NOTE TO EDITORS: Photos of licence winner Erica Riley are available at novascotia.ca/news/photos/2016/12/19/

The winners of this year’s Licence of a Lifetime lottery will never have to buy another fishing, small game or deer hunting licence in Nova Scotia.

This is the 24th year the province and the Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters have jointly offered the prize.

Natural Resources Minister Lloyd Hines and Ian Avery, federation president, randomly selected the names of Danny Bowie, Guysborough Co. and Erica Riley, Colchester Co.

“Thousands of Nova Scotians enjoy the pastimes of hunting and fishing in our province and these activities have been experienced here for many generations,” said Mr. Hines. “Both winners can now enjoy those opportunities free of charge, every year.”

Each winner receives a general fishing licence, a small game hunting licence, and their choice of a deer hunting, bear hunting, bear snaring or furharvester licence.

“We know Nova Scotians love to hunt and fish, and these two lucky Nova Scotians will enjoy both activities without paying for a licence ever again,” said Mr. Avery. “Thank you to the departments of Natural Resources and Fisheries and Aquaculture for their co-operation and support and we look forward many more years of the Licence of a Lifetime contest.”

The Licence of a Lifetime is a fundraiser to support the federation’s education and advocacy programs. The names of hunters and anglers who purchased tickets were entered into the annual draw.

All holders of hunting and fishing licences in Nova Scotia must first have a wildlife resources card and appropriate training. Information about the card is available at www.novascotia.ca/natr/hunt.

Source: Release