Rules and Policies

Wildlife-dependent recreational activities are allowed on Waterfowl Production Areas (WPAs). These activities include hunting, fishing, trapping, wildlife observation, photography, environmental education, and interpretation. Please observe our rules and policies to protect natural resources and to help ensure your visit will be safe and enjoyable.

General Regulations

• WPAs are open year-round from sunrise to sunset
• Vehicles are allowed only on designated roads, parking areas, and on the ice for ice fishing. 
• Vehicle access to ice is limited to ice that is accessible from a right-of-way or designated road.
• Vehicles must be licensed in accordance with State laws and regulations.
• Motorized boats are allowed for wildlife-dependent activities. Boats that must be launched from a trailer are limited to waters that are accessible from a right-of-way or designated road.
• Collection of mature wild fruits, berries, seeds, above-ground portions of asparagus, mushrooms, and rhubarb for personal, daily, non-commercial use is allowed.
• Commercial activities are not allowed unless authorized by a special use permit issued by the district manager.

Prohibited Activities

• Overnight camping
• Fires
• Target and recreational shooting
• Riding or using horses for any purpose
• Dog training (personal or professional)
• Removing or disturbing property, including artifacts
• Removing natural objects or destroying plants, excluding the gathering of dead plant materials for on-site blind construction
• Littering, including leaving trash, spent shotgun shells, or debris
• Discarding of animal carcasses 
• Drones may not be launched, landed, or flown over WPAs

Please visit our Activity pages for additional regulations and guidance.