In 1909, the federal government established the Advisory Board on Wildlife Protection, which notably included
C.G. Hewitt and
James Harkin as prominent members. This board would go on to sign the
Migratory Bird Convention with the United States because of concern both countries had regarding the uncontrolled hunting of
waterfowl and
shorebirds. The original
MBCA law was passed to satisfy the terms of this agreement with the
United States. The updated version includes stronger enforcement and greater penalties. A geographical area may be designated as a
Migratory Bird Refuge under this convention; this restricts activities targeting a specified set of birds in that area, but does not protect the land or water features. To establish complete
habitat protection, the more stringent requirements of the
Canada Wildlife Act are necessary. ==See also==