Proposed Rule2026-10465
National Wildlife Refuge System; 2026-2027 Station-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations
Primary source
Metadata and text below are from the Federal Register, a public-domain U.S. government work. Always verify the official published version before relying on it for any legal matter.
Published
May 27, 2026
Issuing agencies
Interior DepartmentFish and Wildlife Service
Abstract
We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to open or expand hunting opportunities on 111 field stations, including 107 units of the National Wildlife Refuges System (Refuge System or NWRS) and 4 units of the National Fish Hatchery System (Hatchery System or NFHS). This includes opening hunting or sport fishing opportunities for the first time on 14 National Wildlife Refuges (NWR) and 3 National Fish Hatcheries (NFH). The proposed actions will open or expand more than 1,450 opportunities for hunting and fishing across the NWRS and NFHS. In accordance with Secretary's Order 3447 and Director's Order 233, we also propose to make changes to existing station-specific regulations in order to improve the clarity and accuracy of regulations, reduce the regulatory burden on the public, ensure consistency across FWS lands and waters, and comply with a Presidential mandate for plain-language standards.
Full Text
<html>
<head>
<title>Federal Register, Volume 91 Issue 101 (Wednesday, May 27, 2026)</title>
</head>
<body><pre>
[Federal Register Volume 91, Number 101 (Wednesday, May 27, 2026)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 31580-31642]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2026-10465]
[[Page 31579]]
Vol. 91
Wednesday,
No. 101
May 27, 2026
Part III
Department of the Interior
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Fish and Wildlife Service
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
50 CFR Parts 32 and 71
National Wildlife Refuge System; 2026-2027 Station-Specific Hunting and
Sport Fishing Regulations; Proposed Rule
Federal Register / Vol. 91 , No. 101 / Wednesday, May 27, 2026 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 31580]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Fish and Wildlife Service
50 CFR Parts 32 and 71
[Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-1223; FXRS12610900000-267-FF09R20000]
RIN 1018-BI71
National Wildlife Refuge System; 2026-2027 Station-Specific
Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations
AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
ACTION: Proposed rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to
open or expand hunting opportunities on 111 field stations, including
107 units of the National Wildlife Refuges System (Refuge System or
NWRS) and 4 units of the National Fish Hatchery System (Hatchery System
or NFHS). This includes opening hunting or sport fishing opportunities
for the first time on 14 National Wildlife Refuges (NWR) and 3 National
Fish Hatcheries (NFH). The proposed actions will open or expand more
than 1,450 opportunities for hunting and fishing across the NWRS and
NFHS. In accordance with Secretary's Order 3447 and Director's Order
233, we also propose to make changes to existing station-specific
regulations in order to improve the clarity and accuracy of
regulations, reduce the regulatory burden on the public, ensure
consistency across FWS lands and waters, and comply with a Presidential
mandate for plain-language standards.
DATES: Comments will be accepted on or before June 26, 2026. Comments
submitted electronically using the Federal eRulemaking Portal (see
ADDRESSES, below) must be received by 11:59 p.m. eastern time on the
closing date.
To ensure your comment is received and considered, you must submit
it using one of the methods identified in the ADDRESSES section of this
document. Comments submitted through any method not authorized in this
document, or sent to an address not listed here, will not be
considered.
Information collection requirements: If you wish to comment on the
information collection requirements in this proposed rule, please note
that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is required to make a
decision concerning the collection of information contained in this
proposed rule between 30 and 60 days after the date of publication of
this proposed rule in the Federal Register. Therefore, comments should
be submitted to the Service Information Collection Clearance Officer,
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, (see ``Information collection
requirements'' below under ADDRESSES) by July 27, 2026.
ADDRESSES: Comment submission: All submissions must include the docket
number (FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-1223) for this document. You must submit
comments using one of the following methods:
<bullet> Electronically: Federal eRulemaking Portal: <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a>. In the Search box, type in FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-1223,
which is the docket number for this rulemaking. Then, click on the
Search button. On the resulting screen, find the correct document and
submit a comment by clicking on ``Comment.''
<bullet> Submit by U.S. mail or hand delivery: Public Comments
Processing, Attn: FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-1223, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, 5275 Leesburg Pike, MS: PRB (JAO/3W), Falls Church, VA 22041-
3803.
Comments submitted through any method not authorized in this
document, or sent to an address not listed here, will not be
considered. We will not accept comments via email, fax, or hand
delivery. We are not required to consider comments that are submitted
after the comment period ends or that are submitted via a method
outside of these instructions. Comments containing profanity,
vulgarity, threats, or other inappropriate content will not be
considered.
We will post all comments at <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a>. You may
request that we withhold personal identifying information from public
review; however, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.
Supporting documents: For information on a specific refuge's or
hatchery's public use program and the conditions that apply to it,
contact the respective Regional office at the address or phone number
given in Available Information for Specific Stations under
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION, below.
Information collection requirements: Send your comments on the
information collection request to the Service Information Collection
Clearance Officer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, by one of the
methods specified above. Please reference OMB Control Number 1018-0140
in your comments.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Julie Henning, Branch Chief of
Conservation Planning and Policy, <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#0d6778616468526568636364636a4d6b7a7e236a627b"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="3b514e57525e64535e555552555c7b5d4c48155c544d">[email protected]</span></a>. Please see
Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-1223 on <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a> for a
document that summarizes this proposed rule.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as
amended (Administration Act; 16 U.S.C. 668dd-668ee), closes NWRs in all
States except Alaska to all uses until opened. The Secretary of the
Interior (Secretary) may open refuge areas to any use, including
hunting and/or sport fishing, upon a determination that the use is
compatible with the purposes of the refuge and Refuge System mission.
The action also must be in accordance with provisions of all laws
applicable to the areas, developed in coordination with the appropriate
State fish and wildlife agency(ies), consistent with the principles of
sound fish and wildlife management and administration, and otherwise in
the public interest. These requirements ensure that we maintain the
biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health of the Refuge
System for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.
We annually review hunting and sport fishing programs to determine
whether to include additional stations or whether individual station
regulations governing existing programs need modifications. Changing
environmental conditions, State and Federal regulations, and other
factors affecting fish and wildlife populations and habitat may warrant
modifications to station-specific regulations to ensure the continued
compatibility of hunting and sport fishing programs and to ensure that
these programs will not materially interfere with or detract from the
fulfillment of station purposes or the Refuge System's mission.
Provisions governing hunting and sport fishing on refuges are in
title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) at part 32 (50 CFR
part 32), and provisions for hatcheries at part 71 (50 CFR part 71). We
regulate hunting and sport fishing to:
<bullet> Ensure compatibility with refuge and hatchery purpose(s);
<bullet> Properly manage fish and wildlife resource(s);
<bullet> Protect other values;
<bullet> Ensure visitor safety; and
<bullet> Provide opportunities for fish- and wildlife-dependent
recreation.
On many stations where we decide to allow hunting and sport
fishing, our general policy of adopting regulations identical to State
hunting and sport fishing regulations is adequate to meet these
objectives. On other stations, we must supplement State regulations
with more-restrictive Federal regulations to
[[Page 31581]]
ensure that we meet our management responsibilities, as outlined under
Statutory Authority, below. We issue station-specific hunting and sport
fishing regulations when we open NWRs and NFHs to migratory game bird
hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting, or sport fishing. These
regulations may list the wildlife species that you may hunt or fish;
seasons; bag or creel (container for carrying fish) limits; methods of
hunting or sport fishing; descriptions of areas open to hunting or
sport fishing; and other provisions as appropriate.
Statutory Authority
The Administration Act, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge
System Improvement Act of 1997 (Improvement Act; Pub. L. 105-57),
governs the administration and public use of refuges, and the Refuge
Recreation Act of 1962 (Recreation Act; 16 U.S.C. 460k-460k-4) governs
the administration and public use of refuges and hatcheries.
Amendments enacted by the Improvement Act were built upon the
Administration Act in a manner that provides an ``organic act'' for the
Refuge System, similar to organic acts that exist for other public
Federal lands. The Improvement Act serves to ensure that we effectively
manage the Refuge System as a national network of lands, waters, and
interests for the protection and conservation of our Nation's wildlife
resources. The Administration Act states first and foremost that we
focus our Refuge System mission on conservation of fish, wildlife, and
plant resources and their habitats. The Improvement Act requires the
Secretary, before allowing a new use of a refuge, or before expanding,
renewing, or extending an existing use of a refuge, to determine that
the use is compatible with the purpose for which the refuge was
established and the mission of the Refuge System. The Improvement Act
established as the policy of the United States that wildlife-dependent
recreation, when compatible, is a legitimate and appropriate public use
of the Refuge System, through which the American public can develop an
appreciation for fish and wildlife. The Improvement Act established six
wildlife-dependent recreational uses as the priority general public
uses of the Refuge System. These uses are hunting, fishing, wildlife
observation and photography, and environmental education and
interpretation.
The Recreation Act authorizes the Secretary to administer areas
within the Refuge and Hatchery Systems for public recreation as an
appropriate incidental or secondary use only to the extent that doing
so is practicable and not inconsistent with the primary purpose(s) for
which Congress and the Service established the areas. The Recreation
Act requires that any recreational use of refuge or hatchery lands be
compatible with the primary purpose(s) for which we established the
refuge and not inconsistent with other previously authorized
operations.
The Administration Act and Recreation Act also authorize the
Secretary to issue regulations to carry out the purposes of the Acts
and regulate public uses.
We develop specific management plans for each refuge prior to
opening it to hunting or sport fishing. In many cases, we develop
station-specific regulations to ensure the compatibility of the hunting
and fishing programs with the purpose(s) for which we established the
refuge or hatchery and the Refuge or Hatchery System mission,
respectively. We ensure initial compliance with the Administration Act
and the Recreation Act for hunting and sport fishing on newly acquired
land through an interim determination of compatibility made at or near
the time of acquisition. These regulations ensure that we make the
determinations required by these acts prior to adding refuges or
hatcheries to the lists of areas open to hunting and sport fishing in
50 CFR parts 32 or 71, respectively. We ensure continued compliance by
the development of comprehensive conservation plans and step-down
management plans, and by annual review of hunting and sport fishing
programs and regulations.
Proposed Amendments to Existing Regulations
This proposal is part of an annual review of hunting and sport
fishing regulations for the Refuge and Hatchery Systems and represents
our proposed changes that would be effective beginning with the 2026-
2027 hunting/fishing season. This proposal is meant to better inform
the general public of the regulations at each station, to increase
understanding and compliance with these regulations, and to make
enforcement of these regulations more efficient. In addition to
publishing the revised regulations in 50 CFR parts 32 and 71, visitors
to our stations may find them reiterated in literature distributed by
each station or posted on signs. Attachment A: Proposed Openings and
Expansions for the 2026-2027 Hunting/Sport Fishing Season, provided in
the supporting documents in Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-1223 on <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a>, summarizes the proposed increased access to
hunting and sport fishing opportunities at each of the 111 field
stations, and specifically denotes the openings and expansions of
migratory bird hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting, and/or
sport fishing, respectively, on each station.
The changes for the 2026-2027 season are based on a complete
administrative record, which includes a hunt plan, a compatibility
determination (for refuges), the appropriate National Environmental
Policy Act (NEPA; 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) analysis, and other
documents. These documents are also subject to a public review and
comment process, see discussion below under National Environmental
Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.). All of these documents are
available upon request, see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT, above.
Special Topics in This Rulemaking Related to Lead Use
In 2022 and 2023, the Service finalized regulations requiring the
use of non-lead shot shells, single-fire ammunition, and/or fishing
tackle at nine NWRs (87 FR 57108, September 16, 2022, and 88 FR 74050,
October 30, 2023). These regulations are scheduled to go into effect on
September 1, 2026. The Service proposes in the current rulemaking to
rescind these regulations and invites the public to comment on the
proposed changes. Table 1, below, summarizes the previously finalized
provisions that are not in effect at this time.
Table 1--Non-Lead Ammunition and Tackle Regulations for Nine NWRs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Previously Finalized Regulation, not in
State National Wildlife Refuge effect until September 1, 2026
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Indiana................................. Patoka River NWR........... You may only use or possess approved non-
lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle
while in the field (87 FR 57108 at
57129, September 16, 2022).
Maine................................... Great Thicket NWR.......... You may only use or possess approved non-
lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle
while in the field (88 FR 74050 at
74064, October 30, 2023).
[[Page 31582]]
Maine................................... Rachel Carson NWR.......... You may only use or possess approved non-
lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle
while in the field (88 FR 74050 at
74064, October 30, 2023).
Maryland................................ Blackwater NWR............. You may only use or possess approved non-
lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle
while in the field (88 FR 74050 at
74064, October 30, 2023).
Maryland................................ Eastern Neck NWR........... You may only use or possess approved non-
lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle
while in the field (88 FR 74050 at
74064, October 30, 2023).
Maryland................................ Patuxent Research Refuge... You may only use or possess approved non-
lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle
while in the field (88 FR 74050 at
74064, October 30, 2023).
Pennsylvania............................ Erie NWR................... You may only use or possess approved non-
lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle
while in the field (88 FR 74050 at
74065, October 30, 2023).
Virginia................................ Chincoteague NWR........... You may only use or possess approved non-
lead shot shells and ammunition while in
the field (88 FR 74050 at 74066, October
30, 2023).
Virginia................................ Wallops Island NWR......... You may only use or possess approved non-
lead shot shells, ammunition, and tackle
while in the field (88 FR 74050 at
74066, October 30, 2023).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additionally, the Service requests comments on the use of lead
ammunition at Canaan Valley NWR in West Virginia. The Service is
seeking public comment on whether or not the Service should promulgate
a lead-free requirement for hunting on the entire Canaan Valley NWR,
with immediate or delayed effect (i.e., a phase out). See Request for
Comments, below, for information on how to provide comments.
Fish Advisory
For health reasons, anglers should review and follow State-issued
consumption advisories before enjoying recreational sport fishing
opportunities on Service-managed waters. You can find information about
current fish-consumption advisories on the internet at <a href="https://www.epa.gov/choose-fish-and-shellfish-wisely">https://www.epa.gov/choose-fish-and-shellfish-wisely</a>.
Request for Comments
You must submit comments and materials on this proposed rule by one
of the methods listed in ADDRESSES. We will not accept comments sent by
email or fax or to an address not listed in ADDRESSES. We will not
consider hand-delivered comments that we do not receive, or mailed
comments that are not postmarked, by the date specified in DATES.
We will post your entire comment on <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a>.
Before including personal identifying information in your comment, you
should be aware that we may make your entire comment--including your
personal identifying information--publicly available at any time. While
you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying
information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be
able to do so. We will post all hardcopy comments on <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a>.
Required Determinations
Clarity of This Proposed Rule
Executive Orders (E.O.s) 12866 and 12988 and the Presidential
Memorandum of June 1, 1998, require us to write all rules in plain
language. This means that each rule we publish must:
(a) Be logically organized;
(b) Use the active voice to address readers directly;
(c) Use clear language rather than jargon;
(d) Be divided into short sections and sentences; and
(e) Use lists and tables wherever possible.
If you feel that we have not met these requirements, send us
comments by one of the methods listed in ADDRESSES. To better help us
revise the rule, your comments should be as specific as possible. For
example, you should tell us the numbers of the sections or paragraphs
that are unclearly written, which sections or sentences are too long,
the sections where you feel lists or tables would be useful, etc.
Regulatory Planning and Review (E.O.s 12866 and 13563)
E.O. 12866 provides that the Office of Information and Regulatory
Affairs (OIRA) in the OMB will review all significant rules. OIRA has
determined that this proposed rule is not significant.
E.O. 13563 reaffirms the principles of E.O. 12866 while calling for
improvements in the Nation's regulatory system to promote
predictability, to reduce uncertainty, and to use the best, most
innovative, and least burdensome tools for achieving regulatory ends.
E.O. 13563 directs agencies to consider regulatory approaches that
reduce burdens and maintain flexibility and freedom of choice for the
public where these approaches are relevant, feasible, and consistent
with regulatory objectives. E.O. 13563 emphasizes further that
regulations must be based on the best available science and that the
rulemaking process must allow for public participation and an open
exchange of ideas. We have developed these proposed revisions and
additions to the CFR in a manner consistent with these requirements.
Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.)
Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA; 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.),
as amended by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of
1996 (SBREFA; 5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), whenever a Federal agency is
required to publish a notice of rulemaking for any proposed or final
rule, it must prepare and make available for public comment a
regulatory flexibility analysis that describes the effect of the rule
on small entities (i.e., small businesses, small organizations, and
small government jurisdictions). However, no regulatory flexibility
analysis is required if the head of an agency certifies that the rule
will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of
small entities. Thus, for a regulatory flexibility analysis to be
required, impacts must exceed a threshold for ``significant impact''
and a threshold for a ``substantial number of small entities'' (see 5
U.S.C. 605(b)). SBREFA amended the RFA to require Federal agencies to
provide a statement of the factual basis for certifying that a rule
will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of
small entities.
This proposed rule would open or expand hunting or fishing on 111
FWS stations. For the full statement of the anticipated economic impact
of this increased recreational access for hunters and anglers through
changes in participation and associated changes to local economic
activity around the
[[Page 31583]]
individual stations, please see the supporting document ``Attachment B:
Regulatory Flexibility Act Economic Analysis'' in Docket No. FWS-HQ-
NWRS-2026-1223 on <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a>. The Attachment B
analysis details that the maximum estimate for the potential impact of
added hunter and angler spending on local economies is approximately
$2.2 million annually, but given that most of the increased access will
just be a substitute activity for existing hunting and most hunters and
anglers travel no more than 100 miles, the true impact on local
economies is more likely to be approximately $1.1 million annually.
With the small change in overall spending anticipated from this
proposed rule, it is unlikely that a substantial number of small
entities will have more than a small impact from the spending change
near the affected stations. Therefore, we certify that this rule, as
proposed, will not have a significant economic effect on a substantial
number of small entities as defined under the Regulatory Flexibility
Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.). A regulatory flexibility analysis is not
required. Accordingly, a small entity compliance guide is not required.
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.)
Since this proposed rule would apply to public use of federally
owned and managed refuges, it would not impose an unfunded mandate on
State, local, or Tribal governments or the private sector of more than
$100 million per year. The proposed rule would not have a significant
or unique effect on State, local, or Tribal governments or the private
sector. A statement containing the information required by the Unfunded
Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) is not required.
Takings (E.O. 12630)
In accordance with E.O. 12630, this proposed rule would not have
significant takings implications. This proposed rule would affect only
NWRS and NFHS visitors and would describe what they can do while they
are on a Service station.
Federalism (E.O. 13132)
As discussed under Regulatory Planning and Review and Unfunded
Mandates Reform Act, above, this proposed rule would not have
sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a
federalism summary impact statement under E.O. 13132. In preparing this
proposed rule, we worked with State governments.
Civil Justice Reform (E.O. 12988)
In accordance with E.O. 12988, the Department of the Interior has
determined that this proposed rule would not unduly burden the judicial
system and that it meets the requirements of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2)
of the E.O.
Energy Supply, Distribution or Use (E.O. 13211)
On May 18, 2001, the President issued E.O. 13211 on regulations
that significantly affect energy supply, distribution, or use. E.O.
13211 requires agencies to prepare statements of energy effects when
undertaking certain actions. Because this proposed rule would open or
expand hunting at 111 stations, it is not a significant regulatory
action under E.O. 12866, and we do not expect it to significantly
affect energy supplies, distribution, or use. Therefore, this action is
not a significant energy action, and no statement of energy effects is
required.
Consultation and Coordination With Indian Tribal Governments (E.O.
13175)
In accordance with E.O. 13175, we have evaluated possible effects
on federally recognized Indian Tribes and have determined that there
are no effects. We coordinate recreational use on NWRs and NFHs with
Tribal governments having adjoining or overlapping jurisdiction before
we propose the regulations.
Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)
This rule contains existing collections of information. All
information collections require approval by the Office of Management
and Budget (OMB) under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA; 44
U.S.C. 3501 et seq.). An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a
person is not required to respond to, a collection of information
unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB has
reviewed and approved the information collection requirements
associated with hunting and sport fishing activities across the
National Wildlife Refuge System and National Fish Hatchery System and
assigned the following OMB control numbers:
<bullet> 1018-0140, ``Hunting and Sport Fishing Application Forms
and Activity Reports for National Wildlife Refuges, 50 CFR 25.41,
25.43, 25.51, 26.32, 26.33, 27.42, 30.11, 31.15, 32.1 to 32.72''
(Expires 12/31/2028),
<bullet> 1018-0102, ``National Wildlife Refuge Special Use Permit
Applications and Reports, 50 CFR 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32, & 36''
(Expires 04/30/2026, and in accordance with 5 CFR 1320.10, an agency
may continue to conduct or sponsor this collection of information while
the submission is pending at OMB),
<bullet> 1018-0135, ``Electronic Federal Duck Stamp Program''
(Expires 06/30/2028),
<bullet> 1018-0093, ``Federal Fish and Wildlife Permit Applications
and Reports-Management Authority; 50 CFR 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23''
(Expires 12/31/2026), and
<bullet> 1024-0252, ``The Interagency Access Pass and Senior Pass
Application Processes'' (Expires 10/31/2027).
In accordance with the PRA and its implementing regulations at 5
CFR 1320.8(d)(1), we provide the general public and other Federal
agencies with an opportunity to comment on our intent to ask OMB to
approval an extension without change to OMB Control Number 1018-0140.
As part of our continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent
burdens, and in accordance with 5 CFR 1320.8(d)(1), we invite the
public and other Federal agencies to comment on any aspect of this
proposed information collection, including:
(1) Whether or not the collection of information is necessary for
the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including
whether or not the information will have practical utility;
(2) The accuracy of our estimate of the burden for this collection
of information, including the validity of the methodology and
assumptions used;
(3) Ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the
information to be collected; and
(4) Ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on
those who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate
automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection
techniques or other forms of information technology, e.g., permitting
electronic submission of response.
The existing reporting and/or recordkeeping requirements identified
below require approval by OMB:
FORM 3-2358, ``SPORT FISHING-SHRIMPING-CRABBING PERMIT
APPLICATION''--Form 3-2358 collects the following information:
<bullet> Date of application: We often have application deadlines,
and this information helps staff determine the order in which we
received the applications. It also ensures that the information is
current.
<bullet> State fishing license number: We ask for this information
to verify the applicant is legally licensed by the State (where
required).
[[Page 31584]]
<bullet> Permit type: On sport fishing permits, we ask what type of
activity (crabbing, shrimping, crabbing, frogging, etc.) is being
applied for.
<bullet> Applicant information: We collect name, address, phone
number(s), and email so we can contact the applicant/permittee either
during the application process or after receiving a permit.
<bullet> Signature and date: To confirm that the applicant (and
parent/guardian, if a youth hunter) understands the terms and
conditions of the permit.
FORM 3-2405 ``SELF-CLEARING CHECK-IN/OUT PERMIT''--Form 3-2405 has
three parts:
1. Self-Clearing Daily Check-in Permit. Each user completes this
portion of the form (date of visit, name, and telephone numbers) and
deposits it in the permit box prior to engaging in any activity on the
refuge.
2. Self-Clearing Daily Visitor Registration Permit. Each user must
complete the front side of the form (date, name, city, State, zip code,
and purpose of visit) and carry this portion while on the refuge. At
the completion of the visit, each user must complete the reverse side
of the form (number of hours on refuge, harvest information (species
and number), harvest method, angler information (species and number),
and wildlife sighted (e.g., black bear and hog)) and deposit it in the
permit box.
3. Self-Clearing Daily Vehicle Permit. The driver and each user
traveling in the vehicle must complete this part and display in clear
view in the vehicle while on the refuge.
Form 3-2405 collects:
<bullet> Information on the visitor (name, address, and contact
information). We use this information to identify the visitor or
driver/passenger of a vehicle while on the refuge. This is extremely
valuable information should visitors become lost or injured. Law
enforcement officers can easily check vehicles for these cards in order
to determine a starting point for the search or to contact family
members in the event of an abandoned vehicle. Having this information
readily available is critical in a search and rescue situation.
<bullet> Purpose of visit (hunting, sport fishing, wildlife
observation, wildlife photography, auto touring, birding, hiking,
boating/canoeing, visitor center, special event, environmental
education class, volunteering, other recreation). This information is
critical in determining public use participation in wildlife management
programs. This not only allows the refuge to manage its hunt and other
visitor use programs, but also to increase and/or improve facilities
for non-consumptive uses that are becoming more popular on refuges.
Data collected will also help managers better allocate staff and
resources to serve the public as well as develop annual performance
measures.
<bullet> Total number of hunt days on the refuge (at the conclusion
of their hunting activities). Refuge management will use this
information to monitor and evaluate hunt quality and resource impacts.
<bullet> Success of harvest by hunters/anglers (number and type of
harvest/caught). This information is critical to wildlife management
programs on refuges. Each refuge will customize the form by listing
game species and incidental species available on the refuge, hunting
methods allowed, and data needed for certain species (e.g., for deer,
whether it's a buck or doe and the number of points; or for turkeys,
the weight and beard and spur lengths).
<bullet> Whether or not visitors observed black bear or hogs, for
example. This information will help managers develop annual performance
measures for hog removal, and it provides information to help develop
resource management planning.
<bullet> Photograph of animal harvested (specific refuges only).
This requirement documents the sex of animal prior to the hunter being
eligible to harvest the opposite sex (where allowed).
<bullet> Date of visit and/or area visited.
<bullet> Comments. We encourage visitors to comment on their
experience.
Refuges may customize Form 3-2405 to remove questions identified
above which are not applicable to their site. However, they may not add
new questions not approved by OMB.
FORM 3-2439, ``HUNTING APPLICATION/PERMIT''--Form 3-2439 collects
the following information:
<bullet> Lottery application: Refuges who administer hunting via a
lottery system use Form 3-2439 as the lottery application. If the
applicant is successful, the completed Form 3-2439 also serves as their
permit application, avoiding a duplication of burden on the public
filling out two separate forms.
<bullet> Date of application: We often have application deadlines,
and this information helps staff determine the order in which we
received the applications. It also ensures that the information is
current.
<bullet> Methods: Some refuges hold multiple types of hunts (i.e.
archery, shotgun, primitive weapons, etc). We ask for this information
to identify which opportunity(ies) a hunter is applying for.
<bullet> Species permit type: Some refuges allow only certain
species, such as moose, elk, or bighorn sheep, to be hunted. We ask
hunters to identify which species hunt they are applying for.
<bullet> Applicant information: We collect name, address, phone
number(s), and email so we can contact the applicant/permittee either
during the application process, when the applicant is successful in a
lottery drawing, or after receiving a permit.
<bullet> Party members: Some refuges allow the permit applicant to
include additional hunters in their group. We collect the names of all
additional hunters, when allowed by the refuge.
<bullet> Parent/Guardian contact information: We collect name,
relationship, address, phone number(s), and email for a parent/guardian
of youth hunters. We ask for this information in the event of an
emergency.
<bullet> Date: We ask hunters for their preferences for hunt dates.
<bullet> Hunt/Blind location: We ask hunters for their preferences
for hunt units, areas, or blinds.
<bullet> Special hunts: Some refuges hold special hunts for youth,
hunters who are disabled, or other underserved populations. We ask
hunters to identify if they are applying for these special hunts. For
youth hunts, we ask for the age of the hunter at the time of the hunt.
<bullet> Signature and date: To confirm that the applicant (and
parent/guardian, if a youth hunter) understands the terms and
conditions of the permit.
<bullet> Disabled hunts: Some refuges provide an option to allow
mobility-impaired applicants to reserve specific hunting blinds upon
providing proof of disability. The refuge will not retain the proof of
disability. The documentation will be shredded upon approval of the
blind reservation.
<bullet> Mentored Hunts: For refuges conducting mentored hunts, the
Service and partners collect the following information to determine
eligibility for the program the hunter applies to participate in. The
Service requires all mentored hunt participants to sign the Service's
``USFWS Release and Waiver of Liability,'' as well as a Form 3-2260,
``Agreement for Use of Likeness in Audio/Visual Products,'' when they
are on the Refuge.
--Emergency contact (name and phone number);
--Applicant hunting history, such as:
--Whether applicant has completed a basic hunter education course;
--Whether applicant has purchased a hunting license, and if yes, when;
--Previous hunting experience;
--Previous participation in a mentored hunt program;
--Interest in hunting;
[[Page 31585]]
--Family history of hunting;
--Whether applicant owns equipment and if yes, type of equipment; and
--Medical conditions/allergies for program staff to be aware of in the
event of an emergency.
Refuges offering hunting opportunities may customize Form 3-2439 to
remove questions identified above which are not applicable to their
hunting seasons. However, they may not add new questions not approved
by OMB.
FORM 3-2542, ``HUNTER HARVEST REPORT''--Form 3-2542 collects the
following information:
<bullet> State-issued hunter identification (ID)/license number.
(Note: Refuges/hatcheries who rely on the State agency to issue hunting
permits are not required to collect the permittee's personal
identifying information (PII) on the harvest form. Those refuges/
hatcheries may opt to collect only the State ID number assigned to the
hunter in order to match harvest data with their issued permit.
Refuges/hatcheries will collect either hunter PII or State-issued ID
number, but not both.)
<bullet> Species observed--Data will be used by refuge/hatchery
staff to document the presence of rare or unusual species.
<bullet> Permit number/type--Data will be used to link the harvest
report to the issued permit.
<bullet> Hunt tag number--Data will be used to link the harvest
report to the species-specific hunt tag.
<bullet> Number of youth (younger than age 18) in party--Data will
be used to better understand volume of youth hunting on a refuge/
hatchery. Specific hunter names are not collected, just total number of
youths in hunting party.
<bullet> Harvested by--Data will be used to determine ratio of
adults to youth hunters. Specific hunter names are not collected.
<bullet> Species observed--Data will be used by a refuge/hatchery
to determine the presence of any unusual species (e.g., endangered or
threatened species, or invasive species).
Refuges offering hunting opportunities may customize Form 3-2542 to
remove questions identified above which are not applicable to their
hunting seasons. However, they may not add new questions not approved
by OMB.
LABELING/MARKING REQUIREMENTS--As a condition of the permit, some
refuges require permittees to label hunting and/or sport fishing gear
used on the refuge. This equipment may include items such as the
following: tree stands, blinds, or game cameras; hunting dogs
(collars); flagging/trail markers; boats; and/or sport fishing
equipment such as jugs, trotlines, and crawfish or crab traps. Refuges
require the owner label their equipment with their last name, the
State-issued hunting/fishing license number, and/or hunting/fishing
permit number. Refuges may also require equipment for youth hunters
include ``YOUTH'' on the label. This minimal information is necessary
in the event the refuge needs to contact the owner.
REQUIRED NOTIFICATIONS--On occasion, hunters may find their game
has landed outside of established hunting boundaries. In this
situation, hunters must notify an authorized refuge employee to obtain
consent to retrieve the game from an area closed to hunting or entry
only upon specific consent. Certain refuges also require hunters to
notify the refuge manager when hunting specific species (e.g., black
bear, bobcat, or eastern coyote) with trailing dogs. Refuges
encompassing privately owned lands, referred to as ``easement overlay
refuges,'' may also require the hunter obtain written or oral
permission from the landowner prior to accessing the land.
Copies of the draft forms contained in this information collection
are available to the public by submitting a request to the Service
Information Collection Clearance Officer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, MS: PRB/PERMA (JAO), 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA
22041-3803 (mail); or by email to <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#3e77505851617d5152527e58494d10595148"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="4d04232b22120e2221210d2b3a3e632a223b">[email protected]</span></a>.
Title of Collection: Hunting and Fishing Application Forms and
Activity Reports for National Wildlife Refuges and National Fish
Hatcheries (50 CFR parts 32 and 71).
OMB Control Number: 1018-0140.
Form Numbers: 3-2348, 3-2405, 3-2439, and 3-2542.
Type of Review: Extension of a currently approved collection.
Respondents/Affected Public: Individuals/households.
Total Estimated Number of Annual Respondents: 1,632,759.
Total Estimated Number of Annual Responses: 1,632,759.
Estimated Completion Time per Response: Varies from 5 minutes to 30
minutes, depending on activity.
Total Estimated Number of Annual Burden Hours: 265,232.
Respondent's Obligation: Required to obtain or retain a benefit.
Frequency of Collection: On occasion for applications; annually or
on occasion for reports.
Total Estimated Annual Non-hour Burden Cost: $87,403 (primarily
associated with application fees at some refuges hunting and/or sport
fishing).
Comments that you submit in response to the proposed revisions and
additions to the information collection are a matter of public record.
Before including your address, phone number, email address, or other
personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware
that your entire comment--including your personal identifying
information--may be made publicly available at any time. While you can
ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying
information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be
able to do so.
Send your written comments and suggestions on this information
collection by the date indicated in DATES to the Service Information
Collection Clearance Officer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, by one of
the methods specified above in ADDRESSES. Please reference OMB Control
Number 1018-0140 in your comments.
Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.)
We comply with section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as
amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), when developing comprehensive
conservation plans and step-down management plans--which includes
hunting and/or fishing plans--for public use of refuges and hatcheries,
and prior to implementing any new or revised public recreation program
on a station as identified in 50 CFR 26.32. We complied with section 7
for each of the stations affected by this proposed rulemaking.
National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.)
We analyzed this proposed rule in accordance with the criteria of
the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA; 42 U.S.C. 4332(C))
and 516 Departmental Manual (DM) 8.
A categorical exclusion from NEPA documentation applies to
publication of proposed amendments to station-specific hunting and
fishing regulations because they are technical and procedural in
nature, and the environmental effects are too broad, speculative, or
conjectural to lend themselves to meaningful analysis (516 DM 8).
Concerning the actions that are the subject of this proposed
rulemaking, we have complied with NEPA at the project level when
developing each proposal. This is consistent with the Department of the
Interior instructions for compliance with NEPA where
[[Page 31586]]
actions are covered sufficiently by an earlier environmental document.
Prior to the addition of a refuge or hatchery to the list of areas
open to hunting and fishing in 50 CFR parts 32 and 71, we develop
hunting and fishing plans for the affected stations. We incorporate
these proposed station hunting and fishing activities in the station
comprehensive conservation plan and/or other step-down management
plans, pursuant to our refuge planning guidance in 602 Fish and
Wildlife Service Manual (FW) 1, 3, and 4. We prepare these
comprehensive conservation plans and step-down plans in compliance with
section 102(2)(C) of NEPA and the Department of Interior's NEPA
regulations at 43 CFR part 46. We invite the affected public to
participate in the review, development, and implementation of these
plans. Copies of all plans and NEPA compliance are available from the
stations at the addresses provided below.
Available Information for Specific Stations
Individual refuges and hatcheries have information about public use
programs and conditions that apply to their specific programs and maps
of their respective areas. You can locate individual refuge
information, including contact information, on <a href="http://FWS.gov">FWS.gov</a>. We also provide
general information on our hunting program, including an interactive
map of current hunting opportunities here: <a href="https://www.fws.gov/library/collections/hunting">https://www.fws.gov/library/collections/hunting</a>.
Proposed Regulation Summary Table
The regulatory amendments set forth below are presented alongside
existing station-specific regulations that have not been amended. For a
table that provides additional clarity on which specific regulatory
provisions have been amended, please see Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2026-
1223 on <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a> for a separate document containing
a table that provides additional clarity on which specific regulatory
provisions have been amended and how they have been amended.
Primary Author
Christian Myers, Division of Natural Resources and Conservation
Planning, National Wildlife Refuge System, is the primary author of
this rulemaking document.
List of Subjects
50 CFR Part 32
Fishing, Hunting, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements,
Wildlife, Wildlife refuges.
50 CFR Part 71
Fish, Fishing, Hunting, Wildlife.
Proposed Regulation Promulgation
For the reasons described in the preamble, we propose to amend
title 50, chapter I, subchapters C and E of the CFR as set forth below:
Subchapter C--The National Wildlife Refuge System
PART 32--HUNTING AND FISHING
0
1. The authority citation for part 32 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 16 U.S.C. 460k, 664, 668dd-668ee, and
715i; Pub. L. 115-20, 131 Stat. 86.
0
2. Amend Sec. 32.7 by revising and republishing paragraphs (e), (f),
(m), (x), (z), (hh), and (oo) to read as follows:
Sec. 32.7 What refuge units are open to hunting and/or sport fishing?
* * * * *
(e) California.
(1) Cibola National Wildlife Refuge.
(2) Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(3) Colusa National Wildlife Refuge.
(4) Delevan National Wildlife Refuge.
(5) Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
(6) Grasslands Wildlife Management Area.
(7) Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife Refuge.
(8) Havasu National Wildlife Refuge.
(9) Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
(10) Imperial National Wildlife Refuge.
(11) Kern National Wildlife Refuge.
(12) Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge.
(13) Marin Islands National Wildlife Refuge.
(14) Merced National Wildlife Refuge.
(15) Modoc National Wildlife Refuge.
(16) Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge.
(17) Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge.
(18) Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge.
(19) San Diego National Wildlife Refuge.
(20) San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
(21) San Luis National Wildlife Refuge.
(22) San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
(23) Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge.
(24) Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.
(25) Sutter National Wildlife Refuge.
(26) Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
* * * * *
(f) Colorado.
(1) Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge.
(2) Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge.
(3) Baca National Wildlife Refuge.
(4) Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge.
(5) Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge.
(6) Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge.
(7) Rocky Mountain Arsenal.
* * * * *
(m) Illinois.
(1) Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge.
(2) Clarence Cannon National Wildlife Refuge.
(3) Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.
(4) Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge.
(5) Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge.
(6) Great River National Wildlife Refuge.
(7) Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge.
(8) Kankakee National Wildlife Refuge.
(9) Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge.
(10) Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge.
(11) Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge.
(12) Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge.
(13) Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge.
* * * * *
(x) Mississippi.
(1) Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge.
(2) Coldwater River National Wildlife Refuge.
(3) Dahomey National Wildlife Refuge.
(4) Grand Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
(5) Hillside National Wildlife Refuge.
(6) Holt Collier National Wildlife Refuge.
(7) Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge.
(8) Morgan Brake National Wildlife Refuge.
(9) Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge.
(10) Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge.
(11) St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge.
[[Page 31587]]
(12) Tallahatchie National Wildlife Refuge.
(13) Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge.
(14) Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge.
* * * * *
(z) Montana.
(1) Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(2) Benton Lake Wetland Management District.
(3) Black Coulee National Wildlife Refuge.
(4) Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge.
(5) Bowdoin Wetland Management District.
(6) Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge.
(7) Charles M. Russell Wetland Management District.
(8) Creedman Coulee National Wildlife Refuge.
(9) Grass Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(10) Hailstone National Wildlife Refuge.
(11) Hewitt Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(12) Lake Mason National Wildlife Refuge.
(13) Lake Thibadeau National Wildlife Refuge.
(14) Lamesteer National Wildlife Refuge.
(15) Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge.
(16) Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge.
(17) Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(18) Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge.
(19) Northeast Montana Wetland Management District.
(20) Northwest Montana Wetland Management District.
(21) Pablo National Wildlife Refuge.
(22) Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.
(23) Swan River National Wildlife Refuge.
(24) UL Bend National Wildlife Refuge.
(25) War Horse National Wildlife Refuge.
* * * * *
(hh) North Dakota.
(1) Appert Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(2) Ardoch National Wildlife Refuge.
(3) Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge.
(4) Arrowwood Wetland Management District.
(5) Audubon National Wildlife Refuge.
(6) Audubon Wetland Management District.
(7) Bone Hill National Wildlife Refuge.
(8) Brumba National Wildlife Refuge.
(9) Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(10) Camp Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(11) Canefield Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(12) Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(13) Chase Lake Wetland Management District.
(14) Cottonwood Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(15) Crosby Wetland Management District.
(16) Dakota Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(17) Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge.
(18) Devils Lake Wetland Management District.
(19) Florence Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(20) Half Way Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(21) Hiddenwood Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(22) Hobart Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(23) Hutchinson Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(24) J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge.
(25) J. Clark Salyer Wetland Management District.
(26) Johnson Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(27) Kulm Wetland Management District.
(28) Lake Alice National Wildlife Refuge.
(29) Lake George National Wildlife Refuge.
(30) Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge.
(31) Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(32) Lake Nettie National Wildlife Refuge.
(33) Lake Otis National Wildlife Refuge.
(34) Lake Patricia National Wildlife Refuge.
(35) Lake Zahl National Wildlife Refuge.
(36) Lambs Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(37) Little Goose Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(38) Long Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(39) Long Lake Wetland Management District.
(40) Lords Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(41) Lost Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(42) Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge.
(43) Lostwood Wetland Management District.
(44) Maple River National Wildlife Refuge.
(45) McLean National Wildlife Refuge.
(46) Pleasant Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(47) Pretty Rock National Wildlife Refuge.
(48) Rabb Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(49) Rock Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(50) Rose Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(51) School Section National Wildlife Refuge.
(52) Sheyenne Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(53) Sibley Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(54) Silver Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(55) Slade National Wildlife Refuge.
(56) Snyder Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(57) Springwater National Wildlife Refuge.
(58) Stewart Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(59) Stoney Slough National Wildlife Refuge.
(60) Storm Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(61) Sunburst Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(62) Tewaukon National Wildlife Refuge.
(63) Tewaukon Wetland Management District.
(64) Tomahawk National Wildlife Refuge.
(65) Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge.
(66) White Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(67) Wild Rice National Wildlife Refuge.
(68) Willow Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
(69) Wintering River National Wildlife Refuge.
(70) Wood Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
* * * * *
(oo) South Dakota.
(1) Huron Wetland Management District.
(2) Karl E. Mundt National Wildlife Refuge.
(3) Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge.
(4) Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge.
(5) Lake Andes Wetland Management District.
(6) Madison Wetland Management District.
(7) Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
[[Page 31588]]
(8) Sand Lake Wetland Management District.
(9) Waubay National Wildlife Refuge.
(10) Waubay Wetland Management District.
* * * * *
0
3. Amend Sec. 32.20 by revising and republishing paragraphs (b) and
(d) to read as follows:
Sec. 32.20 Alabama.
* * * * *
(b) Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge. (1) [Reserved]
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of quail, squirrel,
rabbit, opossum, raccoon, coyote, and bobcat on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We require hunters to hunt as governed by Alabama Department of
Conservation and Natural Resources' William R. Ireland, Sr.--Cahaba
River Wildlife Management Area hunting permit conditions.
(ii) Hunters may hunt with shotguns using only #4 shot or smaller,
rifles and handguns using rim-fire ammunition only, or archery
equipment that complies with State and Federal regulations.
(iii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting upland game.
(iv) Hunters must remove tree stands, blinds, or other personal
property from the refuge at the end of each day's hunt (see Sec. 27.93
of this chapter).
(3) Big game hunting. We allow the hunting of white-tailed deer,
feral hog, and wild turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to
the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b)(2)(i) and (iv) of
this section apply.
(ii) We prohibit the use of firearms for hunting deer on the
refuge. However, you may archery hunt in the portions of the refuge
that are open for deer hunting during the archery, shotgun, and
muzzleloader seasons established by the State.
(iii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an
organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is
part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the
deer. We also prohibit drives for feral hogs.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge.
* * * * *
(d) Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of mourning dove and Eurasian-collared dove,
duck, and goose on designated areas of the refuge subject to the
following conditions:
(i) You must possess and carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed
brochure) when hunting.
(ii) All youth hunters (ages 10 through 15) must remain within
sight and normal voice contact of a properly licensed hunting adult age
21 or older. Youth hunters must possess and carry verification of
passing a State-approved hunter education course. One adult may
supervise no more than two youth hunters.
(iii) All waterfowl hunting opportunities are spaced-blind and
assigned by lottery. Hunters wishing to participate in our waterfowl
hunt must submit a Waterfowl Lottery Application (FWS Form 3-2439, Hunt
Application--National Wildlife Refuge System).
(iv) Hunters must remove all stands/blinds and other personal
property at the end of each day's hunt (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter).
(v) We allow access to the refuge for hunting from 1\1/2\ hours
before legal sunrise to 1\1/2\ hours after legal sunset.
(vi) We prohibit drives. We define a drive as an organized or
planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or cause
game to move in the direction of any person who is part of the
organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the game.
(vii) We prohibit hunting or observing from an elevated stand
without use of a full body harness.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of gray squirrel and
rabbit on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (d)(1)(i), (ii) and (v)
through (vii) of this section apply.
(ii) We allow only shotguns and state-designated archery equipment
as means of take for upland game hunting.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
feral hog on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (d)(1)(i) and (v)
through (vii) of this section apply.
(ii) We allow youth gun hunting opportunities that are spaced-blind
and assigned by lottery. Hunters wishing to participate in our youth
gun hunt must submit a Big/Upland Game Hunt Application (FWS Form 3-
2439, Hunt Application--National Wildlife Refuge System).
(iii) All youth hunters must remain within sight and normal voice
contact of a properly hunting-licensed adult age 21 or older. Youth
hunters must possess and carry verification of passing a State-approved
hunter education course. One adult may supervise no more than one youth
hunter.
(iv) All big game hunting opportunities, except for youth gun, are
archery-only.
(v) We close those portions of the refuge between Bustahatchee and
Rood Creeks to archery hunting until November 1.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing, including bowfishing, in
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We allow shoreline access for fishing from 1 hour before legal
sunrise to 1 hour after legal sunset.
(ii) We prohibit taking frog or turtle on all refuge lands and
waters (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
(iii) We adopt reciprocal license agreements between Alabama and
Georgia for fishing in Lake Eufaula. Anglers fishing in waters not
directly connected to Lake Eufaula must be properly licensed for the
State in which they are fishing.
* * * * *
0
4. Amend Sec. 32.23 by revising and republishing paragraphs (a), (b),
(c), (f), and (i) to read as follows:
Sec. 32.23 Arkansas.
* * * * *
(a) Bald Knob National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, merganser, snipe,
woodcock, rail, gallinule, crow, and dove on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Anyone on the refuge in possession of hunting equipment must
possess a signed refuge hunting permit.
(ii) During the quota gun deer hunt, we close the refuge to all
other hunts and public entry, unless the refuge is closed to deer
hunting at that time due to implementation of State flood closure zone
regulations.
(iii) Hunters may enter the refuge beginning at 5 a.m. and must
exit the refuge no later than 1 hour after legal sunset.
(iv) We allow waterfowl hunting until 12 p.m. (noon), with the
exception that applicable goose species may be hunted until legal
sunset during the State Conservation Order.
(v) When waterfowl hunting, you may not possess more than 25
shotgun shells while in the field, except that during the State
Conservation Order, there is no limit on the number of shells you may
possess while hunting applicable goose species.
(vi) We prohibit hunting closer than 100 yards (91 meters) to
another hunter or hunting party.
[[Page 31589]]
(vii) You must remove decoys, blinds, boats, and all other
equipment at the end of each day's hunt (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter).
(viii) All hunters age 11 and younger who possess valid hunter
education certification must remain within normal sight and voice
contact with an adult age 18 or older who possesses a valid State
hunting license. Hunters age 15 and younger who have not completed
hunter education must be under the direct supervision (within arm's
reach) of an adult age 21 or older who possesses a valid State hunting
license. One adult may supervise up to two youth hunters for migratory
bird and upland game hunting, but may supervise only one youth during
big game hunting.
(ix) We allow incidental take of beaver, muskrat, nutria, river
otter, mink, bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and coyote during any refuge
hunt with the weapons legal for that hunt, subject to applicable State
seasons and regulations.
(x) We allow the use of dogs when migratory game bird hunting.
(xi) We close the Waterfowl Sanctuary Hunt Unit to all entry and
hunting from November 15 to February 28, except that quota gun deer
hunters may hunt in that Unit when the season overlaps with these
dates.
(xii) We allow waterfowl hunting from mowed and/or graveled road
rights-of-way, but we prohibit all other hunting from these rights-of-
way.
(xiii) We allow only hunters to use all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and
only from September 1 through March 31, except that during the State
Conservation Order, hunters may use ATVs for hunting applicable goose
species.
(xiv) Hunters may use conventional motor vehicles, ATVs, bicycles,
and e-bikes only on public use roads, levee tops, designated ATV trails
(open to ATVs only), and established parking lots not closed by a
locked gate, other barrier, or signage.
(xv) Hunters and anglers may use conventional motor vehicles only
in the Bison, Waterfowl Sanctuary, and Core Waterfowl Area Hunt Units
and only from March 1 through November 14.
(xvi) From November 15 through February 28, we close the Core
Waterfowl Area Hunt Unit to all hunting, fishing, and public entry at 1
p.m. daily, except that during the State Conservation Order, you may
hunt applicable goose species in this Unit until legal sunset.
(xvii) We prohibit the use of personal watercraft (e.g., jet skis),
airboats, and hovercraft for hunting and fishing on the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit,
quail, raccoon, opossum, beaver, muskrat, nutria, river otter, mink,
bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and coyote on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (a)(1)(i), (ii), (viii),
(ix), and (xi) through (xvii) of this section apply.
(ii) Hunters may use shotguns, rifles and handguns chambered for
rimfire cartridges, air rifles, and archery tackle.
(iii) We allow squirrel, rabbit, opossum, raccoon, and quail
hunting according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual
refuge public use brochure.
(iv) We allow the use of dogs when hunting upland game.
(v) Hunters may enter the refuge beginning at 5 a.m. and must exit
the refuge by 1 hour after legal sunset, except that we allow hunting
of raccoon and opossum at night (from 30 minutes after legal sunset to
30 minutes before legal sunrise) on the refuge.
(vi) We prohibit hunting from a vehicle.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of deer and turkey, and the
incidental take of feral hog, on designated areas of the refuge subject
to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (a)(1)(i), (ii), (viii),
(ix), and (xi) through (xvii), (2)(v), and (2)(vi) of this section
apply.
(ii) We allow archery/crossbow, modern gun, and muzzleloader deer
hunting according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual
refuge public use brochure.
(iii) Turkey hunting will be conducted in the Bison, Waterfowl
Sanctuary, and Mingo Creek Hunt Units according to season dates and bag
limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.
(iv) Hunters may use only shotguns with slugs, muzzleloaders,
handguns with barrel lengths greater than 4 inches, large-bore air
rifles, non-semiautomatic centerfire firearms that fire a straight-
walled rifle cartridge .30 caliber or larger, and archery/crossbow
tackle for modern gun deer hunting on the Bison, Core Waterfowl Area,
and Waterfowl Sanctuary Hunt Units.
(v) You may only erect one portable stand or blind 7 days prior to
the refuge deer season and must remove it from the waterfowl sanctuary
prior to November 15, except for stands used by quota gun deer hunters,
which you must remove by the last day of the quota gun deer hunt (see
Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). You must remove all stands on the
remainder of the refuge within 7 days of the closure of archery season
(see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(vi) Game camera use is limited to one camera per individual.
(vii) We prohibit leaving any tree stand, blind, or game camera on
the refuge without the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
customer identification number clearly written on it in a conspicuous
location.
(viii) We prohibit the possession or use of lead shot and buckshot
for deer hunting. We allow lead shot for turkey hunting.
(ix) During the quota gun deer hunt, we allow only hunters
possessing a valid quota gun deer hunting permit (FWS Form 3-2439) on
the refuge and only for the purposes of deer hunting and the incidental
take of allowable species.
(x) Hunters may only take feral hog incidental to modern gun and
muzzleloader deer hunts and during specified periods for archery deer
hunting according to season dates provided in the annual refuge public
use brochure.
(xi) We prohibit the use of dogs for deer hunting.
(xii) During the quota turkey hunts, only hunters possessing a
valid quota turkey hunting permit (FWS Form 3-2439) will be allowed to
enter the open hunt units and only for the purposes of turkey hunting.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing, frogging, and
crawfishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (a)(1)(ii), (xi), (xv)
through (xvii), and (a)(3)(viii) and (xi) of this section apply.
(ii) We prohibit the take or possession of turtles and/or mollusks
(see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
(iii) We allow fishing, frogging, and crawfishing for personal use
only. All crawfish traps must have the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish
Commission license customer identification number permanently affixed.
(iv) You may enter the refuge to fish, frog, or crawfish beginning
at 4 a.m. and must exit by 1 hour after legal sunset.
(v) We prohibit tournament fishing on the refuge.
(b) Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge. (1) [Reserved]
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit,
quail, raccoon, nutria, coyote, beaver, muskrat, river otter, mink,
bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and opossum on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
[[Page 31590]]
(i) Anyone on the refuge in possession of hunting equipment must
possess a signed refuge hunting permit.
(ii) During the quota gun deer hunt, we close the refuge to all
other hunts and public entry.
(iii) We allow incidental take of nutria, beaver, muskrat, river
otter, mink, bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and coyote during any refuge
hunt with the weapons legal for that hunt, subject to applicable State
seasons and regulations.
(iv) We allow squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, and quail hunting
according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge
public use brochure.
(v) We allow the use of dogs only for squirrel, rabbit, and quail
hunting in the refuge area north of Timm's Point.
(vi) We prohibit hunting from mowed and/or gravel road rights-of-
way.
(vii) Hunters may enter the refuge beginning at 4 a.m. and must
exit the refuge by 1 hour after legal sunset, except that we allow
hunting of raccoon and opossum at night (from 30 minutes after legal
sunset to 30 minutes before legal sunrise) on the refuge.
(viii) All hunters age 11 and younger who possess valid hunter
education certification must remain within normal sight and voice
contact with an adult age 18 or older who possesses a valid State
hunting license. Hunters age 15 and younger who have not completed
hunter education must be under the direct supervision (within arm's
reach) of an adult age 21 or older who possesses a valid State hunting
license. One adult may supervise up to two youth hunters for upland
game hunting, but may supervise only one youth during big game hunting.
(ix) From November 1 to February 28, we close all waterfowl
sanctuaries to all hunting and public entry.
(x) Hunters and anglers may not leave motor vehicles, bicycles, e-
bikes, or boats overnight on the refuge.
(xi) We only allow use of all-terrain vehicles by hunters with
mobility-impairments, and the refuge manager must authorize this use in
writing.
(xii) Hunters and anglers may use motor vehicles, bicycles, and e-
bikes only on public use roads not closed by a locked gate, other
barrier, or signage.
(xiii) From November 1 through February 28, boat access is
restricted to launching at Seven Mile boat ramp and using Ditch 28
only.
(xiv) We prohibit the use of personal watercraft (e.g., jet skis),
airboats, and hovercraft for hunting and fishing on the refuge.
(xv) We prohibit hunting from a vehicle.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer,
turkey, and incidental take of feral hog on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b)(2)(i) through (iii),
and (vi) through (xv) of this section apply.
(ii) We allow archery/crossbow, modern gun, and muzzleloader deer
hunting according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual
refuge public use brochure.
(iii) Modern gun deer hunters may only use shotguns with slugs,
muzzleloaders shooting a single projectile, non-semiautomatic
centerfire firearms that fire a straight-walled rifle cartridge .30
caliber or larger, handguns with barrel lengths greater than 4 inches,
large-bore air rifles, and archery/crossbow tackle.
(iv) You may only erect one portable stand or blind 7 days prior to
the refuge deer season and must remove it 7 days after the closure of
archery season (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(v) Game camera use is limited to one per individual.
(vi) We prohibit leaving any tree stand, blind, or game camera on
the refuge without the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
customer identification number clearly written on it in a conspicuous
location.
(vii) Hunters may only take feral hog incidental to deer hunting.
(viii) Turkey hunting is conducted according to season dates and
bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.
(ix) During the quota gun deer hunts, only hunters possessing a
valid quota gun deer permit (FWS Form 3-2439) may use the refuge and
only for the purposes of deer hunting and the incidental take of
allowable species.
(x) During the quota gun turkey hunts, we close the refuge Wildlife
Auto Drive Road to other hunting and public entry, and only hunters
possessing a valid quota gun turkey permit (FWS Form 3-2439) may use
that area of the refuge and only for the purposes of turkey hunting.
(xi) We prohibit the use of dogs for deer hunting.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing, frogging, and
crawfishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b)(2)(ii), (ix) through
(xiv), and (b)(3)(ix) and (x) of this section apply.
(ii) Anglers may launch boats only in designated areas.
(iii) We allow frogging and crawfishing for personal use only. All
crawfish traps must have the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
license customer identification number permanently affixed.
(iv) We prohibit the take or possession of turtles and/or mollusks
(see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
(v) We allow fishing, frogging, and crawfishing on all refuge
waters from March 1 through October 31.
(vi) We allow fishing in the Sand Slough-Mud Slough area from
November 1 through February 28 only with the use of nonmotorized boats
and electric trolling motors; anglers may enter this area at 4 a.m. and
must depart by 1 hour after legal sunset.
(vii) We prohibit climbing onto or fishing from any water control
structure and associated wingwalls and fences, or the top of the
Floodway Dam south of Highway 18.
(viii) We prohibit tournament fishing on the refuge.
(c) Cache River National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, merganser, snipe,
woodcock, rail, gallinule, crow, and dove on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Anyone on the refuge in possession of hunting equipment must
possess a signed refuge hunting permit.
(ii) Hunters may enter the refuge beginning at 4 a.m. Except when
hunting applicable goose species during the State Conservation Order,
waterfowl hunters must exit the refuge by 1 p.m. All other hunters,
including those hunting applicable goose species during the State
Conservation Order, must exit the refuge no later than 1 hour after
legal sunset.
(iii) We allow waterfowl hunting until 12 p.m. (noon), except that
during the State Conservation Order, you may hunt for applicable goose
species until legal sunset.
(iv) You must remove decoys, blinds, boats, and all other equipment
at the end of each day's hunt (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(v) From March 1 through October 31, hunters and anglers may leave
boats displaying valid registration on the refuge.
(vi) During the regular State waterfowl hunting season, we prohibit
the use of boats on the refuge from 12 a.m. (midnight) to 4 a.m.
(vii) We allow the use of dogs when migratory game bird hunting.
(viii) We allow waterfowl hunting on flooded refuge roads.
(ix) During the quota gun deer hunt, we close the refuge to all
other hunts and public entry, unless the refuge is closed to deer
hunting at that time due
[[Page 31591]]
to implementation of State flood closure zone regulations.
(x) All hunters age 11 and younger who possess valid hunter
education certification must remain within normal sight and voice
contact with an adult age 18 or older who possesses a valid State
hunting license. Hunters age 15 and younger who have not completed
hunter education must be under the direct supervision (within arm's
reach) of an adult age 21 or older who possesses a valid State hunting
license. One adult may supervise up to two youth hunters for migratory
bird and upland game hunting, but may supervise only one youth during
big game hunting.
(xi) We allow incidental take of beaver, muskrat, nutria, river
otter, mink, bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and coyote during any refuge
hunt with the weapons legal for that hunt, subject to applicable State
season and regulations.
(xii) From November 15 to February 28, we close all waterfowl
sanctuaries to all hunting and public entry.
(xiii) We allow only hunters to use all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and
only from September 1 through March 31, except that during the State
Conservation Order, hunters may use ATVs for hunting applicable goose
species.
(xiv) Hunters and anglers may not operate conventional motor
vehicles, ATVs, bicycles, or e-bikes on any road or trail closed by a
locked gate, other barrier, or signage.
(xv) Hunter and anglers may not leave motor vehicles, ATVs,
bicycles, or e-bikes unattended overnight on the refuge.
(xvi) We prohibit the use of personal watercraft (e.g., jet skis),
airboats, and hovercraft for hunting and fishing on the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit,
quail, raccoon, opossum, beaver, muskrat, nutria, river otter, mink,
bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and coyote on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (c)(1)(i), (v), (vi),
and (ix) through (xvi) of this section apply.
(ii) We allow squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, and quail hunting
according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge
public use brochure.
(iii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting upland game.
(iv) We prohibit hunting from mowed and/or graveled road rights-of-
way.
(v) Hunters may use only shotguns, rifles and handguns chambered
for rimfire cartridges, air rifles, and archery tackle.
(vi) Hunters may enter the refuge beginning at 4 a.m. and must exit
the refuge by 1 hour after legal sunset, except that we allow hunting
of raccoon and opossum at night (from 30 minutes after legal sunset to
30 minutes before legal sunrise) on the refuge.
(vii) We prohibit hunting from a vehicle.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of deer and turkey, and
incidental take of feral hog, on designated areas of the refuge subject
to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (c)(1)(i), (v), (vi),
and (ix) through (xvi), and (c)(2)(iv), (vi) and (vii) of this section
apply.
(ii) We allow archery/crossbow, modern gun, and muzzleloader deer
hunting according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual
refuge public use brochure.
(iii) Hunters may take only feral hog incidental to modern gun and
muzzleloader deer hunts and during a specified period during archery
deer hunting according to season dates provided in the annual refuge
public use brochure.
(iv) Hunters may only use shotguns with slugs, muzzleloaders,
handguns with barrel lengths greater than 4 inches, large-bore air
rifles, non-semiautomatic centerfire firearms that fire a straight-
walled rifle cartridge .30 caliber or larger, and archery/crossbow
tackle for modern gun deer hunting on the Dixie, Dixie Waterfowl
Sanctuary, and Plunkett Farm Waterfowl Sanctuary Hunt Units.
(v) You may only erect one portable stand or blind 7 days prior to
the refuge deer season, and you must remove it from the waterfowl
sanctuaries prior to November 15, and from the rest of the refuge
within 7 days of the closure of archery season (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter).
(vi) Game camera use is limited to one per individual.
(vii) We prohibit leaving any tree stand, blind, or game camera on
the refuge without the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
customer identification number clearly written on it in a conspicuous
location.
(viii) We prohibit the possession or use of lead shot and buckshot
for deer hunting. We allow lead shot for turkey hunting.
(ix) During the quota gun deer hunt, we allow only hunters
possessing a valid quota gun deer hunting permit on the refuge and only
for the purposes of deer hunting and the incidental take of allowable
species.
(x) Turkey hunting will be conducted in designated areas according
to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge public use
brochure.
(xi) We prohibit the use of dogs for deer hunting.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing, frogging, and
crawfishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (c)(1)(v), (vi), (ix),
(xii), (xiv) through (xvi), and (c)(3)(ix) of this section apply.
(ii) We prohibit the take or possession of turtles and/or mollusks
(see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
(iii) We allow frogging and crawfishing for personal use only. All
crawfish traps must have the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
license customer identification number permanently affixed.
(iv) We prohibit tournament fishing on the refuge.
* * * * *
(f) Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge. (1) [Reserved]
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit,
quail, raccoon, opossum, beaver, muskrat, nutria, river otter, mink,
fox, striped skunk, coyote, and bobcat on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Anyone on the refuge in possession of hunting equipment must
possess a signed refuge hunting permit.
(ii) We allow squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, and quail hunting
according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge
public use brochure.
(iii) We only allow use of all-terrain vehicles by hunters and
anglers with mobility impairments, and the refuge manager must
authorize this use in writing.
(iv) Hunters and anglers may use boats in designated areas and at
times provided in the annual refuge public use brochure.
(v) All hunters age 11 and younger who possess valid hunter
education certification must remain within normal sight and voice
contact with an adult age 18 or older who possesses a valid State
hunting license. Hunters age 15 and younger who have not completed
hunter education must be under the direct supervision (within arm's
reach) of an adult age 21 or older who possesses a valid State hunting
license. One adult may supervise up to two youth hunters for upland
game hunting, but may supervise only one youth during big game hunting.
(vi) During modern gun and alternative firearms deer and turkey
[[Page 31592]]
hunts, we close the refuge to all other hunting and public entry.
(vii) We allow incidental take of beaver, muskrat, nutria, river
otter, mink, bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and coyote during any refuge
hunt with the weapons legal for that hunt, subject to applicable State
seasons and regulations.
(viii) Hunters and anglers may use bicycles and e-bikes only on
public use roads and designated trails not closed by a locked gate,
other barrier, or signage.
(ix) Squirrel and rabbit hunters may only use shotguns, rifles and
handguns chambered for rimfire cartridges, air rifles, and archery
tackle.
(x) Hunters must only enter and exit the refuge from designated
roads and parking lots.
(xi) We limit raccoon and opossum hunting to nighttime hunting
only.
(xii) Hunter and anglers may not leave motor vehicles, bicycles, e-
bikes, or boats unattended overnight on the refuge.
(xiii) We prohibit hunting from a vehicle.
(xiv) We prohibit the use of personal watercraft (e.g., jet skis),
airboats, and hovercraft for hunting and fishing on the refuge.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of deer, black bear, and
turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (f)(2)(i), (iii) through
(viii), (x), and (xii) through (xiv) of this section apply.
(ii) We allow archery/crossbow hunting for white-tailed deer and
turkey according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual
refuge public use brochure.
(iii) Alternative firearm and modern gun deer hunts will be
conducted according to season dates and bag limits provided in the
refuge public use brochure.
(iv) We allow the take of black bear and feral hog incidental to
refuge deer hunts subject to applicable State seasons and regulations.
(v) The refuge will conduct youth-only quota spring gun turkey
hunts and archery only public hunts according to season dates and bag
limits provided in the refuge public use brochure.
(vi) You may erect one portable stand or blind and deploy one game
camera 7 days before the start of the season, and you must remove it
from the refuge within 7 days after the season ends (see Sec. 27.93 of
this chapter).
(vii) We prohibit leaving any tree stand, blind, or game camera on
the refuge without the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
customer identification number clearly written on it in a conspicuous
location.
(viii) We prohibit drives. We define a drive as an organized or
planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or cause
game to move in the direction of any person who is part of the
organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the game.
(ix) You must check all harvested turkey, bear, and deer at the
refuge check station.
(x) We prohibit the use of dogs for deer hunting.
(xi) Big game hunters may enter the refuge 1 hour before legal
sunrise and must exit by 1 hour after legal sunset.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing, frogging, and
crawfishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (f)(2)(iii), (iv), (vi),
(viii), (xii), and (xiv) of this section apply.
(ii) We allow fishing, frogging, and crawfishing, from a boat on
all waters only from March 1 through November 14, and bank fishing (no
boat) along the Arkansas River year-round from legal sunrise to legal
sunset.
(iii) Anglers must remove boats from the refuge at the end of each
day's fishing activity (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(iv) We prohibit the take or possession of turtles and/or mollusks
(see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
(v) We allow frogging and crawfishing for personal use only. All
crawfish traps must have the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
license customer identification number permanently affixed.
(vi) We prohibit access to refuge waters and land from the Arkansas
River.
(vii) We limit trotlines, setline, limblines, yo-yo, and free-
floating fishing devices to 20 per person; any line that extends into
the water must be cotton.
(viii) Trotlines, setlines, limblines, yo-yos, and free-floating
fishing devices must be clearly labelled with the angler's Arkansas
Game and Fish Commission license customer identification number and
cannot be left overnight or unattended.
* * * * *
(i) Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge. (1) [Reserved]
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit,
raccoon, nutria, beaver, coyote, quail, muskrat, river otter, mink,
bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and opossum on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Anyone on the refuge in possession of hunting equipment must
possess a signed refuge hunting permit.
(ii) Hunters may enter the refuge at 4 a.m. and must leave the
refuge no later than 1 hour after legal sunset, except that we allow
hunting of raccoon and opossum at night on the refuge.
(iii) During the quota gun hunts, we close the refuge to all other
hunts and public entry.
(iv) We allow squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, and quail hunting
according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual refuge
public use brochure.
(v) We allow the incidental take of nutria, beaver, muskrat, river
otter, mink, bobcat, fox, striped skunk, and coyote during any refuge
hunt with the weapons allowed for that hunt, subject to applicable
State seasons and regulations.
(vi) Hunters may use only shotguns, rifles and handguns chambered
for rimfire cartridges, air rifles, and archery tackle.
(vii) We prohibit hunting from mowed and/or gravel road rights-of-
way.
(viii) All hunters age 11 and younger who possess valid hunter
education certification must remain within normal sight and voice
contact with an adult age 18 or older who possesses a valid State
hunting license. Hunters age 15 and younger who have not completed
hunter education must be under the direct supervision (within arm's
reach) of an adult age 21 or older who possesses a valid State hunting
license. One adult may supervise up to two youth hunters for upland
game hunting, but may supervise only one youth during big game hunting.
(ix) From December 1 to February 28, we close all waterfowl
sanctuaries (including Wapanocca Lake) to all hunting and public entry.
(x) We prohibit the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), except that
ATVs may be used by mobility-impaired hunters possessing written
authorization issued by the refuge manager.
(xi) Hunters and anglers may use motor vehicles, bicycles, and e-
bikes only on public use roads not closed by a locked gate, other
barrier, or signage.
(xii) Hunters and anglers must use the public boat ramp on Highway
77 to launch motorized boats into Wapanocca Lake.
(xiii) Hunters and anglers must operate boats at speeds of less
than 5 miles per hour between the Highway 77 boat launch and the open
lake.
(xiv) We prohibit the use of personal watercraft (e.g., jet skis),
airboats, and hovercraft for hunting and fishing on the refuge.
[[Page 31593]]
(xv) Hunter and anglers may not leave motor vehicles, bicycles, e-
bikes, or boats unattended overnight on the refuge.
(xvi) We prohibit hunting from a vehicle.
(xvii) The Round Pond and Pygmon Units in St. Francis County are
subject to all regulations for hunting and fishing for Wapanocca NWR.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey, and incidental take of feral hog, on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (i)(2)(i) through (iii),
(v), and (vii) through (xvii) of this section apply.
(ii) During the quota gun deer hunts, we allow only hunters
possessing a valid quota gun deer hunting permit on the refuge and only
for the purposes of deer hunting and the incidental take of allowable
species.
(iii) You may only use one game camera and erect one portable stand
or blind per hunter. All items are required to have owner's Arkansas
Game and Fish Commission customer identification number in a
conspicuous location. Your stand or blind can only be erected 7 days
prior to the refuge deer season, and you must remove it from the
waterfowl sanctuaries by December 1. You must remove all stands and
blinds on the remainder of the refuge within 7 days of the closure of
archery season (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(iv) We allow archery/crossbow, muzzleloader, and modern gun deer
hunting according to season dates and bag limits provided in the annual
refuge public use brochure.
(v) Modern gun deer hunters may only use shotguns with slugs,
muzzleloaders shooting a single projectile, non-semiautomatic
centerfire firearms that fire a straight-walled rifle cartridge .30
caliber or larger, handguns with barrel lengths longer than 4 inches,
large-bore air rifles, and archery/crossbow tackle for modern gun deer
hunting.
(vi) Hunters may only take feral hog incidental to deer hunting.
(vii) The annual refuge public use brochure provides season dates
and bag limits for turkey hunting.
(viii) We prohibit the use of dogs for deer hunting.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing, frogging, and
crawfishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (i)(2)(iii), (ix), (x)
through (xv), and (xvii), and (i)(3)(ii) of this section apply.
(ii) From March 1 through November 30, we allow fishing, frogging,
and crawfishing on all refuge waters. From December 1 through February
28, we allow bank fishing only on Woody Pond and other non-waterfowl
sanctuary areas.
(iii) Anglers, including those frogging and crawfishing, may enter
the refuge at 4 a.m. and must leave the refuge no later than 1 hour
after legal sunset.
(iv) We prohibit the take or possession of turtles and/or mollusks
(see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
(v) Anglers may launch boats only in designated areas.
(vi) We allow fishing, frogging, and crawfishing for personal use
only. All crawfish traps must have the owner's Arkansas Game and Fish
Commission license customer identification number permanently affixed.
(vii) We prohibit tournament fishing.
* * * * *
0
5. Amend Sec. 32.24 by:
0
a. Adding new paragraph (g);
0
b. Redesignating paragraphs (g) through (y) as paragraphs (h) through
(z) respectively;
0
c. Revise and republish newly redesignated paragraphs (l), (p)(2)(ii),
(q)(2)(ii), (q)(3)(i), (v)(2)(ii), (y)(2)(ii), and (z);
The changes read as follows:
Sec. 32.24 California.
* * * * *
(g) Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife Refuge. (1)-(3)
[Reserved]
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following condition: access through the
refuge beach above the intertidal zone is prohibited from March 1 to
September 30.
* * * * *
(l) Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck, coot, moorhen, and snipe on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) In the controlled waterfowl hunting area, we require a valid
Refuge Recreation Pass (available electronically or in person at the
refuge office) for all hunters age 17 or older.
(ii) We may require advance reservations for the first 2 days of
the hunting season. Reservations are obtained through the waterfowl
lottery each year.
(iii) Hunters may enter the refuge at 4:30 a.m. unless otherwise
posted.
(iv) Shooting hours end at 1 p.m. on all California portions of the
refuge.
(v) We prohibit the setting of decoys in retrieving zones.
(vi) Pit-style hunting blinds located in the Stearns units and unit
9D are first-come, first-served. We require you to hunt within a 200-
foot (61-meter) radius of the blind.
(vii) We prohibit air-thrust and inboard water-thrust boats while
hunting. We prohibit the use of all-terrain amphibious or utility-type
vehicles in wetland units.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant and quail on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Upland game bird hunters must carry a valid Refuge Recreation
Pass (available electronically or in person at the refuge office) for
all hunters age 17 or older.
(ii) Hunting of pheasant and quail is only allowed during the
Oregon and California designated pheasant season.
(iii) Upland gamebird hunting is permitted between the hours of
8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Hunters must be out of the field by 2:30 p.m.
and departing the refuge hunt area.
(3)-(4) [Reserved]
* * * * *
(p) * * *
(2) * * *
(ii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (p)(1)(iii) through
(ix) of this section apply.
* * * * *
(q) * * *
(2) * * *
(ii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (q)(1)(i), (ii), (iv),
and (v) of this section apply.
(3) * * *
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (q)(1)(i), (ii), and
(iv) and (o)(2)(i) of this section apply.
* * * * *
(v) * * *
(2) * * *
(ii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (v)(1)(ii) of this
section apply.
* * * * *
(y) * * *
(2) * * *
(ii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (y)(1)(i) through
(viii) of this section apply.
* * * * *
(z) Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck, coot, moorhen, and snipe on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) In the controlled waterfowl hunting area, we require a valid
Refuge Recreation Pass (available electronically or in person at the
refuge office) for all hunters age 17 or older.
[[Page 31594]]
(ii) We may require advance reservations for the first 2 days of
the hunting season. Reservations are obtained through the waterfowl
lottery each year.
(iii) Hunters may enter the refuge at 4:30 a.m. unless otherwise
posted.
(iv) Waterfowl hunting hours end at 1 p.m. on all portions of the
refuge.
(v) We prohibit the setting of decoys in retrieving zones.
(vi) We prohibit air-thrust and inboard water-thrust boats while
hunting. We prohibit the use of all-terrain amphibious or utility-type
vehicles (UTVs) in wetland units.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant and quail on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) In the controlled pheasant hunting area, we require a valid
Refuge Recreation Pass (available electronically or in person at the
refuge office) for all hunters age 17 or older.
(ii) Hunting of pheasant and quail is only allowed during the State
designated pheasant season.
(iii) Upland gamebird hunting is permitted between the hours of
8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Hunters must be out of the field by 2:30 p.m.
and departing the refuge hunt area.
(3)-(4) [Reserved]
* * * * *
0
6. Amend Sec. 32.25 by:
0
a. Adding new paragraph (f);
0
b. Redesignating paragraph (f) as paragraph (g);
The changes read as follows:
Sec. 32.25 Colorado.
* * * * *
(f) Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge. (1)-(2) [Reserved]
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of elk on designated areas
of the refuge.
(4) [Reserved]
* * * * *
0
7. Amend Sec. 32.31 by revising and republishing paragraphs (a)
through (f) to read as follows:
Sec. 32.31 Idaho.
* * * * *
(a) Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, crow, dove, and snipe
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Hunters may enter the refuge 1\1/2\ hours before legal sunrise
and must leave the refuge by \1/2\ hours after legal sunset.
(ii) We allow boats, except air thrust boats, after September 20
within the designated refuge hunting areas, for the purposes of
hunting.
(iii) You may only use portable blinds or construct temporary
blinds of natural vegetation. Blinds will be available for general use
on a first-come, first-served basis. You must remove portable blinds,
decoys, boats, and other personal property from the refuge at the end
of each day's hunt (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(iv) You may hunt Eurasian collared-doves only during State
mourning dove and crow seasons.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant, grouse,
partridge, turkey, and cottontail rabbit on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The condition set forth at paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section
applies.
(ii) We allow turkey hunting during the fall season only.
(iii) We allow rabbit hunting only during State upland game bird
seasons.
(3) [Reserved]
(4) Sport fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge.
(b) Camas National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, snipe, and dove on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We allow hunters to access the refuge 1 hour before legal
shooting time.
(ii) You may only use portable blinds or construct temporary blinds
of natural vegetation. Blinds will be available for general use on a
first-come, first-served basis. You must remove portable blinds,
decoys, and other personal property at the end of each day's hunt (see
Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(iii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting.
(iv) You may take Eurasian collared-doves only during the State
seasons for migratory birds and upland game birds.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant, grouse, and
partridge on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The condition set forth at paragraph (b)(1)(iii) of this
section applies.
(ii) We allow hunters to access the refuge 1\1/2\ hour before legal
shooting time.
(iii) Hunters must wear a minimum of 36 square inches (232.3 square
centimeters) of blaze orange, and a blaze orange head covering.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of elk on designated areas
of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of
this section apply.
(ii) You must carry a signed copy of the refuge hunting regulations
and hunt map (signed brochure) in the field while hunting.
(4) [Reserved]
(c) Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck, coot, snipe, and dove on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Hunters in the South Side Recreation Area may use float tubes,
nonmotorized boats, or boats equipped with electric motors within 200
yards (180 meters) of the shoreline. We prohibit the use or possession
of gas-powered motors.
(ii) You must remove boats, decoys, blinds, other personal
property, and any materials brought onto the refuge for blind
construction at the end of each day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of
this chapter).
(iii) Hunters may enter the refuge 1 hour before official shooting
hours (\1/2\ hour before legal sunrise), and must leave the refuge by 1
hour after official shooting hours (legal sunset).
(iv) We allow the use of dogs for hunting.
(v) You may take Eurasian collared-doves and rock doves (feral
pigeon) only during the State mourning dove season.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant, quail, and
partridge on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
condition: The condition set forth at paragraph (c)(1)(iv) of this
section applies.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of deer on designated areas
of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) You must obtain a refuge-specific hunting permit (signed
brochure) to hunt deer on the Lake Lowell Unit. Hunters must sign and
carry the permit in the field while hunting.
(ii) Hunters may place up to two portable deer stands in the Lake
Lowell Unit. Hunters must place stands/platforms by hand. Hunters may
place stands/platforms on the refuge no earlier than the beginning date
of the assigned hunt permit and must remove them no later than the
ending date of the hunt permit. Each stand must display the hunter's
hunting license number so that it is legible from the ground.
(iii) In the Lake Lowell Unit, you may only shoot deer while
hunting from an elevated tree stand/platform. We prohibit ground
stalking and/or still hunting from the ground. We prohibit shooting a
firearm or bow while on the ground, except to kill a downed deer.
[[Page 31595]]
(iv) Hunters may enter the Lake Lowell Unit no earlier than 2 hours
before official shooting hours (\1/2\ hour before legal sunrise) and
must leave the area within 2 hours after official shooting hours (\1/2\
hour after legal sunset). Successful hunters may extend their departure
time only as long as is necessary to retrieve dead deer.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) From October 1 through April 14, we allow ice fishing on the
Lake Lowell Unit, unless otherwise posted by the Bureau of Reclamation.
(ii) We allow fishing from nonmotorized boats in designated areas
of the Lake Lowell Unit from October 1 through April 14, from \1/2\
hour before legal sunrise to \1/2\ hour after legal sunset.
(iii) From February 1 through June 30, we prohibit fishing from all
islands in the Snake River Islands Unit.
(d) Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, crow, dove, and snipe
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We allow hunting August through February and hunters may enter
the refuge \1/2\ hours before legal sunrise and must leave the refuge
by \1/2\ hours after legal sunset.
(ii) You must remove portable blinds, decoys, boats, and other
personal property from the refuge at the end of each day's hunt (see
Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(iii) We allow hunters and dogs to retrieve game only in designated
hunting areas.
(iv) We prohibit dog training except during legal hunting seasons.
(v) You may take Eurasian collared-doves only during the State
mourning dove and crow seasons.
(2) Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of bobcat, coyote, fox,
grouse, partridge, rabbit and hare, and squirrel on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (d)(1)(i) and (d)(1)(iv)
of this section apply.
(ii) We allow the use of dogs for hunting upland game birds in the
Lake Unit only. We prohibit dogs for hunting other upland game.
(iii) You may take fox and coyote only during the State bobcat
season.
(3) Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of bear, deer, elk, moose,
and mountain lion on designated areas of the refuge subject to the
following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (d)(1)(i) and (d)(1)(iv)
apply.
(ii) We prohibit dogs for big game hunting.
(iii) You may take mountain lion only during open hunts for
migratory birds, upland game, bear, deer, elk, or moose.
(iv) We allow bear hunting during the fall season only.
(4) Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge from August through February.
(e) Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck, coot, and snipe on designated
areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We allow hunting only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and
Sundays.
(ii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting.
(iii) We prohibit the discharge of firearms in posted retrieval
zones and areas closed to hunting.
(iv) Hunters may access the waterfowl hunt area no earlier than 3
a.m. and must leave no later than 1 hour after legal sunset.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of forest grouse and wild
turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) You may possess only approved nontoxic shot shells (see Sec.
32.2(k)) while in the field.
(ii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting forest grouse and for
turkey during the fall hunt.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of deer, elk, black bear,
moose, and mountain lion on designated areas of the refuge subject to
the following conditions:
(i) We allow deer hunting at the designated accessible blind for
hunters with disabilities subject to the following conditions:
(A) You must obtain a Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383-G) from
the refuge manager to use the accessible blind.
(B) We only allow deer hunting at the accessible blind using the
following weapons: Muzzleloader, archery equipment, crossbow, shotgun,
or handgun. For shotguns, you may only use slugs. For handguns, you may
only use straight-walled cartridges not originally established for
rifles.
(ii) You may possess only approved nontoxic ammunition for hunting
(see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge.
(f) Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, snipe, dove, and crow
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Hunters may enter the refuge 1\1/2\ hours before legal sunrise
and must leave the refuge by 1\1/2\ hours after legal sunset.
(ii) We allow only hunters and dogs to retrieve game in designated
hunting areas.
(iii) You may only use portable blinds or construct temporary
blinds of dead natural vegetation. Blinds will be available for general
use on a first-come, first-served basis. You must remove portable
blinds at the end of each day's hunt (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
We prohibit use of rock piles above the high-water mark for blind
construction.
(iv) On West Hunting Area (Lake Walcott), we allow hunting on the
uplands and over water within 100 yards (90 meters) of the shoreline.
We allow use of boats only for retrieval of game.
(v) On East Hunting Area (Tule Island), we allow boats during the
waterfowl hunting season.
(vi) You may only take Eurasian collared-doves during the State
mourning dove and waterfowl seasons.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant, grouse,
partridge (chukar and gray partridge), quail, cottontail rabbit, and
bobcat on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The condition set forth at paragraph (f)(1)(i) and (ii) of this
section applies.
(ii) You may take rabbits only during the State mourning dove and
waterfowl seasons.
(iii) Unit 12 is closed to hunting from April 1st through August
15th.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of deer and elk on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition: The
condition set forth at paragraph (f)(1)(i) applies.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge.
* * * * *
0
8. Amend Sec. 32.32 by:
0
a. Revising and republishing paragraph (a);
0
b. Adding new paragraph (b);
0
c. Redesignating paragraphs (b) through (l) as paragraphs (c) through
(m), respectively; and
0
d. Revising and republishing newly redesignated paragraphs (c) through
(h) and paragraphs (j) through (l);
The changes read as follows:
Sec. 32.32 Illinois.
* * * * *
(a) Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game birds authorized by the
State on
[[Page 31596]]
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition:
(i) Hunters must remove all personal property, including but not
limited to boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials, trail cameras,
stands, and platforms, at the end of each day's hunt (see Sec. Sec.
27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(ii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting, provided the dogs are
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(iii) We allow access for hunting from 1 hour before legal sunrise
until 1 hour after legal sunset.
(iv) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and
Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game authorized
by the State except for feral hog, house sparrow, and European starling
during the State waterfowl season on designated areas of the refuge
subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (a)(1)(i) through (iv) of
this section apply.
(ii) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes after
legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following day.
(3) [Reserved]
(4) Sport fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge from legal sunrise to legal sunset subject to the following
conditions:
(i) We allow fishing on Lake Chautauqua from February 1 through
October 15. We prohibit fishing in the waterfowl hunting area during
the waterfowl hunting season.
(ii) We allow bank fishing year-round between the boat ramp and the
fishing trail in the North Pool and from Goofy Ridge Public Access to
the west gate of the North Pool water control structure.
(b) Clarence Cannon National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game
bird hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game birds authorized by
the State on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (b)(1)(i) through (iii)
of Sec. 32.44(b) apply.
(ii) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and
Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game species
authorized by the State except for house sparrow and European starling
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (b)(1)(i) through (iii)
of Sec. 32.44(b) and paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section apply.
(ii) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes after
legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following day.
(iii) Feral hogs may only be harvested during white-tailed deer
hunts consistent with approved method of take as described for
designated areas.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of turkey and white-tailed
deer on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) You must register at the hunter sign-in/out station and record
the sex and age of deer harvested on the Harvest Report (FWS Form 3-
2542).
(ii) We prohibit shooting at deer that are on any portion of the
main perimeter levee.
(iii) We allow placement of one tree stand or ground blind per
hunter during state designated white-tailed deer seasons and require
hunters to remove tree stands and ground blinds after 24 hours of use
(see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). We require deer stands and ground
blinds to be labeled with the hunter's Illinois Department of Natural
Resources customer identification number.
(iv) For hunting, you must use or possess only approved nontoxic
shot shells for hunting turkey (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(v) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an organized
or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or
cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is part of the
organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the deer.
(vi) The conditions set forth at paragraph (b)(1)(i) through (iii)
of Sec. 32.44(b) and paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section apply.
(c) Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game bird species authorized by
the State on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) We require a signed hunt brochure. You must carry this signed
permit when hunting on the refuge.
(ii) We prohibit hunting within 50 yards (45 meters (m)) of all
designated public use facilities, including, but not limited to,
parking areas, picnic areas, campgrounds, marinas, boat ramps, public
roads, and established hiking trails listed in the refuge trails
brochure.
(iii) Hunters must remove all personal property, including but not
limited to boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials, stands, platforms,
trail cameras, and other personal equipment, brought onto the refuge at
the end of each day's hunt (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this
chapter).
(iv) We allow the use of dogs when hunting, provided the dogs are
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(v) Waterfowl hunting blinds must be a minimum of 200 yards (180 m)
apart. Hunters must anchor boat blinds on the shore or anchor them a
minimum of 200 yards (180 m) away from any shoreline.
(vi) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and
Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game species
authorized by the State except for house sparrow and European starling
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (c)(1)(i) through (vi) of
this section apply.
(ii) Feral hogs may only be harvested during white-tailed deer
hunts consistent with approved method of take as described for
designated areas.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (c)(1)(i), (ii) and (vi)
and (c)(2)(ii) of this section apply.
(ii) You may use or possess only approved nontoxic shot shells
while in the field for hunting turkey (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(iii) We require all deer and turkey hunters using the restricted
use area to check-in at the refuge visitor center prior to hunting.
(iv) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an
organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is
part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the
deer.
(v) We only allow archery equipment when hunting deer in the
following areas:
(A) In the area west of Division Street and east of Blue Heron
Marina;
(B) On all refuge lands north of Illinois State Route 13; and
(C) In the area north of the Crab Orchard Lake emergency spillway
and west of Crab Orchard Lake.
(vi) We allow placement of one tree stand or ground blind per
hunter during state designated white-tailed deer seasons and require
hunters to remove tree stands and ground blinds after 24 hours of use
(see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). We require deer stands and ground
blinds to be labeled with the hunter's Illinois Department of Natural
Resources customer identification number.
[[Page 31597]]
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) On Crab Orchard Lake west of Wolf Creek Road:
(A) Anglers may fish from boats all year.
(B) Anglers must remove all trotlines/jugs from legal sunrise until
legal sunset from the Friday immediately prior to Memorial Day through
Labor Day.
(ii) On Crab Orchard Lake east of Wolf Creek Road:
(A) Anglers may fish from boats March 1 through October 15.
(B) Anglers may fish all year at the Wolf Creek and Route 148
causeways.
(iii) On A-41 and Bluegill Ponds:
(A) Anglers may fish only from legal sunrise to legal sunset from
March 1 through October 15.
(B) We prohibit anglers from using gas-powered boats.
(iv) On Managers, Honkers, and Visitors Ponds:
(A) Anglers may fish all year from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
(B) We prohibit anglers from using gas-powered boats.
(v) Trotlines/jugs:
(A) We prohibit the use of trotlines/jugs on all refuge waters
outside of Crab Orchard Lake.
(B) We prohibit the use of trotlines/jugs with any flotation device
that has previously contained any petroleum-based material or toxic
substances.
(C) Anglers must attach a buoyed device that is visible on the
water's surface to all trotlines.
(vi) Anglers may use all legal noncommercial fishing methods,
except they may not use any underwater breathing apparatus.
(vii) Organizers of all fishing events must possess a Special Use
Permit (FWS Form 3-1383-G or FWS Form 3-1383-C).
(viii) We prohibit anglers from fishing within 250 yards (228 m) of
an occupied waterfowl hunting blind.
(ix) Specific creel and size limits apply on various refuge waters
as listed in the Crab Orchard fishing brochure and the annual Illinois
fishing digest.
(d) Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game birds authorized by the
State on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) You must remove all personal property, including but not
limited to boats, decoys, trail cameras, blinds, blind materials,
stands, and platforms, brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's
hunt (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(ii) We allow the use of dogs while hunting, provided the dog is
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(iii) We allow access for hunting from 1 hour before legal sunrise
until 1 hour after legal sunset.
(iv) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and
Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game species
authorized by the State except for house sparrow and European starling
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (d)(1)(i) through (iv) of
this section apply.
(ii) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes after
legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following day.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The condition set forth at paragraph (d)(1)(i) of this section
applies.
(ii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an
organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is
part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the
deer.
(iii) You may use or possess only approved nontoxic shot shells
while in the field for hunting wild turkey (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(iv) We allow placement of one tree stand or ground blind per
hunter during state designated white-tailed deer seasons and require
hunters to remove tree stands and ground blinds after 24 hours of use
(see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). We require deer stands and ground
blinds to be labeled with the hunter's Illinois Department of Natural
Resources customer identification number.
(v) We allow harvest of feral hog during while tail deer hunting
only.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Anglers must remove all boats and fishing equipment (see Sec.
27.93 of this chapter) brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's
fishing activity.
(ii) We prohibit the use of trotlines, jugs, yo-yos, nets, or any
commercial fishing equipment except in areas where State regulations
authorize commercial tackle.
(iii) We prohibit the use of more than two poles per angler and
more than two hooks or lures per pole.
(e) Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game birds on designated areas
of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Hunters must remove personal property, including but not
limited to boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials, trail cameras,
stands, and platforms, brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's
hunt (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(ii) We allow access for hunting from 1 hour before legal shooting
time (as governed by State regulations for the species in question)
until 1 hour after legal sunset.
(iii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting, provided the dogs are
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(iv) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and
Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game species
authorized by the State except for house sparrow and European starling
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (e)(1)(i) through (iv)
of this section apply.
(ii) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes after
legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following day.
(iii) Feral hogs may only be harvested during white-tailed deer
hunts consistent with approved method of take as described for
designated areas.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (e)(1)(i), (ii) and (iv)
and (e)(2)(iii) of this section apply.
(ii) For hunting, you may use or possess only approved nontoxic
shot shells while in the field, including shot shells used for hunting
wild turkey (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(iii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an
organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is
part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the
deer.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing throughout the year on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We allow fishing from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
(ii) We prohibit fishing in the waterfowl hunting area during the
waterfowl hunting season.
(f) Great River National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting.
[[Page 31598]]
We allow hunting of migratory game bird species authorized by the State
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) On the Long Island Division, we allow hunting only from blinds
constructed on sites posted by the State.
(ii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting, provided the dogs are
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(iii) We allow access for hunting from 1 hour before legal sunrise
until 1 hour after legal sunset.
(iv) You must remove all personal belongings, including but not
limited to boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials, trail cameras,
stands, and platforms, brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's
hunt (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(v) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and
Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game species
authorized by the State except for house sparrow and European starling
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (f)(1)(ii) through (v)
of this section apply.
(ii) On the Cherry Box Division and Fox Island Division, we allow
hunting with shotgun only during the Statewide upland game season.
(iii) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes
after legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following
day.
(iv) Feral hogs may only be harvested during white-tailed deer
hunts consistent with approved method of take as described for
designated areas.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) For wild turkey hunting, you may use or possess only approved
nontoxic shot shells while in the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(ii) We allow placement of one tree stand or ground blind per
hunter during state designated white-tailed deer seasons and require
hunters to remove tree stands and ground blinds after 24 hours of use
(see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). We require deer stands and ground
blinds to be labeled with the hunter's Illinois Department of Natural
Resources customer identification number.
(iii) On the Fox Island Division, Slim Island Division, and Cherry
Box Division, we only allow archery deer hunting during the Statewide
archery season. We prohibit archery hunting during the State firearm
season.
(iv) On the Delair Division, we only allow deer hunting during
special managed hunts. You must possess and carry a refuge permit (hunt
letter) when hunting during special managed hunts.
(v) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an organized
or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or
cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is part of the
organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the deer.
(vi) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (f)(1)(iii) through (v)
and (f)(2)(iv) of this section apply.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We prohibit the taking of any mussel (clam), crayfish, frog,
leech, and turtle species by any method on the refuge (see Sec. 27.21
of this chapter).
(ii) On the Fox Island Division, we only allow bank fishing along
any portion of the Fox River from January 1 through October 15.
(g) Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game birds authorized by the
State on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) You must remove all personal property, including but not
limited to boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials, trail cameras,
stands, and platforms, brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's
hunt (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(ii) Hunters may enter the refuge no earlier than 1 hour before
legal shooting hours and must exit the refuge no later than 1 hour
after legal shooting hours.
(iii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting, provided the dog is
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(iv) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and
Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game species
authorized by the State except for house sparrow and European starling
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (iv)of
this section apply.
(ii) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes after
legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following day.
(iii) Feral hogs may only be harvested during white-tailed deer
hunts.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow white-tailed deer and turkey hunting
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (g)(1)(i), (ii), and
(iv) and (g)(2)(iv) of this section apply.
(ii) For hunting, you may use or possess only approved nontoxic
shot shells while in the field, including shot shells used for hunting
turkey (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(iii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an
organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is
part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the
deer.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We prohibit the taking of any mussel (clam), crayfish, frog,
leech, and turtle species by any method on the refuge (see Sec. 27.21
of this chapter).
(ii) We allow fishing only from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
(iii) You must remove all fishing devices at the end of each day's
fishing activity (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(h) Kankakee National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game bird species authorized by
the State on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) You must remove all personal property, including but not
limited to boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials, trail cameras,
stands, and platforms, brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's
hunt (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(ii) Hunters may enter the refuge no earlier than 1 hour before
legal shooting hours and must exit the refuge no later than 1 hour
after legal shooting hours.
(iii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting, provided the dog is
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(iv) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and
Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game species
authorized by the State,-except for house sparrow and European
starling, on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (h)(1)(i) through (iv) of
this section applies.
(ii) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes after
legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following day.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey
[[Page 31599]]
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Feral hogs may only be harvested during white-tailed deer
hunts.
(ii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an
organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is
part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the
deer.
(iii) For hunting, you may possess only approved nontoxic shot
shells while in the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We prohibit the taking of any mussel (clam), crayfish, frog,
leech, minnows and turtle species by any method on the refuge (see
Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
(ii) We allow fishing only from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
(iii) You must remove all personal fishing devices and equipment at
the end of each day's fishing activity (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94
of this chapter).
* * * * *
(j) Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge. (1)
Migratory game bird hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game birds
authorized by the State on designated areas of the refuge subject to
the following conditions:
(i) You must remove personal property, including but not limited to
boats, blinds, blind materials, stands, decoys, trail cameras,
platforms, and other hunting equipment, from the refuge at the end of
each day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(ii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting, provided the dogs are
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(iii) We allow access for hunting from 1 hour before legal sunrise
until 1 hour after legal sunset.
(iv) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and
Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game species
authorized by the State except for house sparrow and European starling
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (j)(1)(i) through (iv) of
this section apply.
(ii) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes after
legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following day.
(iii) Feral hogs may only be harvested during white-tailed deer
hunts consistent with approved method of take as described for
designated areas.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey on designated areas on the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) For turkey hunting, you may use or possess only approved
nontoxic shot shells while in the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(ii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an
organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is
part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the
deer.
(iii) We allow placement of one tree stand or ground blind per
hunter during state designated white-tailed deer seasons and require
hunters to remove tree stands and ground blinds after 24 hours of use
(see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). We require deer stands and ground
blinds to be labeled with the hunter's Illinois Department of Natural
Resources customer identification number.
(iv) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (j)(1)(i), (iii), and
(iv) and (j)(2)(iii) of this section apply.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We prohibit the taking of any mussel (clam), crayfish, frog,
leech, and turtle species by any method on the refuge (see Sec. 27.21
of this chapter).
(ii) We allow fishing only from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
(iii) You must remove all fishing devices at the end of each day's
fishing activity (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(k) Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of all migratory game birds authorized by the
State on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (f)(1)(i) through (iv)
of Sec. 32.34(f) apply.
(ii) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and
Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of all upland game
authorized by the State, except for house sparrows and European
starling, on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (f)(2)(i) and (ii) of
Sec. 32.34(f) and (k)(1)(i) and (ii) of this section apply.
(ii) For turkey hunting, you may use or possess only approved
nontoxic shot shells while in the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(iii) Feral hog may only be harvested during white-tailed deer
hunts.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, feral
hog, and turkey in designated areas of the refuge subject to the
following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (k)(1)((i) and (ii) and
(k)(2)(iii) of this section apply.
(ii) Feral hog may only be harvested during white-tailed deer
hunts.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following condition: The conditions set forth at
paragraphs (f)(4)(i) through (iii) of Sec. 32.34(f) apply.
(l) Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game birds authorized by the
State on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) Hunters must remove personal property, including but not
limited to trial cameras, boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials,
stands, and platforms, brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's
hunt (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(ii) We allow the use of dogs while hunting, provided the dog is
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(iii) We allow access for hunting from 2 hours before legal sunrise
until 2 hours after legal sunset.
(iv) We allow the harvest of pigeon, ringed turtle dove, and
Eurasian-collared dove during any hunting on the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game species
authorized by the State, except for house sparrow and European
starling, on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (l)(1)(i) through (iv)
of this section apply.
(ii) We prohibit hunters using rifles or handguns with ammunition
larger than .22 caliber rimfire, except they may use black powder
firearms up to and including .50 caliber.
(iii) We allow the use of .22 and .17 caliber rimfire lead
ammunition for the taking of small game and furbearers during open
season.
(iv) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes after
legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following day.
(v) Feral hogs may only be harvested during white-tailed deer hunts
consistent with approved method of take as described for designated
areas.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey
[[Page 31600]]
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (l)(1)(i) and (iii) and
(iv) and (l)(2)(v) of this section apply.
(ii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an
organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is
part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the
deer.
(iii) You may use or possess only approved nontoxic shot shells
while in the field for hunting wild turkey (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(4) Sport fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We prohibit the taking of turtle or frog (see Sec. 27.21 of
this chapter).
(ii) We allow fishing only from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
(iii) Anglers must remove personal property, including but not
limited to boats, ice shacks, and all other fishing devices, at the end
of each day's fishing activity (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
* * * * *
0
9. Amend Sec. 32.33 by revising and republishing paragraphs (a), (b),
and (c) to read as follows:
Sec. 32.33 Indiana.
* * * * *
(a) Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge. (1) [Reserved]
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel on designated
areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We require a signed acknowledgment of danger agreement and a
refuge hunt permit.
(ii) Hunters must possess a valid daily gate pass at all times.
(iii) We allow the use of dogs for hunting only during the squirrel
hunting season in the day use area, provided the dog is under the
immediate control of the hunter at all times. You must ensure that all
hunting dogs wear a collar displaying the owner's contact information.
(iv) You must hunt only in assigned areas. We prohibit trespass
into an unassigned hunt area.
(v) We require that all hunters check all harvested game taken on
the refuge at the refuge check station.
(vi) We require all refuge hunters to hunt with a partner. We
require hunting partners to know the location of their partner while
hunting. An adult, age 18 or older, must directly supervise youth
hunters age 17 and younger.
(vii) Hunters must possess and carry a compass while hunting on the
refuge.
(viii) You must remove all personal property, including but not
limited to boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials, stands, and
platforms, brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's hunt (see
Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(ix) We prohibit the use of electronic or photographic trail
monitoring devices such as game cameras.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (a)(2)(i), (ii), and
(iv) through (ix) of this section apply.
(ii) You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field
(see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(4) Sport fishing. We allow fishing on the Old Timbers Lake subject
to the following conditions:
(i) We require a signed acknowledgment of danger agreement and a
refuge access permit.
(ii) Anglers must possess a valid daily gate pass at all times.
(iii) We allow fishing only with a rod and reel or pole and line.
(iv) We prohibit the use of trotlines.
(v) We prohibit retaining black bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth
bass, and spotted bass between 12 and 15 inches (30 and 37.5
centimeters).
(b) Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, merganser, woodcock,
and dove on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) You must remove all boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials,
stands, and platforms brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's
hunt (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(ii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting, provided the dogs are
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(iii) We prohibit hunting and the discharge of a firearm within 100
yards (30 meters) of any dwelling or any other building that people,
pets, or livestock may occupy.
(iv) We prohibit the use of electronic or photographic trail
monitoring devices such as game cameras.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of turkey, quail,
squirrel, raccoon, opossum, coyote, fox, skunk, and rabbit on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) For hunting, you may use or possess only approved nontoxic shot
shells while in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild
turkey (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(ii) We allow the use of rimfire weapons for upland/small game
hunting.
(iii) We prohibit the use of centerfire rifles for any hunts on
refuge property.
(iv) During spring turkey hunting, hunters must possess a State-
issued hunting permit during the first 6 days of the season.
(v) We prohibit turkey hunting after 1 p.m. each day.
(vi) We allow the incidental take of coyote only during other
refuge hunting seasons.
(vii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b)(1)(i) through (iv)
of this section apply.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b)(1)(i) through (iv)
and (b)(2)(iii) of this section apply.
(ii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an
organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is
part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the
deer.
(iii) We prohibit the use or possession of tree spikes, plastic
flagging, and reflective tacks.
(iv) We prohibit firearms deer hunting during the State deer
firearm season (archery and muzzleloader only).
(v) We close archery deer hunting during the State muzzleloader
season.
(vi) We prohibit the possession of game trail cameras on the
refuge.
(vii) We require you to remove arrows from crossbows during
transport in a vehicle.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We prohibit the use of any type of motor.
(ii) We allow the use of kayaks, canoes, belly boats, or float
tubes in all designated fishing areas.
(iii) We allow fishing only with rod and reel, or pole and line.
(iv) We prohibit harvest of frog and turtle (see Sec. 27.21 of
this chapter).
(v) We prohibit the use of lead fishing tackle.
(vi) We allow only youth age 15 and younger to fish in the
Discovery Pond.
(c) Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge and Management Area. (1)
Migratory game bird hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose,
merganser, coot, woodcock, dove, snipe, rail, and crow on designated
areas of the refuge and the White River Wildlife Management Area
subject to the following conditions:
(i) You must remove all personal property, including but not
limited to boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials, stands, and
platforms, brought onto the
[[Page 31601]]
refuge at the end of each day's hunt (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of
this chapter).
(ii) We prohibit hunting and the discharge of a weapon within 150
yards (137 meters) of any dwelling or any building that may be occupied
by people, pets, or livestock and within 50 yards (45 meters) of all
designated public use facilities, including, but not limited to,
parking areas and established hiking trails listed in the refuge
hunting and fishing brochure.
(iii) We allow the use of dogs for hunting, provided the dog is
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(iv) We prohibit the use of electronic or photographic trail
monitoring devices such as game cameras.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of bobwhite quail,
pheasant, cottontail rabbit, squirrel (gray and fox), red and gray fox,
coyote, opossum, striped skunk, and raccoon subject to the conditions
set forth at paragraphs (c)(1)(i) through (iv) of this section.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
wild turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (c)(1)(i), (ii), and
(iv) of this section apply.
(ii) On the Columbia Mine Unit, you may only hunt white-tailed deer
during the first week (7 days) of the following seasons, as governed by
the State: archery, firearms, and muzzleloader.
(iii) On the Columbia Mine Unit, you may leave portable tree stands
overnight only when the unit is open to hunting and for a 2-day grace
period before and after the special season.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Fishing is permitted from half-hour before legal sunrise to
half-hour after legal sunset on the Columbia Mine Unit.
(ii) We allow fishing only with rod and reel, pole and line, bow
and arrow, or crossbow.
(iii) The minimum size limit for largemouth bass on Snakey Point
Marsh and on the Columbia Mine Unit is 14 inches (35.6 centimeters).
(iv) We prohibit the taking of any turtle, frog, leech, minnow,
crayfish, and mussel (clam) species by any method on the refuge (see
Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
(v) The condition set forth at paragraph (c)(1)(i) and (ii) of this
section applies.
* * * * *
0
10. Amend Sec. 32.34 by revising and republishing paragraphs (b)
through (g) to read as follows:
Sec. 32.34 Iowa.
* * * * *
(b) Driftless Area National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game
bird hunting. We allow hunting of all migratory birds authorized by the
State on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) In areas open to hunting, we allow hunting beginning November 1
until the close of State hunting seasons or March 15, whichever comes
first.
(ii) We prohibit leaving boats, decoys, or other personal property
unattended at any time. You must remove all personal property, which
includes boats, decoys, and blinds, brought onto the refuge at the end
of each day's hunt (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(iii) We allow the use of dogs while hunting, provided the dog is
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(iv) We allow entry into the refuge 1 hour before legal sunrise and
require hunters to leave the refuge no later than 1 hour after legal
sunset. Shooting hours are in accordance with state regulations.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game species
authorized by the State, except for European starling, house sparrow,
and common garter snake, on designated areas of the refuge subject to
the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b)(1)(i) through (iv)
of this section apply.
(ii) In areas open to hunting, we allow hunting beginning November
1 until the close of State hunting seasons or January 15, whichever
occurs first.
(iii) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes
after legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following
day.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b) (1) (i), (ii) and
(iv) of this section apply.
(ii) We allow only archery and muzzleloader hunting for white-
tailed deer.
(iii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an
organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is
part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the
deer.
(iv) For turkey hunting, you may possess only approved nontoxic
shot shells (see Sec. 32.2(k)) while in the field.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge.
(c) Iowa Wetland Management District. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game birds authorized by the
State subject to the following conditions:
(i) We prohibit leaving boats, decoys, or other personal property
unattended at any time. You must remove all personal property, which
includes, but is not limited to, boats, decoys, blind materials,
stands, platforms, and blinds, brought onto the district at the end of
each day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(ii) We allow the use of dogs while hunting, provided the dog is
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(iii) We prohibit the use of motorized boats while hunting and
fishing.
(iv) We prohibit duck and goose hunting on the Waterfowl Refuge
Unit. We also prohibit all hunting on the Waterfowl Refuge Unit during
the State duck season.
(v) All hunting on the Core Area Unit and Buffalo Creak Bottoms
Unit is governed by station-specific regulations at subsection (g) of
this section for the adjacent Union Slough Wetland Management District.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow upland game species authorized by
the State, subject to the following condition: The conditions set forth
at paragraphs (c)(1)(i) though (v) of this section apply.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow white-tailed deer and turkey hunting
subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (c)(1)(i) and (iii)
through (v) of this section apply, with the exception to (c)(1)(i) that
you may leave tree stands in an area for a continuous period of time
beginning 7 days prior to the open season for hunting deer and ending 7
days after the final day of that season. You must clearly mark the
stand with your Iowa hunting license number.
(ii) For turkey hunting, you may possess only approved nontoxic
shot shells while in the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing throughout the district
subject to the following conditions:
(i) The condition set forth at paragraph (c)(1)(iii) of this
section applies.
(ii) You must remove all ice fishing shelters, boats, and other
personal property at the end of each day's fishing (see Sec. 27.93 of
this chapter).
(d) Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow the hunting of migratory bird species on designated
areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We allow entry into the refuge 1 hour before legal sunrise and
require
[[Page 31602]]
hunters to leave the refuge no later than 1 hour after legal sunset.
(ii) We prohibit shooting on or over any refuge road within 50 feet
(15 meters) from the centerline.
(iii) You must remove personal property, including but not limited
to boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials, stands, and platforms,
brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's hunt (see Sec. Sec.
27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(iv) We allow the use of dogs while hunting, provided the dog is
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(v) We allow hunting by falconry on the refuge in accordance with
state regulations.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game species
authorized by the State, except for European starling, house sparrow,
and common garter snake, on designated areas of the refuge subject to
the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (d)(1)(i) through (v) of
this section apply.
(ii). We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes
after legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following
day.
(iii) We allow take of coyote with shotgun only.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey on designated areas of the refuge and subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (d)(1)(i) through (iii)
of this section apply, with the exception to (d)(1)(iii) that you may
leave tree stands in an area for a continuous period of time beginning
7 days prior to the open season for hunting deer and ending 7 days
after the final day of that season. You must clearly mark the stand
with your Iowa hunting license number.
(ii) You may only possess approved nontoxic shot when turkey
hunting (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(iii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an
organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is
part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the
deer.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Entry into the refuge for fishing is allowed 1 hour before
legal sunrise and anglers are required to leave the refuge no later
than 1 hour after legal sunset. No night fishing is permitted.
(ii) We prohibit the taking of any turtle, frog, snake, lizard,
leech, minnow, crayfish, mussel (clam), and any other non-fish species
by any method on the refuge (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
(e) Northern Tallgrass Prairie National Wildlife Refuge. (1)
Migratory game bird hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game bird
species authorized by the State on designated areas subject to the
following conditions:
(i) Hunters must remove personal property, including but not
limited to boats, decoys, portable or temporary blinds, and other
materials brought onto the refuge, at the end of each day's hunt (see
Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
(ii) We allow the use of dogs when hunting, except when hunting
furbearers, provided the dog is under the immediate control of the
hunter at all times.
(iii) We only allow nonmotorized boats while hunting and fishing.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game species
authorized by the state, except for European starling, house sparrow,
and common garter snake, on designated areas subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (e)(1)(i) through (iii)
of this section apply.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow the hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) You may possess only approved nontoxic shot shells while in the
field for hunting wild turkey (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(ii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (e)(1)(i) of this
section apply, with the exception to (e)(1)(i), in all counties except
Jasper, that you may leave tree stands in an area for a continuous
period of time beginning 7 days prior to the open season for hunting
deer and ending 7 days after the final day of that season. You must
clearly mark the stand with your Iowa hunting license number.
(iii) We prohibit shooting on, from, over, across, or within 30
feet (9 meters) of a roadway open to public vehicle transportation at a
big game animal or a decoy of a big game animal.
(iv) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an
organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is
part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the
deer.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Anglers must remove all ice fishing shelters, boats and other
personal property at the end of each day's fishing (see Sec. 27.93 of
this chapter).
(ii) We prohibit the taking of any turtle, frog, leech, minnow,
crayfish, and mussel (clam) species by any method on the refuge (see
Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
(iii) The conditions set forth at paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this
section apply.
(f) Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game birds authorized by the
State on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) Hunters must remove personal belongings, including but not
limited to boats, decoys, portable blinds, blind materials, stands,
platforms, and trail cameras, at the end of each day's hunt (see Sec.
27.93 of this chapter).
(ii) We allow access for hunting from 1 hour before legal sunrise
until 1 hour after legal sunset. Shooting hours are in accordance with
state regulations.
(iii) Hunting is permitted consistent with state seasons annually
between January 1 through September 14 on all designated hunt units,
except the Iowa River Corridor unit which is open to hunting pursuant
to state seasons year-round.
(iv) We allow the use of dogs when hunting, provided the dogs are
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game species
authorized by the State, except European starling, house sparrow, and
common garter snake, on designated areas of the refuge subject to the
following conditions:
(i) We allow shotgun slug or muzzleloading rifle for hunting
coyotes.
(ii) We prohibit night hunting of upland game from 30 minutes after
legal sunset until 30 minutes before legal sunrise the following day.
(iii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (f)(1)(i) through (iv)
of this section apply.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (f)(1)(i) through (iii)
of this section apply.
(ii) You may only use or possess approved nontoxic shot when turkey
hunting (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We prohibit the taking of turtle or frog (see Sec. 27.21 of
this chapter).
(ii) We allow fishing only from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
(iii) Anglers must remove all personal property, including but not
limited to
[[Page 31603]]
boats, ice shacks, and all other fishing devices, at the end of each
day's fishing activity (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(g) Union Slough National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, rail (Virginia and sora
only), woodcock, dove, crow, and snipe on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We allow hunters on the refuge from 1 hour before legal sunrise
until 1 hour after legal sunset.
(ii) We allow boats or other floating devices when hunting. You may
not leave boats unattended.
(iii) We allow the use of dogs while hunting, provided the dog is
under the immediate control of the hunter at all times.
(iv) We prohibit entry into any closed area to retrieve downed
game, unless the hunter has received written permission from the refuge
manager.
(v) We prohibit hunting on road rights-of-way on any portion of the
refuge not open to hunting. The road right-of-way extends to the center
of the road.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of upland game species
authorized by the State, except for European starling, house sparrow,
and common garter snake, on designated areas of the refuge, subject to
the following conditions:
(i) We prohibit possession of shotgun slugs.
(ii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (g)(1)(i), (ii), (iv),
and (v) of this section apply.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of deer and turkey on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (g)(1)(i), (ii), (iv),
and (v) of this section apply.
(ii) We allow portable tree stands, portable blinds, and
freestanding elevated platforms to be left on the refuge from 7 days
prior to the first deer hunting season; you must remove them prior to 7
days following the last deer hunting season (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter). Turkey hunters must remove blinds and stands each day (see
Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(iii) You must label portable tree stands, portable blinds, and
freestanding elevated platforms that are left unattended with your
hunting license number. The label must be legible from the ground.
(iv) You must remove any other personal property brought onto the
refuge at the end of each day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this
chapter).
(v) We allow deer hunters on the refuge from 1 hour before legal
sunrise until 2 hours after legal sunset.
(vi) Deer hunters may possess only shot shells that shoot a single
projectile (i.e., slugs).
(vii) For wild turkey hunting, you may use or possess only approved
nontoxic shot shells while in the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We allow fishing from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
(ii) We allow fishing from boats on the Buffalo Creek Bottoms;
however, we prohibit the use of gasoline motors.
(iii) We prohibit the use or possession of lead terminal tackle.
* * * * *
0
11. Amend Sec. 32.37 by revising and republishing paragraphs (a), (b),
(c), (e), (f), (g), (j), (l) through (r), (t), and (u) to read as
follows:
Sec. 32.37 Louisiana.
* * * * *
(a) Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of duck, teal, merganser, coot, gallinule,
woodcock, light and dark geese, snipe, rail, and dove on designated
areas of the refuge subject to the following condition: You may hunt
only as governed by State-issued Sherburne Wildlife Management Area
regulations.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit,
opossum, and raccoon on designated areas of the refuge subject to the
following conditions:
(i) The condition set forth at paragraph (a)(1) of this section
applies.
(ii) We allow incidental take of feral hogs, coyote, and nine-
banded armadillo during any open season with weapons and ammunition
legal for that season.
(iii) We allow hunting of nutria on designated areas of the refuge.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of feral hog, white-tailed
deer, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the
following condition: The condition set forth at paragraphs (a)(1) and
(a)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section apply.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow recreational finfishing and
shellfishing year-round as governed by Sherburne Wildlife Management
Area regulations.
(b) Bayou Cocodrie National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game
bird hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, merganser, snipe,
and woodcock on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) Hunters and anglers must possess a signed refuge permit.
(ii) We allow migratory game bird hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays,
and Sundays until 12 p.m. (noon) during the State season. We do not
open for the special teal season or the State youth waterfowl hunt.
(iii) We allow the use of dogs to locate, point, and retrieve.
(iv) We allow incidental take of armadillo, raccoon, beaver,
nutria, opossum, bobcat, and striped skunk when hunting.
(v) One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter 15 years
of age or younger.
(vi) We prohibit discharging a weapon within a 100-foot (30.5
meter) zone along either side of pipelines, power line rights-of-way,
designated roads and trails, open fields, petroleum facilities and
equipment, buildings, and parking lots.
(vii) Waterfowl hunters must remove all decoys, blind material,
other equipment, and harvested waterfowl from the area no later than 1
p.m. each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel and rabbit on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the conditions set forth at
paragraphs (b)(1)(i), (iii), and (iv) through (vi) of this section,
with the exception to (b)(1)(iii) that the use of dogs for rabbit
hunting is only authorized for the months of January and February.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of turkey, white-tailed
deer, and feral hog on designated areas of the refuge subject to the
following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b)(1)(i)and (iv)
through (vi) of this section apply.
(ii) The daily bag limit is one buck and one antlerless deer, as
defined by the State, per day, not to exceed State bag limits.
(iii) We prohibit drives. We define a drive as an organized or
planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or cause
game to move in the direction of any person who is part of the
organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the game.
(iv) Hunters are limited to two portable stands (including
climbers, platforms, tripods, ladder stands, and ground blinds), one
camera, and one boat. All items must be clearly labeled on the exterior
with State customer identification number. Stands and blinds may be
placed 72 hours prior to a hunt and must be removed within 72 hours
after each hunt (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
[[Page 31604]]
(v) While climbing a tree, installing a tree stand that uses
climbing aids, or hunting from a tree stand on a refuge, hunters must
use a fall-arrest system (full body harness) that is manufactured to
industry standards. Tree saddle users must always remain connected to
the tree by means of a lineman's belt or a tether.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow fishing and frogging on designated
areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The condition set forth at paragraph (b)(1)(i) of this section
applies.
(ii) We prohibit the take of crawfish, gar, turtles, and sturgeon
(see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
(iii) We prohibit the possession and use of hoop nets and trotline
equipment, including limb lines, gill nets, seine traps, yo-yos, and
jugs on the refuge.
(c) Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of duck, merganser, teal, light and dark
goose, coot, gallinule, rail, snipe, and dove on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Hunters and anglers must possess and carry a valid, signed
refuge hunting and fishing brochure.
(ii) We only allow youth to hunt migratory game birds.
(iii) All youth hunters age 15 and younger must be supervised by an
adult during hunts. The youth must be capable of and must actively
participate in the hunt by possessing or firing a legal weapon during
the hunt for the express purpose of harvesting game.
(iv) One adult may supervise up to two youths during upland game
hunts and migratory bird hunts, but may supervise only one youth during
big game hunts. The supervising adult must maintain visual and voice
contact with the youth at all times.
(v) Adults accompanying youth on any refuge hunts may participate
by hunting (except during the State youth-only seasons), but are not
allowed to harvest more than their own daily bag limit (see Sec. 20.24
of this chapter). Youth must harvest their own bag limits.
(vi) We allow migratory bird hunting on Wednesdays, Thursdays,
Saturdays, and Sundays from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise until 2
p.m.
(vii) We open the refuge to goose youth hunting during any segment
of goose season that extends beyond the regular duck season.
(viii) Migratory bird hunters may not enter the refuge prior to 4
a.m. on the day of the hunt and must remove all portable blinds and
decoys (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) no later than 2 p.m.
(ix) We prohibit hunting within 500 feet (152 meters (m)) of any
residence or structure adjacent to the refuge, and we prohibit hunting
within 200 feet (61 m) of any road, railroad, levee, water control
structure, designated public use trail, designated parking area, or
other designated public use facility.
(x) We prohibit mud boats or air-cooled propulsion vessels,
including ``surface-drive'' boats, except when traversing through the
Intracoastal Waterway and the Irish Bayou Straight Canal only.
(xi) We only allow the incidental take of nutria with approved shot
and weapons during any open youth waterfowl season on the refuge.
(xii) We allow the incidental take of coyote, raccoon, feral hog,
armadillo, and opossum with approved shot and weapons allowed during
any open season on the refuge.
(xiii) We allow only the use of reflective tacks as marking
devices.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of rabbit, and the
incidental take of nutria, coyote, raccoon, armadillo, and opossum, on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We only allow youth hunting of upland game.
(ii) When hunting, you must possess only shot size 4 or smaller or
.22 caliber rimfire rifles or smaller. We allow the use of air rifles.
(iii) When hunting rabbit, we allow the use of dogs only after the
close of the State archery deer season.
(iv) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (c)(1)(i), (iii)
through (v), and (ix) through (xiii) of this section apply.
(3) Big game hunting. We only allow youth hunting of white-tailed
deer, and the incidental take of feral hog, on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We are open to youth hunting only during the State deer archery
season.
(ii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an
organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is
part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the
deer.
(iii) We allow placement of temporary deer stands no earlier than
48 hours prior to the start of deer archery season. Hunters must remove
all deer stands within 48 hours after the archery deer season closes
(see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(iv) We allow only one deer stand per hunter on the refuge. Deer
stands must have the owner's State license/sportsmen's identification
number clearly printed on the stand.
(v) We prohibit the use of deer decoys.
(vi) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (c)(1)(i), (iii)
through (v), and (ix) through (xiii) of this section apply.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow recreational finfishing and
shellfishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) We allow daytime sport finfishing and shellfishing year-round
on designated areas of the refuge. On portions of the refuge outside of
the Hurricane Protection Levee, we allow daytime sport finfishing and
shellfishing from November 1 through January 31 and during the State
teal season, but only after 2 p.m.
(ii) We only allow sport finfishing with hand-held rod and reel or
hand-held rod and line.
(iii) You may take bait shrimp with cast nets only.
(iv) You may take crawfish (up to 100 pounds (45 kilograms) per
person, per day) with crawfish or dip nets only.
(v) We allow only recreational crabbing.
(vi) You must attend all fishing, crabbing, and crawfishing
equipment at all times.
(vii) We prohibit the use of trotlines, limblines, slat traps, gar
sets, nets, and alligator lines on the refuge.
(viii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (c)(1)(i), (x), and
(xiii) of this section apply.
* * * * *
(e) Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game
bird hunting. We allow hunting of duck, merganser, teal, coot, light
and dark goose, snipe, rail, gallinule, dove, and woodcock on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Each person age 18 and older must possess and carry a valid,
signed refuge user brochure while on the refuge.
(ii) We allow waterfowl, snipe, rail, gallinule, dove, and goose
hunting on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from \1/2\
hour before legal sunrise until 2 p.m. This includes waterfowl hunting
during the State teal season and State youth and veteran waterfowl
seasons. We only allow hunting of woodcock until 2 p.m.
(iii) We allow light goose hunting for that part of the season that
extends beyond the regular duck season from \1/2\ hour before legal
sunrise until 2 p.m.
(iv) We allow only temporary blinds, and hunters must remove blinds
and decoys by 2 p.m. each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(v) All youth hunters age 15 and younger must be supervised by an
adult
[[Page 31605]]
during all hunts. One adult may supervise up to two youths during small
game hunts and migratory bird hunts but may supervise only one youth
during big game hunts. The supervising adult must maintain visual and
voice contact with the youth at all times. Adult guardians are
responsible for ensuring that youth hunters do not violate refuge
rules.
(vi) We prohibit hunting or discharge of firearms (see Sec. 27.42
of this chapter) within 500 feet (152 meters (m)) of any residence
adjacent to the refuge or oil and gas infrastructure on the refuge, or
within 200 feet (61 m) from the center of any road, railroad, levee,
water control structure, power lines, designated public use trail,
building, designated camping area, designated parking area, or other
designated public facility.
(vii) We allow migratory bird hunters to enter the refuge no
earlier than 4 a.m., and all hunters must exit the refuge no later than
2 hours after legal sunset.
(viii) We allow only reflective tacks as trail markers on the
refuge.
(ix) We allow the incidental take of raccoon, feral hog, armadillo,
opossum, coyote, and nutria with approved shot and weapons allowed
during any open season on the refuge.
(x) We prohibit hunters and anglers from utilizing air boats, air
thrust boats, mud boats, aircraft, and air-cooled propulsion engines on
the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, and
quail, and the incidental take of nutria, coyote, raccoon, armadillo,
and opossum, on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) When hunting, you must possess only shot size 4 or smaller, or
.22 caliber rim-fire rifles or smaller. We allow the use of air rifles.
(ii) When hunting squirrel and rabbit, and for the incidental take
of raccoon, we allow the use of dogs only after the close of the State
archery deer season. When hunting quail, you may only use dogs to
locate, point, and retrieve.
(iii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (1)(i), (v), (vi) and
(viii) through (x) of this section apply.
(iv) During the dog season for squirrel and rabbit, all hunters,
including archers (while on the ground), except waterfowl hunters, must
wear a minimum of a cap or hat that is hunter orange, blaze pink, or
other such color as governed by State regulations.
(v) We only allow hunting of quail until 2 p.m.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, and
the incidental take of feral hog, on designated areas of the refuge
subject to the following conditions:
(i) We are open only during the State season for archery deer
hunting.
(ii) We prohibit deer drives. We define a deer drive as an
organized or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise
frighten or cause deer to move in the direction of any person who is
part of the organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the
deer.
(iii) We allow placement of temporary deer stands no earlier than
48 hours prior to the start of deer archery season. Hunters must remove
all deer stands within 48 hours after the archery deer season closes
(see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). We allow only one deer stand per
hunter on the refuge. Deer stands must have the owner's State license/
sportsmen's identification number clearly printed on the stand. We
prohibit hunting stands on trees painted with white bands.
(iv) Deer hunters must display State Wildlife Management Area (WMA)
hunter-orange or blaze-pink (as governed by State WMA regulations)
while on the ground.
(v) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (e)(1)(i), (v), (vi),
and (viii) through (x) of this section apply.
(vi) We prohibit the use of deer decoys.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow recreational finfishing and
shellfishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) You may only fish from legal sunrise until legal sunset, except
we allow night fishing from the bank and pier on Lake Road.
(ii) You must only use rod and reel or pole and line while
finfishing.
(iii) You must attend to any fishing, crabbing, and crawfishing
equipment at all times.
(iv) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (e)(1)(i) and (x) of
this section apply.
(f) Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game
bird hunting. We allow hunting of duck, coot, and woodcock on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Hunters must carry a signed refuge hunt permit and must carry
and fill out a Visitor Check-In Permit and Report daily.
(ii) Hunters may only hunt during designated refuge seasons as
listed in the signed refuge hunt permit.
(iii) We allow waterfowl hunting until 12 p.m. (noon) during the
State season and hunters must exit the refuge no later than 1:30 p.m.
except for woodcock hunting which ends at legal sunset.
(iv) Hunters may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m.
(v) We prohibit hunting within 100 feet (30 meters (m)) of the
maintained rights-of-way of roads and from or across all-terrain
vehicle (ATV) trails. We prohibit hunting within 50 feet (15 m) of, or
trespassing on, aboveground oil, gas, or electrical transmission
facilities.
(vi) Hunters may only use dogs to locate, point, and retrieve
migratory game birds.
(vii) We only allow ATVs on trails designated for their use and
marked by signs (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter). ATV trails are
closed March 1 through August 31.
(viii) We allow the incidental take of coyote and beaver during
refuge hunts with weapons legal for the hunt.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of quail, squirrel,
rabbit, raccoon, opossum, and the incidental take of coyote and beaver
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (f)(1)(i), (ii), (iv),
(v), (vii), and (viii) of this section apply.
(ii) Hunters must exit no later than 2 hours after legal shooting
hours, unless participating in authorized nighttime hunting.
(iii) We allow nighttime hunting with dogs for raccoon and opossum
from December 1 to January 31. We allow hunting of raccoon and opossum
during the daylight hours of rabbit and squirrel season.
(iv) Dogs may only be used for rabbit and squirrel hunting in
January and February.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition: The
conditions set forth at paragraphs (f)(1)(i), (iv), and (vii) and
(f)(2)(iv) of this section apply.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We prohibit trotlines, limb lines, yo-yos, traps, and nets.
(ii) We prohibit take of frog, turtle, and mollusk (see Sec. 27.21
of this chapter).
(g) Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of duck, merganser, teal, light and dark
goose, coot, gallinule, rail, snipe, dove, and woodcock on designated
areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Each person age 18 and older must possess and carry a valid,
signed refuge user brochure while on the refuge.
(ii) We only allow hunting of duck, merganser, teal, light and dark
goose, and gallinule from \1/2\ hour before legal
[[Page 31606]]
sunrise until 2 p.m. of the State seasons, including during the State
teal season, State youth waterfowl season, State veterans season, and
special light goose conservation season.
(iii) You must remove blinds and decoys by 2 p.m. each day (see
Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
(iv) When hunting migratory game birds, you may only use dogs to
locate, point, and retrieve game.
(v) All youth hunters age 15 and younger must be supervised by an
adult during all hunts. One adult may supervise up to two youths during
upland game hunts and migratory bird hunts, but may supervise only one
youth during big game hunts. The supervising adult must maintain visual
and voice contact with the youth at all times. Adult guardians are
responsible for ensuring that youth hunters do not violate refuge
rules.
(vi) We prohibit hunting or discharge of firearms (see Sec. 27.42
of this chapter) within 500 feet (152 meters (m)) of any residence or
oil and gas infrastructure, or within 200 feet (61 m) of any road,
railroad, levee, water control structure, power lines, designated
public use trail, building, designated camping area, designated parking
area, or other designated public facility.
(vii) For the purpose of hunting, we prohibit possession of slugs,
buckshot, and rifle and pistol ammunition, except during the deer gun
and primitive firearm seasons (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
(viii) You may use only reflective tacks as trail markers on the
refuge.
(ix) We allow the incidental take of feral hog, raccoon, armadillo,
opossum, coyote, and nutria with approved shot and weapons allowed
during any open season on the refuge.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, and
quail, and the incidental take of nutria, coyote, raccoon, armadillo,
and opossum, on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) We allow the use of dogs for rabbit and squirrel hunting, and
the incidental take of raccoon, on specific dates listed in the refuge
hunt brochure.
(ii) During any open deer firearm or primitive firearm season on
the refuge, all hunters, except waterfowl hunters, must wear hunter
orange, blaze pink, or other such color as governed by State
regulations.
(iii) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (g)(1)(i) and (v)
through (ix) of this section apply.
(iv) You may use .22-caliber rifles or smaller while hunting upland
game and ammunition must be size 4 or smaller.
(v) We will close the refuge to hunting (except waterfowl) and
camping when the Pearl River reaches 15.5 feet (4.72 meters) on the
Pearl River Gauge at Pearl River, Louisiana.
(vi) During the dog season for squirrels, rabbits, and incidental
take of raccoon, all hunters, including archery hunters (while on the
ground), except waterfowl hunters, must wear a cap or hat that is
hunter-orange, blaze pink, or other such color as governed by State
regulations.
(vii) We prohibit upland game hunting on days corresponding with
refuge deer gun and primitive firearm hunts.
(viii) We only allow quail hunting until 2 p.m.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer,
turkey, and the incidental take of feral hog, on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraph (g)(1)(i) and (viii) and
(g)(2)(v) of this section apply.
(ii) Hunters may erect deer stands no earlier than 48 hours before
the deer archery season opens and must remove them from the refuge
within 48 hours after this season closes (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter). We allow only one deer stand per hunter on the refuge. Deer
stands must have the owner's State license/sportsmen's identification
number clearly printed on the stand.
(iii) Deer hunters hunting from concealed blinds must display State
Wildlife Management Area (WMA) hunter-orange or blaze-pink (as governed
by State WMA regulations) above or around their blinds that is visible
from 360 degrees.
(iv) We hold a special dog hog hunt in February. During this hunt,
the following conditions apply, in addition to the other conditions set
forth in this paragraph (g)(3):
(A) You must use trained hog-hunting dogs to aid in the take of
hog.
(B) We allow take of hog from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise until
\1/2\ hour after legal sunset.
(C) You must possess only approved nontoxic shot, or pistol or
rifle ammunition not larger than .22 caliber rim-fire, to take the hog
after it has been caught by dogs.
(v) You must kill all hogs prior to removal from the refuge.
(vi) We prohibit the use of deer and turkey gobbler decoys.
(vii) We prohibit using shot larger than BB-lead, or T-steel, while
hunting during turkey season.
(viii) We describe the dates for turkey hunts and deer general gun
hunts, youth hunts, and veterans hunts in the refuge user brochure.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow only recreational fishing year-round on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We only allow cotton limb lines.
(ii) We close the fishing ponds at the Pearl River Turnaround to
fishing from April through the first full week of June and to boating
during the months of April, May, June, and July.
(iii) When the Pearl River Turnaround area is open, we allow boats
that do not have gasoline-powered engines attached in the fishing ponds
at the Pearl River Turnaround. Anglers must hand-launch these boats
into the ponds. When the fishing ponds at the Pearl River Turnaround
are open, hook and line is the only legal method of take in those
ponds.
(iv) The Pearl River Turnaround area, when open to fishing, is open
\1/2\ hour before legal sunrise to \1/2\ hour after legal sunset.
(v) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (g)(1)(i) and (viii),
and (g)(2)(v) of this section apply.
* * * * *
(j) Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of duck, merganser, teal, light and dark
goose, coot, snipe, rail, gallinule, dove, and woodcock on designated
areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) Each person age 18 and older must possess and carry a valid,
signed refuge user brochure while on the refuge.
(ii) We allow migratory bird hunters to enter the refuge no earlier
than 4 a.m., and all hunters must exit the refuge within 2 hours after
legal sunset.
(iii) We allow the incidental take of beaver, feral hog, raccoon,
armadillo, opossum, coyote, and nutria with approved shot and weapons
allowed during any open season on the refuge.
(iv) We allow all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility-type vehicle
as governed by State Wildlife Management Area (WMA) regulations and
size specifications on designated trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this
chapter) from the third Saturday in September until February 28.
(v) We prohibit hunting within 500 feet (152 meters (m)) of any
residence or oil and gas infrastructure, or within 200 feet (61 m) of
any road, railroad, levee, water control structure, power lines,
designated public use trail, building, designated camping area,
designated parking area, or designated public use facility.
(vi) All youth hunters age 15 and younger must be supervised by an
adult during hunts. One adult may supervise up to two youths during
small game hunts and migratory bird hunts but may supervise only one
youth during big
[[Page 31607]]
game hunts. The supervising adult must maintain visual and voice
contact with the youth at all times. Adult guardians are responsible
for ensuring that youth hunters do not violate refuge rules.
(vii) We allow waterfowl (duck, merganser, teal, light and dark
goose, and coot) and gallinule hunting daily during the State regular
season, including waterfowl hunting during the State teal season and
State youth and veteran waterfowl seasons, from \1/2\ hour before legal
sunrise until 2 p.m.
(viii) You must remove harvested waterfowl, temporary blinds, and
decoys used for duck hunting by 2 p.m. each day (see Sec. 27.93 of
this chapter).
(ix) When hunting migratory game birds, you may only use dogs to
locate, point, and retrieve.
(x) We prohibit accessing refuge property by boat from the
Mississippi River.
(xi) We allow only the use of reflective tacks as marking devices.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel and rabbit,
and the incidental take of nutria, beaver, coyote, raccoon, armadillo,
and opossum, on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (j)(1)(i) through (vi),
(x), and (xi) of this section apply.
(ii) While upland game hunting, we prohibit the possession of
hunting firearms larger than .22 caliber rimfire, shotgun slugs, and
buckshot (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
(iii) We allow the use of dogs during designated small game with
dog seasons. We require the owner's contact information on the collars
of all dogs. We only allow up to two dogs per hunting party for
squirrel hunting.
(iv) We prohibit upland game hunting on days corresponding with
refuge deer gun hunts.
(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (j)(1)(i) through (vi),
(x), and (xi) of this section apply.
(ii) We allow archery deer hunting, youth deer gun hunting during
the first weekend of the State youth firearm season, and one weekend of
primitive firearm season on the refuge. We list specific dates of these
hunts in the refuge annual user brochure.
(iii) Hunters may erect deer stands no earlier than 48 hours before
the deer archery season opens and must remove them from the refuge
within 48 hours after this season closes (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter). We grant extensions to retrieve stands due to high water
refuge closure. We allow only one deer stand or blind per hunter on the
refuge. Deer stands must have the owner's State license/sportsmen's
identification number clearly printed on the stand.
(iv) You may only take one deer of either sex per day during the
deer seasons listed. State season limits apply.
(v) Deer hunters must display State WMA hunter-orange or blaze-pink
(as governed by State WMA regulations).
(vi) We prohibit drives. We define a drive as an organized or
planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or cause
game to move in the direction of any person who is part of the
organized or planned hunt and known to be waiting for the game.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow recreational finfishing and
shellfishing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (j)(1)(i), (iv) (on the
open portions of Wood Duck ATV trail for wildlife-dependent activities
throughout the year), (x), and (xi) of this section apply.
(ii) We prohibit slat traps or hoop nets on the refuge.
(iii) Anglers may only crawfish during designated days and times.
The harvest limit is 50 pounds (22.5 kilograms) per person per day.
(iv) You must attend all crawfish traps and nets at all times. We
allow up to, and no more than, 20 traps per angler on the refuge.
* * * * *
(l) D'Arbonne National Wildlife Refuge. (1) Migratory game bird
hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, dove, rail, gallinul
[…truncated; see source link]Indexed from Federal Register on May 27, 2026.
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.