GNWT launches new Trapper Mentorship Program

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Blog Entries

Yellowknife — November 8, 2022

In partnership with Indigenous Governments and Indigenous Organizations, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has launched a new program to help mentor the next generation of trappers in the Northwest Territories (NWT). The Trapper Mentorship Program (TMP) provides novice trappers with an opportunity to learn from experienced trappers who act as mentors, passing on traditional life skills and knowledge.

Successful applicants will receive a starter kit valued at approximately $1500.00. Mentors will receive a one-time stipend of $2000.00 to offset costs associated with mentoring the novice trapper. Mentees (the applicants/novice trappers) will be expected to find an experienced and knowledgeable trapper or harvester in their area to work with. They must provide a Letter of Support from a local organization/administrative host, willing to receive funding from the GNWT on behalf of both the mentee and the mentor. Examples of organizations or hosts could be Indigenous Governments, Indigenous Organizations, regional governments, Hunting and Trapping Committees, Renewable Resources Committees, etc.

Priority will be given to mentees with limited trapping experience and mentors with extensive trapping experience, including significant time on-the-land. Program funding will support activities that engage participants in meaningful and transformative outdoor learning experiences with a focus on northern traditional trapline values and practices. Examples of activities include winter travel, on the land safety, setting up winter camps, skinning and fleshing, storytelling and more.

To be eligible, applicants must be over the age of 18, an NWT resident, have an Aboriginal/land claim right to harvest and either hold or be eligible to acquire a General Harvesters Licence.

To learn more, access the application and Letter of Support template at www.gov.nt.ca/TrapperMentorship.

Quote(s)

“Traditional practices and lifestyles are critical to the social, cultural, and economic health of this territory. By investing in the next generation of trappers and their mentors, we hope to inspire more people to learn and share that knowledge”.  

- Shane ThompsonMinister of Environment and Natural Resources

Quick facts

  • Applications are open to NWT residents over the age of 18.
  • Applicants for both mentor and mentee roles will require a Letter of Support from an administrative host or local organization who can accept funds from the GNWT on behalf of the individual. Examples of administrative hosts include:
    • Indigenous governments
    • Indigenous organizations
    • Regional governments,
    • Hunting and Trapping Committees
    • Renewable Resources Committees
    • Community Governments
    • Non-Profit Societies
  • Individuals can contact their regional Environment and Natural Resources Office for information.

Related links

 

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