The Cree Trappers’ Association (CTA) was formed in 1978 under the JBNQA. The members of this voluntary association with its regional office in Eastmain are Cree hunters and trappers, including beneficiaries of the Income Security Program for Cree Hunters and Trappers (ISP). Among the issues the CTA addresses are the use of traplines, improvement of trapping conditions, marketing of wild furs, management of wildlife resources and trapper training. The CTA has more than 3000 members in the nine Cree communities. In addition, each community has its own trappers’ association. The CTA and the local associations are asked to intervene in cases of disagreements regarding trapline boundaries.

Local trappers’ associations manage their own assistance programs from funds provided by the CTA, the band councils or the James Bay Eeyou Corporation. These programs deal with air and land transportation, building of camps and purchase of equipment, ammunition and fuel. Local associations also rent radiocommunication systems for trappers so they can remain in contact while in the bush. Certain local associations support cultural activities in their communities, and many try to find ways to help elderly trappers continue their activities.