THIRTY-NINTH ANNUAL REPORT 

 OF THE 



Department of Game and Fisheries 



Following is the Thirty-ninth Annual Report of the Department of Game and 

 Fisheries, in which is included data and information concerning administration of the 

 sei-vices assigned to this Department, together with various statistics for the fiscal year 

 ended March 31st, 1946, comparative tables and other information relative to our 

 operations which may prove interesting and of value to those concerned. 



PREAMBLE 



During the twelve months under review, we witnessed the cessation of those hos- 

 tilities the prosecution of which to a successful termination had been the first and fore- 

 most consideration of all of us over a period of practically six years. The resources of 

 the nation were fully utilized and proved their effectiveness in war. They have a peace- 

 time value which, if properly appraised and used efficiently, will secure for the nation 

 an economic future rich in material values, and worthy of the sacrifices which have been 

 made. 



In this scheme of reconstruction and re-appraisal, the Fish and Wildlife component 

 of our natural resources will assume a new value, as they constitute an important item 

 in our total economy. As a recreational medium they have a value which in a great 

 measure surpasses their material worth. Fishing and hunting are sports of the masses 

 as well as the classes, and as an asset to national health they occupy a ranking position. 



Characteristic of our way of life is our love of the out-of-doors. The recreational 

 possibilities of forest and field and lake and stream are an inspiration and invitation 

 I to a freer and fuller life, while the character building influence of the outdoor environ- 

 ment is an important factor in the development of good citizenship. 



The men who fought to protect this heritage and make it secure for posterity have, 

 by their courage and valour, firmly established the great outdoors as a memorial to 

 themselves. It is symbolic of peace and the finer things of life. Let us resolve to main- 

 tain it as such, remembering always that our freedom to enjoy it has been re-established 

 at a heavy cost. 



FINANCIAL 



The financial operations of the Department during the fiscal year under review are 

 detailed in the presentation which follows. 



The various sources of revenue and the receipts derived therefrom, as well as the 

 expenditures involved in the provision of sei-vices, are outlined in the following 

 statement. 



Careful scrutiny of these tables and the subsequent reference thereto will indicate 

 a very noticeable expansion of the interest which is now being displayed by sportsmen 

 in the beneficial recreation which emanates from participation in the twin sports of 

 angling and hunting which are available in the Province of Ontario. 



