'Moosarandum of understanding' settles dispute between Canada and Norway

A "moosarandum of understanding" brings to an end the battlebetween communities in Saskatchewan and Norwayfighting over which one has the world's largest moose statue.

On Wednesday, Moose Jaw Mayor Fraser Tolmie and Stor-ElvdalDeputyMayor Linda Otnes Henriksen announced a "Moose Truce."

Henriksen'stown currently holds the record for largest moose statue in the world, a record that once belonged to Moose Jaw. The Saskatchwan city's Mac the Moose is 9.8-metres tall, while the Norwegian statue is 10 metres.

It has beenagreed that Mac willreclaim the title as world's tallest moose with alterations that will be paid for with a $25,000 donation fromMooseheadBreweries.Meanwhile,the four-year-oldstatue namedStorelgeninStor-Elvdal, will"forevermore be known as the shiniest and most attractive moose in the world."

TolmieandHenriksenalso discusseda potential twinning of theircommunitiesas well asseveral events that could provide tourism opportunities for both "moose-ipalities."

Premier does'moose dance'

During her visit to Saskatchewan, Henriksenstopped by Premier Scott Moe's office. After discussing the "Moose Truce" and posing for some photos, the Norwegian politician taught the premier a "moose dance"featured in a Visit Norwayvideo.

Tourism Moose Jaw is currently working with engineers to figure out how to safely make Mac taller.

"Mac is a bit older, and we had to look and make sure he will be structurally sound to take on new antlers," he said. "We're waiting for those reports back and then make that assessment."

Sask. Premier Scott Moe does the moose dance

6 years ago

Duration 0:20

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe shows his dance moves with Linda Otnes Henriksen of Norway, vice-mayor of the community with the world's tallest moose statue.

Mac is sculpted from concrete and steel and is located on the grounds of Moose Jaw's visitors' centre. It was built in 1984 by Saskatoon artist Don Foulds.

Moose Jaw will celebrate Norway Day each May 17 with an official proclamation and activities celebrating all things Norwegian.

In Stor-Elvdal, Oct. 15 is Storelgen's birthday. It will also be known as Canada Day, with an official proclamation and similar celebrations of Canadiana.

Henriksen came to Saskatchewan to meet with Tolmie on Saturday. Since then, she's been kept busy, including attending Prism Awards for businesswomen in Moose Jaw, school visits and a trip to the base at 15 Wing Moose Jaw.

"Everyone here has been so great. This has just been amazing," she said. "I am charmed."

The proposed "moosarandum of understanding" was signed by Tolmie and Hendriksen, but will have to be approved by their respective municipal councils.