The purpose of this revised Hunting Plan is to update our existing plan and to provide additional hunting opportunities for white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, feral hogs, and doves on several tracts acquired since the current plan was approved in 1997. We are not adding hunting for any new species. This plan will also contain provisions for increased access for non-hunting visitors to the Doeskin Ranch area during Refuge hunts when possible.

Three Alternatives are presented and discussed in the EA: a No Action (current management) Alternative; a proposal to open 10 additional tracts to hunting for deer, hogs, and turkeys, and 1 additional tract for dove hunting (Proposed Alternative); and an Alternative plan to open 34 additional tracts to hunting. Through this scoping process, the Refuge is seeking public input to facilitate identification of issues and concerns.

The Environmental Assessment, the Hunt Plan, and the Compatibility Determination are available here. Paper copies of the documents are available for review at the refuge headquarters.

The public is encouraged to provide input by e-mail to David_Maple@fws.gov or by writing to:
Deputy Refuge Manager
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
24518 FM 1431, Box 1
Marble Falls TX 78654

Comments will be accepted until 4:30 pm on Tuesday, January 1, 2013.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.