (Yellowknife)
Fur Marketing/Traditional Economy
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Tel: (867) 873-7478