For the tenth time in four years, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak has called on the  Province of Manitoba to cancel the Moose Licence Draw.

MKO supports recent letters from Chief David Monias of Pimicikamak Cree Nation and Chief Heidi Cook of Misipawistik Cree Nation, which object to the 2025 moose licence draw.

They say the wildfires in the Grand Rapids and Cross Lake trapline areas have caused catastrophic losses to moose habitat and populations, yet Manitoba has increased the number of moose licences,  relying on months old aerial surveys which they haven’t shared with the Chiefs or MKO leadership.

MKO says the scheduled announcement of draw “winners” on June 21—coinciding with National Indigenous Peoples Day—is not only tone-deaf but deeply disrespectful to the First Nations where the rights and lands are being disregarded.