[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 185 (Tuesday, September 24, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 58753-58783]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-21804]
[[Page 58753]]
Vol. 78
Tuesday,
No. 185
September 24, 2013
Part IV
Department of the Interior
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Fish and Wildlife Service
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50 CFR Parts 25 and 32
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2013-2014 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations;
Proposed Rule
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 185 / Tuesday, September 24, 2013 /
Proposed Rules
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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Fish and Wildlife Service
50 CFR Parts 25 and 32
[Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2013-0074]; [FXRS12650900000-134-FF09R20000]
RIN 1018-AZ87
2013-2014 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations
AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
ACTION: Proposed rule.
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SUMMARY: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposes to add 6 national
wildlife refuges (NWRs) to the list of areas open for hunting and/or
sport fishing, add new hunts at 6 refuges, increase the hunting
activities available at 20 other refuges, and increase fishing
opportunities at two refuges, along with pertinent refuge-specific
regulations on other refuges that pertain to migratory game bird
hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting, and sport fishing for
the 2013-2014 season.
DATES: We will accept comments received or postmarked on or before
October 24, 2013.
ADDRESSES: You may submit comments by one of the following methods:
Electronically: Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal:
http://www.regulations.gov. Search for Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2013-
0074, which is the docket number for this rulemaking. On the resulting
screen, find the correct document and submit a comment by clicking on
``Comment Now!''
By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail or hand delivery: Public
Comments Processing, Attn: FWS-HQ-NWRS-2013-0074; Division of Policy
and Directives Management; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; 4401 N
Fairfax Drive, MS 2042-PDM; Arlington, VA 22203.
We will not accept email or faxes. We will post all comments on
http://www.regulations.gov. This generally means that we will post any
personal information you provide us (see the Request for Comments
section below for more information). For information on specific
refuges' public use programs and the conditions that apply to them or
for copies of compatibility determinations for any refuge(s), contact
individual programs at the addresses/phone numbers given in ``Available
Information for Specific Refuges'' under SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul F. Steblein, (703) 358-2678.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The National Wildlife Refuge System
Administration Act of 1966 closes national wildlife refuges 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 such uses are
compatible with the purposes of the refuge and National Wildlife 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 refuge hunting and sport fishing programs to
determine whether to include additional refuges or whether individual
refuge 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 refuge-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 refuge 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 in part 32 (50 CFR part
32). We regulate hunting and sport fishing on refuges to:
Ensure compatibility with refuge purpose(s);
Properly manage the fish and wildlife resource(s);
Protect other refuge values;
Ensure refuge visitor safety; and
Provide opportunities for quality fish- and wildlife-
dependent recreation.
On many refuges 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 in meeting these objectives.
On other refuges, we must supplement State regulations with more-
restrictive Federal regulations to ensure that we meet our management
responsibilities, as outlined in the ``Statutory Authority'' section.
We issue refuge-specific hunting and sport fishing regulations when we
open wildlife refuges to migratory game bird hunting, upland game
hunting, big game hunting, or sport fishing. These regulations 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. You may find previously issued refuge-
specific regulations for hunting and sport fishing in 50 CFR part 32.
In this rulemaking, we are also proposing to standardize and clarify
the language of existing regulations.
Statutory Authority
The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 (16
U.S.C. 668dd-668ee, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System
Improvement Act of 1997 [Improvement Act]) (Administration Act), and
the Refuge Recreation Act of 1962 (16 U.S.C. 460k-460k-4) (Recreation
Act) govern the administration and public use of refuges.
Amendments enacted by the Improvement Act, built upon the
Administration Act in a manner that provides an ``organic act'' for the
Refuge System, are similar to those 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 System for public recreation as an appropriate
incidental or secondary
[[Page 58755]]
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 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 uses.
We develop specific management plans for each refuge prior to
opening it to hunting or sport fishing. In many cases, we develop
refuge-specific regulations to ensure the compatibility of the programs
with the purpose(s) for which we established the refuge and the Refuge
System mission. We ensure initial compliance with the Administration
Act and the Recreation Act for hunting and sport fishing on newly
acquired refuges 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
to the lists of areas open to hunting and sport fishing in 50 CFR part
32. We ensure continued compliance by the development of comprehensive
conservation plans, specific plans, and by annual review of hunting and
sport fishing programs and regulations.
Amendments to Existing Regulations
This document proposes to codify in the Code of Federal Regulations
all of the Service's hunting and/or sport fishing regulations that are
applicable at Refuge System units previously opened to hunting and/or
sport fishing. We are doing this to better inform the general public of
the regulations at each refuge, to increase understanding and
compliance with these regulations, and to make enforcement of these
regulations more efficient. In addition to now finding these
regulations in 50 CFR part 32, visitors to our refuges will usually
find them reiterated in literature distributed by each refuge or posted
on signs.
We cross-reference a number of existing regulations in 50 CFR parts
26, 27, 28, and 32 to assist hunting and sport fishing visitors with
understanding safety and other legal requirements on refuges. This
redundancy is deliberate, with the intention of improving safety and
compliance in our hunting and sport fishing programs.
Table 1--Changes for 2013-2014 Hunting/Fishing Season
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Refuge/region (*) State Migratory bird hunting Upland game hunting Big game hunting Sport fishing
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Aransas NWR (2).................. Texas............... B...................... closed................ Already open.......... Already open.
Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee Florida............. Already open........... closed................ B..................... Already open.
NWR (4).
Balcones Canyonlands NWR (2)..... Texas............... C...................... C..................... C..................... closed.
Bandon Marsh NWR (1)............. Oregon.............. C...................... closed................ closed................ Already open.
Baskett Slough NWR (1)........... Oregon.............. A...................... closed................ closed................ closed.
Cherry Valley NWR (5)............ Pennsylvania........ A...................... A..................... A..................... closed.
Cokeville Meadows NWR (6)........ Wyoming............. A...................... A..................... A..................... closed.
Colusa NWR (8)................... California.......... C...................... C..................... closed................ closed.
Cypress Creek NWR (3)............ Illinois............ C...................... C..................... C..................... Already open.
Julia Butler Hansen Refuge For Oregon and C...................... closed................ Already open.......... Already open.
the Columbian White-Tailed Deer Washington.
(1).
Kootenai NWR (1)................. Idaho............... Already open........... D..................... Already open.......... Already open.
Malheur NWR (1).................. Oregon.............. C...................... Already open.......... Already open.......... C.
Middle Mississippi River NWR (3). Illinois............ C...................... C..................... C..................... Already open.
Mingo NWR (3).................... Missouri............ C...................... C/D................... C..................... Already open.
Neal Smith NWR (3)............... Iowa................ C/D.................... C/D................... C/D................... closed.
Nestucca Bay NWR (1)............. Oregon.............. A...................... closed................ closed................ closed.
Northern Tallgrass Prairie NWR Iowa................ C/D.................... C/D................... C/D................... closed.
(3).
Patoka River NWR and Management Indiana............. C...................... C..................... C..................... Already open.
Area (3).
Port Louisa NWR (3).............. Iowa................ C...................... C..................... C..................... C.
Rachel Carson NWR (5)............ Maine............... C...................... C/D................... C/D................... Already open.
St. Marks NWR (4)................ Florida............. C...................... C..................... C..................... Already open.
San Andres NWR (2)............... New Mexico.......... closed................. closed................ D..................... closed.
Shawangunk Grasslands NWR (5).... New York............ closed................. closed................ A..................... closed.
Siletz Bay NWR (1)............... Oregon.............. A...................... closed................ closed................ closed.
Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Vermont............. C...................... C..................... C..................... closed.
Wildlife Refuge (5).
Willapa NWR (1).................. Washington.......... C...................... Already open.......... C..................... Already open.
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Key:
* number in ( ) refers to the Region as explained in the preamble to this proposed rule for additional information regarding refuge specific
regulations.
A = New Refuge opened.
B = New activity on a refuge previously open to other activities.
C = Refuge already open to activity, but added new lands/waters or modified areas open to hunting or fishing.
D = Refuge already open to activity but added new species to hunt.
The changes for the 2013-14 hunting/fishing season noted in the
chart above are each based on a complete administrative record which,
among other detailed documentation, also includes a hunt plan, a
compatibility determination, and the appropriate National Environmental
Policy Act (NEPA; 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) analysis, all of which were
the subject of a public review and comment process. These documents are
available upon request.
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
[[Page 58756]]
find information about current fish consumption advisories on the
Internet at: http://www.epa.gov/waterscience/fish/.
Plain Language Mandate
In this proposed rule, we propose some of the revisions to the
individual refuge units to comply with a Presidential mandate to use
plain language in regulations; as such, these particular revisions do
not modify the substance of the previous regulations. These types of
changes include using ``you'' to refer to the reader and ``we'' to
refer to the Refuge System, using the word ``allow'' instead of
``permit'' when we do not require the use of a permit for an activity,
and using active voice (i.e., ``We restrict entry into the refuge'' vs.
``Entry into the refuge is restricted'').
Request for Comments
You may submit comment and materials on this proposed rule by any
one of the methods listed in the ADDRESSES section. We will not accept
comments sent by email or fax or to an address not listed in the
ADDRESSES section. We will not consider hand-delivered comments that we
do not receive, or mailed comments that are not postmarked, by the date
specified in the DATES section.
We will post your entire comment on http://www.regulations.gov.
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 http://www.regulations.gov.
Public Comment
Department of the Interior policy is, whenever practicable, to
afford the public a meaningful opportunity to participate in the
rulemaking process. The process of opening refuges is done in stages,
with the fundamental work being performed on the ground at the refuge
and in the community where the program is administered. In these
stages, the public is given other opportunities to comment, for
example, on the comprehensive conservation plans and the compatibility
determinations. The second stage is this document, when we publish the
proposed rule in the Federal Register for additional comment, commonly
for a 30-day comment period.
There is nothing contained in this annual regulation outside the
scope of the annual review process where we determine whether
individual refuges need modifications, deletions, or additions made to
them. We make every attempt to collect all of the proposals from the
refuges nationwide and process them expeditiously to maximize the time
available for public review. We believe that a 30-day comment period,
through the broader publication following the earlier public
involvement, gives the public sufficient time to comment and allows us
to establish hunting and fishing programs in time for the upcoming
seasons. Many of these rules also relieve restrictions and allow the
public to participate in recreational activities on a number of
refuges. In addition, in order to continue to provide for previously
authorized hunting opportunities while at the same time providing for
adequate resource protection, we must be timely in providing
modifications to certain hunting programs on some refuges.
We considered providing a 60-day, rather than a 30-day, comment
period. However, we determined that an additional 30-day delay in
processing these refuge-specific hunting and sport fishing regulations
would hinder the effective planning and administration of our hunting
and sport fishing programs. Such a delay would jeopardize enacting
amendments to hunting and sport fishing programs in time for
implementation this year and/or early next year, or shorten the
duration of these programs.
Even after issuance of a final rule, we accept comments,
suggestions, and concerns for consideration for any appropriate
subsequent rulemaking.
When finalized, we will incorporate these regulations into 50 CFR
part 32. Part 32 contains general provisions and refuge-specific
regulations for hunting and sport fishing on refuges.
Clarity of This Rule
We are required by Executive Orders 12866 and 12988 and by the
Presidential Memorandum of June 1, 1998, 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 the ADDRESSES section. To
better help us revise the rule; your comments should be a 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 (Executive Orders 12866 and 13563)
Executive Order 12866 provides that the Office of Information and
Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) will review all significant rules. OIRA has
determined that this rule is not significant.
Executive Order 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.
The executive order 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 this rule in a manner consistent
with these requirements.
Regulatory Flexibility Act
Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (as amended by the Small
Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act [SBREFA] of 1996) (5
U.S.C. 601 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 would 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 Regulatory Flexibility Act to require Federal agencies to
provide a statement of the factual basis for certifying that a rule
would not have a significant economic
[[Page 58757]]
impact on a substantial number of small entities.
This proposed rule adds 6 national wildlife refuges to the list of
refuges open to hunting, increases hunting activities on 20 additional
national wildlife refuges, and increases fishing activities at 2
refuges. As a result, visitor use for wildlife-dependent recreation on
these national wildlife refuges will change. If the refuges
establishing new programs were a pure addition to the current supply of
such activities, it would mean an estimated increase of 19,425 user
days (one person per day participating in a recreational opportunity)
(Table 2). Because the participation trend is flat in these activities
since 1991, this increase in supply will most likely be offset by other
sites losing participants. Therefore, this is likely to be a substitute
site for the activity and not necessarily an increase in participation
rates for the activity.
Table 2--Estimated Change in Recreation Opportunities in 2013/2014
[dollars in thousands]
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Additional Additional
Refuge days expenditures
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Aransas NWR............................. 2,600 121.1
Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee NWR...... 11 0.5
Balcones Canyonlands NWR................ 93 4.3
Bandon Marsh NWR........................ 108 5.0
Baskett Slough NWR...................... 140 6.5
Cherry Valley NWR....................... 315 14.7
Cokeville Meadows NWR................... 500 23.3
Colusa NWR.............................. 165 7.7
Cypress Creek NWR....................... 0 ..............
Julia Butler Hansen Refuge For the 0 ..............
Columbian White-Tailed Deer............
Kootenai NWR............................ 0 ..............
Malheur NWR............................. 95 4.4
Middle Mississippi River NWR............ 11,835 551.2
Mingo NWR............................... 1,500 69.9
Neal Smith NWR.......................... 25 1.2
Nestucca Bay NWR........................ 120 5.6
Northern Tallgrass Prairie NWR.......... 10 0.5
Patoka River NWR and Management Area.... 26 1.2
Port Louisa NWR......................... 0 ..............
Rachel Carson NWR....................... 0 ..............
St. Marks NWR........................... 30 1.4
San Andres NWR.......................... 4 0.2
Shawangunk Grasslands NWR............... 43 2.0
Siletz Bay NWR.......................... 100 4.66
Silvio O. Conte National Fish and 875 40.8
Wildlife Refuge........................
Willapa NWR............................. 830 38.7
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TOTAL............................... 19,425 904.8
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To the extent visitors spend time and money in the area of the
refuge that they would not have spent there anyway, they contribute new
income to the regional economy and benefit local businesses. Due to the
unavailability of site-specific expenditure data, we use the national
estimates from the 2011 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and
Wildlife Associated Recreation to identify expenditures for food and
lodging, transportation, and other incidental expenses. Using the
average expenditures for these categories with the maximum expected
additional participation of the Refuge System yields approximately
$904,800 in recreation-related expenditures (Table 2). By having ripple
effects throughout the economy, these direct expenditures are only part
of the economic impact of these recreational activities. Using a
national impact multiplier for hunting activities (2.27) derived from
the report ``Hunting in America: An Economic Force for Conservation''
yields a total economic impact of approximately $2.1 million (2012
dollars) (Southwick Associates, Inc., 2012). Using a local impact
multiplier would yield more accurate and smaller results. However, we
employed the national impact multiplier due to the difficulty in
developing local multipliers for each specific region.
Since we know that most of the fishing and hunting occurs within
100 miles of a participant's residence, then it is unlikely that most
of this spending would be ``new'' money coming into a local economy;
therefore, this spending would be offset with a decrease in some other
sector of the local economy. The net gain to the local economies would
be no more than $2.1 million, and most likely considerably less. Since
80 percent of the participants travel less than 100 miles to engage in
hunting and fishing activities, their spending patterns would not add
new money into the local economy and, therefore, the real impact would
be on the order of about $411,000 annually.
Small businesses within the retail trade industry (such as hotels,
gas stations, taxidermy shops, bait and tackle shops, and similar
businesses) may be impacted from some increased or decreased refuge
visitation. A large percentage of these retail trade establishments in
the local communities around national wildlife refuges qualify as small
businesses (Table 3). We expect that the incremental recreational
changes will be scattered, and so we do not expect that the rule will
have a significant economic effect on a substantial number of small
entities in any region or nationally. As noted previously, we expect
approximately $411,000 to be spent in total in the refuges' local
economies. The maximum increase at most would be less than one-tenth of
1 percent for local retail trade spending (Table 3).
[[Page 58758]]
Table 3--Comparative Expenditures for Retail Trade Associated With Additional Refuge Visitation for 2013/2014
[thousands, 2012 dollars]
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Estimated
maximum Establ. with
Refuge/county(ies) Retail trade addition from Addition as % Establishments <10 emp in
in 2007 new of total in 2011 2011
activities
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Aransas NWR:
Calhoun, TX................. $356,827 $60.6 0.017 61 43
Aransas, TX................. 267,465 60.6 0.023 70 53
Arthur R Marshall Loxahatchee 21,395,255 0.5 <0.001 5,256 3,961
NWR: Palm Beach, FL............
Balcones Canyonlands NWR:
Burnet, TX.................. 708,176 1.4 <0.001 176 146
Travis, TX.................. 15,369,020 1.4 <0.001 3,454 2,398
Williamson, TX.............. 10,982,412 1.4 <0.001 1,237 812
Bandon Marsh NWR: Coos, OR...... 792,881 5.0 0.001 268 191
Baskett Slough NWR: Polk, OR.... 415,314 6.5 0.002 135 102
Cherry Valley NWR:
Monroe, PA.................. 2,231,111 7.3 <0.001 631 422
Northampton, PA............. 3,770,434 7.3 <0.001 876 608
Cokeville Meadows NWR: Lincoln, 245,506 23.3 0.009 79 62
WY.............................
Colusa NWR: Colusa, CA.......... 230,924 7.7 0.003 60 40
Malheur NWR: Harney, OR......... 96,975 4.4 0.005 28 20
Middle Mississippi River NWR:
Randolph, IL................ 367,968 137.8 0.037 105 68
Jackson, IL................. 757,506 137.8 0.018 225 141
Jefferson, IN............... 628,548 137.8 0.022 182 132
Monroe, IL.................. 449,266 137.8 0.031 95 65
Mingo NWR:
Stoddard, MO................ 482,886 34.9 0.007 120 84
Wayne, MO................... 72,844 34.9 0.048 37 29
Neal Smith NWR: Jasper, IA...... 303,361 1 <0.001 116 80
Nestucca Bay NWR: Tillamook, OR. 249,040 5.6 0.002 107 89
Northern Tallgrass Prairie NWR: 303,361 0.5 <0.001 116 80
Jasper, IA.....................
Patoka River NWR:
Gibson, IN.................. 490,105 1.2 <0.001 122 84
Pike, IN.................... 61,937 1.2 0.002 31 22
St. Marks NWR:
Wakulla, FL................. 185,694 0.5 <0.001 59 46
Jefferson, FL............... 98,234 0.5 <0.001 47 35
Taylor, FL.................. 229,296 0.5 <0.001 96 75
San Andres NWR: Dona Ana, NM.... 2,132,201 0.2 <0.001 510 341
Shawangunk Grasslands NWR: 2,481,614 2.0 <0.001 733 548
Ulster, NY.....................
Siletz Bay NWR: Lincoln, OR..... 619,646 4.66 0.001 310 247
Silvio O. Conte National Fish
and Wildlife Refuge:
Essex, VT................... 16,644 20.4 0.122 20 16
Windham, VT................. 731,645 20.4 0.003 289 217
Willapa NWR: Pacific, WA........ 126,764 38.7 0.030 87 77
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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 refuges. Therefore, we certify that this proposed
rule 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.). An initial/final regulatory flexibility
analysis is not required. Accordingly, a small entity compliance guide
is not required.
Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act
The proposed rule is not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804(2), the
Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. We anticipate no
significant employment or small business effects. This rule:
a. Would not have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million
or more. The minimal impact would be scattered across the country and
would most likely not be significant in any local area.
b. Would not cause a major increase in costs or prices for
consumers; individual industries; Federal, State, or local government
agencies; or geographic regions. This proposed rule would have only a
slight effect on the costs of hunting opportunities for Americans. If
the substitute sites are farther from the participants' residences,
then an increase in travel costs would occur. The Service does not have
information to quantify this change in travel cost but assumes that,
since most people travel less than 100 miles to hunt, the increased
travel cost would be small. We do not expect this proposed rule to
affect the supply or demand for hunting opportunities in the United
States and, therefore, it should not affect prices for hunting
equipment and supplies, or the retailers that sell equipment.
c. Would not have significant adverse effects on competition,
employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of
U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises. This
proposed rule represents only a small proportion of recreational
[[Page 58759]]
spending at national wildlife refuges. Therefore, this rule would have
no measurable economic effect on the wildlife-dependent industry, which
has annual sales of equipment and travel expenditures of $72 billion
nationwide.
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
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 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 regulation would affect only
visitors at national wildlife refuges and describe what they can do
while they are on a refuge.
Federalism (E.O. 13132)
As discussed in the Regulatory Planning and Review and Unfunded
Mandates Reform Act sections above, this proposed rule would not have
sufficient federalism summary impact statement implications to warrant
the preparation of a Federalism Assessment 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 Office of the Solicitor has
determined that the 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 Order. The regulation would clarify established regulations and
result in better understanding of the regulations by refuge visitors.
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, and use. E.O.
13211 requires agencies to prepare Statements of Energy Effects when
undertaking certain actions. Because this proposed rule would increase
activities at 21 other refuges, at add new hunts at five refuges and
increase fishing opportunities at two refuges, it is not a significant
regulatory action under E.O. 12866, and we do not expect it to
significantly affect energy supplies, distribution, and use. Therefore,
this action is a 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 national wildlife
refuges with Tribal governments having adjoining or overlapping
jurisdiction before we propose the regulations.
Paperwork Reduction Act
This regulation does not contain any information collection
requirements other than those already approved by the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) under the Paperwork Reduction Act (44
U.S.C. 3501 et seq.) (OMB Control Numbers are 1018-0102 and 1018-0140).
In this proposed rule, we propose to revise 50 CFR 25.23 to provide
correct information concerning OMB approval for the collections of
information contained in subchapter C of title 50 of the Code of
Federal Regulations. 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.
Endangered Species Act Section 7 Consultation
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 (CCPs) and step-down management plans (which would
include hunting and/or fishing plans) for public use of refuges, and
prior to implementing any new or revised public recreation program on a
refuge as identified in 50 CFR 26.32. We have completed section 7
consultation on each of the affected refuges.
National Environmental Policy Act
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)), 43 CFR part 46, and 516 Departmental Manual (DM) 8.
A categorical exclusion from NEPA documentation applies to
publication of proposed amendments to refuge-specific hunting and
fishing regulations since they are technical and procedural in nature,
and the environmental effects are too broad, speculative, or
conjectural to lend themselves to meaningful analysis (43 CFR 46.210
and 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 actions are
covered sufficiently by an earlier environmental document (43 CFR
46.120).
Prior to the addition of a refuge to the list of areas open to
hunting and fishing in 50 CFR part 32, we develop hunting and fishing
plans for the affected refuges. We incorporate these proposed refuge
hunting and fishing activities in the refuge CCPs 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
CCPs and step-down plans in compliance with section 102(2)(C) of NEPA,
and the Council on Environmental Quality's regulations for implementing
NEPA in 40 CFR parts 1500-1508. 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
refuges at the addresses provided below.
Available Information for Specific Refuges
Individual refuge headquarters have information about public use
programs and conditions that apply to their specific programs and maps
of their respective areas. To find out how to contact a specific
refuge, contact the appropriate Regional office listed below:
Region 1--Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Regional Chief,
National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
Eastside Federal Complex, Suite 1692, 911 NE. 11th Avenue, Portland, OR
97232-4181; Telephone (503) 231-6214.
Region 2--Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Regional Chief,
National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Box
1306, 500 Gold Avenue, Albuquerque, NM 87103; Telephone (505) 248-7419.
Region 3--Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio,
and Wisconsin. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service, 1 Federal Drive, Federal Building, Fort
Snelling, Twin Cities, MN 55111; Telephone (612) 713-5401.
Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, 9311 Groh Road, Large
Lakes Research Station, Grosse Ile, MI 43138; Telephone (734) 692-7608.
[[Page 58760]]
Region 4--Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana,
Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Puerto Rico,
and the Virgin Islands. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge
System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1875 Century Boulevard,
Atlanta, GA 30345; Telephone (404) 679-7166.
Region 5--Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland,
Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode
Island, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia. Regional Chief, National
Wildlife Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 300 Westgate
Center Drive, Hadley, MA 01035-9589; Telephone (413) 253-8306.
Region 6--Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South
Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge
System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 134 Union Blvd., Lakewood, CO
80228; Telephone (303) 236-8145.
Region 7--Alaska. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service, 1011 E. Tudor Rd., Anchorage, AK 99503;
Telephone (907) 786-3545.
Region 8--California and Nevada. Regional Chief, National Wildlife
Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2800 Cottage Way, Room
W-2606, Sacramento, CA 95825; Telephone (916) 414-6464.
Primary Author
Paul Steblein, Division of Conservation Planning and Policy,
National Wildlife Refuge System is the primary author of this
rulemaking document.
List of Subjects
50 CFR Part 25
Administrative practice and procedure, Concessions, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements, Safety, Wildlife refuges.
50 CFR Part 32
Fishing, Hunting, Reporting, and recordkeeping requirements,
Wildlife, Wildlife refuges.
Proposed Regulation Promulgation
For the reasons set forth in the preamble, we propose to amend
title 50, chapter I, subchapter C of the Code of Federal Regulations as
follows:
PART 25--[AMENDED]
0
1. The authority citation for part 25 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 16 U.S.C. 460k, 664, 668dd, and 715i,
3901 et seq.; and Pub. L. 102-402, 106 Stat. 1961.
0
2. Revise Sec. 25.23 to read as follows:
Sec. 25.23 What are the general regulations and information
collection requirements?
The Office of Management and Budget has approved the information
collection requirements contained in subchapter C, parts 25, 26, 27,
29, 30, 31, 32, and 36 under 44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq. and assigned the
following control numbers: 1018-0102 for National Wildlife Refuge
Special Use Permit Applications and Reports; 1018-0140 for Hunting and
Fishing Application Forms and Activity Reports for National Wildlife
Refuges; and 1018-0153 for National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Check-In
Permit and Use Report. We collect information to assist us in
administering our programs in accordance with statutory authorities
that require that recreational or other uses be compatible with the
primary purposes for which the areas were established. Send comments on
any aspect of these forms or the information collection requirements to
the Information Collection Clearance Officer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, MS 2042-PDM, Washington, DC 20240.
PART 32--[AMENDED]
0
3. 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.
0
4. Amend Sec. 32.7 ``What refuge units are open to hunting and/or
sport fishing?'' by:
0
a. Adding an entry for ``Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife
Refuge'' and placing it in alphabetical order in the State of
Connecticut;
0
b. Adding an entry for ``Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife
Refuge'' and placing it in alphabetical order in the State of
Massachusetts;
0
c. Adding an entry for ``Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife
Refuge'' and placing it in alphabetical order in the State of New York;
0
d. Adding an entry for ``Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge'' and
placing it in alphabetical order in the State of Oregon;
0
e. Adding an entry for ``Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge'' and
placing it in alphabetical order in the State of Oregon;
0
f. Adding an entry for ``Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge'' and
placing it in alphabetical order in the State of Oregon;
0
g. Adding an entry for ``Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge'' and
placing it in alphabetical order in the State of Pennsylvania;
0
h. Adding an entry for ``Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife
Refuge'' and placing it in alphabetical order in the State of Vermont;
and
0
i. Adding an entry for ``Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge''
and placing it in alphabetical order in the State of Wyoming.
0
5. Amend Sec. 32.20 Alabama by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs B.1, B.2, B.3, B.4, B.5, B.6, B.7, C.1, C.3,
C.4, C.5, and D.1; adding paragraphs B.8 and B.9; and removing
paragraphs C.6, C.7, C.8, and D.2 under Cahaba River National Wildlife
Refuge.
0
b. Revising paragraphs B.5, B.6, B.8, B.9, B.10, C.1, C.2, C.3, C.4,
D.1, D.2, and D.8 and adding paragraph C.6 under Choctaw National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
c. Revising paragraphs B.1, B.4, and C.1 under Eufaula National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
d. Revising paragraphs A.1, A.4, A.5, and B.1 and adding paragraphs
A.6, A.7, and B.3 under Key Cave National Wildlife Refuge.
0
e. Revising paragraphs A.1, A.2, A.3, A.4, B.1, B.2, B.3, C.1, and C.4
and adding paragraphs A.5, A.6, A.7, B.4, and B.5 under Mountain
Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge.
0
f. Revising paragraph B under Sauta Cave National Wildlife Refuge.
0
g. . Revising paragraphs B.1, B.2, B.4, B.7, B.10, C.1, C.2, C.3, C.4,
C.5, and C.7; removing paragraphs C.8 and C.9; and adding paragraphs
B.11, B.12, and B.13 under Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge.
These revisions and additions read as follows:
Sec. 32.20 Alabama.
* * * * *
Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. We require hunters to hunt in accordance with Alabama Department
of Conservation and Natural Resources' William R. Ireland, Sr.--Cahaba
River Wildlife Management Area hunting permit conditions.
2. We require hunters to possess and carry a current and signed
Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' William R.
Ireland, Sr.--Cahaba River Wildlife Management Area hunting permit when
hunting on the refuge.
3. All youth hunters under age 16 must be supervised by a licensed
and permitted adult 21 years of age or older, and must remain with the
adult while hunting. One adult may supervise no more than two youth
hunters.
4. We prohibit the use of horses, mules, and all-terrain vehicles
(ATVs) on the refuge.
[[Page 58761]]
5. Hunters may hunt with shotguns using only nontoxic 4
shot or smaller (see Sec. 32.2(k)), rifles and handguns using rim-fire
ammunition only, or archery equipment that complies with State and
Federal regulations.
6. We prohibit hunting or discharging firearms (including muzzle
loaders) from within 50 yards (45 meters) of River Trace Road.
7. Hunting dogs may be used to hunt upland game and must be
controlled by the owner/handler at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of
this chapter).
8. Hunters may only hunt designated game species during specified
days, which are published within the Cahaba River National Wildlife
Refuge Hunting dates portion of the permit.
9. Hunters must remove tree stands, blinds, or other personal
property from the refuge each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions B1, B2, B4, B6, and B8 through B10 apply.
* * * * *
3. We allow hunters to hunt from tree stands in accordance with 50
CFR 32.2(i). Hunters must use a body safety harness at all times while
hunting from a tree.
4. All youth hunters under age 16 must be supervised by a properly
licensed and permitted adult 21 years of age or older, and must remain
with the adult while hunting. One adult may supervise no more than one
youth hunter.
5. Hunters may not hunt by aid of or participate in drives to take
deer or feral hogs.
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
1. Condition B4 applies.
Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
5. All persons 15 years of age or younger, while hunting on the
refuge, must be in the presence and under direct supervision of a
licensed or exempt hunter at least 21 years of age. A licensed hunter
supervising a youth as provided in this section must hold a valid State
license for the species being hunted. One adult may supervise no more
than one youth hunter.
6. The refuge is open every day from 1 hour before sunrise to 1
hour after sunset, except authorized uses. Personal property must be
removed from the refuge daily (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
* * * * *
8. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on the
refuge must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons
may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations
(see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge regulations in
part 32). Persons may only use approved nontoxic shot in shotgun shells
(see Sec. 32.2(k)), .22 caliber rimfire or smaller rifles, or legal
archery equipment according to State regulations. We prohibit magnum
ammunition.
9. We prohibit equestrian use and all forms of motorized off-road
vehicles.
10. We allow hunting of designated species with dogs during
designated hunts.
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions B1 through B9 and B11 apply.
2. We allow hunters to hunt from tree stands in accordance with 50
CFR 32.2(i). While climbing a tree, installing a tree stand that uses
climbing aids, or while hunting from a tree stand on the refuge,
hunters must use a fall-arrest system (full body harness) that is
manufactured to Treestand Manufactures Associations standards.
3. We prohibit damaging trees or hunting from a tree that contains
an inserted metal object (see Sec. 32.2(i)). Personal property must be
removed from the refuge each day except for one portable stand
(including tripods and ground blinds) (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter). The stand is required to be tagged with the hunter's name,
address, and phone number permanently and legibly written on or
attached to the stand. Stands left on the area do not reserve hunting
locations. Portable stands may not be installed on the area prior to 7
days before deer season opens, nor left longer than 7 days after deer
season closes. Stands not in compliance with these regulations may be
confiscated and disposed of by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
4. Hunters may not hunt by aid of or harassment of game for
purposes of take of deer or feral hogs.
* * * * *
6. Hunter orange is required according to State regulations during
gun deer season in Choctaw County, AL. We recommend all user groups
wear hunter orange during hunting seasons.
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
1. We allow fishing year-round, except in the waterfowl sanctuary,
which is closed from November 15 through March 1.
2. Conditions B2 and B6 apply.
* * * * *
8. We prohibit fishing tournaments on all refuge waters.
Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions A1, A2, A3, and A7 through A15 apply.
* * * * *
4. We only allow shotguns as the means of take for upland game
hunting.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions A1, A7 through A15, and B5 apply.
* * * * *
Key Cave National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
1. We require hunters to possess and carry a current and signed Key
Cave National Wildlife Refuge permit, which is included with the
Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' Seven Mile
Island Wildlife Management Area hunting permit when hunting on the
refuge.
* * * * *
4. All youth hunters under age 16 must be supervised by a licensed
and permitted adult 21 years of age or older, and must remain with the
adult while hunting. One adult may supervise no more than two youth
hunters.
5. We allow hunters to use hunting dogs to hunt migratory game
birds and upland game. The dogs must be controlled by the owner/handler
at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
6. Hunters may only hunt designated game species during specified
days, which are published within the Key Cave National Wildlife Refuge
Hunting Dates portion of the permit.
7. We prohibit the use of horses, mules or all-terrain vehicles
(ATVs) on all refuge hunts.
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions A1 and A3 through A7 apply.
* * * * *
3. Hunters may hunt with shotguns using only nontoxic 4
shot or smaller (see Sec. 32.2(k)), rifles and handguns using rim-fire
ammunition only, or archery equipment that complies with State
regulations. Possession of lead shot shells for hunting is prohibited.
* * * * *
Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
1. We require hunters to hunt in accordance with Alabama Department
of Conservation and Natural Resources' Choccolocco Wildlife Management
Area hunting permit conditions.
2. We require hunters to possess and carry a current and signed
Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural
[[Page 58762]]
Resources' Choccolocco Wildlife Management Area hunting permit when
hunting on the refuge.
3. All youth hunters under age 16 must be supervised by a properly
licensed and permitted adult 21 years of age or older, and must remain
with the adult while hunting. One adult may supervise no more than two
youth hunters.
4. We prohibit the use of horses, mules and all-terrain vehicles
(ATVs) on the refuge.
5. Hunters may only hunt designated game species during specified
days, which are published within the Mountain Longleaf National
Wildlife Refuge Hunting Dates portion of the permit.
6. Hunters must remove tree stands, blinds, or other personal
property from the refuge each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
7. Hunters may hunt with shotguns using only nontoxic 4
shot or smaller (see Sec. 32.2(k)). Possession of lead shot shells for
hunting is prohibited.
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions A1 through A7 apply.
2. Hunters may hunt during daylight hours only.
3. We allow hunters to hunt from tree stands in accordance with 50
CFR 32.2(i). Hunters must use a body safety harness at all times while
hunting from a tree.
4. Hunting dogs may be used to hunt quail, squirrel, and rabbit and
must be controlled by the owner/handler at all times (see Sec.
26.21(b) of this chapter).
5. Possession of lead shot shells for hunting is prohibited.
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions A1, A2, and A4 through A7 apply.
* * * * *
4. All youth hunters under age 16 must be supervised by a licensed
and permitted adult 21 years of age or older, and must remain with the
adult while hunting. One adult may supervise no more than one youth
hunter.
* * * * *
Sauta Cave National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of quail, squirrel,
rabbit, raccoon, and opossum on designated area of the refuge in
accordance with Federal and State regulations subject to the following
conditions:
1. We require hunters to hunt in accordance with Alabama Department
of Conservation and Natural Resources' North Sauta refuge hunting
permit.
2. We require hunters to possess and carry a current and signed
Sauta Cave National Wildlife Refuge permit, which is found on the
Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' Jackson
County Waterfowl, Management Areas, refuges and Coon Gulf Tract hunting
permit, when hunting.
3. Hunters may only hunt designated game species during specified
days, which are published within the Sauta Cave National Wildlife
Refuge Hunting Dates portion of the permit.
4. Hunters may hunt with shotguns using only nontoxic 4
shot or smaller (see Sec. 32.2(k)), rifles and handguns using rim-fire
ammunition only, or archery equipment that complies with State
regulations. Possession of lead shot shells for hunting is prohibited.
5. All youth hunters under age 16 must be supervised by a licensed
and permitted adult 21 years of age or older, and must remain with the
adult while hunting. One adult may supervise no more than two youth
hunters.
6. We allow hunters to use hunting dogs to hunt upland game. The
dogs must be controlled by the owner/handler at all times (see Sec.
26.21(b) of this chapter).
* * * * *
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. We require hunters to possess and carry a current and signed
hunting permit, found on the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Hunting
Brochure, when hunting on the refuge. These brochures are available at
the refuge visitor center, refuge headquarters, and on the refuge's Web
site.
2. Hunters may hunt with shotguns using only nontoxic 4
shot or smaller (see Sec. 32.2(k)), rifles and handguns using rim-fire
ammunition only, or archery equipment that complies with State
regulations.
* * * * *
4. We prohibit hunting or discharging firearms (including
Flintlocks) in the Triana recreation area or from any road or road
shoulder or from within 50 yards (45 meters) of any designated walking
trail or boardwalk.
* * * * *
7. All youth hunters under age 16 must be supervised by a licensed
and permitted adult 21 years of age or older, and must remain with the
adult while hunting. One adult may supervise no more than two youth
hunters.
* * * * *
10. Hunting dogs may be used to hunt upland game and must be
controlled by the owner/handler at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of
this chapter).
11. We allow hunters to hunt from tree stands in accordance with 50
CFR 32.2(i). Hunters must use a body safety harness at all times while
hunting from a tree.
12. Hunters must remove tree stands, blinds, or other personal
property from the refuge each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
13. Hunters may only hunt designated game species during specified
days, which are published within the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Hunting Brochure.
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions B1, B3 through B6, B8, B9, and B11 through B13 apply.
2. Hunters may not hunt by aid of or harassment of game for
purposes of take for deer or feral hogs.
3. Hunters may only hunt with archery equipment that complies with
State regulations and flintlocks .40 caliber or larger.
4. All youth hunters under age 16 must be supervised by a licensed
and permitted adult 21 years of age or older, and must remain with the
adult while hunting. One adult may supervise no more than one youth
hunter.
5. Hunters must report the sex, approximate size, and hunt area for
any deer or hogs they harvested from the refuge within 72 hours.
Reports must be given by phone or in person to the refuge Visitor
Center (256/350-6639) or refuge headquarters (256/353-7243).
* * * * *
7. You may only hunt feral hog during the refuge archery and
flintlock deer season.
* * * * *
0
6. Amend Sec. 32.24 California by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A.3, A.4, A.5, A.6, A.7, A.8, and B.1; adding
paragraphs A.9; and removing paragraph B.2 under Colusa National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
b. Revising paragraphs A. 4, A.10, A.11, and B.2; and removing
paragraphs B.3, B.4, B.5, B.6, B.7, and B.8 under Delevan National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
c. Revising paragraphs A.6, A.10, A.11, and B.2; and removing
paragraphs B.3, B.4, B.5, B.6, B.7, and B.8 under Sacramento National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
d. Revising paragraphs A.3, A.4, A.5, A.6, A.7, A.8, and B.1; adding
paragraphs A.9; and removing paragraphs B.2, B.3, B.4, B.5, B.6, and
B.7 under Sutter National Wildlife Refuge.
These revisions and additions read as follows:
Sec. 32.24 California.
* * * * *
[[Page 58763]]
Colusa National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
3. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. Bicycles and
other conveyances are not allowed. Mobility-impaired hunters must
consult the refuge manager for allowed conveyances.
4. We allow boats with electric motors to be used by hunters with
disabilities only in designated areas.
5. No person may build or maintain fires. Portable gas stoves are
permissible.
6. You may enter or exit only at designated locations.
7. Vehicles may stop only at designated parking areas. We prohibit
the dropping of passengers or equipment or stopping between designated
parking areas.
8. Overnight stays, using passenger vehicles, motor homes, and
trailers, are allowed only at the check station parking areas. Tents
are prohibited.
9. We require dogs be kept on a leash, except for hunting dogs
engaged in authorized hunting activities and under the immediate
control of a licensed hunter.
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions A.1 through A.9 apply.
* * * * *
Delevan National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
4. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. Bicycles and
other conveyances are not allowed. Mobility-impaired hunters should
consult the refuge manager for allowed conveyances.
* * * * *
10. Overnight stays, using passenger vehicles, motor homes, and
trailers, are allowed only at the check station parking areas. Tents
are prohibited.
11. We require dogs be kept on a leash, except for hunting dogs
engaged in authorized hunting activities and under the immediate
control of a licensed hunter.
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. Conditions A.4 through A.11 apply.
* * * * *
Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
6. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. Bicycles and
other conveyances are not allowed. Mobility-impaired hunters must
consult the refuge manager for allowed conveyances.
* * * * *
10. Overnight stays, using passenger vehicles, motor homes, and
trailers, are allowed only at the check station parking areas. Tents
are prohibited.
11. We require dogs be kept on a leash, except for hunting dogs
engaged in authorized hunting activities and under the immediate
control of a licensed hunter.
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. Conditions A.4 through A.11 apply.
* * * * *
Sutter National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
3. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. Bicycles and
other conveyances are not allowed. Mobility-impaired hunters should
consult the refuge manager for allowed conveyances.
4. Boats with electric motors allowed only by hunters with
disabilities in designated areas.
5. No person may build or maintain fires. Portable gas stoves are
permissible.
6. You may enter or exit only at designated locations.
7. Vehicles may only stop at designated parking areas. We prohibit
the dropping of passengers or equipment or stopping between designated
parking areas.
8. Overnight stays, using passenger vehicles, motor homes, and
trailers, are allowed only at the check station parking areas. Tents
are prohibited.
9. Dogs must be kept on a leash, except for hunting dogs engaged in
authorized hunting activities and under the immediate control of a
licensed hunter.
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions A.1 through A.9 apply.
* * * * *
7. Amend Sec. 32.25 Colorado by revising the introductory text in
paragraphs A and B and by adding paragraphs A.6, B.4, D.4, and D.5
under Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.25 Colorado.
* * * * *
Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck, coot,
merganser, Canada goose, snipe, Virginia and Sora rail, and mourning
dove on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State and
Federal regulations, subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
6. Legal method of take for migratory game birds is by shotgun
only.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of jackrabbit, cottontail
rabbit, and sage grouse on designated areas of the refuge in accordance
with State regulations, subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
4. Legal method of take for upland game is by shotgun only.
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
4. Fishing is closed in Unit C when the refuge is open to big game
rifle hunting.
5. Lead sinkers and live bait are not allowed for fishing.
* * * * *
8. Amend Sec. 32.26 Connecticut by adding, in alphabetical order,
an entry for Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge to read
as follows:
Sec. 32.26 Connecticut.
* * * * *
Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. [RESERVED]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [RESERVED]
C. Big Game Hunting. [RESERVED]
D. Sport Fishing. [RESERVED]
* * * * *
0
9. Amend Sec. 32.28 Florida by:
0
a. Revising the introductory text in paragraphs A and D; revising
paragraph A.2; removing paragraph A.4; redesignating A.5, A.6, A.7,
A.8, A.9, A.10, A.11, A.12, A.13, A.14, A.15, A.16, A.17 and A.18 as
paragraphs A.4, A.5, A.6, A.7, A.8, A.9, A.10, A.11, A.12, A.13, A.14,
A.15, A.16 and A.17 revising newly designated paragraph A.12; and
adding a new paragraph C under Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
b. Revising paragraphs D.4, D.5, and D.7; redesignating paragraphs D.8,
D.9, D.10, D.11, D.12, D.13, D.14, D.15, D.16, D.17, D.18, D.19, and
D.20 as paragraphs D.9, D.10, D.11, D.12, D.13, D.14, D.15, D.16, D.17,
D.18, D.19, D.20, and D.21, respectively; revising newly designated
paragraphs D.13 and D.21; and adding paragraph D.8 under J.N. ``Ding''
Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
0
c. Revising paragraphs A.3, B.1, C.4, C.8, and C.9 and adding
paragraphs B.12 and C.12 under St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge.
[[Page 58764]]
These additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.28 Florida.
* * * * *
Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck and coot
on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State and Federal
regulations subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
2. We allow hunting in the interior of the refuge south of latitude
line 26.27.130 and north of mile markers 12 and 14 (SEE PERMIT MAP). We
prohibit hunting from canals or levees and those areas posted as
closed.
* * * * *
12. All youth hunters under age 16 must be supervised by a licensed
and permitted adult 21 years of age or older, and must remain with the
adult while hunting. Youth hunters must have completed a hunter
education course.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of alligators on designated
areas of the refuge in accordance with Federal and State regulations
and subject to the following conditions:
1. You must possess and carry a signed refuge alligator hunt permit
(signed brochure) while hunting. These brochures are available at the
refuge visitor center and on the refuge's Web site (http://www.fws.gov/loxahatchee/).
2. We allow hunting in the interior of the refuge south of latitude
line 26.27.130 and north of mile markers 12 and 14, including the
canals south of that line (SEE PERMIT MAP). We prohibit hunting from
levees and those areas posted as closed.
3. Consult the refuge manager for current alligator hunt season
dates and times.
4. We allow hunting on the refuge 1 hour before sunset on Friday
night through 1 hour after sunrise Saturday morning, and 1 hour before
sunset on Saturday night through 1 hour after sunrise Sunday morning.
Alligator hunting will be permitted the first two weekends during
Harvest Period 1 (August) and the first two weekends during Harvest
Period 2 (September). Following the close of Harvest Period 2, the
remaining weekends in October will be open for alligator harvest
permittees who possess unused CITES tags. Specific dates for the
alligator hunt will be provided on the harvest permit.
5. Hunters 18 years and older must be in possession of all
necessary State and Federal licenses, permits, and CITES tags, as well
as a refuge hunt permit (signed hunt brochure) while hunting on the
refuge. They must possess an Alligator Trapping License with CITES tags
or an Alligator Trapping Agent License, if applicable.
6. Hunters under the age of 18 may not hunt, but may only accompany
an adult of at least 21 years of age who possesses an Alligator
Trapping Agent License.
7. Hunters may only enter and leave the refuge at the Hillsboro
Area (Loxahatchee Road, Boca Raton).
8. Alligators may be taken using hand-held snares, harpoons, gigs,
snatch hooks, artificial lures, manually operated spears, spear guns,
and crossbows. Alligators may not be taken using baited hooks, baited
wooden pegs, or firearms. Bang sticks (a hand held pole with a pistol
or shotgun cartridge on the end in a very short barrel) with non-toxic
ammunition are only permitted for taking alligators attached to a
restraining line. Once an alligator is captured, it must be killed
immediately. Once the alligator is taken or harvested, a CITES tag must
be locked through the skin of the carcass within 6 inches of the tip of
the tail. The tag must remain attached to the alligator at all times.
9. Hunters must complete a Big Game Harvest Report (FWS Form 3-
2359) and place it in an entrance fee canister each day prior to
exiting the refuge. A State Alligator Report form required by the State
along with the hunt permit (signed refuge brochure) must be submitted
to the refuge within 24 hours of taking each alligator.
10. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on
national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of Federal,
State, and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in
accordance with refuge regulations (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter and
specific refuge regulations in this part 32).
11. Hunters must remove all personal property (see Sec. 27.93 of
this chapter) from the hunting area each day.
12. Conditions A13 through A17 apply.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge in accordance with Federal and State regulations and subject to
the following conditions:
* * * * *
J.N. ``Ding'' Darling National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
4. We allow the take of blue crabs with the use of dip nets only.
5. The daily limit of blue crabs is 20 per person (including no
more than 10 non-eggbearing females).
* * * * *
7. We allow vessels propelled only by polling, paddling, or
floating in the posted ``no-motor zone'' of the J.N. ``Ding'' Darling
Wilderness Area. All motors, including electric motors, must be in a
nonuse position (out of the water) when in the ``no-motor zone.''
8. We allow vessels propelled only by polling, paddling, floating,
or electric motors in the posted ``pole/troll zone'' of the Wulfert
Flats Management Area. All non-electric motors must be in a non-use
position (out of the water) when in the ``pole/troll zone.''
* * * * *
13. We prohibit all public entry into the impoundments on the left
side of Wildlife Drive.
* * * * *
21. We close to public entry all refuge islands (including rookery
islands) except for designated trails.
* * * * *
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
3. We prohibit migratory game bird hunting in the Executive Closure
Areas on the refuge.
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. We require refuge permits (signed brochure) for hunting upland
game. Permits are available at no cost from the refuge office or can be
downloaded and printed from the refuge Web site. Each hunter must
possess and carry a signed refuge permit while participating in a hunt.
* * * * *
12. Portions of the refuge adjacent to Flint Rock Wildlife
Management Area (as specified in the hunt brochure) will be open
concurrent with Flint Rock Wildlife Management Area seasons and
regulations except only feral hog, grey squirrel, rabbit, and raccoon
may be harvested.
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
4. There is a two deer limit per hunt as specified in condition C8
below, except in the youth hunt where the limit is as specified in C9
below. The limit for turkey is one per hunt. There is no limit on feral
hog.
* * * * *
8. The bag limit for white-tailed deer is two deer per scheduled
hunt period. We allow hunters to harvest two antlerless deer per
scheduled hunt
[[Page 58765]]
period. We define antlerless deer per State regulations (i.e., un-
antlered deer or antlered deer with both antlers less than 5 inches in
length). Otherwise, hunters may harvest one antlerless deer and one
antlered deer per hunt. Hunters must ensure that antlered deer must
have at least 3 points, of 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) or more length.
9. There is one youth hunt, for youth ages 12 to 17, on the St.
Marks Unit in an area we will specify in the refuge hunt brochure.
Hunters may harvest two deer, either two un-antlered deer as defined in
C8 or one un-antlered deer and one antlered deer. An adult age 21 or
older acting as a mentor must accompany each youth hunter. One youth
turkey hunt will be conducted in a similar manner. The limit will be
one gobbler per hunter. Only the youth hunter may handle or discharge
firearms. Contact the refuge office for specific dates.
* * * * *
12. Portions of the refuge adjacent to Flint Rock Wildlife
Management Area (as specified in the hunt brochure) will be open
concurrent with Flint Rock Wildlife Management Area seasons and
regulations except only white-tailed deer, feral hog, and turkey may be
harvested. We require a refuge permit (signed brochure).
* * * * *
0
10. Amend Sec. 32.29 Georgia by:
0
a. Revising paragraph A.3 under Savannah National Wildlife Refuge.
These revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.29 Georgia.
* * * * *
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
3. We prohibit hunting on or within 100 yards (90 meters) of U.S.
Highway 17, GA Highway 25/SC Highway 170, refuge facilities, road,
trails, and railroad rights-of-way, and within areas marked as closed.
* * * * *
0
11. Amend Sec. 32.31 Idaho by revising the introductory text in
paragraph A and by revising paragraphs A.3, B, C, and D under Kootenai
Flat National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.31 Idaho.
* * * * *
Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck,
and coot on designated areas (designated area changed due to increased
size of safety zone) of the refuge in accordance with State and Federal
regulations subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
3. We prohibit the discharge of firearms in the posted retrieving/
safety zone.
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of forest grouse and wild
turkey on that portion of the refuge that lies west of Lion's Den Road
in accordance with State regulations subject to the following
condition: You may possess only approved nontoxic shotshells (see Sec.
32.2(k)) while in the field.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of deer, elk, black bear,
moose, and mountain lion on that portion of the refuge that lies west
of Lion's Den Road and hunting of deer at an ADA-accessible blind near
Aspen Slough in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. We prohibit all use of dogs for hunting of big game.
2. You may only participate in deer hunting at the ADA-accessible
blind with valid State licenses and tags.
3. You may only participate in deer hunting at the ADA-accessible
blind with a refuge permit issued through a random drawing for up to
four 7-day archery-only permits and up to six 7-day archery/special
weapons-only permits.
4. We only allow deer hunting at the ADA-accessible blind using the
following weapons: Muzzleloader, archery equipment, crossbow, shotgun
using slugs, or handgun using straight-walled cartridges not originally
established for rifles.
5. We prohibit use of toxic (lead) ammunition when deer hunting at
the ADA-accessible blind.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on Myrtle Creek in
accordance with State regulations subject to the following condition:
We allow bank fishing only.
* * * * *
0
12. Amend Sec. 32.32 Illinois by:
0
a. Removing paragraphs A.1 and A.7; redesignating paragraphs A.2, A.3,
A.4, A.5, and A.6 as paragraphs A.1, A.2, A.3, A.4, and A.5,
respectively; revising newly designated paragraph A.1; revising
paragraphs B.1, C.1, and D.1; and adding paragraphs B.3, C.2, and C.3
under Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge.
0
b. Revising introductory text in paragraph A; revising paragraphs A.2,
B, C.1, C.2, and C.3; and adding paragraphs A.3, C.4, C.5, and C.6
under Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge.
0
c. Revising paragraph B and adding paragraph C.3 under Two Rivers
National Wildlife Refuge.
These additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.32 Illinois.
* * * * *
Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
1. You must remove all boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials,
stands, and platforms (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter)
brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's hunt.
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions A1, A2, A4, and A5 apply.
* * * * *
3. We allow the use of .22 and .17 caliber rimfire lead ammunition
for the taking of small game and furbearers during open season.
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions A1, A2, A4, and A5 apply.
2. We prohibit deer drives, by person or animal, and participating
in deer drives on all refuge divisions.
3. You may only use or possess approved nontoxic shot shells while
in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
1. Conditions A1 and A3 apply.
* * * * *
Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game
birds on the Meissner, Wilkinson, and Beaver Island Divisions in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
* * * * *
2. You must remove boats, blinds, blind materials, stands, decoys,
and other hunting equipment (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this
chapter) from the refuge at the end of each day.
3. We allow portable blinds on a daily basis on a first-come,
first-served basis.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of upland game (squirrels,
rabbits, and bobwhite quail only) on the refuge in accordance with
State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow hunting of furbearers only from legal sunrise to legal
sunset.
2. You may only use or possess approved nontoxic shot shells while
in the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
[[Page 58766]]
1. Conditions A1 and A2 apply.
2. In the Harlow, Crains, and Meissner Island Divisions you may use
only archery equipment to harvest white-tailed deer.
3. You may only use or possess approved nontoxic shot shells while
in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
4. We prohibit deer drives, by person or animal, and participating
in deer drives on all refuge divisions.
5. We prohibit placing temporary tree stands in dead or dying
trees.
6. You may not remove any tree or limbs greater than 1 inch in
diameter.
* * * * *
Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow upland game hunting only on the
Apple Creek Division and the portion of the Calhoun Division east of
the Illinois River Road in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow hunting from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
2. You may only use or possess approved nontoxic shot shells while
in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
3. Condition B2 applies.
* * * * *
0
13. Amend Sec. 32.33 Indiana by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs C.4, C.8, and C.9 and adding paragraphs C.10,
C.11, and D.7 under Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge.
0
b. Revising A.2, C.2, C.3, D.2.iv, and D.3 and adding paragraphs A.7,
A.8, and B.3 under Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge and Management
Area.
These additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.33 Indiana.
* * * * *
Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
4. You may take only two deer per day from the refuge, only one of
which may be an antlered buck.
* * * * *
8. We permit archery deer hunting in designated areas after
National Wildlife Refuge Week during the State season with the
exceptions that archery deer hunting is closed during the youth deer
hunt in November and during the State muzzleloader season.
9. Turkey hunting ends at 1 p.m. daily.
10. We prohibit the use or possession of game trail cameras on the
refuge.
11. We require you to remove arrows from crossbows during transport
in a vehicle.
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
7. We allow only children under 18 years of age to fish in the
Office Pond.
* * * * *
Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge and Management Area
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. You must remove all boats, decoys, blinds, and blind materials
after each day's hunt (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
* * * * *
7. We prohibit hunting and the discharge of a weapon within 150
yards of any dwelling or any building that may be occupied by people,
pets, or livestock.
8. You may only use or possess approved nontoxic shot shells while
in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
3. Conditions A7 and A8 apply.
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. We prohibit marking trails with tape, ribbons, paper, paint,
tacks, tree blazes, or other devices.
3. Conditions A6 through A8 apply.
D. Sport Fishing.
* * * * *
2. * * *
* * * * *
iv. You may not collect or harvest minnows, crayfish, or any
reptiles and amphibians (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
3. You must remove boats at the end of each day's fishing activity
(see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
* * * * *
0
14. Amend Sec. 32.34 Iowa by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A, B, C.1, and C.2 and removing paragraph C.3
under Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge.
0
b. Redesignating paragraphs A.1, A.2, A.3, A.4, A.5, A.6, A.7, and A.8
as paragraphs A.2, A.3, A.4, A.5, A.6, A.7, A.8, and A.9, respectively;
redesignating paragraphs B.1, B.2, B.3, and B.4 as paragraphs B.2, B.3,
B.4, and B.5, respectively; redesignating paragraphs C.1, C.2, and C.3
as paragraphs C.2, C.3, and C.4, respectively; revising the
introductory text in paragraphs A, B, and C; revising paragraphs B.5
and C.4; and adding paragraphs A.1, B.1, and C.1 under Northern
Tallgrass Prairie National Wildlife Refuge.
0
c. Revising the entry for Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge.
These additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.34 Iowa.
* * * * *
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow the hunting of duck,
goose, and coot on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with
State and Federal regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. We prohibit all hunting February 1 through August 31 due to
conflict with existing appropriate and compatible uses.
2. You may only possess approved nontoxic shot (see Sec. 32.2(k))
while hunting for any permitted bird, including waterfowl and wild
turkey, or other upland or small game.
3. We allow entry into the refuge 1 hour before sunrise and require
hunters to leave the refuge no later than 1 hour after sunset.
4. We prohibit shooting on or over any refuge road within 50 feet
(15 meters) from the centerline.
5. You must possess and carry a refuge permit (free brochure
available at the refuge visitor center).
6. We allow the use of dogs for waterfowl, pheasant, and quail
hunting only.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of ring-necked pheasant,
bobwhite quail, pigeon, mourning dove, crow, cottontail rabbit, gray
and fox squirrel, and fall wild turkey (2 weeks within the season) on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations
subject to the following condition: Conditions A1 to A6 apply.
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions A1 and A3 to A5 apply.
2. We allow the use of portable stands and blinds for hunting, and
hunters must remove them at the end of each day (see Sec. 27.93 of
this chapter).
* * * * *
Northern Tallgrass Prairie National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose,
merganser, coot, rail (Virginia and Sora only), woodcock, and snipe on
designated areas in accordance with State regulations and subject to
the following conditions:
1. For units adjacent to and managed by Neal Smith National
Wildlife Refuge, you must follow the refuge-specific regulations
provided in this section of
[[Page 58767]]
the regulations for Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge.
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow the hunting of ring-necked
pheasant, bobwhite quail, gray partridge, rabbit (cottontail and jack),
squirrel (fox and gray), groundhog, raccoon, opossum, fox (red and
gray), coyote, badger, striped skunk, and crow on designated areas of
the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. For units adjacent to and managed by Neal Smith National
Wildlife Refuge, you must follow the refuge-specific regulations
provided in this section of the regulations for Neal Smith National
Wildlife Refuge.
* * * * *
5. Conditions A8 and A9 apply.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow the hunting of deer and turkey on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. For units adjacent to and managed by Neal Smith National
Wildlife Refuge, you must follow the refuge-specific regulations
provided in this section of the regulations for Neal Smith National
Wildlife Refuge.
* * * * *
4. Conditions A6, A8, and A9 apply.
* * * * *
Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose,
teal, brant, merganser, coot, sora and Virginia rail, dove, woodcock
and snipe on Iowa River Corridor Project lands in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting
migratory birds (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
2. You must remove boats, decoys, and portable blinds at the end of
each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of upland game in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
condition: You may only possess approved nontoxic shot while hunting
upland game (see Sec. 32.2(k)); you may use lead shot to hunt turkey.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of big game in accordance
with State regulations and subject to the following condition: We only
allow the use of portable stands and you must remove them at the end of
each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on all areas of the refuge
in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
condition: You must remove boats and all other fishing devices at the
end of each day's fishing.
* * * * *
0
15. Amend Sec. 32.38 Maine by redesignating paragraphs A.5, A.6, and
A.7 as paragraphs A.6, A.7, and A.8, respectively; adding a new
paragraph A.5; revising the introductory text in paragraph B; and
revising paragraphs A.1, A.4, B.1, B.2, B.3, and C under Rachel Carson
National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.38 Maine.
* * * * *
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
1. Prior to entering designated refuge hunting areas, you must
obtain a refuge hunting permit (FWS Form 3-2357), pay a recreation fee,
and sign and carry the permit at all times.
* * * * *
4. We open Designated Youth Hunting Areas to hunters age 15 and
under who possess and carry a refuge hunting permit. Youth hunters must
be accompanied by an adult age 18 or older. The accompanying adult must
possess and carry a refuge hunting permit and may also hunt.
5. You may only possess approved nontoxic shot for hunting (see
Sec. 32.2(k)) on the refuge.
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant, quail, and
grouse on designated areas of the Brave Boat Harbor, Lower Wells, Upper
Wells, Mousam River, Goose Rocks, Goosefare Brook, and Spurwink River
division of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject
to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1 and A7 apply.
2. You may take pheasant, quail, and grouse by falconry during
State seasons.
3. You may only possess approved nontoxic shot for hunting (see
Sec. 32.2(k)) on the refuge.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey on designated areas of the Brave Boat Harbor, Lower Wells, Upper
Wells, Mousam River, Goose Rocks, Little River, Goosefare Brook, and
Spurwink River divisions of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A4, and A7 apply.
2. We allow hunting of deer and turkey with shotgun and archery
only. We prohibit rifles and muzzleloading firearms for hunting.
3. We allow turkey hunting during the fall season only, as
designated by the State. All State regulations governing the hunting of
turkey will be followed.
4. We allow portable tree stands, ladders, and blinds only, and
they must be removed daily (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). 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 is prohibited. You must keep vegetation disturbance (including
tree limbs) to a minimum (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
5. We close the Moody and Biddeford Pool divisions of the refuge to
white-tailed deer and turkey hunting.
6. We allow archery on only those areas of the Little River
division open to hunting.
7. We allow hunting of fox and coyote with archery or shotgun with
a refuge big game permit, during State firearm deer season. You may
only possess approved nontoxic shot for hunting (see Sec. 32.2(k)) on
the refuge.
* * * * *
0
16. Amend Sec. 32.39 Maryland by removing paragraphs A.9.vi and D.9;
redesignating paragraphs D.10, D.11, D.12, D.13, D.14, D.15, and D.16
as paragraphs D.9, D.10, D.11, D.12, D.13, D.14, and D.15,
respectively; revising paragraphs A.9.iv, A.9.v, A.13, B.8, C.3.ii,
C.6, and C.12; and revising newly designated paragraphs D.14.i and
D.15.i under Patuxent Research Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.39 Maryland.
* * * * *
Patuxent Research Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
9. * * *
* * * * *
iv. You may hunt from the roadside, except on the Wildlife Loop, at
designated areas, if you possess a Maryland Department of Natural
Resources issued ``Universal Disability Pass''.
v. You may hunt from the roadside for waterfowl at the five
designated hunting blind sites at Lake Allen.
* * * * *
13. We require waterfowl hunters to use trained adult retrieving
dogs while hunting duck and goose within 50 yards (45 meters) of the
following impounded waters: Blue Heron Pond, Lake Allen, New Marsh, and
Wood Duck Pond.
i. We require dogs to be under the immediate control of their owner
at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
* * * * *
[[Page 58768]]
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
8. We select turkey hunters by a computerized lottery for youth,
disabled, and general public hunts. We require Maryland Department of
Natural Resources required documentation to accommodate hunters with
disabilities.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
3. * * *
* * * * *
ii. We prohibit the discharging of any hunting weapons before or
after legal shooting hours, including the unloading of muzzleloaders.
* * * * *
6. We require bow hunters to wear either a cap of solid-
fluorescent-orange color at all times or a vest or jacket containing
back and front panels of at least 250 square inches (1,625 square
centimeters) of solid-fluorescent-orange color when moving to and from
their vehicle to their deer stand or their hunting spot and while
tracking or dragging out their deer. We do not require bow hunters to
wear solid-fluorescent-orange when positioned to hunt except during the
North Tract Youth Firearms Deer Hunts, the muzzleloader seasons, and
the firearms seasons, when they must wear it at all times.
* * * * *
12. If you wish to track wounded deer beyond 2 hours after legal
sunset, you must gain consent from a refuge law enforcement officer. We
prohibit tracking 3 hours after legal sunset. You must make a
reasonable effort to retrieve the wounded deer, which includes next-day
tracking. There is no tracking on Sundays and Federal holidays except
on a case-by-case basis. Hunters authorized to track on Sundays or
Federal holidays must be accompanied afield by a refuge law enforcement
officer.
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
14. * * *
i. Conditions D1 through D13 apply.
* * * * *
15. * * *
i. Conditions D1 through D12 apply.
* * * * *
0
17. Amend Sec. 32.40 Massachusetts by adding, in alphabetical order,
an entry for Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge to read
as follows:
Sec. 32.40 Massachusetts.
* * * * *
Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. [RESERVED]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [RESERVED]
C. Big Game Hunting. [RESERVED]
D. Sport Fishing. [RESERVED]
* * * * *
0
18. Amend Sec. 32.41 Michigan by revising paragraph C.3 and adding
paragraph C.8 under Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge to read
as follows:
Sec. 32.41 Michigan.
* * * * *
Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
3. We allow only single-projectile shells for firearm deer hunting.
We prohibit the use of buckshot for any hunting on the refuge.
* * * * *
8. The Fix Unit is closed to firearm deer hunting. We allow only
archery deer hunting in the Fix Unit.
* * * * *
0
19. Amend Sec. 32.42 Minnesota by:
0
a. Revising the introductory text in paragraph A; revising paragraphs
A.1, A.2, and A.5; adding paragraph A.9; revising paragraphs C.1 and
C.2; removing paragraphs C.3, C.7, and C.10; redesignating paragraphs
C.4, C.5, C.6, C.8, and C.9 as paragraphs C.3, C.4, C.5, C.6, and C.7,
respectively; revising newly designated paragraph C.6; and adding
paragraph C.8 under Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge.
0
b. Revising paragraph B under Big Stone Wetland Management District.
0
c. Revising paragraphs C.1, C.2, and C.8 and removing paragraph C.11
under Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge.
0
d. Revising paragraph B under Detroit Lakes Wetland Management
District.
0
e. Revising paragraphs A.2 and B under Fergus Falls Wetland Management
District.
0
f. Revising paragraph B under Litchfield Wetland Management District.
0
g. Revising paragraphs A.2, B, and C.2 under Morris Wetland Management
District.
0
h. Adding paragraph C.3 under Northern Tallgrass Prairie National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.2, A.3, A.5, B.3, C.1, C.7, and D under
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge.
0
j. Revising paragraph B under Windom Wetland Management District.
These additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.42 Minnesota.
* * * * *
Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of waterfowl on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow a youth hunt only in designated areas in accordance
with State regulations.
2. The refuge is closed from 7:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m.
* * * * *
5. You must remove all personal property, which includes stands,
boats, decoys, and blinds brought onto the refuge, each day of hunting
(see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
* * * * *
9. We allow the public onto the refuge the day prior to the opening
of the season for scouting purposes.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. We are currently closed to moose hunting.
2. Conditions A2 through A5, A7, A8 and A9 apply.
* * * * *
6. We prohibit hunters from occupying illegally set up or
constructed ground and tree stands (see conditions A5 and C5).
* * * * *
8. Shooting on, from, over, across, or within 30 feet of a road
edge open to public vehicle transportation at a big game animal or a
decoy of a big game animal is prohibited.
* * * * *
Big Stone Wetland Management District
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow upland game hunting throughout the
district in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. Conditions A3 through A5 apply.
2. You may only use or possess approved nontoxic shot shells while
in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. We only allow an archery deer hunt for youth hunters and a
firearm deer hunt for persons with disabilities by special use permit
(FWS Form 3-1383-G).
[[Page 58769]]
2. We only allow a turkey hunt for youth hunters and persons with
disabilities by special use permit (FWS Form 3-1383-G).
* * * * *
8. We prohibit entry to hunting areas earlier than 2 hours before
legal shooting hours.
* * * * *
Detroit Lakes Wetland Management District
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow upland game hunting in accordance
with State regulations throughout the district (except that we allow no
hunting on the refuge headquarters Waterfowl Production Area [WPA] in
Becker County, the Hitterdal WPA in Clay County, and the McIntosh WPA
in Polk County) and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A3 through A5 apply.
2. You may only use or possess approved nontoxic shot shells while
in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
Fergus Falls Wetland Management District
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. You must remove boats, decoys, blinds, and blind materials (see
Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) brought onto the WPAs at the end of each
day's hunt.
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow upland game hunting throughout the
district (except that we prohibit hunting on the Townsend, Mavis,
Gilmore, and designated portions of Knollwood Waterfowl Production
Areas (WPAs) in Otter Tail County, and Larson WPA in Douglas County) in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. Conditions A2, A3, and A6 apply.
2. You may only use or possess approved nontoxic shot shells while
in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
Litchfield Wetland Management District
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow upland game hunting throughout the
district (except we prohibit hunting on that part of the Phare Lake
Waterfowl Production Area in Renville County) in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A4, and A5 apply.
2. You may only use or possess approved nontoxic shot shells while
in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
Morris Wetland Management District
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. You must remove boats, decoys, blinds, and blind materials (see
Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) at the end of hunting hours.
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of upland game, except
that we prohibit hunting on the designated portions of the Edward-Long
Lake Waterfowl Production Area in Stevens County, in accordance with
State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A2 through A4 apply.
2. You may only use or possess approved nontoxic shot shells while
in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. You must remove all portable hunting stands and blinds each day
at the close of hunting hours (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
* * * * *
Northern Tallgrass Prairie National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
3. You may only use or possess approved nontoxic shot shells while
in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. We allow non-motorized boats in areas open to waterfowl hunting
during the waterfowl hunting season, and they must be launched at
designated access sites.
3. You must remove boats, decoys, and blinds from the refuge
following each day's hunt.
* * * * *
5. We prohibit hunting from March 1 through August 31.
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
3. Conditions A5 through A7 apply.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. The refuge is closed to turkey hunting, except we allow a turkey
hunt for youth hunters and persons with disabilities by special use
permit (FWS Form 3-1383-G).
* * * * *
7. Turkey hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in
the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Fishing is permitted on the St. Francis River and
Battle Brook during daylight hours in accordance with State regulations
and subject to the following conditions:
1. From March 1 through August 31 (the refuge Wildlife Sanctuary
period), fishing is only permitted from non-motorized boats on the
designated canoe route and on banks within 100 yards (both upstream and
downstream) of designated access points.
2. 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).
3. We prohibit the use of dip nets, traps, or seines for collecting
bait.
* * * * *
Windom Wetland Management District
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of upland game throughout
the district, except that you may not hunt on the Worthington Waterfowl
Production Area (WPA) in Nobles County, Headquarters WPA in Jackson
County, or designated portions of the Wolf Lake WPA in Cottonwood
County, in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. Conditions A3 through A5 apply.
2. You may only use or possess approved nontoxic shot shells while
in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
0
20. Amend Sec. 32.44 Missouri by:
0
a. Revising the entry for Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife
Refuge.
0
b. Revising the introductory text in paragraphs A and B; revising
paragraphs A.3, A.6, B.1, B.2, B.5, B.6, B.7, and C; redesignating
paragraphs A.7 and A.8 as A.8, and A.9; and adding paragraphs A.7, and
B.8 under Mingo National Wildlife Refuge.
These additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.44 Missouri.
* * * * *
[[Page 58770]]
Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge
Refer to Sec. 32.32 (Illinois) for Missouri regulations.
* * * * *
Mingo National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow waterfowl hunting in Pool
7 and Pool 8 in accordance with State and Federal regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
3. We prohibit the use of paint, non-biodegradable flagging,
reflectors, tacks, or other manmade materials to mark trails or hunting
locations (see Sec. 27.61 of this chapter).
* * * * *
6. We require hunters to go through the Missouri Department of
Conservation daily draw process at Duck Creek Conservation Area to hunt
in Pool 7 and Pool 8.
7. We will only open Pool 7 for waterfowl hunting 3 days a week,
when conditions allow.
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, raccoon, and
bobcat in designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A3, A8, and A9 apply.
2. We allow hunter access from 1\1/2\ hours before legal shooting
time until 1\1/2\ hours after legal shooting time.
* * * * *
5. We allow squirrel hunting from the State opening day until the
day before the State opening of archery deer season.
6. You may only use or possess approved nontoxic shot shells while
in the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)) and rifles chambered for rimfire
cartridges.
7. Archery hunters may take squirrels, raccoons, and bobcats while
archery deer hunting.
8. We allow raccoon hunting by special use permit during the
Statewide raccoon season.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow big game hunting in designated areas
of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the
following conditions:
1. Conditions A3, A5, A8, A9, and B2 apply.
2. We require that all hunters register at the hunter sign-in
stations and complete the Big Game Harvest Report (FWS Form 3-2359)
located at the exit kiosks prior to exiting the refuge.
3. We allow archery hunting for deer and turkey during the fall
season.
4. We allow spring turkey hunting. You may only use or possess
approved nontoxic shot shells while in the field, including shot shells
used for hunting wild turkey (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
5. You must remove all boats brought onto the refuge at the end of
each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
6. We allow archery hunting in the Expanded General Hunt Area
through October 31.
7. We allow portable tree stands only from 2 weeks before to 2
weeks after the State archery deer season with the following exception:
In the Expanded General Hunt Area, you must remove all personal
property.
8. We allow only one tree stand per deer hunter.
9. We only allow non-motorized boats in the Mingo Wilderness Area.
10. We require archery deer hunters to wear a hunter-orange (i.e.,
blaze or international orange) hat and a hunter-orange shirt, vest, or
coat. These hunter-orange clothes need to be plainly visible from all
sides while scouting or hunting during the overlapping portion of the
squirrel, archery deer, and turkey seasons. Camouflage orange does not
satisfy this requirement.
* * * * *
0
21. Amend Sec. 32.45 Montana by:
0
a. Removing paragraph A.7; redesignating paragraphs A.3, A.4, A.5, and
A.6 as paragraphs A.4, A.5, A.6, and A.7, respectively; revising
paragraph B.1; and adding paragraphs A.3 and B.4 under Benton Lake
National Wildlife Refuge.
0
b. Revising the introductory text in paragraphs A, B, and C under
Benton Lake Wetland Management District.
0
c. Revising paragraphs A.1, A.3, A.5, A.7, A.13, C.1, C.3, and C.4 and
adding paragraphs A.19, C.10, and C.11 under Lee Metcalf National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
d. Revising paragraphs B.1, B.3, B.5, B.6, B.7, B.9, C.1, C.2, and C.3
and removing paragraphs C.4, C.5, C.6, C.7, C.8, C.9, C.10, and C.11
under Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge.
0
e. Revising paragraphs A.1, A.2, B.1, B.2, C.1, and D; redesignating
paragraph A.3 as paragraph A.6; and adding paragraphs A.3, A.4, A.5,
A.7, C.2, and C.3 under Northwest Montana Wetland Management District.
0
f. Revising paragraphs A.5 and C.10 under Red Rock Lakes National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
g. Revising paragraph A under Swan River National Wildlife Refuge.
These additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.45 Montana.
* * * * *
Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
3. We allow hunting during youth waterfowl hunts in accordance with
State regulations.
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions A2 and A7 apply.
* * * * *
4. We allow hunting during youth pheasant hunts in accordance with
State regulations.
* * * * *
Benton Lake Wetland Management District
A. Migratory Game Bird Management. We allow migratory game bird
hunting on Waterfowl Production Areas (WPA) throughout the District,
excluding Sands WPA in Hill County and H2-0 WPA in Powell County, in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow the hunting of coyotes, skunks,
red fox, raccoons, hares, rabbits, and tree squirrels on Waterfowl
Production Areas (WPAs) throughout the District, excluding Sands WPA in
Hill County and H2-0 WPA in Powell County, in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow big game hunting on WPAs throughout
the District, excluding Sands WPA in Hill County and H2-0 WPA in Powell
County, in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following condition: Condition B2 applies.
* * * * *
Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
1. Hunting Access: Hunters must enter and exit the Waterfowl Hunt
Area (see map in refuge Hunting and Fishing brochure) through the
Waterfowl Hunt Area parking lot. All hunters, except those with a
Montana disability license, must park in the Waterfowl Hunt Area
parking lot to access the Waterfowl Hunt Area. For those hunters with
Montana disability licenses, contact the Refuge Manager by phone or
email for disability guidelines. Hunters must walk to the blind
selected along mowed trails designated in the refuge Hunting and
Fishing brochure. Legal entry time into the hunting area is no earlier
than 2 hours before legal shooting hours. Wildlife observation,
scouting, and
[[Page 58771]]
loitering during waterfowl hunting season are prohibited at the
Waterfowl Hunting Area parking lot and on the refuge road leading to
the Waterfowl Hunt Area parking lot.
* * * * *
3. Registration (Kiosk Sign-In/Sign-Out box): Each hunter must
complete the Migratory Bird Hunt Report (FWS Form 3-2361), must set the
appropriate blind selector (metal flip tag) before and after hunting,
and must record hunting data (hours hunted and birds harvested) on FWS
Form 3-2361 before departing the hunting area.
* * * * *
5. We prohibit attempting to ``reserve'' a blind for use later in
the day by depositing a vehicle or other equipment on the refuge. A
hunter must be physically present in the hunting area in order to use a
blind. The exceptions are blinds 2 and 7, which may be reserved for
hunters with disabilities.
* * * * *
7. Hunters with a documented mobility disability (you must have a
current year Resident with a Disability Conservation License issued by
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks) may reserve an accessible blind in
advance by contacting a refuge law enforcement officer.
* * * * *
13. We prohibit boats, fishing, and fires (see Sec. 27.95 of this
chapter).
* * * * *
19. Any mechanical decoy powered by battery or solar usage is
prohibited.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. Hunting Access: Hunters must enter and exit the hunt areas (see
map in refuge Hunting and Fishing brochure) through the designated
Hunter Access Parking sites. We open access points to hunters intending
to immediately hunt on the refuge. We prohibit wildlife observation,
scouting, and loitering at access points and parking areas. Hunters may
only enter the hunt area 2 hours prior to legal hunting hours and must
exit no later than 2 hours after legal hunting hours.
* * * * *
3. Registration (Sign-In/Sign-Out box): Each hunter must complete
the Big Game Harvest Report (FWS Form 3-2359) before departing the
hunting area.
4. Tree Stands and Ground Blinds: We allow each hunter the use of
portable tree stands or ground blinds. All tree stands and ground
blinds must be identified with a tag that has the owner's name and
Montana archery license (ALS) number on it. We prohibit hunters leaving
each stand/blind unattended for more than 72 hours.
* * * * *
10. Rallying game to another hunter and/or deer drives is
prohibited.
11. We prohibit the installation or use of remote cameras on the
refuge.
* * * * *
Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. We do not allow hunting in areas posted as ``Closed to Hunting''
and identified in the public use leaflet.
* * * * *
3. We allow use of riding or pack stock on designated access routes
through the refuge to access off-refuge lands as identified in the
public use leaflet.
* * * * *
5. Hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the
field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
6. We prohibit overnight camping and open fires (see Sec. 27.95(a)
of this chapter).
7. We prohibit retrieval of game in areas closed to hunting without
a refuge retrieval permit.
* * * * *
9. We allow parking in designated areas only as identified in the
public use leaflet.
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. Conditions B1 through B9 apply.
2. The first week of the archery elk and deer hunting season and
the first week of general elk and deer hunting season are open to
youth-only (ages 12-15 only) hunting. A non-hunting adult at least 18
years of age must accompany the youth hunter in the field.
3. Persons assisting disabled hunters must not be afield with a
hunting firearm, bow, or other hunting device.
* * * * *
Northwest Montana Wetland Management District
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
1. Hunters must remove all boats, decoys, portable blinds
(including those made of native materials), boat blinds, and all other
personal property at the end of each day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and
27.94 of this chapter).
2. We prohibit motorboats except on the Flathead and Smith Lake
Waterfowl Production Areas (WPAs) in Flathead County. Motorboats must
be operated at no wake speeds.
3. We prohibit the construction or use of permanent blinds, stands,
or scaffolds.
4. We allow the use of hunting dogs, provided the dog is under the
immediate control of the hunter at all times during the State-approved
hunting season. Commercial dog trials are not allowed. Pets must be on
a leash at all other times.
5. Shotgun hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in
the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
7. We prohibit overnight camping and open fires (see Sec. 27.95(a)
of this chapter).
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. We prohibit hunting with a shotgun capable of holding more than
three shells.
2. Conditions A1 through A7 apply.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. We allow portable tree stands and/or portable ground blinds;
however, hunters must remove them and all other personal property at
the end of each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). We prohibit
construction and/or use of tree stands or portable ground blinds from
dimensional lumber. We prohibit 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 (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
2. Conditions A2, A3, A6, A7 and B1 apply.
3. Flathead, Blasdel, and Batavia WPAs are restricted to hunting
with archery equipment, shotgun, traditional handgun, muzzleloader, or
crossbow only.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on all Waterfowl
Production Areas (WPAs) throughout the wetland district in accordance
with State law (Flathead County WPAs) and per Joint State and
confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal regulations (Lake County WPAs)
and subject to the following conditions:
1. We prohibit leaving or dumping any dead animal, fish or fish
entrails, garbage, or litter on the refuge (see Sec. 27.94 of this
chapter).
2. We prohibit all public access on WPAs from March 1 to July 15
(Flathead County WPAs) each year to protect nesting birds.
3. Conditions A2 and A7 apply.
* * * * *
Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
5. We prohibit camping along roadsides. We allow camping only in
two established campgrounds. We restrict camping to 16 consecutive days
within any 30-day period. We prohibit
[[Page 58772]]
horses in the campgrounds. From March 1 to December 1, all bear
attractants including, but not limited to, food, garbage, and carcasses
or parts thereof, must be acceptably stored at night (unless in
immediate use) and during the day if unattended. Acceptably stored
means any of the following:
i. Suspended at least 10 feet high and 4 feet from any vertical
support 100 yards from any camp or hiking trail;
ii. Secured in a certified bear safe container; or
iii. Secured in a hard-sided vehicle, including an enclosed camper
or horse trailer.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
10. We prohibit hunting and/or shooting from or onto refuge lands
from within 50 yards (45 meters) of the centerline of any public road
open to motorized vehicles.
* * * * *
Swan River National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of geese, ducks,
and coots on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
condition: Hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the
field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
0
22. Amend Sec. 32.46 Nebraska by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs C.1, C.2, C.4, and C.5; redesignating paragraphs
C.6, C.7, and C.8 as paragraphs C.7, C.8, and C.9, respectively;
revising newly designated paragraph C.9; and adding paragraphs C.6,
C.10, C.11, C.12, C.13, D.3, and D.4 under Fort Niobrara National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
b. Revising the entry for Valentine National Wildlife Refuge.
These additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.46 Nebraska.
* * * * *
Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. We require the submission of a Big/Upland Game Hunt Application
(FWS Form 3-2356). We require hunters to carry a signed refuge hunting
access permit (hunt application signed by the refuge officer) while
hunting. We require hunters to complete a Big Game Harvest Report (FWS
Form 3-2359) and return it to the refuge at the conclusion of the
hunting season.
2. We allow deer hunting with muzzleloader and archery equipment.
We prohibit deer hunting with firearms capable of firing cartridge
ammunition.
* * * * *
4. We allow deer hunting in the area defined as, ``Those refuge
lands situated north and west of the Niobrara River.'' We allow access
to this area only from designated refuge parking areas and the Niobrara
River.
5. We prohibit hunting within 200 yards (180 meters) of any public
use facility.
6. We allow hunter access from 2 hours before legal sunrise until 2
hours after legal sunset.
* * * * *
9. We require tree stands, elevated platforms, and ground blinds to
be removed daily. We require hunters to clearly label unattended tree
stands, elevated platforms, and ground blinds with the hunter's name
and address or hunting license number legible from the ground. Tree
stands, elevated platforms, and/or ground blinds may be put up no
earlier than the opening day of deer season and must be removed by the
last day of deer season.
10. We prohibit hunting during the Nebraska November Firearm Deer
Season.
11. We prohibit the use of game carts or any other wheeled device
to retrieve game on the Wilderness Area portion of the refuge that is
opened for hunting.
12. We prohibit the marking of any tree or other refuge feature
with reflectors, flagging, paint, or other substances.
13. We prohibit the use of electronic or photographic trail
monitoring devices.
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
3. We prohibit the take of baitfish, reptiles, and amphibians.
4. We prohibit use or possession of alcoholic beverages while
fishing on refuge lands and waters.
* * * * *
Valentine National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of waterfowl and
coots on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following refuge-specific regulations:
1. We close the refuge to the general public from legal sunset to
legal sunrise; however we allow hunter access from 2 hours before legal
sunrise to 2 hours after legal sunset.
2. We only allow you to unleash dogs used to locate, point, and
retrieve upland and small game and migratory birds on the refuge while
hunting (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of sharp-tailed grouse,
prairie chicken, ring-necked pheasant, dove, and coyote on designated
areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to
the following refuge-specific regulations:
1. Conditions A1 and A2 apply.
2. Coyote hunting is allowed from the Saturday closest to November
13 through March 15. Shooting hours are \1/2\ hour before sunrise to
\1/2\ hour after sunset. The use of dogs or bait to hunt coyotes is
prohibited.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed and mule deer
on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations
and subject to the following refuge-specific condition: Condition A1
applies.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following refuge-specific regulations:
1. We close the refuge to the general public from legal sunset to
legal sunrise; however anglers may enter the refuge 1 hour before legal
sunrise and remain 1.5 hours after legal sunset.
2. We prohibit the take of reptiles, amphibians, and minnows, with
the exception that bullfrogs may be taken on refuge lakes open to
fishing.
* * * * *
0
23. Amend Sec. 32.50 New Mexico by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A.2.i, A.2.ii, A.2.iii, A.2.iv, A.5, A.8,
B.2.iii, and C.2 and adding paragraph B.2.iv under Bitter Lake National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
b. Revising the entry for Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge.
0
c. Revising paragraph C under San Andres National Wildlife Refuge.
0
d. Revising paragraph A under Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge.
These revisions and additions read as follows:
Sec. 32.50 New Mexico.
* * * * *
Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. * * *
i. In the designated public hunting area, this is located in the
southern portion of the Tract;
ii. To no closer than 100 yards (90 meters) to the public auto tour
route;
iii. To Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays during the period when
the State seasons for the Middle Tract area are open simultaneously for
hunting all of the species allowed; and
iv. All hunting must cease at 1 p.m. (local time) on each permitted
hunt day.
* * * * *
5. We prohibit pit or permanent blinds and require removal of all
[[Page 58773]]
waterfowl decoys and all temporary blinds/stands daily after each hunt
(see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
* * * * *
8. We do not require refuge or other special hunt permits other
than those required by the State.
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. * * *
iii. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays during the appropriate
State season for that area; and
iv. All hunting must cease at 1 p.m. (local time) on each permitted
hunt day.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. Conditions A8 and A9 apply.
* * * * *
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of mourning and
white-winged dove and light goose on designated areas of the refuge in
accordance with State and Federal regulations and any special posting
or publications and subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow hunting of light goose on dates to be determined by
refuge staff. The permit is available through a lottery drawing
(Waterfowl Lottery Application, FWS Form 3-2355) and hunters must pay a
fee. Contact the refuge for more information.
2. Legal hunting hours will run from \1/2\ hour before legal
sunrise and will not extend past 1:00 p.m. (local time) on each hunt
day.
3. Refer to the refuge hunt leaflet for designated hunting areas.
4. You may use only approved nontoxic shot while hunting (see Sec.
32.2(k)).
5. We prohibit pit or permanent blinds and require daily removal of
all waterfowl decoys, spent shells, all temporary blinds/stands, and
all other personal equipment (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this
chapter).
6. We allow unleashed hunting and/or retrieving dogs on the refuge
when hunters are legally present in areas where we allow hunters, only
if the dogs are under the immediate control of hunters at all time (see
Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter), and only to pursue species legally in
season at that time.
7. We prohibit hunters and dogs from entering closed areas for
retrieval of game.
8. We prohibit falconry on the refuge.
9. We prohibit canoeing, boating, or floating through the refuge on
the Rio Grande.
10. We prohibit hunting any species on the Rio Grande within the
refuge.
11. We prohibit overnight camping without a permit.
12. All State and Federal hunting and fishing regulations regarding
methods of take, dates, bag limits, and other factors apply to all
hunting and fishing on the refuge, in addition to these refuge-specific
regulations.
13. Visit the refuge visitor center or Web site, and/or refer to
additional on-site brochures, leaflets, or postings for additional
information.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of quail and cottontail
rabbit on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and any special posting or publications subject to the
following conditions:
1. We allow only shotguns and archery equipment for hunting of
upland game. We prohibit the use of archery equipment on the refuge
except when hunting for upland and big game.
2. Conditions A2 through A13 apply.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of mule deer, oryx, and
bearded Rio Grande turkey on designated areas of the refuge in
accordance with State regulations and any special posting or
publications subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A5 through A13 apply.
2. Refer to the refuge hunt leaflet for designated hunting areas.
3. Hunting on the east side of the Rio Grande is only by foot,
horseback, or bicycle. Bicycles must stay on designated roads.
4. We may allow oryx hunting from the east bank of the Rio Grande
to the east boundary of the refuge for population management purposes
for hunters possessing a valid State permit. We may also establish
special hunts of the oryx on dates established by refuge staff. Contact
the refuge for more information.
5. Legal hunting hours will run from 1 hour before legal sunrise
and will not extend past 1 hour after legal sunset.
6. We allow hunting of bearded Rio Grande turkey for youth hunters
only on dates determined by refuge staff. All hunters must fill out
(FWS Form 3-2356) (Big/Upland Game Hunt Application) and pay a fee. The
permit is available through a lottery drawing. If selected you must
carry your refuge special use permit (FWS Form 3-1383-G) at all times
during the hunt. All hunters are required to fill out a harvest report
(FWS Form 3-2359, Big Game Harvest Report) and return it to the refuge
within 72 hours. Contact the refuge for more information.
7. Youth hunters age 17 and under must successfully complete a
State-approved hunter education course prior to the refuge hunt. While
hunting, each youth must possess and carry a card or certificate of
completion.
8. Each youth hunter must remain with an adult companion age 18 or
older. Each adult companion must possess and carry an adult companion
permit (signed refuge youth turkey hunt brochure) and can supervise no
more than one youth hunter. Adult companions may observe and call, but
they cannot shoot.
9. We allow the use of temporary ground blinds only for youth
turkey hunts, and hunters must remove them from the refuge daily (see
Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). It is unlawful to damage, cut, or mark
any tree or other refuge structure with paint, flagging tape, ribbon,
cat-eyes, or any similar marking device.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge in accordance with State regulations and any special posting or
publications subject to the following conditions:
1. Condition A9 applies.
2. We allow fishing from April 1 through September 30.
3. We allow fishing from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise until \1/
2\ hour after legal sunset.
4. We allow fishing on all canals within the refuge boundaries
(Interior Drain, Riverside, Canal, and Low Flow Conveyance Channel),
and unit 25AS either from the boardwalk or from shore.
5. We prohibit trotlines, bows and arrows, boats or other
floatation devices, seining, dip netting, traps, using bait taken from
the refuge, taking of turtle, littering, and all other activities not
expressly allowed (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
6. Access to the canals is via the tour loop. We prohibit fishing
in closed areas of the refuge, with the exception of the Low Flow
Conveyance Channel.
7. We allow frogging for bullfrog on the refuge in areas that are
open to fishing.
8. All State and Federal fishing regulations regarding methods of
take, dates, creel limits, and other factors apply to all fishing on
the refuge, in addition to these refuge-specific regulations.
9. We prohibit fishing for any species on the Rio Grande within the
refuge.
* * * * *
San Andres National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunting of oryx or gemsbok (Oryx gazella) and
desert bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis mexicana) is allowed on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with
[[Page 58774]]
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) and White Sands Missile
Range (WSMR) regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Hunters are required to check in and out of the hunt area.
2. Hunters are required to complete an unexploded ordnance (UXO)
training prior to entering hunt area.
3. The hunter may be accompanied by no more than three guests
including their guide(s).
4. Only approved WSMR outfitters can be used.
5. All hunters must enter and exit through the Small Missile Range
gate on Range Road 7.
6. All members of the hunting party are required to wear solid or
camouflage style florescent orange (hunter's orange) clothing while
away from the vehicle and in the field hunting. A minimum of 144 square
inches must appear on both the chest and back (a typical blaze orange
hunting vest).
7. Hunters may be escorted, but not guided, by WSMR, NMDGF, or
refuge personnel or their agent(s). Check stations may be used in lieu
of hunt escorts.
8. Hunters must follow photo and video policy as described by WSMR
regulations.
9. Youth hunters, 16 years of age and younger, must be under the
direct supervision of an adult, 18 years of age or older.
10. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on
National Wildlife Refuges must comply with all provisions of State and
local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with
refuge regulations (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge
regulations in this part 32).
11. Hunters and their guests must abide by all rules established by
the refuge, WSMR, and NMDGF regulations.
12. Bighorn Sheep: Hunting desert bighorn sheep is allowed on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with NMDGF and WSMR
regulations and subject to the following conditions specifically for
bighorn sheep:
i. If camping is permitted on WSMR lands, then camping is allowed
at Little San Nicholas Camp on the refuge.
ii. Four-wheeled all-terrain vehicle (ATV) use by hunters or
members of their hunting party is prohibited on the refuge, although
ATVs may be used to retrieve game on WSMR.
iii. Hunters using livestock (i.e., horses or mules) must provide
only weed-free feed to their animals while on the refuge.
iv. Hunters or other members of the hunting party are not permitted
to hunt small game or other species during desert bighorn ram hunts.
Only bighorn sheep may be hunted by individuals with ram tags.
13. Oryx. Hunting oryx is allowed on designated areas of the refuge
in accordance with NMDGF and WSMR regulations and subject to the
following condition specifically for oryx: Four-wheeled all-terrain
vehicle (ATV) use by hunters or members of their hunting party is
allowed on the refuge and WSMR only to retrieve game.
* * * * *
Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of mourning and
white-winged doves, geese, ducks, and coots on designated areas of the
refuge in accordance with State regulations and any special posting or
publications and subject to the following conditions:
1. Legal hunting hours will run from \1/2\ hour before legal
sunrise and will not extend past 1:00 p.m. (local time) on each hunt
day.
2. The refuge may designate special youth and/or persons with
disabilities hunting days during the regular game bird season. This
will apply to areas and species that are currently part of the refuge's
hunting program. Contact the refuge for more information.
3. Refer to the refuge hunt leaflet for designated hunting areas.
4. You may use only approved nontoxic shot while hunting (see Sec.
32.2(k)) in the field, in quantities of 25 or fewer.
5. We prohibit pit or permanent blinds and require daily removal of
all waterfowl decoys, spent shells, all temporary blinds/stands, and
all other personal equipment (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this
chapter).
6. We allow unleashed hunting and/or retrieving dogs on the refuge
when hunters are legally present in areas where we allow hunters, only
if the dogs are under the immediate control of hunters at all time (see
Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter), and only to pursue species legally in
season at that time.
7. We prohibit hunters and dogs from entering closed areas for
retrieval of game.
8. We prohibit falconry on the refuge.
9. All State and Federal hunting regulations regarding methods of
take, dates, bag limits, and other factors, apply to all hunting on the
refuge, in addition to these refuge-specific regulations.
10. Visit the refuge visitor center or Web site, and/or refer to
additional on-site brochures, leaflets, or postings for additional
information.
* * * * *
0
24. Amend Sec. 32.51 New York by adding, in alphabetical order, an
entry for Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge to read as
follows:
Sec. 32.51 New York.
* * * * *
Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. [RESERVED]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [RESERVED]
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State of New York
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. You must submit a Big/Upland Game Hunt Application (FWS Form 3-
2356) to hunt on the refuge. We require hunters to possess a signed
refuge hunt permit (name and address only) at all times while scouting
and hunting on the refuge. We charge a fee for all hunters except youth
age 16 and younger.
2. We provide hunters with hunt maps and parking permits (name
only), which they must clearly display in their vehicle. Hunters who
park on the refuge must park in identified hunt parking areas.
3. We prohibit the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on the
refuge.
4. We prohibit baiting on refuge lands (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
5. We require hunters to wear (in a conspicuous manner) a minimum
of 400 square inches (2,600 square centimeters) of solid-color, hunter-
orange clothing or material on the head, chest, and back.
6. We prohibit hunters using or erecting permanent blinds.
7. We allow pre-hunt scouting beginning two weeks prior to the bow
opener and continuing through the end of the deer season.
8. The refuge only allows archery equipment (crossbows permitted)
to harvest deer.
D. Sport Fishing. [RESERVED]
* * * * *
0
25. Amend Sec. 32.53 North Dakota by:
0
a. Adding paragraph B.4 under Audubon National Wildlife Refuge.
0
b. Revising paragraphs B and C under Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge.
0
c. Revising the introductory text in paragraphs B and D; revising
paragraphs A.2, B.2, B.3, B.4, B.5, C.2, C.3, C.4, C.5, D.2, D.3, D.4,
D.5, and D.6; and adding paragraphs B.6, B.7, B.8, B.9, C.6, C.7, C.8,
C.9, D.7, and D.8 under J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge.
0
d. Revising the introductory text in paragraph B and revising
paragraphs C.2 and D under Tewaukon National Wildlife Refuge.
[[Page 58775]]
0
These revisions and additions read as follows:
Sec. 32.53 North Dakota.
* * * * *
Audubon National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
4. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field
(see Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt sharp-tailed grouse,
Hungarian partridge, turkey, ring-necked pheasant, cottontail rabbit,
jackrabbit, snowshoe hare, and fox on designated areas of the refuge in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. We open the refuge daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field,
(see Sec. 32.2(k)).
3. Upland game bird and rabbit season opens on the day following
the close of the regular firearm deer season through the end of the
State season.
4. Hunting dogs used for retrieval of upland game is permitted.
Dogs must be under direct control.
5. Turkey hunting is subject to all State regulations, license
requirements, units, and dates.
6. Fox hunting is permitted on the day following the regular
firearm deer season and closes on March 31.
7. We prohibit hunting the area around refuge headquarters,
buildings, shops, and residences. We post these areas with ``Closed to
Hunting'' signs.
8. We prohibit the use of snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs),
off-highway vehicles (OHVs), utility-terrain vehicles (UTVs), bicycles,
or similar vehicles on the refuge.
9. We prohibit the use of horses, mules, or similar livestock on
the refuge during all hunting seasons.
10. We prohibit accessing refuge lands from refuge waters.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow deer hunting on designated areas of
the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. We open the refuge daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
2. We only allow the use of portable tree stands and ground blinds.
We prohibit leaving stands and blinds overnight (see Sec. 27.93 of
this chapter) on the refuge. Tree stands cannot injure trees. Screw-in
steps, bolts, nails, wire, or other objects that penetrate the bark of
the tree cannot be used (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
3. We prohibit entry to the refuge before 12 p.m. (noon) on the
first day of the respective bow, gun, or muzzleloader deer hunting
seasons.
4. We prohibit the use of flagging, trail markers, paint,
reflective tacks, or other types of markers (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter).
5. We prohibit the use of trail cameras and other electronic
equipment.
6. Conditions B7 through B10 apply.
* * * * *
J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. We allow the use of dogs for hunting and retrieving game birds.
Dogs must be under direct control of the hunter (see Sec. 26.21(b) of
this chapter).
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of ruffed and sharp-tailed
grouse, Hungarian partridge, turkey, ring-necked pheasant, and fox on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
2. We allow hunting for sharp-tailed grouse, Hungarian partridge,
and ring-necked pheasant on nine designated Public Hunting Areas as
delineated on the refuge hunting brochure map available at the refuge
headquarters or posted on refuge information boards and/or kiosks.
3. We allow hunting for sharp-tailed grouse, ruffed grouse,
Hungarian partridge and turkey south of the Upham-Willow City Road in
accordance with State seasons.
4. We open to hunting-for sharp-tailed grouse, Hungarian partridge,
and ring-necked pheasant north of the Willow-Upham road on the day
following the close of the regular firearm deer season.
5. We prohibit hunting the area around the refuge headquarters,
buildings, shops, and residences. We post these areas with ``Closed to
Hunting'' signs.
6. We open the refuge to fox hunting on the day following the close
of the regular firearm deer season. Fox hunting on the refuge closes
March 31.
7. Hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot for all upland
game hunting, including turkey, as identified in Sec. 20.21(j) of this
chapter.
8. We prohibit the use of snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs),
off highway vehicles (OHVs), utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), bicycles,
or similar vehicles on the refuge.
9. We prohibit the use of horses, mules, or similar livestock on
the refuge during all hunting seasons.
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. We prohibit hunting the area around the refuge headquarters,
buildings, shops, and residences. We post these areas with ``Closed to
Hunting'' signs.
3. We open nine designated Public Hunting Areas (as delineated on
the refuge hunting brochure map available at the refuge headquarters or
posted on refuge information boards and/or kiosks) on the refuge for
deer hunting during the regular firearms issued from the State.
4. You must possess and carry a refuge permit to hunt antlered deer
on the refuge outside the nine Public Hunting Areas during the regular
firearms season.
5. We only allow the use of portable tree stands and ground blinds.
We prohibit leaving stands and blinds overnight (see Sec. 27.93 of
this chapter) on the refuge.
6. We prohibit the use of flagging, trail markers, paint,
reflective tacks, or other types of markers (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter).
7. We prohibit the use of trail cameras and other electronic
surveillance equipment.
8. We prohibit entry to the refuge before 12 p.m. (noon) on the
first day of the respective bow, gun, or muzzleloader deer hunting
seasons. Refuge roads open to the public may be accessed before 12 p.m.
(noon).
9. Conditions B8 and B9 apply.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on the refuge in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
* * * * *
2. We allow boat and bank fishing only on specifically designated
portions of the refuge as delineated on maps, leaflets and/or signs,
available at the refuge headquarters or posted on refuge information
boards.
3. We only allow non-motorized boats or boats with electric motors.
4. Boat fishing is allowed from May 1 through September 30.
5. We prohibit entry to or fishing from any water control
structure.
6. We open all refuge waters to ice fishing. Ice fishing access is
limited to foot traffic only.
7. We allow the use of portable fish houses for ice fishing.
Portable fish houses may not be left out overnight.
8. Conditions B8 and B9 apply.
* * * * *
[[Page 58776]]
Tewaukon National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow ring-necked pheasant hunting on
designated areas of the refuge (see refuge brochure/maps for designated
area) in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. We allow deer gun hunting on designated areas of the refuge (see
refuge brochure/maps for designated areas) in accordance with State
regulations.
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated waters
(Tewaukon and Sprague Lakes only) in accordance with State regulations
and subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow boats from May 1 through September 30.
2. We allow ice fishing on designated portions of Tewaukon and
Sprague Lakes (see refuge brochure/maps for designated areas) in
accordance with State regulations.
* * * * *
0
26. Amend Sec. 32.54 Ohio by revising paragraph C.2; removing
paragraph C.3; and redesignating paragraphs C.4, C.5, C.6, C.7, C.8,
and C.9 as paragraphs C.3, C.4, C.5, C.6, C.7, and C.8, respectively,
under Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.54 Ohio.
* * * * *
Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. We require that hunters check out at the refuge check station
with a State-issued Big Game Harvest Report no later than 1 hour after
the conclusion of their controlled hunt.
* * * * *
0
27. Amend Sec. 32.56 Oregon by:
0
a. Revising paragraph A under Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge.
0
b. Adding, in alphabetical order, an entry for Baskett Slough National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
c. Revising the introductory text in paragraph A, revising paragraphs
A.2 and A.3, and adding paragraph A.4 under Julia Butler Hansen Refuge
for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer.
0
d. Adding paragraphs A.4 and A.5 under Lewis and Clark National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
e. Redesignating paragraph A.2 as A.4; revising paragraphs A.1, B, C,
D.1, and D.2; and adding paragraphs A.2, A.3, A.5, A.6, A.7, A.8, D.3,
D.4, and D.5 under Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.
0
f. Adding, in alphabetical order, an entry for Nestucca Bay National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
g. Adding, in alphabetical order, an entry for Siletz Bay National
Wildlife Refuge.
These revisions and additions read as follows:
Sec. 32.56 Oregon.
* * * * *
Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck,
coot, and snipe on that portion of the refuge west of U.S. Highway 101
and outside the Bandon city limits 7 days per week, and hunting of
goose, duck, and coot on the Ni-les'tun Unit of the refuge 3 days per
week, in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. The established days for waterfowl hunting on the Ni-les'tun
Unit will be Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.
2. Only portable blinds or blinds constructed of on-site dead
vegetation or driftwood may be used (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
3. All blinds, decoys, shotshell hulls, and other personal
equipment and refuse must be removed from the refuge at the end of each
day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
4. Only federally approved nontoxic shot may be used or be in
hunters' possession while hunting on the refuge (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
5. Hunters accessing the Ni-les'tun Unit via boat must secure or
anchor boats and use established boat launch areas. Hunters may park
boats within the marsh while they hunt, but boats landing on the bank
of the Coquille River within the Ni-les'tun Unit will be required to
park within a designated location.
6. Access to the refuge will be prohibited from 1 hour after sunset
to 1 hour before sunrise.
7. Hunters may use dogs as an aid to retrieving waterfowl during
the hunting season; however, dogs must remain under control of the
handler at all times. Dogs must be in a vehicle or on a leash until
they are in the marsh as a part of the hunt.
8. Hunters may enter closed areas of the refuge only to retrieve
downed birds.
* * * * *
Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck and goose
on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations
and subject to the following conditions:
1. Only hunters 15 years of age and younger are allowed to
participate in the Youth Waterfowl Hunt. Youths must be accompanied by
an adult 21 years of age or older.
2. Blinds, decoys, and other personal property must be removed at
the end of each day's hunt (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
3. Vehicles are restricted to designated public use roads and
designated parking areas.
4. We prohibit dogs on the refuge, except for hunting dogs engaged
in authorized hunting activities, and under the immediate control of a
licensed hunter (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
5. You may possess only approved nontoxic shells for hunting during
the early September Goose Hunt and the Youth Duck Hunt.
6. Open fires are not allowed.
7. Waterfowl and goose permit (name only) hunters must check back
to the refuge check station prior to leaving the refuge and submit a
Migratory Bird Hunt Report (FWS Form 3-2361).
8. Goose hunters are required to space themselves no less than 200
yards apart from each other during the early September Goose Hunt.
9. No overnight camping or after-hours parking is permitted on the
refuge.
10. No hunting is permitted from refuge structures, observation
blinds, boardwalks, or similar structures.
11. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with
refuge regulations (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter and refuge-specific
regulations in this part 32).
B. Upland Game Hunting. [RESERVED]
C. Big Game Hunting. [RESERVED]
D. Sport Fishing. [RESERVED]
* * * * *
Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck,
coot, and common snipe on the refuge-owned shorelines of Crims and
Wallace Islands in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
* * * * *
2. We prohibit permanent blinds. You must remove all personal
property, including decoys and boats, by 1 hour after legal sunset (see
Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
[[Page 58777]]
3. We open the refuge for day-use access from 1\1/2\ hours before
legal sunrise until 1\1/2\ hours after legal sunset.
4. We prohibit dogs on the refuge, except for hunting dogs engaged
in authorized hunting activities, and under the immediate control of a
licensed hunter (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
* * * * *
Lewis and Clark National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
4. We open the refuge for hunting access from 1\1/2\ hours before
legal sunrise until 1\1/2\ hours after legal sunset.
5. We prohibit dogs on the refuge, except for hunting dogs engaged
in authorized hunting activities, and under the immediate control of a
licensed hunter (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
* * * * *
Malheur National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
1. We allow nonmotorized boats or boats equipped with only electric
motors on the North and South Malheur Lake Hunt Units. All boats are
prohibited on the Buena Vista Hunt Unit.
2. We allow only portable and temporary hunting blinds. We prohibit
permanent structures.
3. You must remove boats, decoys, blinds, materials and all
personal property at the end of each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter).
* * * * *
5. We may close any refuge access easement road, refuge road, or
hunting access point for public safety, or when travel may be
detrimental to the area.
6. The North Malheur Lake Hunt Unit is open during all established
State of Oregon migratory bird hunting seasons.
7. The South Malheur Lake and Buena Vista Hunt Units open for
migratory bird hunting on the fourth Saturday of October and close at
the end of the State waterfowl season.
8. The South Malheur Lake Hunt Unit may be accessed from the Boat
Launch Road, or from the North Malheur Lake Hunt Unit, but no earlier
than the fourth Saturday of October.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant, quail,
partridge, chukar, and rabbit on designated areas of the refuge in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field
(see Sec. 32.2(k))
2. We allow hunting of upland game species on designated areas of
the Blitzen Valley east of Highway 205 from the fourth Saturday in
October through the end of the State pheasant season.
3. We allow hunting of upland game species on the North Malheur
Lake Hunt Unit concurrent with the State pheasant season.
4. We allow hunting of all upland game species on designated areas
of the refuge west of Highway 205 and south of Foster Flat Road, and on
designated areas of Krumbo Creek east of the Krumbo Reservoir in
accordance with State regulations.
5. We may close any refuge access easement road, refuge road, or
hunting access point for public safety, or when travel may be
detrimental to the area.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of deer and pronghorn on
designated areas of the refuge west of Highway 205 and south of Foster
Flat Road, and on designated areas of Krumbo Creek east of the Krumbo
Reservoir, in accordance with State regulations.
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
1. We prohibit ice fishing on and all public access to any ice
formations.
2. We allow fishing year-round on Krumbo Reservoir and in the
Blitzen River, East Canal, and Mud Creek upstream from and including
Bridge Creek.
3. Fishing is allowed on the north bank of the Blitzen River from
Sodhouse Lane downstream to the bridge on the Boat Landing Road between
August 1 and September 15.
4. We prohibit boats on public fishing areas, except that
nonmotorized boats and boats equipped with only electric motors may be
used on Krumbo Reservoir.
5. We may close any refuge access easement road, refuge road, or
fishing access point for public safety, or when travel may be
detrimental to the area.
* * * * *
Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of ducks and coot
on refuge lands at Brooten Marsh and the mouth of the Little Nestucca
River 7 days per week in accordance with State regulations and subject
to the following conditions:
1. Only federally approved nontoxic shot may be used or be in
hunters' possession while hunting on the refuge (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
2. Only portable blinds or blinds constructed of on-site dead
vegetation or driftwood may be used (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
3. All blinds, decoys, shotshell hulls, and other personal
equipment and refuse must be removed from the refuge at the end of each
day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
4. Access to the refuge will be prohibited from 1 hour after sunset
to 1 hour before sunrise.
5. Hunters may use dogs as an aid to retrieving waterfowl during
the hunting season; however, dogs must remain under control of the
handler at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter). Dogs must be
in a vehicle or on a leash until they are in the marsh as a part of the
hunt.
6. Hunters may enter closed areas of the refuge only to retrieve
downed birds.
B. Upland Game Hunting. [RESERVED]
C. Big Game Hunting. [RESERVED]
D. Sport Fishing. [RESERVED]
* * * * *
Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck,
and coot on refuge lands west of U.S. Highway 101 7 days per week and
on the Millport Slough South Unit of the refuge 3 days per week, in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. The established days for waterfowl hunting on the Millport
Slough South Unit will be Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.
2. Only federally approved nontoxic shot may be used or be in
hunters' possession while hunting on the refuge (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
3. Only portable blinds or blinds constructed of on-site dead
vegetation or driftwood may be used (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
4. All blinds, decoys, shotshell hulls, and other personal
equipment and refuse must be removed from the refuge at the end of each
day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
5. Access to the refuge will be prohibited from 1 hour after sunset
to 1 hour before sunrise.
6. The use or possession of alcoholic beverages while hunting is
prohibited.
7. Hunters may use dogs as an aid to retrieving waterfowl during
the hunting season; however, dogs must remain under control of the
handler at all time (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter). Dogs must be
in a vehicle or on a leash until they are in the marsh as a part of the
hunt.
B. Upland Game Hunting. [RESERVED]
C. Big Game Hunting. [RESERVED]
[[Page 58778]]
D. Sport Fishing. [RESERVED]
* * * * *
0
28. Amend Sec. 32.57 Pennsylvania by adding, in alphabetical order, an
entry for Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.57 Pennsylvania.
* * * * *
Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of migratory
birds, including waterfowl (i.e., ducks, mergansers, coots, and geese),
doves, woodcock, snipe, rails, moorhens, and gallinules, on designated
areas of the refuge in accordance with State of Pennsylvania
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. You must submit a Migratory Bird Hunt Application (FWS Form 3-
2357) to hunt on the refuge. We require hunters to possess a signed
refuge hunt permit (name and address only) at all times while scouting
and hunting on the refuge. We charge a fee for all hunters except youth
age 16 and younger.
2. We issue one companion permit (no personal information) at no
charge to each hunter. We allow companions to observe and/or call, but
not to shoot a firearm or bow. Companion and hunters must set up in the
same location. We provide hunters with hunt maps and parking permits
(name only), which they must clearly display in their vehicle. Hunters
who park on the refuge must park in identified hunt parking areas.
3. We prohibit the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on the
refuge.
4. We require hunters to wear (in a conspicuous manner) solid-
color, hunter-orange clothing or material, consistent with Pennsylvania
Game Commission regulations.
5. We prohibit hunters using or erecting permanent or pit blinds.
6. We require hunters to remove all hunting blind material, boats,
and decoys from the refuge at the end of each hunting season (see Sec.
27.93 of this chapter).
7. We allow pre-hunt scouting concurrent with big game scouting
continuing through the end of the migratory bird season; however, we
prohibit the use of dogs during scouting.
8. Dogs may only be used for waterfowl hunting. We limit the number
of dogs per waterfowl hunting party to no more than two dogs.
9. We allow hunters to enter the refuge 2 hours before shooting
time (as prescribed by Pennsylvania Game Commission regulations), and
they must leave no later than 2 hours after the end of shooting time.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrels, grouse,
rabbit, pheasant, quail, woodchuck, crow, fox, raccoon, opossum, skunk,
weasel, coyote, and bobcat on designated areas of the refuge in
accordance with State of Pennsylvania regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. We require hunters to submit a Big/Upland Game Hunt Application/
Permit (FWS Form 3-2356) to hunt on the refuge. We require hunters to
possess a signed refuge hunt permit (name and address only) at all
times while scouting and hunting on the refuge. We charge a fee for all
hunters except youth age 16 and younger.
2. Conditions A3, A4, A5, and A9 apply.
3. We prohibit scouting.
4. No dogs allowed.
5. We prohibit baiting on refuge lands (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
6. We only allow hunting from 1 half hour before legal sunrise to
legal sunset. We prohibit night hunting.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, bear,
and wild turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with
State of Pennsylvania regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. Conditions A3, A4, A5, A9, B1, and B5 apply.
2. We allow pre-hunt scouting beginning two weeks prior to the bow
opener and continuing through the end of the deer season.
3. We require hunters to remove all portable hunting blind
materials from the refuge at the end of each hunting season (see Sec.
27.93 of this chapter).
D. Sport Fishing. [RESERVED]
* * * * *
0
29. Amend Sec. 32.61 South Dakota by:
0
a. Removing paragraph A.1; redesignating paragraphs A.2 and A.3 as
paragraphs A.1 and A.2, respectively; revising paragraphs B.1 and C.5;
and adding paragraphs B.3 and C.10 under Sand Lake National Wildlife
Refuge.
0
b. Revising paragraphs A, C.4, and D under Sand Lake Wetland Management
District.
These revisions and additions read as follows:
Sec. 32.61 South Dakota.
* * * * *
Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. The game bird season begins the Monday following closure of the
refuge firearms deer season and continues through the first Sunday in
January.
* * * * *
3. Hunters are not allowed to enter the refuge each day until 10:00
a.m.
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
5. Hunters may place their tree stands, elevated platforms, and
portable ground blinds on the refuge only during their designated
licensed season. These stands must be removed by the end of their
designated licensed season (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
* * * * *
10. Trail monitor cameras are not allowed on the refuge.
* * * * *
Sand Lake Wetland Management District
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow migratory game bird
hunting on Waterfowl Production Areas throughout the District in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. You must remove boats, decoys, portable blinds, other personal
property, and any materials brought onto the area for blind
construction by the end of each day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of
this chapter).
2. We prohibit bringing any type of live or dead vegetation onto
the refuge for any purpose at any time.
3. We allow the use of motorized boats.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
4. You must remove portable ground blinds, trail cameras, and other
personal property by the end of each day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and
27.94 of this chapter).
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on Waterfowl Production
Areas throughout the District in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. You must remove boats, motor vehicles, fishing equipment, and
other personal property (excluding ice houses) by the end of each day
(see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
2. We allow the use of motorized boats.
* * * * *
0
30. Amend Sec. 32.63 Texas by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A, C.1, C.2, and C.3 and removing paragraphs
C.4, C.5, C.6, C.7, C.8, C.9, C.10, C.11, C.12, C.13, C.14, C.15, C.16,
C.17, C.18, C.19, and C.20 under Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.
0
b. Revising paragraphs A.2, A.3, A.4, A.5, A.6, A.7, A.9, A.11, B, and
C under Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge.
These additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.63 Texas.
* * * * *
[[Page 58779]]
Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of ducks, coots,
and mergansers on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with
State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Each adult hunter 17 years of age or older must possess an
Annual Public Hunting Permit (APH) administered by the State.
2. Hunters may enter the refuge hunt units no earlier than 4 a.m.
Hunting starts at the designated legal shooting time and ends at 12
p.m. (noon). Hunters must leave refuge hunt units by 12:30 p.m.
3. Youth under 17 years of age are required to be under the
immediate supervision of a duly permitted, authorized supervising
adult, age 18 or older.
4. Shotguns with nontoxic shot are the legal means that may be used
or possessed during these hunts (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
5. We prohibit pits and permanent blinds. We allow portable blinds
or temporary natural vegetation blinds. You must remove all blinds from
the refuge daily (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
6. We only allow vehicular travel on designated roads and in
parking areas.
7. All hunters are transported to and from their hunting location
by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) personnel.
8. Hunter check-in begins at 5:00 a.m. and ends at 5:30 a.m. All
hunters are required to check in and out at the hunter check station
located on the north end of the Island.
9. Hunters will select hunt sites on a first-come, first-served
basis.
10. Waterfowl hunts are morning only, begin at legal shooting time,
and end at 12:00 p.m. (noon).
11. Dogs accompanying hunters must be under the immediate control
of handlers at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
12. Hunters must remove all decoys, boats, spent shells, marsh
chairs, and other equipment from the refuge daily (see Sec. Sec. 27.93
and 27.94 of this chapter). We prohibit the use of plastic flagging,
reflectors, or reflective tape.
13. Hunting of geese is prohibited.
14. The entire refuge or any portion thereof may immediately close
to hunting in the event of whooping cranes present within the hunt
area.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. On the Blackjack Unit, we allow hunting subject to the following
conditions:
i. We may immediately close the entire refuge or any portion
thereof to hunting in the event of the appearance of whooping crane in
the hunt area or in order to conduct habitat management practices as
required during the available windows (e.g., prescribed burns, roller
chopping, fire breaks).
ii. We prohibit the use of dogs to trail game.
iii. We prohibit target practice or any nonhunting discharge of
firearms.
iv. We prohibit hunting with the aid of bait, salt, or any
ingestible attractant (see Sec. 32.2(h)). We allow sprays and other
non-ingestible attractants.
v. Firearm hunters must wear a total of 400 square inches (2,600
square centimeters) hunter orange including 144 square inches (936
square centimeters) visible in front and 144 square inches visible in
rear. Some hunter orange must appear on head gear.
vi. All hunters must fill out (FWS Form3-2359) Big Game Harvest
Report upon leaving the hunt area.
vii. For the archery and rifle season, hunters must obtain a refuge
permit (name only required) and pay a fee. The hunter must tape the
smaller vehicle tag on the driver's side windshield. The hunter must
sign the larger permit and possess it at all times while on the refuge.
viii. We define youth hunters as ages 9 to16. A Texas-licensed,
adult hunter, age 17 or older who has successfully completed a Hunter
Education Training Course, must accompany youth hunters. We exempt
those persons born prior to September 2, 1971, from the Hunter
Education Training course requirement. Each adult hunter may supervise
two youth hunters.
ix. We will annually designate bag limits in the refuge hunt
brochure.
x. We allow archery hunting within the deer season for the county
on specified days listed in the refuge hunt brochure.
xi. We allow firearm hunting within the deer season for the county
on specified days listed in the refuge hunt brochure.
xii. Hunters must clean all harvested game in the field.
xiii. We prohibit hunting on or across any part of the refuge road
system, or hunting from a vehicle on any refuge road or road right-of-
way. Hunters must remain at a minimum of 100 yards (90 meters) off any
designated refuge road or structure.
xiv. We prohibit hunters using handguns during archery and rifle
hunts. Hunters may use bows and arrows only in accordance with State
law. We prohibit use of crossbows for hunting unless we issue a special
use permit (FWS Form 3-1383-G) due to ``upper 2 limb'' disability. We
allow the use of archery equipment and centerfire rifles for hunting in
accordance with State law.
xv. We allow use of portable hunting stands, stalking of game, and
still hunting. There is a limit of two portable stands per permitted
hunter. A hunter may set up the portable stands during the scouting
week, but must remove them when the hunter's permit expires (see Sec.
27.93 of this chapter). We prohibit hunters from driving nails, spikes,
or other objects into trees or hunting from stands secured with objects
driven into trees (see Sec. 32.2(i)). We prohibit the building of pits
and permanent blinds.
xvi. We prohibit blocking of gates and roadways (see Sec. 27.31(h)
of this chapter). We prohibit vehicles operating off-road for any
reason. Hunters must park vehicles in such a manner as to not obstruct
normal vehicle traffic.
xvii. We allow the use of only biodegradable flagging tape to mark
trails and hunt stand location during the archery and rifle hunts on
the refuge. We color-code the flagging tape used each weekend during
the rifle hunts. Hunters must use the designated flagging tape color
specified for particular hunt dates. We provide this information on the
refuge hunt permit and in refuge regulations sent to permittees.
Hunters must remove flagging (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) at the
end of the hunt. The hunter must write his/her last name in black
permanent marker on the first piece of flagging tape nearest the
adjacent designated roadway.
xiii. We prohibit camping.
2. On the Matagorda Island Unit, we allow hunting subject to the
following conditions:
i. Big Game Hunting Blackjack Unit conditions: C.1.i through C.1.vi
apply.
ii. Special permits are issued by lottery drawing through the TPWD
Public Hunting Program for big game hunts.
iii. TPWD staff will transport all hunters to and from the
designated hunting stand.
iv. All hunters are required to stay in their designated stand
unless they are retrieving their game. Stalking of game is prohibited.
v. For hunts administered by TPWD, youth hunters are not required
to complete a Hunter Education Training Course. However, supervising
adults born on or after September 2, 1971, must have passed a Hunter
Education Training Course or possess a State-issued deferral.
vi. Each adult hunter may supervise up to two youth hunters.
[[Page 58780]]
vii. Hunters can clean all harvested game in the field or at the
designated cleaning area at the headquarters.
viii. All deer harvested during the hunt will be tagged with a
TPWD-issued Special Drawn Legal Deer Tag.
ix. Hunters are allowed to camp in the designated camping area.
3. On the Tatton Unit, we allow hunting subject to the following
conditions:
i. Big Game Hunting Blackjack Unit conditions: C.1.i through C.1.v
apply.
ii. We define youth hunters as ages 9 to 16. All hunters born after
September 2, 1971 must have completed a State-certified hunter
education course for refuge administered hunts. A Texas-licensed, adult
hunter, age 17 or older who has successfully completed a Hunter
Education Training Course, must accompany youth hunters. We exempt
those persons born prior to September 2, 1971, from the Hunter
Education Training course requirement.
iii. Hunters are transported to and from their hunting location via
government vehicles.
* * * * *
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. Hunting allowed in designated area(s) from noon to sunset.
3. Refuge will set the bag limits.
4. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot for hunting while in
the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
5. Refuge permits (name only) are required with payment of a hunt
fee.
6. Dogs are allowed to retrieve game birds during the hunt, but the
dogs must be under control of the handler at all times and not allowed
to roam free (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
7. Hunters must be at least 12 years of age. An adult 21 years of
age or older must accompany hunters between the ages of 12 and 17
(inclusive) as per State regulations.
* * * * *
9. The entire refuge or any portion thereof may be closed to
hunting for the protection of resources or public safety as determined
by the Refuge Manager.
* * * * *
11. Hunter may bring up to two guests. Guests may not use a hunting
firearm. Guests must be with the hunter at all times.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of wild turkey at
designated times on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with
State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Hunting is permitted consistent with the State season.
2. Hunters are required to check in and out daily at designated
check station(s).
3. Weapons will be consistent with State and Federal regulations.
4. The entire refuge or any portion thereof may be closed to
hunting for the protection of resources or public safety as determined
by the Refuge Manager.
5. Hunters must be at least 12 years of age. An adult 21 years of
age or older must accompany hunters between the ages of 12 and 17
(inclusive) as per State regulations. This adult may supervise no more
than two hunters.
6. The refuge will set the bag limits.
7. Hunters must visibly wear 400 square inches (2,600 square
centimeters) of hunter orange on the outermost layer of the head,
chest, and back, which must include a hunter-orange hat or cap.
8. Refuge permits and the payment of a hunt fee are required.
9. Dogs are not allowed for hunting.
10. Vehicles may only be operated on designated roads and parking
areas.
11. Off road use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) is prohibited,
except to retrieve bagged game.
12. Standby hunting permits are issued only if openings are
available on the day of each hunt on a first-come, first-served basis.
Contact Refuge Manager for details.
13. The use or possession of bait is prohibited during scouting or
hunting (see Sec. 32.2(h)). Bait is considered anything that may be
eaten or ingested by wildlife. Scent attractants are allowed.
14. A hunter may bring one guest. Guest may not use a hunting
firearm or other hunting weapon (archery). Guest may assist hunter in
game retrieval or field dressing activities. Guest must be with the
hunter at all times.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
feral hog at designated times on designated areas of the refuge in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. Conditions B1 through B14 apply.
* * * * *
0
31. Amend Sec. 32.64 Utah by revising paragraphs C.4, C.5, C.6, and
C.7 under Ouray National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows.
Sec. 32.64 Utah.
* * * * *
Ouray National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
4. We allow any-legal-weapon elk hunting for youth, disabled, and
depredation pool hunters during State seasons subject to refuge
regulations.
5. We allow archery elk hunting during the general and the Uintah
Basin extended archery elk hunts during State seasons subject to refuge
regulations.
6. We are closed for the general any-legal-weapon (rifle) and
muzzleloader bull elk hunts.
7. We allow any-legal-weapon elk hunting during limited late season
antlerless elk hunts starting on December 1 during State seasons
subject to refuge regulations.
* * * * *
0
32. Amend Sec. 32.65 Vermont by adding, in alphabetical order, an
entry for Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge to read as
follows:
Sec. 32.65 Vermont.
* * * * *
Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of ducks, geese,
crows, and American woodcock at the Nulhegan Basin Division and Putney
Mountain Unit in accordance with State of Vermont regulations, seasons,
and bag limits subject to the following conditions:
1. Shooting across, over, or within 10 feet of the traveled portion
of any gravel road is prohibited in the interest of public safety (see
Sec. Sec. 25.71 of this chapter).
2. You may only use portable blinds.
3. We allow the use of retrieving, flushing, pointing, and pursuit
dogs; however dogs must be under control as is reasonable and customary
for that activity, such as voice command or remote telemetry (see Sec.
26.21(b) of this chapter).
4. We prohibit the use of all-terrain and off-highway vehicles
(ATVs and OHVs).
5. You must remove all blinds, decoys, shell casings, and other
personal equipment and refuse from the refuge at the end of each hunt
day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of coyote, fox, raccoon,
bobcat, woodchuck, red squirrel, eastern gray squirrel, porcupine,
skunk, snowshoe hare, eastern cottontail, and ruffed grouse at the
Nulhegan Basin Division and Putney Mountain Unit in accordance with
State of Vermont regulations, seasons, and bag limits subject to the
following conditions:
1. Conditions A1 through A4 apply.
2. To monitor and mitigate potential disturbances to wildlife and
neighboring landowners, raccoon hunters hunting at night with dogs will
require a special
[[Page 58781]]
use permit (FWS Form 1383-G) issued by the Refuge Manager.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, moose,
black bear, and wild turkey at the Nulhegan Basin Division and Putney
Mountain Unit in accordance with State of Vermont regulations, seasons,
and bag limits subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1 through A4 apply.
2. We allow only temporary tree stands and you must remove them
(see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) by the end of the final deer season.
Your name and address must be clearly visible on the tree stand. We
prohibit nails, screws, or screw-in climbing pegs to build or access a
stand (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
3. Moose may be retrieved at the Nulhegan Basin Division by a
commercial moose hauler, subject to a special use permit (FWS Form
1383-C) issued by the Refuge Manager.
D. Sport Fishing. [RESERVED]
* * * * *
0
33. Amend Sec. 32.66 Virginia by revising paragraphs C.1, C.5, C.12,
and C.13 under Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.66 Virginia.
* * * * *
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. Hunt regulations, hunting application procedures, seasons,
methods of hunting, maps depicting areas open to hunting, and the terms
and conditions under which we issue hunting permits are available on
the refuge's Web site.
* * * * *
5. All selected and standby applicants must enter the refuge
between 4 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. on each hunt day. We may issue standby
hunters permits (name only) to fill vacant slots by lottery. Hunting
hours will comply with State laws.
* * * * *
12. We allow scouting on designated days prior to the start of each
refuge hunt period. Hunters may enter the hunt zones on foot, on
bicycle, or through transportation provided by the refuge only. Scouts
must wear 400 square inches (2,600 square centimeters) of visible blaze
orange.
13. Hunters may go to Hunt Zone 1 (Long Island) only by hand-
launched watercraft (canoe, punt, rowboat, and similar watercraft) from
the canoe launch at refuge headquarters. Your boat must meet Coast
Guard safety requirements. We prohibit use of trailers.
* * * * *
0
34. Amend Sec. 32.67 Washington by:
0
a. Removing paragraphs B.2 and C.2 and redesignating paragraphs B.3 and
C.3 as paragraphs B.2 and C.2, respectively, under Columbia National
Wildlife Refuge.
0
b. Revising paragraphs A, C.9, and D under Julia Butler Hansen Refuge
for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer.
0
c. Revising paragraph A.6 under McNary National Wildlife Refuge.
0
d. Revising paragraphs A.3, A.5, A.11, A.13, and A.14 and adding
paragraph A.17 under Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge.
0
e. Revising paragraphs A, B, and C under Willapa National Wildlife
Refuge.
These revisions and additions read as follows:
Sec. 32.67 Washington.
* * * * *
Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck,
coot, and common snipe on the refuge-owned shorelines of Hunting and
Price Islands in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot for hunting (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
2. You may not shoot or discharge any hunting firearm from, across,
or along a public highway, designated route of travel, road, road
shoulder, road embankment, or designated parking area.
3. We prohibit permanent blinds. You must remove all personal
property, including decoys and boats, by 1 hour after legal sunset (see
Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
4. We prohibit hunting along refuge-owned shorelines of Hunting and
Price Islands where it parallels Steamboat Slough.
5. We open the refuge for hunting access from 1\1/2\ hour before
legal sunrise until 1\1/2\ hour after legal sunset.
6. We prohibit dogs on the refuge, except for hunting dogs engaged
in authorized hunting activities, and under the immediate control of a
licensed hunter (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
9. We require hunters to sign in and out each day at the refuge
headquarters. When signing out for the day, you must report hunting
success, failure, and any hit-but-not retrieved animals on the Big Game
Harvest Report (FWS Form 3-2359).
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Bank fishing is allowed from the Mainland Unit
shoreline adjoining the Elochoman and Columbia Rivers as well as
Steamboat and Brooks Sloughs, in accordance with State fishing
regulations. Bank fishing is allowed in the pond adjacent to the diking
district pumping station by Brooks Slough. All other areas of the
mainland unit are closed to fishing. Bank fishing is allowed along the
shorelines of refuge islands in accordance with State regulations.
* * * * *
McNary National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
6. On the Peninsula Unit, we allow hunting subject to the following
conditions: On the east shoreline of the Peninsula Unit, we allow
hunting only from established numbered blind sites, assigned on a
first-come, first-served basis, and we require hunters to remain within
100 feet (30 meters) of marked posts unless retrieving birds or setting
decoys.
* * * * *
Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
3. We limit hunting of dusky Canada goose in accordance with State
regulations and quotas. The State defines dusky Canada goose as a dark
breasted Canada goose, as determined by a Munsell color chart 10 YR, 5
or less, with a culmen (bill) length of 40 to 50 millimeters (1.6 to 2
inches). We will close the refuge goose season early if the dusky
Canada goose harvest reaches the refuge quota assigned by the State.
* * * * *
5. Prior to entering the hunt area, you must pay a recreation user
fee, obtain a blind assignment, and obtain a Migratory Bird Hunt Report
(FWS Form 3-2361). You must carry the Migratory Bird Hunt Report while
hunting as proof of blind assignment and user fee payment.
* * * * *
11. You may possess only approved nontoxic shotshells for hunting
(see Sec. 32.2(k)) in quantities of 25 or fewer per day.
* * * * *
13. Prior to switching blinds, you must first report to the refuge
check station to obtain a new blind
[[Page 58782]]
assignment. You must submit an accurate Migratory Bird Hunt Report (FWS
Form 3-2361) for the blind being vacated, and obtain a new Migratory
Bird Hunt Report for the new blind.
14. Prior to leaving the hunt area, you must check out at the
refuge check station, submit an accurate Migratory Bird Hunt Report
(FWS Form 3-2361), and present all harvested birds for inspection by
check station personnel.
* * * * *
17. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on
national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of State and
local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with
refuge regulations (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge
regulations in this part 32).
* * * * *
Willapa National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. Hunting of geese, ducks, coots, and
snipe is permitted on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with
State hunting regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Prior to entering the hunt area at the Riekkola and Tarlatt
Units, all hunters are required to obtain and carry a Migratory Bird
Hunt Application (FWS Form 3-2357), pay a recreation user fee, obtain a
blind assignment, and report waterfowl taken per instructions on the
Migratory Bird Hunt Report (FWS Form 3-2361).
2. At the Riekkola and Tarlatt Units, hunters may take ducks and
coots only coincidental to hunting geese.
3. Goose hunting is permitted on Wednesday and Saturday in the
Riekkola and Tarlatt Units only from established blinds.
4. At the Riekkola and Tarlatt Units, you may possess no more than
25 approved nontoxic shells per day while hunting.
5. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot for hunting (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
6. You may not shoot or discharge any hunting firearm from, across,
or along a public highway, designated route of travel, road, road
shoulder, road embankment, or designated parking area.
7. We prohibit camping on the refuge except in designated
campgrounds on Long Island for up to 14 days.
8. We open the refuge for hunting access from 1\1/2\ hour before
legal sunrise until 1\1/2\ hour after legal sunset.
9. We require dogs to be kept on a leash, except for hunting dogs
engaged in authorized hunting activities, and under the immediate
control of a licensed hunter (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter). We
prohibit dogs on Long Island and on beaches within the Leadbetter Point
Unit.
10. Access to the hunt area is by foot or boat access only. We
allow bicycles on designated roads and trails only. Mobility-impaired
hunters should consult the Refuge Manager for allowed conveyances.
11. We prohibit permanent blinds. You must remove all personal
property, including decoys and boats, by 1 hour after legal sunset (see
Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of forest grouse (sooty
and ruffed) on Long Island, subject to the following conditions:
1. Hunters are required to obtain and carry a Big/Upland Game Hunt
Application (FWS Form 3-2356) and report game taken, hours hunted, and
name/address/date on the Upland/Small Game/Furbearer Report (FWS Form
3-2362).
2. Archery hunting only.
3. You may not shoot or discharge a firearm on Long Island.
4. Dogs are not permitted on Long Island.
5. Conditions A7 through A10 apply.
6. We prohibit fires on the refuge, except in designated
campgrounds on Long Island (see Sec. 27.95(a) of this chapter).
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of deer, elk, and bear on
designated areas of the refuge, in accordance with State regulations
subject to the following conditions:
1. At Long Island hunters must obtain and carry a Big/Upland Game
Hunt Application (FWS Form 3-2356) and report game taken, hours hunted
and name/address/date on the Big Game Harvest Report (FWS Form 3-2359).
2. At Long Island, only archery hunting is permitted and hunting
firearms are prohibited.
3. Bear hunting is prohibited on any portion of the refuge except
Long Island.
4. The use of centerfire or rimfire rifles is prohibited within the
Lewis, Porter Point, and Riekkola Units.
5. Dogs are prohibited.
6. Conditions A7 through A10 and B6 apply.
7. We prohibit construction or use of permanent blinds, platforms,
ladders, or screw-in foot pegs.
8. You must remove all personal property, including stands, from
the refuge by 1\1/2\ hours after legal sunset (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and
27.94 of this chapter).
9. Tree stands may stay in place for 3 days and must be labeled
with the hunter's name and phone number, and the date the stand was
set-up. The stand may be set-up 1\1/2\ hours before legal sunrise. The
stand must be removed before 1\1/2\ hours after legal sunset on the
third day.
* * * * *
0
35. Amend Sec. 32.69 Wisconsin by revising paragraph B.5 and removing
paragraph B.6 under Necedah National Wildlife Refuge to read as
follows:
Sec. 32.69 Wisconsin.
* * * * *
Necedah National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
5. You may only hunt snowshoe hare during the season for cottontail
rabbit.
* * * * *
0
36. Amend Sec. 32.70 Wyoming by adding, in alphabetical order, an
entry for Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge to read as
follows:
Sec. 32.70 Wyoming.
* * * * *
Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of ducks, dark
geese, coots, mergansers, snipe, Virginia rail, Sora rail, sandhill
crane, and mourning dove in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. We prohibit hunting of migratory game birds in areas of the
refuge indicated on the Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Hunting Brochure and marked by signs as closed to all hunting or closed
to migratory bird hunting.
2. You may only possess approved nontoxic shot while in the field
(see Sec. 32.2(k)).
3. We prohibit pits and permanent blinds.
4. You may use portable blinds or blinds constructed of natural
dead vegetation (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
5. You must remove all decoys, shell casings, portable and
temporary blinds, and other personal equipment (see Sec. Sec. 27.93
and 27.94 of this chapter) from the refuge at the end of each day.
6. We prohibit possession or consumption of any alcoholic beverage
while hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
7. Hunters may not enter closed areas to retrieve animals legally
shot in an open area unless authorization has been given by a refuge
employee or State Conservation Officer. Permission must be obtained
from private landowners before attempting to retrieve game on private
land.
8. Dogs must be leashed and/or under the direct control of a
handler (see
[[Page 58783]]
Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter). The use of dogs to find and retrieve
legally harvested migratory game birds is allowed.
9. Hunters must park in a Designated Hunter Parking Area, as
identified by signs.
10. Hunters are required to access and exit the hunting areas from
a Designated Hunter Parking Area only. Drop off or pick up of hunters
is prohibited except at Hunter Designated Parking Areas.
11. Hunters may only access the refuge 1 hour before legal sunrise
until 1 hour after legal sunset.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of blue grouse, ruffed
grouse, chuckar partridge, gray partridge, cottontail rabbits, snowshoe
hares, squirrels (red, gray, and fox), red fox, raccoon, and striped
skunk in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. Conditions A2 through A7 and A9 through A11 apply.
2. We prohibit hunting of upland game species in areas of the
refuge indicated on the Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Hunting Brochure and marked by signs as closed to all hunting.
3. Dogs must be leashed and/or under the direct control of a
handler. The use of dogs to find and retrieve legally harvested upland
game birds, cottontail rabbits, and squirrels is allowed and
encouraged. Dogs may not be used to chase red fox, raccoon, striped
skunk, or any other species not specifically allowed in A8 or this
paragraph.
4. Red fox, raccoon, and striped skunk may be taken on the refuge
by licensed migratory bird, big game, or upland/small game hunters from
September 1 until the end of the last open big game, upland bird, or
small game season. Red fox, raccoon, or striped skunk that is harvested
must be taken into possession and removed from the refuge.
5. We prohibit hunting of sage grouse.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of elk, mule deer, white-
tailed deer, pronghorn, and moose in accordance with State regulations
and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A3 through A7 and A9 through A11 apply.
2. We prohibit hunting of big game in areas of the refuge indicated
on the Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge Hunting Brochure and
marked by signs as closed to all hunting.
3. You may hunt with the aid of a temporary tree stand that does
not require drilling or nailing into the tree. All personal property,
including temporary tree stands, must be removed at the end of each day
(see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
D. Sport Fishing. [RESERVED]
* * * * *
Dated: August 27, 2013.
Rachel Jacobson,
Principal Deputy, Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks.
[FR Doc. 2013-21804 Filed 9-23-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-55-P