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Expressions of Interest
Mattawa/Nipissing Traditional Territory (Region 5) Captain of the Hunt

To: All MNO citizens
From: Margaret Froh, Chief Captain of the Hunt

The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) harvest, grounded in the exercise of Métis rights, provides food and medicine for Métis families and communities; acts as a catalyst for the transfer of traditional knowledge to future generations; and maintains our people’s connection to the land, water, and ecosystems of the Métis Homeland.

The MNO is issuing a call for expressions of interest for the role of Captain of the Hunt for MNO Mattawa/Nipissing Traditional Territory (Region 5) – including the Mattawa, North Bay, and Sudbury Métis Council areas.

The Captains of the Hunt (COTH) play an integral role in the management of the Métis harvest.

The COTH act as a direct line of communication between Métis Harvesters, the MNO and the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). They help manage the MNO harvest, support the implementation of the MNO-MNRF Interim Harvesting Agreement and determine the appropriate management of the harvest in their respective Traditional Territories. The COTH also acts as liaisons between Harvesters and the MNO in situations where charges have been filed.

Other duties may include, but are not limited to:

  • Travel throughout their Region to work with MNO communities on harvesting-related matters;
  • Assist Harvesters in the completion of Harvester’s Certificate applications;
  • Review and sign Harvester’s Certificate applications prior to sending them to the Registry Branch for processing and final approval;
  • Verify that Harvesters can properly and safely employ firearms;
  • Answer inquiries from MNO citizens regarding harvesting rights and other matters related to harvesting;
  • Gather information on complaints and charges;
  • Act as liaisons between the MNO and Harvesters;
  • Act as a point of contact for MNR Conservation Officers in their Region;
  • Prepare incident reports;
  • Ensure Harvesters are in compliance with the MNO Harvesting Policy;
  • Serve as a source of information on the Métis Way of Life and Traditional Knowledge;
  • Support the MNO’s work to implement the MNO Statement of Prime Purpose;
  • Support Harvester surveys and help to gather information on the number, species and location of animals taken by MNO Harvesters; and
  • Sit as non-voting members of MNO Consultation Committees.

Expressions of interest must include the mandatory supporting information below:

  • Proof of MNO citizenship;
  • A resume detailing: relevant work and/or volunteer experience; leadership experience; training; education; traditional way of life knowledge and experience; and connection to local community;
  • A cover letter (600 words maximum) that outlines the applicant’s ability to fulfill the role of Captain of the Hunt for the Mattawa/Nipissing Traditional Territory.

Requirements:

  • Strong knowledge of Métis traditional harvesting skills
  • Knowledge of Métis Traditional Harvesting Territories in Ontario
  • Experience hosting/teaching workshops regarding traditional harvesting skills
  • Involvement in their regional Métis community

Applicants must meet the requirements of section 2.1(d) of the MNO Harvesting Policy and be an active harvester. More detailed information on the role of Captain of the Hunt can be found below, along with links to key additional background information. The role of Captain of the Hunt is also described in the MNO Harvest Policy.

Captains of the Hunt
Captains of the Hunt Regulations
Contact Captains of the Hunt
Harvesting
MNO Harvesting Policy

Deadline for expressions of interest: October 3rd, 2025

Submit to: harvesting@metisnation.org