Local smelt fishers are being urged to rethink this year's smelt run.
In an open letter, Algoma-Manitoulin MPP Michael Mantha asks people "take a moment and think of the potential negative impacts to your family, your elders, your community, and the public at large before choosing to leave your home", noting parks and trails are already closed and control measures have been put in place for travel through First Nations.
Mantha acknowledges "these are unprecedented time", but emphasizes that the procedures and regulations are "working towards a common goal" of protecting the public.
He notes Algoma Public Health warns against smelt fishing in more than "small family groups" - and to follow physical distancing recommendations of at least two metres or six feet - while Public Health Sudbury and Districts recommends against the smelt run, but emphasizes those who do participate must maintain physical distancing.