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Harvesters and trappers are once again able to capitalize on the demand for beaver castors in the global market with funding made available through the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT).

Last spring, beaver castors were added to the Genuine Mackenzie Valley Fur program. Due to the success of the initial funding opportunity, the GWNT is offering funding once again. Trappers can be advanced $65 for each pound of dried beaver castors, or approximately eight dried castors.

If the castors sell for more at auction, the trapper will receive the proceeds and prime fur bonus.

Beavers produce castoreum, which they use to scent mark in their territory, from a pair of castor sacs located near their anal glands between the pelvis and the base of their tail. Castoreum is highly prized as a flavouring and also as an ingredient in perfumes.

Castors must be removed and dried properly to be eligible. Reference sheets on how to do this are available on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (ENR) website and from ENR offices. Training can also be provided upon request.

Castors are received by ENR year-round. The first shipping date to the buy is January 6, 2023.

For media requests, please contact:

Jessica Davey-Quantick

Communications Planning Specialist

Department of Environment and Natural Resources

Government of the Northwest Territories

Jessica_Davey-Quantick@gov.nt.ca