The George River Caribou Herd in critical state as population decline continues.
The 2018 census results for the GRC herd show further dramatic decline and put the herd at 5,500 caribou – a 38% decline since 2016 and a 99% decline since 2001, that puts the herd down at its greatest known risk for a total extirpation (to destroy completely).
Biologists from Newfoundland and Labrador and Quebec completed the cesus of the herd in July, with the direct participation of Indigenous representatives from both Provinces.
Despite of a complete closure of all hunting as of 2013, by 2016 the population had declined to 8,900 animals.
In 2017 the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada recommended listing the George River Caribou Herd as Endangered. The Provincial Government considered thr recommendation and- at the specific request of Indigenous Governments and communities in Labrador- decided not to list, and agreed to develop a co-management approach between Indigenous government and communities and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Honourable Gerry Byrnes, Minister of Fisheries and Land Resources quotes “ the continued decline in George River Caribou Herd is serious and disturbing”.
His department continues to reach out to Labrador Indigenous government and communities, the Government of Quebec, and the Federal Government to develop a co- management approach that would support the recovery of the
George River Caribou Herd.