Cree Nation Implements Caribou Harvest Moratorium to Save Declining Herd
The Cree Nation announces a caribou harvest moratorium below the 55th parallel to protect the Leaf River Herd, which has plummeted from 600,000 to under 136,000. Learn more about this critical conservation effort.
Cree Nation Takes Bold Step to Save Caribou Herd
The Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) has moved to establish a moratorium on caribou harvesting below the 55th parallel in the Resolved Cree Area of Primary Interest. This decision, approved by the Hunting, Fishing and Trapping Coordinating Committee (HFTCC), responds to urgent concerns over the Leaf River Caribou Herd's rapid decline.
A Critical Turning Point
The Leaf River Herd, once numbering over 600,000 animals before 2005, now stands at fewer than 136,000. Recent data reveals a 12% population drop between fall 2024 and 2025 alone, with projections indicating a potential 63,000 individuals by 2030 if current trends continue. This alarming trend mirrors declines in other herds, including the George River and Woodland caribou populations.
Community-Driven Conservation
The resolution reflects the collective voice of land users, local leadership, and the Cree Nation Government. Traditional knowledge and scientific data have converged to highlight deteriorating herd health, including reduced migration ranges and poor physical condition among animals. The Cree Nation emphasizes that this measure is not merely ecological but deeply cultural, as caribou remain central to Cree identity, sustenance, and spiritual practices.
A Path Forward
The Cree Nation remains committed to implementing effective conservation strategies within its jurisdiction. This moratorium represents a proactive step to halt the decline and ensure the survival of the Leaf River Herd for future generations. The decision underscores the Cree Nation's leadership in balancing ecological stewardship with cultural preservation in the face of accelerating environmental challenges.