Minister Loewen will attend the Safari Club International Convention Show in Nashville, Tennessee from Jan. 22 to 26. While in Tennessee, Minister Loewen and his team will connect with outdoor enthusiasts from around the world and promote the upcoming auction of Minister’s Special Licences for elk, mule deer, moose, pronghorn, cougar, whitetail deer and wild turkey.

The auction will take place in Salt Lake City, Utah from Feb. 15 to 16. Funds raised from the auction will be used within Alberta for conservation initiatives and the management of big game species. 

The recipients of the Minister’s Special Licence will be eligible to hunt year-round for one animal of the species associated with their tag from a Wildlife Management Area that has an existing hunting season for the species.

“Whether hiking, camping, hunting, angling or just seeing the sights, Alberta’s great outdoors have something to offer everyone. Wildlife conventions are excellent opportunities to build relations with our friends and partners in the United States and across the world, all while promoting our province’s rich and incredible landscapes. Through initiatives like these we can also support valuable conservation efforts, ensuring these species will remain in our province for generations to come.”

Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks

The minister will be joined by four government staff. Mission expenses will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page.

Itinerary for Minister Loewen

Jan. 21
  • Travel to Nashville, Tenn.

Jan. 22 - 25
  • Attend the Safari Club International Convention, meet with stakeholders.

Jan. 26
  • Return to Alberta.

*Subject to change.

Quick facts

  • The Minister’s Special Licence was created in 1995 and offers a unique opportunity each year for non-resident and resident hunters, via auction and raffle, to hunt certain game species with enhanced season lengths and an expanded hunting area.
  • Eight Minister’s Special Licences will be sold at auction in 2025, each valid for a different game species.
  • Holders of a Minister’s Special Licence are allowed to hunt year-round for the species associated with their tag. Harvest must occur from a Wildlife Management Area that has an existing hunting season for that species.
  • Last year, more than $1.2 million was raised by the Minister’s Special Licence program, supporting conservation projects in Alberta.
  • The holder of the Minister’s Special Licence is required to follow all applicable legislation, regulations, and municipal by-laws – including weapons use restrictions.

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