Minister Loewen will attend the Wild Sheep Foundation Sheep Show in Reno from Jan.18-21.

During the visit, the minister and his team will connect with hunting enthusiasts from around the world and highlight Alberta’s unique hunting and outdoor recreation opportunities. They will also promote the Minister’s Special Licence for bighorn sheep, which will be auctioned during the show. Funds raised from the auction will be used within Alberta for conservation initiatives and the management of big game species.

“Hunting plays an important role in our province’s conservation efforts and helps sustain healthy wildlife populations. I look forward to inviting outdoorsmen from around the world to come and experience Alberta’s great range of wildlife and abundant natural spaces.”

Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks

Minister Loewen will be accompanied by three staff members. Mission expenses will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page.

Itinerary for Minister Loewen*

Jan. 18
  • Travel to Reno, Nev.

Jan. 19
  • Attend the Wild Sheep Foundation Sheep Show

Jan. 20
  • Meetings with stakeholders
  • Speaking opportunity at the Sheep Show auction

Jan. 21
  • Return to Alberta

*Subject to change.

Quick facts

  • The Minister’s Special Licence (MSL) Program offers opportunities for 12 non-resident and resident hunters, via auction and raffle, to hunt six species of game animals using enhanced season lengths and an expanded hunting area.
  • Holders of an MSL are allowed to hunt year-round for the species associated with their tag, as long as they are in a Wildlife Management Area that has an existing hunting season for the species.
  • Since 1995, more than $9 million has been raised through the sale of MSLs.
  • Last year, the bighorn sheep licence sold for US$385,000.
  • Government staff monitor bighorn sheep populations to ensure sustainability.

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