Yellowknife — April 4, 2022
Harvesters and trappers are now able to capitalize on the demand for beaver castors in the global market.
Under the Genuine Mackenzie Valley Fur program, trappers can be advanced $65 for each pound of dried beaver castors, or approximately eight dried castors.
If the castors sell for more at auction, the trapper will receive the proceeds as well as a prime fur bonus.
Beavers produce castoreum, which they use to scent mark in their territory, from a pair of castor sacs located near their anal glands between the pelvis and the base of their tail. Castoreum is highly prized as a flavouring and as an ingredient in perfumes.
Castors must be removed and dried properly to be eligible for the advance. Reference sheets on how to do this are available on ENR’s website and from ENR offices. Training can also be provided upon request.
Castors must be submitted to ENR offices before May 30, 2022.
Quote(s)
“Our government is always looking for new ways to support traditional and sustainable livelihoods. We are pleased to help hunters and trappers by expanding what is accepted under the Genuine Mackenzie Valley Fur Program and by bringing NWT beaver castors to market.”
- Shane Thompson, Minister of Environment and Natural Resources
Quick facts
- Castoreum has notes of raspberry and vanilla, as well as leather.
- It was used frequently in the past as a flavouring for ice creams, sodas, and candy, but is used less frequently as cheaper artificial flavourings have become available.
- Many perfumes use castoreum, including Shalimar, Givenchy III, Chanel Antaeus and many others..
Related links
• Genuine Mackenzie Valley Fur Program
• Trapper Reference Sheet
For media requests, please contact:
Jessica Davey-Quantick
Communications Planning Specialist
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Government of the Northwest Territories
Jessica_Davey-Quantick@gov.nt.ca