Wild fur harvest seen lower

THE COMING SEASON'S WILD FUR HARVEST IN NORTH AMERICA is expected to be smaller than last year's for most species. The weakening of the price structure in tandem with falling mink prices this year has dimmed trappers' profit prospects, especially in view of higher gas prices. For many trappers who are basically in the lumber or other outdoor businesses, particularly in the northern U.S. and southern Canada, trapping and hunting for pelts is being regarded more as an expensive hobby than as a second income - at least this year. A sharp upturn in prices, however, which would depend on demand, could reverse that attitude next year.

In parts of northern Canada, such as the Northwest Territories, Yukon and Nunavut, government conservation-related subsidies may help keep trappers more active. This would sustain the harvest of marten and other indigenous species.