Fergus Falls WMD |
Waterfowl Production Areas
WPAs are Important to Waterfowl Production
Waterfowl Production Areas (WPAs) are public lands purchased by the Federal government for the purpose of increasing the production of migratory birds, especially waterfowl. Every dollar spent for the purchase of a Federal Duck Stamp goes directly toward the acquisition of waterfowl habitat.
Historically western Minnesota was a huge grassland, called the Northern Tallgrass Prairie, interspersed with countless wetlands. This prairie pothole area was a duck factory, producing mallards, teal, canvasbacks, other waterfowl and water-dependant birds by the millions. Many wetlands have since been drained and tallgrass prairie is now North America's rarest habitat; most of which is located on WPAs, State Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), Nature Conservancy lands, along with some remnants on private land.
WPAs are for Recreation
Most WPAs are open to such public uses as hiking, bird watching, hunting, and recreational trapping of fur-bearers. Your financial support through the purchase of duck stamps, will assure the continuation of our outdoor heritage.
Establishing WPAs is only one way you can contribute to the survival of North America's migratory birds. Another is to support legislation created to prevent wetland drainage. Even though current Minnesota legislation provides some wetland protection, many privately owned marshes remain in jeopardy. Each year hundreds of wetlands on private land are restored. If you are interested in restoring drained wetlands in Otter Tail, Grant, Douglas, Wilkin, or Wadena counties in Minnesota, contact the Fergus Falls WMD.
Please Act Responsibly
In addition to wetlands, grassland vegetation (for nesting use) is also critical to waterfowl. Parking in designated areas limits damage to this critical vegetation and reduces travel lanes for predators (red fox, skunk, and raccoon) preying on ground-nesting birds. All outdoor enthusiasts, including berry pickers, bird watchers and hikers, should use the same parking areas as hunters.
Please review the regulations below and honor the WPA boundary. Straying onto private land without permission can harm relationships with our private landowner neighbors. Positive, constructive relationships with these neighbors play an important role in the well-being of wildlife.
Act responsibly; rules and regulations do not miraculously "create" good hunting ethics. If one WPA is saturated with hunters, try another. Never hesitate to stop hunting short of a limit. Concentrate on taking only drakes; increasing hen numbers improve the prospect of higher waterfowl production for years to come. Report violators! They are detrimental to all and are a threat to the future of hunting. Pick up your empty shotshells as you enjoy your hunt. Return often, and bring a friend, to enjoy the outdoor wonders WPAs offer to everyone.
Regulations
Permitted
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Berry picking and mushrooming.
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Hiking and cross-country skiing.
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Wildlife and nature observation, study and photography.
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Hunting and trapping (except where posted "Closed"). Both are subject to all applicable state and federal laws. Small game hunters using shotguns are required to use and possess only approved non-toxic shot during the hunting season. Firearms may only be used during hunting seasons.
Prohibited
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Use of motor vehicles and motorized watercraft, except by permit, or in designated parking areas and public roads.
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Use or possession of alcoholic beverages while hunting.
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Picking or destroying flowers, shrubs, or any other living vegetation.
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Littering.
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Camping and overnight use.
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Fires.
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Use caution with matches and lighters.
- The use of nails, wire, screws, or bolts to attach a stand to a tree or hunting from a tree into which a metal object has been driven to support a hunter. Portable or temporary hunting blinds or stands must be removed at the end of each day's hunt.
