Food from Nature

Banner with a collage of two photos including a close up of saskatoon berries on the bush as well as a buck in the forest

While much of the food we consume is a product of an industrialized food system, there are alternative ways of accessing food from the land. It is important to acknowledge this land called Manitoba that is our home. We recognize that Manitoba is on the Treaty Territories and the ancestral lands of the Anishinaabeg, Anishininewuk, Dakota Oyate, Denesuline and Nehethowuk Peoples. We acknowledge Manitoba is located on the Homeland of the Red River Métis. We acknowledge northern Manitoba includes lands that were the ancestral lands of the Inuit. We respect the spirit and intent of Treaties and Treaty Making and remain committed to working in partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Metis people in the spirit of truth, reconciliation, and collaboration.

The following two land-based practices are regulated and should be treated with caution, care, and respect. 

Fishing

Manitoba offers a wide variety of fish species to enjoy year-round. There are strict regulations in place to ensure that fishing in Manitoba minimizes harm to the environment, and the spread of aquatic diseases. Take the time to learn more about what and where to fish in the Manitoba Angler's Guide 2023.

Hunting

Hunting is a seasonal activity enjoyed by some and used as a means of subsistence living by others. Only a few wild species are allowed to be hunted. Interested in hunting in Manitoba? We encourage you to learn more about what and where to hunt in Manitoba’s Hunting Guide 2023 and the 2023-2024 Trapping Guide. For more information and regulations on wildlife activities, click here.

See something that you think isn’t right? Contact your local Conversation Office Services here. 

Gathering and Foraging

While gathering and foraging food is not a regulated activity, it should still be treated with an abundance of caution and care. Manitoba is home to a wide variety of edible medicines, plants, and mushrooms. The ability to identify species that are safe to eat comes with knowledge, experience, practice, and time. Explore this guide to learn more about the crops and medicinal plants grown in Manitoba. 

Contact

If you have any questions or would like this information in an alternate format, email us at localfood@gov.mb.ca.