In September 2026,  the British Columbia Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship denied approvals for orphaned black bear cubs and other wildlife in the Omineca Region (including Prince George and Vanderhoof).

Time is of the essence when a young animal is left orphaned or injured. Limiting rescue approvals to standard 9-to-5 business hours creates unnecessary, dangerous delays that directly threaten the survival of vulnerable wildlife. Leaving young animals exposed to elements, starvation, and traffic accidents while waiting for bureaucratic clearance is neither humane nor aligned with public expectations of wildlife management.

NLWS are seeking an immediate stay on the province's rescue denials, arguing that bureaucratic delays—such as restricting rescue approvals to basic weekday business hours—put orphaned bear cubs, fawns, and moose calves in immediate danger.

The decision to block field approvals does not lie with local Conservation Officers. Instead, it stems from the Fish & Wildlife Section Head and regional provincial biologists within this specific branch.

Omineca Fish and Wildlife Section Head:

Leslie McKinley. 
Email: Leslie.McKinley@gov.bc.ca

Provincial Government  contact:  Tamara.Davidson.MLA@leg.bc.ca