[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 192 (Tuesday, October 4, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 68874-68921]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-23190]
[[Page 68873]]
Vol. 81
Tuesday,
No. 192
October 4, 2016
Part IV
Department of the Interior
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Fish and Wildlife Service
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
50 CFR Part 32
2016-2017 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations; Final
Rule
Federal Register / Vol. 81 , No. 192 / Tuesday, October 4, 2016 /
Rules and Regulations
[[Page 68874]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Fish and Wildlife Service
50 CFR Part 32
[Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2016-0007; FXRS12650900000-167-FF09R26000]
RIN 1018-BB31
2016-2017 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations
AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, add 1 national
wildlife refuge (NWR or refuge) to the list of areas open for hunting,
increase the hunting activities available at 12 other NWRs, open 1
refuge to fishing for the first time, and add pertinent refuge-specific
regulations for other NWRs that pertain to migratory game bird hunting,
upland game hunting, big game hunting, and sport fishing for the 2016-
2017 season.
DATES: This rule is effective October 4, 2016.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jillian Cohen, (703) 358-1764.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The National Wildlife Refuge System
Administration Act of 1966 closes NWRs in all States except Alaska to
all uses until opened. The Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) may
open refuge areas to any use, including hunting and/or sport fishing,
upon a determination that the use is compatible with the purposes of
the refuge and 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 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,
below. 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 may
list the wildlife species that you may hunt or fish, seasons, bag or
creel (container for carrying fish) limits, methods of hunting or sport
fishing, descriptions of areas open to hunting or sport fishing, and
other provisions as appropriate. You may find previously issued refuge-
specific regulations for hunting and sport fishing in 50 CFR part 32.
In this rulemaking, we are also standardizing and clarifying 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, similar to organic acts that exist for other public
Federal lands. The Improvement Act serves to ensure that we effectively
manage the Refuge System as a national network of lands, waters, and
interests for the protection and conservation of our Nation's wildlife
resources. The Administration Act states first and foremost that we
focus our Refuge System mission on conservation of fish, wildlife, and
plant resources and their habitats. The Improvement Act requires the
Secretary, before allowing a new use of a refuge, or before expanding,
renewing, or extending an existing use of a refuge, to determine that
the use is compatible with the purpose for which the refuge was
established and the mission of the Refuge System. The Improvement Act
established as the policy of the United States that wildlife-dependent
recreation, when compatible, is a legitimate and appropriate public use
of the Refuge System, through which the American public can develop an
appreciation for fish and wildlife. The Improvement Act established six
wildlife-dependent recreational uses as the priority general public
uses of the Refuge System. These uses are: Hunting, fishing, wildlife
observation and photography, and environmental education and
interpretation.
The Recreation Act authorizes the Secretary to administer areas
within the Refuge System for public recreation as an appropriate
incidental or secondary use only to the extent that doing so is
practicable and not inconsistent with the primary purpose(s) for which
Congress and the Service established the areas. The Recreation Act
requires that any recreational use of refuge 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
[[Page 68875]]
by annual review of hunting and sport fishing programs and regulations.
Summary of Comments and Responses
On July 14, 2016, we published a proposed rule (81 FR 45790) to add
1 refuge to the list of areas open for hunting, increase the hunting
activities available at 12 other refuges, open 1 refuge to fishing for
the first time, and add pertinent refuge-specific regulations for other
refuges that pertain to migratory game bird hunting, upland game
hunting, big game hunting, and sport fishing for the 2016-2017 season.
We accepted public comments on the proposed rule for 30 days, ending
August 15, 2016. By that date, we received 601 comments. Below, we
discuss the comments we received by topic.
Comment (1): Many commenters expressed general opposition to any
hunting or fishing in the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS). In
many cases, commenters stated that hunting was antithetical to the
purposes of a ``refuge,'' which, in their opinion, should serve as an
inviolate sanctuary for all wildlife.
Our Response: The Administration Act, as amended, stipulates that
hunting (along with fishing, wildlife observation and photography, and
environmental education and interpretation), if found to be compatible,
is a legitimate and priority general public use of a refuge and should
be facilitated. The Service has adopted policies and regulations
implementing the requirements of the Administration Act that refuge
managers comply with when considering hunting and fishing programs.
We allow hunting of resident wildlife on NWRs only if such activity
has been determined compatible with the established purpose(s) of the
refuge and the mission of the Refuge System as required by the
Administration Act. Hunting of resident wildlife on NWRs generally
occurs consistent with State regulations, including seasons and bag
limits. Refuge-specific hunting regulations can be more restrictive
(but not more liberal) than State regulations and often are more
restrictive in order to help meet specific refuge objectives. These
objectives include resident wildlife population and habitat objectives,
minimizing disturbance impacts to wildlife, maintaining high-quality
opportunities for hunting and other wildlife-dependent recreation,
eliminating or minimizing conflicts with other public uses and/or
refuge management activities, and protecting public safety.
Each refuge manager makes a decision regarding hunting on that
particular refuge only after rigorous examination of the available
information. Developing or referencing a comprehensive conservation
plan (CCP), a 15-year plan for the refuge, is generally the first step
a refuge manager takes. Our policy for managing units of the Refuge
System is that we will manage all refuges in accordance with an
approved CCP, which, when implemented, will achieve refuge purposes;
help fulfill the Refuge System mission; maintain and, where
appropriate, restore the ecological integrity of each refuge and the
Refuge System; help achieve the goals of the National Wilderness
Preservation System; and meet other mandates. The CCP will guide
management decisions and set forth goals, objectives, and strategies to
accomplish these ends. The next step for refuge managers is developing
or referencing step-down plans, of which a hunting plan would be one.
Part of the process for opening a refuge to hunting after completing
the step-down plan would be appropriate compliance with the National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA; 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), such as
conducting an environmental assessment accompanied by the appropriate
decision documentation (record of decision, finding of no significant
impact, or environmental action memorandum or statement). The rest of
the elements in the opening package are an evaluation of section 7 of
the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et
seq.), copies of letters requesting State and/or tribal involvement,
and draft refuge-specific regulatory language. We make available the
CCP, hunt plan, and NEPA documents and request public comments on them,
as well as on any proposed rule, before we allow hunting on a refuge.
In sum, this illustrates that the decision to allow hunting on an
NWR is not a quick or simple process. It is full of deliberation and
discussion, including review of all available data to determine the
relative health of a population before we allow it to be hunted.
The word ``refuge'' includes the idea of providing a haven of
safety for wildlife, and as such, hunting might seem an inconsistent
use of the NWRS. But again, the Administration Act stipulates that
hunting, if found compatible, is a legitimate and priority general
public use of a refuge. Furthermore, we manage refuges to support
healthy wildlife populations that in many cases produce harvestable
surpluses that are a renewable resource. As practiced on refuges,
hunting and fishing do not pose a threat to wildlife populations. It is
important to note that taking certain individuals through hunting does
not necessarily reduce a population overall, as hunting can simply
replace other types of mortality. In some cases, however, we use
hunting as a management tool with the explicit goal of reducing a
population; this is often the case with exotic and/or invasive species
that threaten ecosystem stability. Therefore, facilitating hunting
opportunities is an important aspect of the Service's roles and
responsibilities as outlined in the legislation establishing the NWRS,
and the Service will continue to facilitate these opportunities where
compatible with the purpose of the specific refuge and the mission of
the NWRS.
Note that not all refuges are inviolate sanctuaries. If we acquired
a refuge as an inviolate sanctuary, we may open up to 40 percent of
that refuge's area for hunting of migratory game birds (16 U.S.C.
668dd(d)(1)(A)). However, if we acquired a refuge without the
stipulation that it be an inviolate sanctuary, we may open 100 percent
of the refuge's area for hunting.
The Fish and Wildlife Improvement Act of 1978 (Pub. L. 95-616)
amended section 6 of the Administration Act to provide for the opening
of all or any portion of an inviolate sanctuary to the taking of
migratory birds if taking is determined to be beneficial to the
species. Such opening of more than 40 percent of the refuge to hunting
is determined by species. This amendment refers to inviolate
sanctuaries created in the past or to be created in the future. It has
no application to areas acquired for other management purposes.
We did not make any changes to the rule as a result of these
comments.
Comment (2): Many commenters expressed support for hunting and
fishing expansions on NWRs. One commenter expressed support for the
openings and expansions described in the proposed rule, but felt that
the Service has not opened enough refuges to hunting or increased
hunting at enough refuges. According to the commenter, more than 40
percent of the more than 562 NWRs still prohibit hunting; with the
clear directives from the Executive and Legislative branches of the
Federal Government to increase hunting activities, the Service must
open refuges to hunting at a faster pace. The commenter also strongly
recommended that the Service engage in discussions with State wildlife
managers and with representatives of the hunting community, to
facilitate and expedite these openings and make
[[Page 68876]]
certain that these and all NWRs become or remain open to hunting.
Our Response: As noted in our response to Comment (1), the
Administration Act, as amended, establishes that the Refuge System was
created to conserve fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats and that
the Service should facilitate opportunities for Americans to
participate in compatible wildlife-dependent recreation, including
hunting and fishing, on Refuge System lands and waters. Therefore, the
Service will continue to facilitate hunting and fishing opportunities
where doing so is compatible with the purpose of the specific refuge
and the mission of the NWRS.
The Service continues to open and expand hunting opportunities
across the NWRS, as evidenced by this final rule; however, as detailed
in our response to Comment (1), above, the decision to allow hunting on
a refuge is not a quick or simple process. Once the Service determines
that a hunt can be carried out in a manner compatible with individual
refuge purposes and the mission of the NWRS, we work expeditiously to
open it. We did not make any changes to the rule as a result of these
comments.
Comment (3): Many commenters stated that the majority of Americans
do not hunt and were of the opinion that allowing hunting would impede
``non-consumptive'' uses of refuges, including photography and wildlife
viewing. Several users claimed that hunting turns refuges into ``war
zones'' unsuitable for wildlife viewing. One commenter said wolves at
Yellowstone and Denali became harder to observe after hunting was
allowed, asserting that hunting would diminish the quality of wildlife
viewing for non-hunters.
Our Response: Congress, through the Administration Act, as amended,
envisioned that hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography,
and environmental education and interpretation would all be treated as
priority public uses of the NWRS. Therefore, the Service facilitates
all of these uses on refuges, as long as they are found compatible with
the purposes of the specific refuge and the mission of the NWRS. For
this rulemaking, we analyzed impacts of the proposed changes to hunting
programs at each refuge through the NEPA process, which included
analyzing impacts to other wildlife-dependent uses. Ten refuges
completed environmental assessments (EAs), while Alamosa, Baca, and
Monte Vista NWRs, as part of the San Luis Valley National Wildlife
Refuge Complex, completed a combined environmental impact statement
(EIS). We also provided opportunities for the public to comment on the
proposed hunt opening and expansions when we developed the CCP, hunt
plan, and compatibility determination, and through the NEPA process.
When looking at the 10 EAs and one EIS completed for this specific
rulemaking, collectively with the refuges that already allow for
hunting, the Service has determined that there are no significant
impacts to other wildlife-dependent recreation opportunities.
The refuges in this rulemaking use a variety of techniques to
reduce user conflict, such as specific hunt seasons, limited hunting
hours, restricting which parts of the refuge are open to hunting, and
restricting the number of hunters. Refuge managers also use public
outreach tools, such as signs and brochures, to make users aware of
hunting and their options for minimizing conflict. Most refuges have
refuge-specific regulations to improve the quality of the hunting
experience as well as provide for quality wildlife-dependent
experiences for other users. The Service is aware of several studies
showing a correlation between increased hunting and decreased wildlife
sightings, which underscores the importance of using the aforementioned
techniques, particularly time and space zoning of hunting, to ensure a
quality experience for all refuge visitors. We also note that Denali
and Yellowstone are part of the National Park System, not the NWRS.
More information on how a specific refuge facilitates various wildlife-
dependent recreation opportunities can be found in the refuge's CCP,
hunt plan, and/or refuge-specific EA/EIS for this rule. The public may
contact the specific refuge for any of these materials.
We did not make any changes to the rule as a result of these
comments.
Comment (4): One commenter was of the opinion that hunting can
disrupt the natural balance of the ecosystem that people enjoy and can
deter people from going to visit areas even at times when there are not
people actively hunting wildlife.
Our Response: We do not allow hunting on a refuge if it is found
incompatible with that individual refuge's purposes or with the mission
of the NWRS. In addition, the Service's Biological Integrity,
Diversity, and Environmental Health (BIDEH) policy (601 FW 3) guides
decisionmaking with respect to management of activities on refuges,
including hunting. Service biologists and wildlife professionals, in
consultation with the State, determine the optimal number of each game
animal that should reside in an ecosystem and then establish hunt
parameters (e.g., bag limits, sex ratios) based on those analyses. We
carefully consider how a proposed hunt fits with individual refuge
goals, objectives, and strategies before allowing the hunt. None of the
known, estimated, or projected harvests of migratory game birds, upland
game, or big game species in this rulemaking is expected to have
significant adverse direct, indirect, or cumulative impacts to hunted
populations, non-hunted wildlife, endangered or threatened species,
plant or habitat resources, wildlife-dependent recreation, prescribed
fire, air, soil, water, cultural resources, refuge facilities,
solitude, or socio-economics. Further, we address the relationship
between hunting and wildlife sightings in our response to Comment (3).
We did not make any changes to the rule as a result of this comment.
Comment (5): Several commenters were of the opinion that expanding
hunting on NWRs could cause refuge visitors to be accidentally shot or
otherwise injured.
Our Response: The Service considers public safety to be a top
priority. Hunting of resident wildlife on refuges generally occurs
consistent with State regulations, which are designed to protect public
safety. Refuges may also develop refuge-specific hunting regulations
that are more restrictive than State regulations in order to help meet
specific refuge objectives, including protecting public safety. Refuges
use many techniques to ensure the safety of hunters and visitors, such
as requiring hunters to wear blaze orange, controlling the density of
hunters, limiting where firearms can be discharged (e.g., not across
roads, away from buildings), and using time and space zoning to limit
conflicts between hunters and other visitors. It is worth noting that
injuries and deaths related to hunting are extremely rare, both for
hunters themselves and for the non-hunting public. We did not make any
changes to the rule as a result of these comments.
Comment (6): Several commenters felt that expanding hunting on NWRs
would increase the likelihood of wildlife being taken illegally
(poaching). One commenter was of the opinion that no significant
penalties or charges will be brought against individuals who illegally
take wildlife on NWRs.
Our Response: Hunters on NWRs must comply with State regulations
and any refuge-specific regulations, which would ban taking wildlife
illegally (poaching). The Service takes poaching very seriously, as
allowing poaching
[[Page 68877]]
would seriously undermine the conservation mission of the NWRS. Refuge
managers use a variety of techniques to help ensure that hunters are
aware of relevant laws and regulations, such as requiring hunters to
carry a signed refuge hunt brochure at all times while in the field.
Also, refuge managers may institute check stations when hunters leave
the refuge. The priority for Federal Wildlife Officers and other refuge
staff is to educate the public so that violations do not occur in the
first place. In addition, our Federal Wildlife Officers routinely
partner with State and other Federal law enforcement agents to
coordinate efforts and share information to counter poaching. In 2013,
the Strategic Wildlife Enforcement Program, an initiative that
leverages funding for enforcement activities by partnering with State
and local agencies, resulted in 1500 contacts, 149 warnings, and 127
violation notices. Some activities funded through this program include
long-term surveillance to detect take violations at Willapa Bay, Lewis
and Clark, and Ridgefield NWRs; patrolling waterways to conduct
waterfowl compliance checks at Patoka River NWR; a deer decoy operation
at Seney NWR; and checking deer harvests to ensure hunters complied
with size limitations at Patuxent Research Refuge.
The commenter is incorrect in assuming that no significant fines or
charges are associated with hunting violations. Penalties for illegally
taking wildlife on a refuge can range as high as 1 year in jail and/or
$100,000 in fines (16 U.S.C. 668dd(f)(1)). In some cases, felony
provisions of the Lacey Act (16 U.S.C. 3371 et seq.; 18 U.S.C. 42-43)
may be used to prosecute violators of wildlife laws; for example, see
prosecution of poaching on Sherburne NWR at: http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/721.html. Further, the Service may suspend a hunt at any
time if there is evidence that the hunt is no longer meeting our
objectives. We did not make any changes to the rule as a result of
these comments.
Comment (7): One commenter said the Service should manage predators
as a means to promote bird nesting success, small game opportunities,
and other considerations appropriate to the mission of enhancing our
wildlife populations and diversity. Conversely, one commenter was very
opposed to hunting predators, including bears and cougars.
Our Response: Refuge managers consider predator management on a
case-by-case basis. As with all species, a refuge manager makes a
decision about allowing predatory species to be hunted only after
careful examination to ensure the hunt would comply with relevant laws,
policies, and directives. The Administration Act, as amended, directs
the Service to manage refuges for ``biological integrity, diversity,
and environmental health.'' Moreover, the Service manages refuges in
accordance with the BIDEH policy described in our response to Comment
(4). Predators play a critical role in the integrity, diversity, and
overall health of ecosystems, so managing predators is not always
appropriate. Before allowing predators to be hunted, a refuge manager
would have to ensure that the hunt would not threaten the integrity,
diversity, or health of the refuge ecosystem. The manager would also
have to determine that the hunt was compatible with refuge purposes and
was in keeping with the refuge's CCP and hunt plan. The Service manages
all refuges in accordance with an approved CCP, which, when
implemented, will achieve refuge purposes; help fulfill the Refuge
System mission; maintain, and, where appropriate, restore the
ecological integrity of each refuge and the Refuge System; help achieve
the goals of the National Wilderness Preservation System; and meet
other mandates. In addition, the refuge manager would have to analyze
the impacts of the proposed hunt through the NEPA process, which would
include the opportunity for public comment. Finally, the proposed hunt
would be open to public comment through the rulemaking process. We did
not make any changes to the rule as a result of these comments.
Comment (8): Some commenters were of the opinion that hunters
target the strongest and healthiest animals in a population, thereby
degrading the gene pool and putting the viability of the population at
risk.
Our Response: We disagree with the above comment that hunters will
have a significant enough impact to affect the gene pool of an entire
population. We are not aware of any information that suggests hunting
programs, as they are conducted on refuges, are shifting the genetic
makeup of a population. In many cases, hunting is a tool used to manage
populations and ensure a healthy ecosystem. If hunters are targeting
older males in a way that threatens the viability of a population, as
is sometimes the case with trophy hunting, refuge managers have several
tools at their disposal to protect the population, such as limiting
hunting days or only allowing hunters to take antlerless animals.
We considered the impacts of hunting on target and non-target
populations through individual EAs or an EIS for each of the proposed
hunting openings and expansions. We also consider the cumulative
impacts of all proposed hunts in the 2016-2017 Cumulative Impacts
Report accompanying the proposed rule. In each case, the number of
animals to be taken is too small to shift the genetic makeup of the
population in any significant way. We made no changes to the rule as a
result of these comments.
Comment (9): One commenter asserted that we should prepare an EIS
before proposing to expand hunting and fishing opportunities on many
NWRs. According to the commenter, the proposed rule is of sufficient
context and intensity to indicate that it is significant enough to
warrant an EIS because refuges attract people from all across the
country, and because of the severity of the impacts. Specifically, the
commenter stated that the 13 refuges where we proposed to add or
increase hunting activities represent ``unique geographic areas.''
According to the commenter, the hunting programs we proposed will
likely last at least 10 years and set a precedent for continued
management on NWRs.
Our Response: The Service disagrees with the assertion that we
should prepare an EIS before proposing expanded hunting and fishing
opportunities on NWRs. The Service's analysis of the impacts of the
proposed rule demonstrated that the rule would not have significant
impacts at the local, regional, or national level, and the commenter
has provided no additional information that would change our analysis.
As discussed above, we annually conduct refuge management activities on
NWRs that minimize or offset impacts of hunting on physical and
cultural resources, including establishing designated areas for
hunting; restricting levels of use; confining access and travel to
designated locations; providing education programs and materials for
hunters, anglers, and other users; and conducting law enforcement
activities.
The Service completed individual EAs for 10 refuges and one EIS for
the San Luis Valley National Wildlife Refuge Complex (which includes
Alamosa, Baca, and Monte Vista NWRs) in compliance with NEPA to
evaluate the impacts of opening or expanding hunting opportunities on
refuges in connection with this rulemaking. These EAs/EIS underwent
regional and national review to address and consider these actions from
a multi-State or flyway perspective, and to discuss the cumulative
impacts from this larger geographical context. The 2016-2017 Cumulative
Impacts Report supports
[[Page 68878]]
this finding, concluding that, after analyzing the impacts of these 10
EAs and EIS collectively with the refuges that already allow hunting,
the proposed rule would not result in significant adverse impacts to
the human environment. A court found that this approach was an
appropriate way for the Service to analyze the impacts of the rule in
compliance with NEPA (see Fund for Animals v. Hall, 777 F. Supp. 2d 92,
105 (D.D.C., 2011)). Therefore, we did not find that the impacts to the
human environment were severe, as the commenter suggests.
As for the comment on precedential future refuge management, most
of the activities that are part of this rulemaking are either expanding
the areas for existing hunts or adding new species to existing hunts--
species that are already hunted nearby off refuge. We also note that
the Service annually conducts notice-and-comment rulemaking to revise
the refuge-specific regulations at 50 CFR part 32; therefore, if, in
the future, the Service obtained new information that changes our
analysis of impacts either locally, regionally, or nationally, we would
promptly undertake revisions to the regulations as needed. It is also
worth noting that each refuge must revise its CCP every 15 years, which
would include an evaluation of any hunting or fishing programs.
Finally, as noted in our response to Comment (6), the Service may
suspend a hunt at any time if there is evidence the hunt is no longer
meeting our objectives. For these reasons, we made no changes to the
rule as a result of this comment.
Comment (10): Many commenters were of the opinion that the proposed
opening and expansions would turn refuges into ``danger zones'' for
wildlife by interrupting migration, disrupting hibernation, and
destroying wildlife families. Many also felt that the Service should
consider the suffering of fish and other animals as a result of the
proposed opening and expansions. One commenter stated that we fail to
include a serious discussion of the ethical implications of the
proposed action to expand hunting and fishing on multiple refuges and
that we should prepare an EIS that includes a legitimate discussion of
ethics and the rights of wildlife in order to assist the public and
decision makers in fully considering the best alternative to choose.
Our Response: As detailed in our response to Comment (1), above, we
do not take lightly the decision to allow hunting on a refuge, and we
never allow hunting if there is evidence that it will impair the
purposes of the refuge or the mission of the NWRS. Refuge managers use
a variety of techniques to minimize disturbance to non-target species
of wildlife, such as time and space zoning. In some cases, hunting may
be part of a management program to reduce the population of nuisance
species; otherwise, hunt programs are carefully designed and regulated
so as not to affect the sustainability of wildlife populations. Refuge
managers are authorized to suspend a hunt program at any time if it
appears as though the hunt is causing unacceptable impacts to refuge
values or resources.
The Service understands that some members of the public do not
believe that hunting on refuges is ethical. However, the Administration
Act, as amended, stipulates that hunting and fishing, if found to be
compatible, are legitimate and priority public uses of a refuge and
should be facilitated. As detailed above in our response to Comment
(1), the decision to open a refuge to hunting must comply with all
applicable laws, regulations, and policies; requires rigorous
examination; and provides many opportunities for public comment, all to
ensure that hunting is consistent with the purpose of the specific
refuge and the mission of the NWRS. Specifically, each refuge complies
with NEPA in keeping with procedures outlined in the Department of the
Interior Manual (516 DM 1-7) and other appropriate policies and
guidance.
We must base our decisions on the best available science, and
commenters have not provided information that would change our
analysis. Our hunting programs are consistent with State regulations
and, where necessary, use more stringent refuge-specific regulations to
ensure that hunting and fishing are carried out in a safe, responsible
manner. We made no changes to the rule as a result of these comments.
Comment (11): A commenter asserted that our analysis of cumulative
impacts in the Cumulative Impacts Report is vague and superficial, and
fails to consider the cumulative impacts for expanding hunting and
fishing on 13 refuges at the same time. The commenter further stated
that we failed to consider how increased hunting will affect the
distribution, migration patterns, and abundance of fish, wildlife, and
plant populations across multiple refuges, and that while we claim that
there will not be significant impacts due to certain mitigation
measures, we fail to disclose where and how we will implement those
mitigation measures. The commenter gives the example that, although we
claim to conduct annual refuge management activities that minimize or
offset the disturbance and impacts of hunting and/or fishing, such as
the establishment of non-hunted sanctuary areas, we do not specify
what, if any, areas have been established as non-hunted sanctuary areas
or whether we will expand sanctuary areas to a sufficient degree to
mitigate for expanded hunting and fishing. Thus, it is unclear to the
commenter whether these activities are sufficient to mitigate the
impacts of the proposed rule.
Our Response: The Service disagrees with the commenter that we have
not considered how increased hunting will affect the distribution,
migration patterns, and abundance of fish, wildlife, and plant
populations across multiple refuges. As discussed in our response to
Comment (1), the Service does a very rigorous analysis before opening
or expanding hunting and fishing opportunities on refuges. The Service
works very closely with the States to develop refuge-specific
regulations consistent with State hunting programs that carefully
consider the amount of hunting that can occur so as to not
significantly affect the distribution, migration patterns, and
abundance of fish and wildlife populations. Additionally, the refuge
manager must determine that the hunting and fishing opportunities will
meet both the purpose of the individual refuge and the mission of the
NWRS, which is to conserve fish and wildlife populations and habitat.
As part of this rulemaking, each individual refuge prepared an EA or
EIS that analyzed the cumulative impacts of expanding or opening
hunting on fish, wildlife, and plant populations at both a local and
regional level, including the cumulative impacts of hunting across
multiple refuges that are geographically connected. Finally, the 2016-
2017 Cumulative Impacts Report looks at the refuge-specific EA/EISs
collectively to determine the national cumulative impacts of the
proposed rule on fish, wildlife, and plant populations. As discussed in
our response to Comment (9), this method was approved by a Court.
Furthermore, the Service would like to address the comment about
certain mitigation measures such as ``sanctuary areas.'' To the
contrary, the 2016-2017 Cumulative Impacts Report concluded that none
of the refuge-specific EAs found that there would be significant
adverse cumulative impacts to wildlife populations. Additionally, when
looking at the EA/EISs collectively with the refuges that already allow
hunting, the Service concluded that the cumulative impacts on non-
hunted wildlife populations would be
[[Page 68879]]
negligible. However, the Service does manage hunting on refuges to
minimize any impacts to non-hunted wildlife populations by establishing
non-hunted sanctuary areas, conducting habitat management and
restoration activities, and minimizing illegal take through enforcement
of applicable Federal, State, and refuge-specific regulations.
The Service is not required to mitigate for every impact from
hunting. The Service will mitigate where there are:
Population-level effects to non-sensitive wildlife,
including game species, through future restrictions, such as smaller
bag limits or season closures; or
Potential impacts to sensitive wildlife, such as species
listed as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act.
The Service may close or alter hunts as needed.
The specific refuge makes all of these management decisions, and,
therefore, we do not discuss them in detail in the 2016-2017 Cumulative
Impacts Report. However, more information on a refuge-specific hunting
plan, including the establishment of non-hunted sanctuary areas on a
refuge, can be found in the refuge's CCP, hunt plan, and/or refuge-
specific EA/EIS for this rulemaking. The public may contact the
specific refuge for any of these materials.
Comment (12): Many commenters expressed concern that fishing
paraphernalia would be tossed aside, injuring companion animals and
non-target wildlife.
Our Response: It is illegal to abandon property or dispose of waste
on a refuge (see 50 CFR 27.93 and 27.94), whether fishing-related or
not. It is also illegal to disturb or injure any non-target plants or
wildlife (see 50 CFR 27.51) on a refuge. Further, many refuges have
specific regulations to guard against littering associated with
fishing. We did not make any changes to the rule in response to these
comments.
Comment (13): One commenter suggested that the Service use
``mammalian birth control'' as a management tool, rather than hunting.
Our Response: Under the Administration Act, as amended, hunting is
a priority use of refuges, along with fishing, wildlife observation and
photography, and environmental education and interpretation. The
Administration Act directs the Service to facilitate priority uses as
long as they are compatible with individual refuge mandates and
purposes. In some cases, hunting may also function as a management
tool, but this is not the primary justification for allowing hunting on
refuges. We made no changes to the rule as a result of this comment.
Comment (14): Several commenters expressed concern over allowing
lead ammunition to be used on refuges; some requested that the Service
ban lead ammunition for all hunting. Some of these commenters
specifically requested that we prohibit hunters from using lead
ammunition when hunting elk at Alamosa, Baca, and Monte Vista NWRs. One
commenter stated that lead-based ammunition could harm endangered and
threatened species on refuges. Another commenter asserted that the
Service did not adequately analyze the cumulative impacts of the
regulations in the Cumulative Impacts Report because the analysis does
not disclose or evaluate the cumulative impacts on non-target wildlife
that will result from the regulations that continue to allow the use of
toxic (lead) ammunition on some of the refuges for some types of
hunting. One commenter felt that it is confusing that several refuges
in California (Don Edwards, Salinas, and San Pablo NWRs) removed
language requiring the use of nontoxic shot from their refuge-specific
regulations.
Our Response: The Service is concerned about the impacts of spent
lead ammunition on scavengers, especially bald eagles and ravens. Lead
shot for waterfowl hunting has been illegal on refuges since 1998. We
continue to look at options and ways to reduce the indirect impacts of
toxic shot. Generally, we are and have been phasing out the use of lead
shot by upland and big game hunters on refuge lands.
The Service continues to research this issue and engage with States
and other partners to promote the use of non-lead ammunition. The
Administration Act, as amended, directs the Service to make refuge
regulations as consistent with State regulations as practicable. We
share a strong partnership with the States in managing wildlife, and,
therefore, we are proceeding with the phase-out of toxic ammunition in
a coordinated manner with each respective State wildlife agency.
Notably, as part of this rulemaking, 22 refuges have limited the use of
toxic shot for hunting either upland game, big game, or both. None of
these refuges is in the State of California, where lead ammunition is
already banned under State law and is therefore banned on all refuges
in California.
Currently, the State of Colorado does not require the use of
nontoxic bullets for either rifles or muzzleloaders. As part of this
rulemaking, Alamosa, Baca, and Monte Vista NWRs require nontoxic
ammunition for migratory game bird and upland game hunting. The Service
will continue to work with the State of Colorado to further phase-out
toxic ammunition on these refuges.
We disagree that any use of lead shot related to the opening or
expanding hunting and fishing on the 13 refuges in this rulemaking will
harm endangered or threatened species. Each of the refuges carefully
evaluated possible effects to endangered and threatened species as part
of the NEPA process. In addition, each refuge complied with section 7
of the Endangered Species Act, which requires Federal agencies to
ensure that the actions they carry out, fund, or authorize do not
jeopardize the continued existence of endangered or threatened species
(``listed species''). For each refuge, the Service determined that the
proposed action was not likely to affect any listed species.
While the Service is concerned about the impacts of spent lead
ammunition on scavengers, we can conclude without a detailed cumulative
impacts analysis that the limited use of lead ammunition allowed on
refuges will have an insignificant effect on refuge resources. We reach
this conclusion because the amount of spent lead ammunition on refuges
nationwide is so small compared to the amount of spent lead ammunition
in the environment. Therefore, the Service has not revised the 2016-
2017 Cumulative Impacts Report based on these comments. Lastly, for the
comment about California refuges, under the Administration Act, as
amended, refuge-specific regulations can be more restrictive, but not
more liberal, than State regulations. We are removing the provisions
regarding nontoxic shot from some California refuges' regulations to
avoid redundancy and confusion now that the State has banned lead
ammunition for hunting. The regulations for each of the refuges in
question clearly state that State regulations apply. It would be
confusing for the public to pick certain State provisions to repeat in
our refuge-regulations and not others. It is important to note,
however, that the refuges may still remind the public of the
prohibition on lead ammunition through hunt brochures, announcements at
meetings, postings at visitor's centers, and through interactions with
refuge staff.
We made no changes to the rule as a result of these comments.
Comment (15): According to one commenter, in the proposed rule, the
Service contends that on some occasions we must impose regulations
regarding hunting on NWRs that conflict with State laws and
regulations. The commenter stated that the Service
[[Page 68880]]
should not adopt or implement management strategies that lead to
overreach and infringement on State prerogatives for refuges in Alaska
or in any other State. The commenter added that the Service should
defer to the States' expertise in managing their wildlife and should
make every effort to conform refuge hunting regulations to the
regulations already adopted and followed by State managers.
Our Response: The Service works closely with our State partners in
managing hunt programs on refuge lands. Whenever possible, we defer to
State regulations related to hunting and fishing. However, we may
create refuge-specific regulations that are more restrictive than State
regulations if necessary to meet the establishment purpose of the
refuge or the mission of the NWRS. Our authority to do so stems from
the Administration Act, as amended, which states: ``When the Secretary
[of the Interior] determines that a proposed wildlife-dependent
recreational use is a compatible use within a refuge, that activity
should be facilitated, subject to such restrictions or regulations as
may be necessary, reasonable, and appropriate'' (16 U.S.C.
668dd(a)(3)(D)), and ``Regulations permitting hunting or fishing of
fish and resident wildlife within the System shall be, to the extent
practicable, consistent with State fish and wildlife laws, regulations,
and management plans'' (16 U.S.C. 668dd(m)). We also note that this
final rule does not address refuges in the State of Alaska. We made no
changes to the rule as a result of this comment.
Comment (16): One commenter was of the opinion that we failed to
identify what species of migratory game birds and ``other big game''
would be open to hunting on Baca NWR.
Our Response: In the proposed rule, in the proposed entry for Baca
NWR at 50 CFR 32.25, we specify that migratory game bird hunting at the
refuge would be limited to the hunting of Eurasian collared-doves and
mourning doves and that big game hunting would be limited to the
hunting of elk. We do not have a category that authorizes the hunting
of ``other big game.'' We did not make any changes to the rule as a
result of this comment.
Comment (17): One commenter expressed concern that residents living
near refuges might act prejudicially toward certain wildlife species,
such as wolves, and that refuge managers would share these prejudices.
The commenter asked how the Service can assure proper oversight of
refuge managers.
Our Response: Allowing hunting on a refuge requires rigorous
examination, State consultation, and multiple opportunities for public
comment, as detailed in our response to Comment (1), above. This
prevents an individual manager from prejudicing the process. In
addition, the Service has a robust supervisory system in place to
ensure that individual refuge managers execute their duties
appropriately. Each refuge manager reports directly to a Supervisory
Refuge Program Specialist (Refuge Supervisor), who exercises
supervisory line authority in the management of refuges within a
defined geographic area. Among other duties, the Refuge Supervisor
conducts site-visits to evaluate whether refuges are being managed in
accordance with relevant laws, regulations, and policies. Where
necessary, the Refuge Supervisor is empowered to institute corrective
actions for refuge staff. Beyond the Refuge Supervisor, there are
additional lines of supervision. We did not make any changes to the
rule as a result of this comment.
Comment (18): A commenter stated that if the refuge cannot be
sustained financially, we should open it up to hunting and fishing and
charge a daily permit fee. However, the commenter also stated that if
the refuge can be supported financially without charging a daily permit
fee, then hunting and fishing opportunities should not be expanded.
Our Response: The Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (FLRA;
16 U.S.C. 6801-6814) authorizes the Secretary to establish, modify,
charge, and collect recreation fees at Federal recreational lands and
waters. FLRA also specifies how these recreation fees can be spent. The
three types of recreation fees are entrance fees, amenity recreation
fees, and special recreation permit fees. In addition, 36 CFR part 71
sets forth regulations for establishing recreation fees on a specific
area. The intent of FLRA was not to generate revenue for public lands,
but instead to reimburse agencies for the costs of administering
recreational activity.
When developing the CCPs and step-down hunting plans for each
refuge, the refuge manager takes into account budgetary needs for
increased hunting opportunities. The refuge manager only proposes a
hunt if he or she anticipates having sufficient funds to ensure
compatibility and administer the activity appropriately. Typically, you
can find this information under the ``Staffing and Funds'' section of
each refuge's hunt plan, which were made publicly available when first
issued, and remain available at each refuge's Web site. In some cases,
refuges find some budgetary relief in user fees, which are sufficient
to cover the cost of increased opportunities.
Finally, as discussed earlier in our response to Comment (1), with
the passage of the Improvement Act in 1997, Congress mandated that
hunting was one of the six priority public uses that refuge managers
were to facilitate when compatible. We made no change to the rule as a
result of this comment.
Comment (19): One commenter expressed support for opening and
expanding hunting opportunities on refuges but requested sign-in sheets
in parking lots and end-of-year surveys to account for the amount of
big and small game taken.
Our Response: Individual refuges have a variety of options for
collecting information about the number of hunters as well as hunter
harvest. Refuges may require hunters to sign in using the Visitor
Check-In Permit and Report (FWS Form 3-2405) or report harvest using
the Big Game Harvest Report (FWS Form 3-2359), Migratory Bird Hunt
Report (FWS Form 3-2361), or Upland Game Hunt Report (FWS Form 3-2362).
The forms each refuge requires are indicated in the refuge-specific
regulations in 50 CFR part 32. We did not make any changes to the rule
as a result of this comment.
Comment (20): Two commenters suggested changing the name of
National Wildlife Refuges to National Wildlife Management Areas.
Our Response: In 1966, the Administration Act consolidated various
lands previously known as wildlife refuges, wildlife ranges, game
ranges, wildlife management areas, or waterfowl production areas and
designated them as part of the ``National Wildlife Refuge System.'' We
made no changes to the rule as a result of these comments.
Comment (21): Several commenters expressed concern about expanding
the number goose hunting days at Montezuma NWR from 3 to 7. According
to one commenter, it is of greater benefit to the hunter to hunt 3 days
a week because it manages hunting pressure better and the geese (as
well as the ducks) will hold on the refuge longer.
Our Response: During the regular waterfowl season (October to
December), we will allow waterfowl hunting on only 3 days a week:
Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The 7-days-per-week hunting refers
only to a limited set of seasons, including the September Canada goose
hunting season, the late snow goose hunting season (January to March),
and the Light Goose Conservation Order season
[[Page 68881]]
(March to mid-April). Expanding our program to include the September
Canada goose season, the late snow goose season, and the Light Goose
Conservation Order season is not only a recreational opportunity, but
also a management tool for over-abundant geese. Service biologists and
wildlife professionals, in consultation with the State, analyzed the
goose population dynamics and considered refuge purposes and management
objectives when designing this hunt program. The hunt plan,
compatibility determination, and NEPA documentation were all made
available for public comment. We made no changes to the rule as a
result of these comments.
Comment (22): One commenter requested permanent tree stands in
dedicated areas of Montezuma NWR to facilitate deer hunting. The
commenter also requested that the refuge expand the number of blinds
for waterfowl hunting.
Our Response: In order to meet habitat management objectives for
migratory waterfowl, Montezuma NWR actively manipulates water levels
throughout the refuge. Therefore, conditions in any given area of the
refuge are likely to vary from year to year and throughout the year.
For this reason, the refuge has not installed permanent structures such
as tree stands and waterfowl blinds. However, the refuge does allow
portable tree stands and blinds, which must be removed at the end of
each day. We did not make any changes to the rule as a result of this
comment.
Comment (23): Several commenters expressed interest in hunting
upland game birds and webless migratory game birds at Montezuma NWR.
Our Response: The hunt plan for Montezuma is a result of the CCP
process. As part of the CCP process, we invited the public to comment
during the scoping period, as well as on the final draft plan. The
refuge did not encounter a call for upland game or webless migratory
game bird hunting during those comment periods, nor did we get requests
for such hunting through our personal interactions with hunters. We
appreciate the feedback but we cannot accommodate these requests in
this final rule; adding new species to hunt would require us to update
our hunt plan, compatibility determination, and NEPA documentation and
allow for additional public comment. Therefore, we made no changes as a
result of these comments. However, we may consider making these changes
in a future regulatory proposal.
Comment (24): Several commenters requested the ability to hunt with
dogs at Montezuma NWR.
Our Response: In response to these comments, we are adding in this
final rule a provision to allow hunters to use dogs when hunting
migratory game birds in Montezuma NWR. The Montezuma NWR CCP,
compatibility determination, and environmental assessment all address
hunting migratory game birds with dogs so we can accommodate this
request in the present rulemaking.
Comment (25): According to one commenter, the regulations for
Montezuma NWR state that the refuge manager reserves the right to
restrict hunting implements beyond State restrictions based on hunter
satisfaction and visitor safety. The commenter remarks that there is no
definition in the regulations describing hunter satisfaction and
visitor safety, and, therefore, this requirement is ambiguous. The
commenter goes on to say that this provision gives too much discretion
to the refuge manager, without any public or stakeholder input; hunters
and other stakeholder groups should be given the opportunity to meet
with the refuge manager and their input given significant weight to
accept, provide plausible alternatives, or to refute the claims of the
refuge manager.
Our Response: Refuge-specific hunting regulations can be more
restrictive than State regulations and often are more restrictive in
order to help meet specific refuge objectives. The refuge manager is
best equipped to understand how regulations can help meet refuge
objectives. However, Montezuma NWR welcomes feedback from the public
through a variety of means, such as calling the refuge, writing a
letter, or sending an email. Contact information for the refuge can be
found at: http://www.fws.gov/refuge/Montezuma/. In response to this
comment, we revised the language in paragraphs B.6 and C.11 for
Montezuma NWR to be more consistent with other refuge-specific
regulations.
Comment (26): One commenter took issue with the prohibition against
``use of silencers or any like device that alters the noise on a
firearm,'' which appears in the proposed regulations for Buffalo Lake
NWR. According to the commenter, using firearms-mounted hearing
protection is good for the surrounding neighbors and for abatement of
hearing loss to the hunter and hunting party (which may include youth).
The commenter asks that we remove this provision from the regulations
for Buffalo Lake NWR or change it to reflect most States' hunting laws
that allow the use of hearing protection devices mounted to the
firearm.
Our Response: The Administration Act, as amended, directs us to
make refuge regulations as consistent with State regulations as
practicable. Thirty-eight States currently allow the use of silencers
for hunting, including Texas, where Buffalo Lake NWR is located. In
response to this comment, we have removed the prohibition against the
use of silencers or any like device that alters the noise on a firearm
for the hunt in question, a youth hunt outside the general deer
season.; however, the Service will continue to monitor the use of
silencers on Service lands. If we find that silencers lead to an
increase in illegal hunting activity, create a public safety problem,
reduce high-quality hunting opportunities, or otherwise interfere with
the purpose of the specific refuge or the mission of the NWRS, then we
may prohibit their use.
Comment (27): One commenter questioned the motivation for allowing
hunting on Baca, Monte Vista, and Alamosa NWRs. According to the
commenter, calls for hunting on refuges at this time come from
ranchers, farmers, hunters, and property owners; they are not to
protect an ecosystem and its biodiversity. The commenter states that it
appears that human/elk conflicts are part of the issue and that
increased revenue from license sales motivated the Service and the
State to allow the hunt. Finally, the commenter suggested that the
refuge let natural predators do the work, instead of hunters.
Our Response: The San Luis Valley National Wildlife Refuge Complex,
which includes Alamosa, Baca, and Monte Vista NWRs, recently completed
a CCP and EIS, which complied with NEPA and included an affirmative
compatibility determination for hunting on the three refuges. During
this process, we received relatively few comments regarding proposed
elk hunting on these refuges. Some comments were in opposition, while
others greatly supported the proposed elk hunting opportunities.
Through sound professional judgment, as well as consultation with
Colorado Parks and Wildlife, we found that the limited number of elk
that will be harvested will not affect the sustainability of the
population. We designed refuge-specific regulations to provide a safe
and high-quality hunting experience, minimize wildlife disturbance,
ensure wildlife conservation, and reduce or avoid conflicts with other
refuge users. In addition to providing quality elk hunting
opportunities, another objective
[[Page 68882]]
of the hunt is to redistribute elk, via hunting pressure, away from
sensitive habitats, such as riparian areas, where intense elk browsing
on willow and cottonwood plants is occurring. Reduced elk browsing on
these plants will promote growth, providing improved nesting and
foraging habitat for a variety of songbird species as well as other
riparian dependent wildlife species.
There was no financial motivation behind opening the elk hunts in
the San Luis Valley. The hunts will generate relatively little revenue,
as only a limited number of elk hunters will be allowed. Moreover,
these hunters would likely have purchased licenses anyway for hunts
elsewhere, even if these particular hunts were not offered.
Currently, relatively few natural predators exist for elk on the
refuges, with the exception of coyotes. There currently is no control
of coyotes on any of the refuges. During the development of the CCP,
the introduction of other natural predators was addressed, but was
determined not to be a viable option based on substantial public
opposition. We did not make any changes to the rule as a result of this
comment.
Comment (28): Three commenters expressed a desire to have a dove
hunt in New York State.
Our Response: By law, refuge-specific hunting and fishing
regulations can be more restrictive than State regulations, but not
more liberal. Refuges in New York State do not allow mourning dove
hunting because the State does not allow mourning dove hunting.
Allowing dove hunting in New York State is a State matter; therefore it
is not germane to this rulemaking. We made no changes to the rule as a
result of these comments.
Comment (29): One commenter drew attention to the fact that in the
entry for Choctaw NWR, the requirement to use nontoxic shot is embedded
in a provision that begins by allowing take of incidental species. The
commenter stated that these two provisions are unrelated and should be
separated so that the requirement to use nontoxic shot is clear and
easy to find.
Our Response: We agree with the commenter that separating the two
provisions would improve clarity. Therefore, we separated the two
statements in this final rule.
Comment (30): One commenter stated that concerning sport fishing
within the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually NWR, the management of fishing
activities is under the jurisdiction of the State. The commenter
remarked that if the intent of the revisions in the proposed rule is to
restrict access (versus fishing) on the refuge, then the wording in the
entry should be specific to that. Also, the commenter stated that the
reference to ``allowing'' shellfishing on the tideflats indicates where
they allow access (i.e., Luhr Beach); however, those wishing to take
part in shellfish or fishing activities may access the tideflats from
anywhere outside the refuge. In this case, the commenter believes that
the language in the entry may be too specific, unintentionally
inferring that Luhr Beach is the only access point to harvest these
shellfish.
Our Response: In consultation with the State of Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife, in this final rule, we revised the
language concerning sport fishing under the entry for the Billy Frank
Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge to clarify where the Service has
jurisdiction over fishing and clarify land access restrictions to
fishing areas from refuge lands.
Comment (31): A commenter requested that we make information on
access points, campsites, or lodging on or near NWRs readily available.
Our Response: Information on access points is routinely available
on refuge maps and brochures. These maps and brochures can be found at
the refuge headquarters or on the refuge's Web site. Some refuges may
allow camping and that information can be found at refuge headquarters,
or on the refuge's Web site. Some refuges may have information about
lodging near the refuge. We encourage you to contact the refuge
directly and inquire about lodging in the local area. We maintain a
list of all of the NWRs on our National Wildlife Refuge System homepage
at: http://www.fws.gov/refuges/. Look for the ``Find Your Refuge''
section on the first page and you can query the system by State, by zip
code, alphabetically by refuge, or by certain other means. When you
link to the refuge of interest, you will find its address, phone
number, and a link to its individual Web site. We made no changes to
the rule as a result of this comment.
Changes From the Proposed Rule
As discussed above, under Summary of Comments and Responses, based
on comments we received on the proposed rule, we made changes to the
regulatory text in this final rule from what we proposed for Montezuma
NWR (in New York), Choctaw NWR (in Alabama), Buffalo Lake NWR (in
Texas), and Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually NWR (in Washington). In general,
we make these changes for clarity and consistency. Specifically, for
Montezuma NWR, we removed reference to ``hunter satisfaction'' in the
provisions concerning when the refuge manager may restrict hunting
implements beyond State restrictions, and we allow dogs when hunting
migratory game birds. For Choctaw NWR, we separated the provision
concerning the use of nontoxic shot from the provision concerning the
take of incidental species. For Buffalo Lake NWR, we removed the
prohibition on the use of silencers or any like devices that alter
noise on a firearm for the youth hunt, which is consistent with Texas'
regulations. For Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually NWR, in consultation with
the State of Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, we revised the
language concerning sport fishing to clarify where the Service has
jurisdiction over fishing and how refuge users can access areas to
fish.
We also made minor editorial changes to the entries for several
refuges to clarify which forms or other documentation are required for
certain activities. For example, for several refuges, in certain
provisions, we stated that a hunter needs a valid permit, without
specifying whether that permit is a State-issued or a refuge permit. We
clarify those instances in this rule. As another example, for some
refuges, we stated in the proposed rule that a hunter must obtain a
refuge Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383) to hunt in certain areas of
a refuge or conduct certain other activities. FWS Form 3-1383 is,
however, not a complete FWS form number, but a generic reference to the
category of Special Use Permits used by the Service. In this final
rule, we specify complete and exact Special Use Permit form numbers,
such as FWS Form 3-1383-G, in those places of the proposed rule where
we used the abbreviated form number.
Effective Date
This rule is effective upon publication in the Federal Register
(see DATES, above). We have determined that any further delay in
implementing these refuge-specific hunting and sport fishing
regulations would not be in the public interest, in that a delay would
hinder the effective planning and administration of the hunting and
fishing programs. We provided a 30-day public comment period for the
July 14, 2016, proposed rule. This rule does not impact the public
generally in terms of requiring lead time for compliance. Rather, it
relieves restrictions in that it allows activities on refuges that we
would otherwise prohibit. Therefore, we find good cause under 5 U.S.C.
553(d)(3) to make this rule effective upon publication.
[[Page 68883]]
Amendments to Existing Regulations
This document adopts in the Code of Federal Regulations all of the
Service's hunting and/or sport fishing regulations that we are updating
since the last time we published a rule amending these regulations (80
FR 51878; August 26, 2015) and that are applicable at Refuge System
units previously opened to hunting and/or sport fishing. We are taking
this action 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 may 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 2016-2017 Hunting/Fishing Season
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Migratory bird
Refuge/region (*) State hunting Upland game hunting Big game hunting Sport fishing
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alamosa (6)....................... Colorado............. D.................... Already open......... B................... Closed.
Anahuac (2)....................... Texas................ C/D.................. Closed............... Closed.............. Already open.
Atchafalaya (4)................... Louisiana............ Already open......... Already open......... D................... Already open.
Baca (6).......................... Colorado............. A.................... A.................... A................... Closed.
Black Bayou Lake (4).............. Louisiana............ C.................... C.................... C................... Already open.
Buffalo Lake (2).................. Texas................ Closed............... Already open......... B................... Closed.
Detroit River NWR (3)............. Illinois and Missouri C.................... C.................... C................... Closed.
Lake Andes (6).................... South Dakota......... Already open......... Already open......... Already open........ B.
Monte Vista (6)................... Colorado............. D.................... Already open......... B................... Closed.
Montezuma (5)..................... New York............. C/D.................. Closed............... C/D................. Already open.
Patoka River (3).................. Indiana.............. C.................... C.................... C................... C.
Waccamaw (4)...................... South Carolina C.................... C.................... C................... Already open.
Washita (2)....................... Oklahoma............. Already open......... Already open......... D................... Already open.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Key:
* Number in ( ) refers to the Region as defined in the preamble to this rule under Available Information for Specific Refuges.
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 2016-17 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 NEPA analysis, all of
which were the subject of a public review and comment process. These
documents are available upon request. In this rule, we are also
adopting new names for two refuges, White River National Wildlife
Refuge and Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. The new name for White
River National Wildlife Refuge is Dale Bumpers White River National
Wildlife Refuge, and the new name for Nisqually National Wildlife
Refuge is Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge.
Fish Advisory
For health reasons, anglers should review and follow State-issued
consumption advisories before enjoying recreational sport fishing
opportunities on Service-managed waters. You can find information about
current fish-consumption advisories on the Internet at: http://www.epa.gov/fish-tech.
Plain Language Mandate
In this rule, we revise some regulations for individual refuge
units to comply with a Presidential mandate to use plain language in
regulations; 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 (e.g., ``We
restrict entry into the refuge'' vs. ``Entry into the refuge is
restricted'').
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 rulemaking 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
[[Page 68884]]
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 impact on a substantial number of small entities.
This rule adds 1 national wildlife refuge to the list of refuges
open to hunting and increases hunting or fishing activities on 12
additional national wildlife refuges. It adds one national wildlife
refuge to the list of refuges open to fishing. As a result, visitor use
for wildlife-dependent recreation on these NWRs will change. If the
refuges establishing new programs were a pure addition to the current
supply of those activities, it would mean an estimated increase of
4,045 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 2016/2017
[Dollars in thousands]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Additional
Refuge days expenditures
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alamosa................................. 499 $19.4
Anahuac................................. 350 13.6
Atchafalaya............................. 200 7.8
Baca.................................... 970 37.8
Black Bayou Lake........................ 200 7.8
Buffalo Lake............................ 12 0.5
Detroit River........................... 115 4.5
Lake Andes.............................. 0 0.0
Monte Vista............................. 499 19.4
Montezuma............................... 945 36.8
Patoka River............................ 185 7.4
Waccamaw................................ 10 0.4
Washita................................. 60 2.3
-------------------------------
Total............................... 4,045 157.7
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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
$158,000 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''
and for fishing activities (2.40) derived from the report
``Sportfishing in America'' yields a total economic impact of
approximately $358,000 (2015 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 $358,000, 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 $72,000 annually.
Small businesses within the retail trade industry (such as hotels,
gas stations, taxidermy shops, bait-and-tackle shops, and similar
businesses) may be affected by some increased or decreased refuge
visitation. A large percentage of these retail trade establishments in
the local communities around NWRs 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 $158,000 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 68885]]
Table 3--Comparative Expenditures for Retail Trade Associated With Additional Refuge Visitation for 2016/2017
[Thousands, 2015 dollars]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Estimated
Retail trade maximum Addition as % Establishments Establ. with
Refuge/county(ies) in 2012 addition from of total in 2012 <10 emp in
new activities 2012
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alamosa:
Alamosa, CO................ $320,858 $9.7 0.003 85 64
Costilla, CO............... 13,340 9.7 0.073 10 10
Anahuac:
Chambers, TX............... 323,766 13.6 0.004 85 75
Atchafalaya:
St. Martin, LA............. 638,981 3.9 0.001 142 101
Iberville, LA.............. 319,242 3.9 0.001 88 61
Baca:
Saguache, CO............... 26,605 37.8 0.142 16 13
Black Bayou Lake:
Ouachita, LA............... 2,728,780 7.8 <0.001 710 498
Buffalo Lake:
Randall, TX................ 2,063,425 0.5 <0.001 352 246
Detroit River:
Monroe, MI................. 1,681,716 2.2 <0.001 377 264
Wayne, MI.................. 19,901,061 2.2 <0.001 6,091 4,738
Monte Vista:
Rio Grande, CO............. 114,102 19.4 0.017 48 41
Montezuma:
Cayuga, NY................. 999,879 18.4 <0.001 260 195
Seneca, NY................. 559,990 18.4 <0.001 183 114
Wayne, NY.................. 940,334 1.2 <0.001 267 181
Patoka River:
Gibson, IN................. 637,370 3.7 0.001 120 84
Pike, IN................... 82,914 3.7 0.004 31 23
Waccamaw:
Georgetown, SC............. 803,958 0.2 <0.001 303 230
Horry, SC.................. 5,990,133 0.2 .............. 1,666 1,185
Washita:
Custer, OK................. 606,827 2.3 <0.001 149 102
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
With the small change in overall spending anticipated from this
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 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.).
A regulatory flexibility analysis is not required. Accordingly, a small
entity compliance guide is not required.
Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act
The 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. Will not have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or
more. The minimal impact will be scattered across the country and will
most likely not be significant in any local area.
b. Will not cause a major increase in costs or prices for
consumers; individual industries; Federal, State, or local government
agencies; or geographic regions. This rule will 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 will 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 will be small. We do not expect this 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. Will 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
rule represents only a small proportion of recreational spending at
NWRs. Therefore, this rule will 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 rule applies to public use of federally owned and
managed refuges, it will not impose an unfunded mandate on State,
local, or Tribal governments or the private sector of more than $100
million per year. The rule will 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 rule will not have significant
takings implications. This rule affects only visitors at NWRs and
describes what they can do while they are on a refuge.
Federalism (E.O. 13132)
As discussed in Regulatory Planning and Review and Unfunded
Mandates Reform Act, above, this rule will not have sufficient
federalism implications
[[Page 68886]]
to warrant the preparation of a federalism summary impact statement
under E.O. 13132. In preparing this rule, we worked with State
governments.
Civil Justice Reform (E.O. 12988)
In accordance with E.O. 12988, the Department of the Interior has
determined that this rule does not unduly burden the judicial system
and that it meets the requirements of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of the
Order. The rule clarifies established regulations and will result in
better understanding of the regulations by refuge visitors.
Energy Supply, Distribution or Use (E.O. 13211)
E.O. 13211 of May 18, 2001, requires agencies to prepare Statements
of Energy Effects when undertaking certain actions that significantly
affect energy supply, distribution, and use. Because this rule adds a
new hunt at 1 NWR, increases hunting or fishing activities at 12 other
NWRs, and adds fishing to 1 NWR, it is not a significant regulatory
action under E.O. 12866, and we do not expect it to significantly
affect energy supplies, distribution, or use. Therefore, this action is
not a significant energy action, and no Statement of Energy Effects is
required.
Consultation and Coordination With Indian Tribal Governments (E.O.
13175)
In accordance with E.O. 13175, we have evaluated possible effects
on federally recognized Indian tribes and have determined that there
are no effects. We coordinate recreational use on NWRs with Tribal
governments having adjoining or overlapping jurisdiction before we
propose the regulations.
Paperwork Reduction Act
This rule 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.)
and assigned OMB Control Numbers 1018-0102 (expires June 30, 2017),
1018-0140 (expires May 31, 2018), and 1018-0153 (expires December 31,
2018). 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 and step-down management plans--which 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 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 amendments to refuge-specific hunting and fishing
regulations because they are technical and procedural in nature, and
the environmental effects are too broad, speculative, or conjectural to
lend themselves to meaningful analysis (43 CFR 46.210 and 516 DM 8).
Concerning the actions that are the subject of this 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 comprehensive conservation
plan and/or other step-down management plans, pursuant to our refuge
planning guidance in 602 Fish and Wildlife Service Manual (FW) 1, 3,
and 4. We prepare these comprehensive conservation plans and step-down
plans in compliance with section 102(2)(C) of NEPA, and the Council on
Environmental Quality's regulations for implementing NEPA in 40 CFR
parts 1500 through 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, P.O. Box 1306, 500 Gold Avenue SW., Albuquerque, NM 87103;
Telephone (505) 248-6937.
Region 3--Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota,
Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Regional Chief, National Wildlife
Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 5600 American Blvd.
West, Suite 990, Bloomington, MN 55437-1458; Telephone (612) 713-
5360.
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) 253-8307.
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
Jillian Cohen, Division of Natural Resources and Conservation
Planning, National Wildlife Refuge System, is the primary author of
this rulemaking document.
List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 32
Fishing, Hunting, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements,
Wildlife, Wildlife refuges.
Regulation Promulgation
For the reasons set forth in the preamble, we amend title 50,
chapter I, subchapter C of the Code of Federal Regulations as follows:
[[Page 68887]]
PART 32--HUNTING AND FISHING
0
1. The authority citation for part 32 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 16 U.S.C. 460k, 664, 668dd-668ee, and
715i.
Sec. 32.7 [Amended]
0
2. Amend Sec. 32.7 by:
0
a. Adding, in alphabetical order, an entry for ``Dale Bumpers White
River National Wildlife Refuge'' in the State of Arkansas;
0
b. Removing the entry for ``White River National Wildlife Refuge'' from
the State of Arkansas;
0
c. Adding, in alphabetical order, an entry for ``Baca National Wildlife
Refuge'' in the State of Colorado;
0
d. Adding, in alphabetical order, an entry for ``Billy Frank Jr.
Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge'' in the State of Washington; and
0
e. Removing the entry for ``Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge'' in the
State of Washington.
0
3. Amend Sec. 32.20, the entry for Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge,
by:
0
a. Revising paragraph B;
0
b. Revising paragraphs C.1, C.2, and C.4;
0
c. Removing paragraph C.5; and
0
d. Revising paragraphs D.2, D.4, and D.7.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.20 Alabama.
* * * * *
Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel and rabbit on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. We prohibit access to closed areas and hunting within 100 yards
(91.4 meters) of the fenced-in refuge work center area, designated
hiking trails, and refuge boat ramps.
2. We prohibit leaving unattended personal property, including, but
not limited to, boats or vehicles of any type, geocaches, lumber, and
cameras, overnight on the refuge (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). We
prohibit marking trees and using flagging tape, reflective tacks, and
other similar marking devices.
3. You may take incidental species (coyote, beaver, nutria, and
feral hog) during any hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts
as defined by the State of Alabama.
4. You must possess and carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed
brochure) when hunting.
5. All persons age 15 or younger, while hunting on the refuge, must
be in the presence and under direct supervision of a licensed or exempt
hunter at least age 21. A licensed hunter supervising a youth must hold
a valid State license for the species being hunted. One adult may
supervise no more than two youth hunters.
6. The refuge is open daily from 1 hour before legal sunrise to 1
hour after legal sunset.
7. We require all hunters to record hours hunted and all harvested
game on the Visitor Check-In Permit and Report (FWS Form 3-2405) at the
conclusion of each day at one of the refuge check stations.
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
this part 32).
9. We prohibit equestrian use, domestic livestock, and use of all-
terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility-type vehicles (UTVs).
10. You must restrain all pets, except during squirrel and rabbit
hunting, when you may hunt with unleashed dogs.
11. Public use information and hunting and fishing dates are
available at refuge headquarters and specified in the refuge brochure.
12. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages while
hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
13. We prohibit hunting with the aid of baits, salts, scent, or
ingestible attractant (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
14. For hunting, you may possess only approved nontoxic shot (see
Sec. 32.2(k)), .22 caliber rimfire or smaller rifles, or legal archery
equipment according to State regulations.
C. * * *
1. Conditions B1 through B14 apply.
2. Deer hunters may place one portable stand or blind on the refuge
for use while deer hunting, but only during the open deer season. The
stand must be clearly labeled with the hunter's name, address, and
phone number. You may leave the stand or blind on the refuge overnight
in a non-hunting position at ground level.
* * * * *
4. We prohibit damaging trees, including driving or screwing any
metal object into a tree or hunting from a tree in which a metal object
has been driven or screwed to support a hunter (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
D. * * *
2. Conditions B1, B2, B4, B6, B8 through B13, and C4 apply.
* * * * *
4. We prohibit the taking of frogs, turtles, and crawfish (see
Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
* * * * *
7. We require a refuge Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383-C) for
commercial activities.
* * * * *
0
4. Amend Sec. 32.22, the entry for Havasu National Wildlife Refuge, by
revising paragraphs A, B.2, C.1, D.3, and D.6 to read as follows:
Sec. 32.22 Arizona.
* * * * *
Havasu National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of mourning and
white-winged dove, duck, coot, moorhen, goose, and common snipe on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. We prohibit falconry.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field
(see Sec. 32.2(k)).
3. You may not hunt within 50 yards (45 meters) of any building or
public road.
4. We prohibit target shooting.
5. 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
this part 32).
6. We prohibit the construction or use of pits and permanent blinds
(see Sec. 27.92 of this chapter).
7. You must remove temporary blinds, boats, hunting equipment, and
decoys from the refuge following each day's hunt (see Sec. Sec. 27.93
and 27.94 of this chapter).
8. We prohibit retrieving game from closed areas. You may retrieve
game from areas closed to hunting, but otherwise open to entry, as long
as you possess no hunting firearms or other means of take.
9. Anyone hired to assist or guide hunter(s) must possess and carry
a valid Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383-C) issued by the refuge
manager.
10. We prohibit hunting on those refuge lands within the Lake
Havasu City limits.
11. The following conditions apply only to Pintail Slough (all
refuge lands north of North Dike):
i. We require a fee for waterfowl hunting. You must possess proof
of payment while hunting.
[[Page 68888]]
ii. Waterfowl hunters must hunt within 25 feet (7.5 meters) of the
numbered post of their assigned blind.
iii. We limit the number of persons at each waterfowl hunt blind to
three. Observers cannot hold shells or guns for hunting unless in
possession of a valid State hunting license and stamps.
iv. We limit the number of shells a waterfowl hunter may possess to
25.
v. Waterfowl hunters must possess at least 12 decoys per blind.
vi. You may use only dead vegetation or materials brought from off
refuge for making or fixing hunt blinds. We prohibit the cutting,
pulling, marking or removing vegetation (see Sec. Sec. 27.51 of this
chapter).
vii. Waterfowl hunters must be at their blind at least 45 minutes
before legal shoot time and not leave their blind until 10 a.m. MST.
viii. We allow waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and
Sundays. Waterfowl hunting ends at 12 p.m. (noon) MST. Hunters must be
out of the slough area by 1 p.m. MST.
ix. We allow qualifying youth to participate in the youth waterfowl
hunt.
x. We allow dove hunting at Pintail Slough only during the
September season.
12. The following conditions apply to all waters of the lower
Colorado River within the refuge:
i. We close designated portions of Topock Marsh to all entry from
October 1 through the last day of the waterfowl hunt season (including
the State youth waterfowl hunt). These areas are indicated in refuge
brochures and identified by buoys and/or signs.
ii. We prohibit hunting in the waters of the Colorado River and on
those refuge lands within \1/4\ mile (.4 kilometer) of the waters of
the Colorado River from and including Castle Rock Bay north to
Interstate 40.
iii. We allow hunting on refuge lands and waters south of Castle
Rock Bay to the north boundary of the Lake Havasu City limits.
13. We prohibit the use of all air-thrust boats and/or air-cooled
propulsion engines, including floating aircraft.
14. Dogs must be under your immediate control at all times.
B. * * *
2. We prohibit the possession of rifles for hunting.
* * * * *
C. * * *
1. Conditions A2 through A9, and A12ii apply.
D. * * *
3. Anyone hired to assist or guide anglers must possess and carry a
valid Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383-C) issued by the refuge
manager.
* * * * *
6. The following apply to improved areas within the refuge.
Improved areas consist of the Mesquite Bay areas, Castle Rock, the
Diving Cliffs, Catfish Paradise, Five Mile Landing and North Dike.
i. We prohibit entry of all motorized watercraft in all three bays
of the Mesquite Bay areas as indicated by signs or regulatory buoys.
ii. Improved areas are day-use only and are open from \1/2\ hour
before legal sunrise to \1/2\ hour after legal sunset. We allow fishing
and launching water craft at these and other areas 24 hours a day.
iii. We prohibit the possession of open containers of alcohol or
the possession of glass beverage containers in improved areas.
* * * * *
0
5. Amend Sec. 32.23 by:
0
a. Under the entry Bald Knob National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.1, A.2, A.9, A.11, and A.22;
0
ii. Revising paragraphs B.1 and B.3 through B.6;
0
iii. Revising paragraphs C.1, C.3, C.5, C.6, C.9, C.10, C.11, and C.17;
0
iv. Adding paragraph C.19; and
0
v. Revising paragraph D introductory text and paragraphs D.1 and D.2;
0
b. Under the entry Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs B.15, B.17, and C.7; and
0
ii. Adding paragraph C.12;
0
c. Under the entry Cache River National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.2 and A.23; and
0
ii. Revising paragraph C introductory text and paragraph C.12;
0
d. Revising paragraphs B, C, and D under the entry Holla Bend National
Wildlife Refuge;
0
e. Under the entry Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.5, A.10, and A.11;
0
ii. Revising paragraph C.6; and
0
iii. Adding paragraph C.9; and
0
f. Under the entry White River National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising the heading of the entry to read, ``Dale Bumpers White
River National Wildlife Refuge'' and moving the entry into alphabetical
order within the section;
0
ii. Removing paragraph A.14;
0
iii. Redesignating paragraphs A.15 through A.26 as A.14 through A.25,
respectively;
0
iv. Revising newly redesignated paragraphs A.16, A.17, A.20, and A.24;
0
v. Revising paragraphs B.1 and B.6;
0
vi. Revising paragraphs C.1, C.2, C.3, C.8, and C.10;
0
vii. Removing paragraph C.11;
0
viii. Redesignating paragraphs C.12 through C.20 as C.11 through C.19,
respectively;
0
ix. Revising newly redesignated paragraphs C.18 and C.19; and
0
x. Revising paragraph D.5.
The revisions and additions read as follows:
Sec. 32.23 Arkansas.
* * * * *
Bald Knob National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
1. We require refuge hunting permits (signed brochure). The permits
are nontransferable, and anyone on refuge land in possession of hunting
equipment must possess a signed permit at all times.
2. We prohibit migratory game bird hunting on the refuge during the
Quota Gun Deer Hunt.
* * * * *
9. We open the refuge to daylight use only, with the exception that
hunters may enter the refuge beginning at 4 a.m. and must exit by 1
hour after legal shooting time ends.
* * * * *
11. You may possess only biodegradable materials to mark trails.
* * * * *
22. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages while
hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)). We prohibit open alcohol containers on
refuge roads, all-terrain vehicles (ATV) trails, boat ramps,
observation platforms, and parking areas.
* * * * *
B. * * *
1. Conditions A1, A6, A9, A11 through A13, and A17 through A23
apply.
* * * * *
3. We allow squirrel hunting September 1 through February 28 on the
Mingo Creek Unit and on the Farm Unit, except for season closure of the
refuge during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow dogs.
4. We allow rabbit hunting in accordance with the State season on
the Mingo Creek Unit and on the Farm Unit, except for season closure of
the refuge during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow dogs.
5. We allow quail hunting in accordance with the State season
except for season closure of the refuge during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt.
We allow dogs.
6. We allow daylight hunting of raccoon and opossum with dogs on
all
[[Page 68889]]
refuge hunt units. Nighttime hunting of raccoon and opossum is allowed
only on the Mingo Creek Unit with a Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-
1383-G). We require dogs for hunting raccoon/opossum at night. We list
annual season dates in the refuge hunting brochure/permit. We prohibit
field trials and organized training events.
* * * * *
C. * * *
1. Conditions A1, A6, A9, A11 through A13, A17 through A23, and B8
through B12 apply.
* * * * *
3. The archery/crossbow hunting season for deer begins on the
opening day of the State season and continues throughout the State
season in the Mingo Creek Unit and Farm Unit except for the season
closure of the refuge during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We provide annual
season dates and bag limits in the hunt brochure/permit (signature
required).
* * * * *
5. The modern gun hunting season for deer will begin in November
and continue for a period of up to 9 days in all hunting units with
annual season dates and bag limits provided in the hunt brochure/
permit.
6. We prohibit leaving any tree stand, ground blind, or game camera
on the refuge without the owner's name, address, and phone number
clearly written in a conspicuous location.
* * * * *
9. Immediately record the zone (002) on your hunting license and
check all harvested game according to State regulations.
10. You may use only shotguns with rifled slugs, muzzleloaders, and
legal pistols for modern gun deer hunting on the Farm Unit.
11. We allow only portable deer stands capable of being carried in
their entirety by a single individual. You may erect stands 7 days
prior to the refuge deer season and must remove them from the waterfowl
sanctuaries prior to November 15, except for stands used by Quota Gun
Deer Hunt permit holders (signature required), which you must remove by
the last day of the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. You must remove all stands on
the remainder of the refuge within 7 days of the closure of archery
season (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
* * * * *
17. We allow only Quota Gun Deer Hunt permit holders on the refuge
during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt and only for the purposes of deer
hunting. We close the refuge to all other entry and public use during
the Quota Gun Deer Hunt.
* * * * *
19. You may enter the refuge at 4 a.m. and remain until 1 hour
after legal shooting time.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing in accordance with State
regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A9, A11, A19 through A23, B11, and C18 apply.
2. We close waterfowl sanctuaries to all entry from November 15 to
February 28. We also close the refuge to all entry and fishing during
the Quota Gun Deer Hunt.
* * * * *
Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. * * *
15. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages while
hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)). We prohibit open alcohol containers on
refuge roads, trails, boat ramps, parking areas, fishing piers,
observation decks, and photo blinds.
* * * * *
17. We prohibit loaded hunting firearms or muzzleloaders in or on a
vehicle, or boat while under power. We define ``loaded'' as shells in
the firearm or ignition device on the muzzleloader.
* * * * *
C. * * *
7. We allow only portable deer stands capable of being carried in
their entirety by a single individual. You may erect stands 7 days
prior to the refuge deer season and must remove them 7 days before the
closure of archery season (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
* * * * *
12. We prohibit leaving any tree stand, ground blind, or game
camera on the refuge without the owner's name, address, and phone
number clearly written in a conspicuous location.
* * * * *
Cache River National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
2. We prohibit migratory game bird hunting on the refuge during the
Quota Gun Deer Hunt.
* * * * *
23. We prohibit loaded hunting firearms or muzzleloaders in or on a
vehicle, ATV, or boat while under power. We define ``loaded'' as shells
in the firearm or ignition device on the muzzleloader.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of deer and turkey on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
12. We prohibit leaving any tree stand, ground blind, or game
camera on the refuge without the owner's name, address, and phone
number clearly written in a conspicuous location.
* * * * *
Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
16. We require hunters born after 1968 to carry a valid hunter-
education card. We do not require hunters under age 16 to have a
hunter-education card while under direct supervision (within arm's
reach) of a holder of a valid hunting license who is at least age 21.
Youth hunters under age 16 must remain within sight and normal voice
contact of an adult age 21 or older, possessing a valid hunting
license. An adult may supervise only one youth for big game hunting but
may supervise up to two youths for waterfowl and small game hunting.
17. We allow take of beaver, nutria, and coyote, incidental to any
daytime refuge hunt with weapons authorized for that hunt. We prohibit
take of beaver, nutria, and feral hog with the aid of dogs or after the
hunter has taken the daily bag limit for that hunt. We allow feral hog
to be taken during modern gun and muzzleloader deer hunts.
* * * * *
20. We allow camping only in designated sites and areas identified
in the refuge user brochure/permit, and we restrict camping to
individuals involved in wildlife-dependent activities. Campers may stay
no more than 14 days during any 30 consecutive-day period in any
campground site or area and must occupy camps daily. We prohibit all
disturbances, including use of generators, after 10 p.m.
* * * * *
24. We prohibit hovercraft, personal watercraft (e.g., jet skis,
etc.), and airboats.
* * * * *
B. * * *
1. Conditions A1, A9, A10, A11, A12, and A15 through A25 apply.
* * * * *
6. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot when hunting upland
game (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
C. * * *
1. Conditions A1, A9, A10, A11, A12, and A15 through A25 apply.
2. Archery deer seasons on the North Unit are from the beginning of
the State
[[Page 68890]]
archery season until the end of January except for refuge-wide season
closure during quota muzzleloader and quota gun deer hunts. We provide
annual season dates and bag limits in the refuge user brochure/permit.
3. Archery deer seasons on the South Unit are from the beginning of
the State archery season until the end of December except for refuge-
wide season closure during quota muzzleloader and quota gun deer hunts.
We provide annual season dates and bag limits in the refuge user
brochure/permit.
* * * * *
8. If you harvest deer or turkey on the refuge, you must
immediately record the zone number (Zone 146 South Unit and Zone 145
North Unit) on your hunting license and later check deer and/or turkey
through State phone or online checking system.
* * * * *
10. You must follow refuge guidance regarding flood-zone closures
during the deer hunt. Guidance is found in the refuge brochure, which
you must carry at all times.
* * * * *
18. We prohibit hunting on the Kansas Lake Area after November 30.
19. We prohibit the possession of buckshot on the refuge.
D. * * *
5. We prohibit all commercial and recreational harvest of turtle on
all property administered by Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife
Refuge.
* * * * *
Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit,
raccoon, opossum, beaver, armadillo, coyote, and bobcat on designated
areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to
the following conditions:
1. We require refuge hunting permits (name, address, signature
required). The permits are nontransferable, and anyone on refuge land
in possession of hunting equipment must sign, possess, and carry the
permits at all times. Your hunt permit will also act as your entrance
pass to the refuge.
2. During the refuge archery season, you may take only squirrel,
rabbit, raccoon, opossum, beaver, armadillo, coyote, or bobcat.
3. We allow gun hunting of raccoon and opossum with dogs every
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday until legal sunrise during the month of
February. We prohibit field trails and organized training events (see
Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
4. 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
this part 32). We prohibit target practice or nonhunting discharge of
firearms (see Sec. 27.42(a) of this chapter).
5. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages while
hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)). We prohibit open alcohol containers on
refuge roads, boat ramps, observation platforms, and parking areas.
6. We only allow all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) for hunters and
anglers with disabilities. We require a refuge ATV permit (Special Use
Permit; FWS Form 3-1383-G) issued by the refuge manager.
7. We prohibit the use of horses and mules.
8. We prohibit hunting from a vehicle.
9. We only allow vehicle use on established roads and trails (see
Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
10. You must enter and exit the refuge from designated roads and
parking areas. We prohibit accessing refuge waters and land from the
Arkansas River. We prohibit boating over the dam at the Old River
Channel from either direction.
11. We prohibit hunting within 150 feet (45 meters) of roads open
to motor vehicle use and nature trails.
12. We prohibit marking trails with tape, ribbon, paint, or any
other substance other than biodegradable materials.
13. We allow the use of nonmotorized boats during the refuge
fishing/boating season (March 1 to October 31), but we prohibit hunters
leaving boats on the refuge overnight (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter).
14. You must adhere to all public use special conditions and
regulations in the annual public use regulations brochure/permit.
15. You may not possess live hogs or live coyotes.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of deer and turkey on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions B1 and B4 through B15 apply.
2. We allow archery/crossbow hunting for white-tailed deer and
turkey. We provide annual season dates in the public use regulations
brochure/permit (name, address, signature required).
3. The refuge will conduct one youth-only (between ages 6 and 15 at
the beginning of the gun deer season in Zone 7) quota gun deer hunt.
Specific hunt dates and application procedures will be available at the
refuge office in July. We restrict hunt participants to those selected
for a quota permit, except that one nonhunting adult age 21 or older
must accompany the youth hunter during the youth hunt.
4. We open spring and fall archery turkey hunting during the State
spring and fall turkey season for this zone.
5. We close the refuge to all entry and public use during scheduled
youth quota gun hunts, except for those allowed to participate in the
youth quota gun hunt.
6. The refuge will conduct two youth-only (age 6 to 15 at the
beginning of the spring turkey season) quota spring gun turkey hunts,
each 2 days in length. Specific hunt dates and application procedures
will be available at the refuge office in January. We restrict hunt
participants to those selected for a quota permit (name, address, phone
number required), except that one nonhunting adult age 21 or older must
accompany the youth hunter during the youth hunt.
7. An adult age 21 or older must accompany and be within sight or
normal voice contact of hunters age 15 and under. One adult may
supervise no more than one youth hunter.
8. We allow only portable deer stands and blinds capable of being
carried in their entirety by a single individual. You may erect stands
7 days before the start of the season and must remove the stands from
the refuge within 7 days after the season ends (see Sec. Sec. 27.93
and 27.94 of this chapter).
9. You must permanently affix the owner's name, address, and phone
number to all tree stands, ground blinds, or game cameras on the
refuge.
10. We prohibit the use of dogs during big game hunting.
11. We prohibit hunting from paved, graveled, and mowed roads and
mowed trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
12. We prohibit hunting with the aid of bait, salt, or ingestible
attractant (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
13. We prohibit all forms of organized game drives.
14. You must check all game at the refuge check station.
15. We prohibit commercial hunting/guiding.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing and frogging in accordance
with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions B6, B7, B9, and C5 apply.
2. Waters of the refuge are only open for fishing March 1 through
October 31 during daylight hours.
3. We do not require a permit to fish but do require an entrance
pass to the
[[Page 68891]]
refuge, which can be purchased at the entrance fee station or refuge
office.
4. We limit free-floating fishing devices, trotlines, and tree limb
devices to 20 per person. Each device must have the angler's name and
address.
5. You must reset trotlines and limb lines when receding water
levels expose them.
6. We prohibit leaving trotlines and other self-fishing devices
overnight or unattended.
7. You must enter and exit the refuge from designated roads and
parking areas. We prohibit accessing refuge waters and land from the
Arkansas River. We prohibit boating over the dam at the Old River
Channel from either direction.
8. We prohibit anglers from leaving their boats unattended
overnight on any portion of the refuge (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter).
9. We require a Special Use Permit (FWS form 3-1383-C) for all
commercial fishing activities on the refuge.
10. We prohibit the take and possession of turtles and/or mollusks
(see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
11. We prohibit airboats, hovercraft, and personal watercraft (Jet
Skis, etc.) (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
* * * * *
Wapannoca National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
5. We prohibit all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
* * * * *
10. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages while
hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)). We prohibit open alcohol containers on
refuge roads, trails, boat ramps, parking areas, fishing piers,
observation decks, and photo blinds.
11. We prohibit loaded hunting firearms or muzzleloaders in or on a
vehicle or boat while under power (see Sec. 27.42(b) of this chapter).
We define ``loaded'' as shells in the firearm or ignition device on the
muzzleloader.
* * * * *
C. * * *
6. We allow only portable deer stands capable of being carried in
their entirety by a single individual. You may erect stands 7 days
prior to the refuge deer season and must remove them from the waterfowl
sanctuaries by December 1. You must remove all stands on the remainder
of the refuge within 7 days of the closure of archery season (see Sec.
27.93 of this chapter).
* * * * *
9. We prohibit leaving any tree stand, ground blind, or game camera
on the refuge without the owner's name, address, and phone number
clearly written in a conspicuous location.
* * * * *
0
6. Amend Sec. 32.24 by:
0
a. Under the entry Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.1 and A.2;
0
ii. Removing paragraph A.3; and
0
iii. Revising paragraph C.1;
0
b. Revising paragraphs A.2 and A.3 under the entry Colusa National
Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Revising paragraphs A.2, A.3, and A.12 under the entry Delevan
National Wildlife Refuge;
0
d. Under the entry Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife
Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.2.iii, A.2.iv, A.3, A.4, A.5, A.6, and A.7;
0
ii. Removing paragraph A.8;
0
iii. Redesignating paragraphs A.9 and A.10 as A.8 and A.9,
respectively; and
0
iv. Revising newly redesignated paragraph A.8;
0
e. Revising paragraph A.4 under the entry Lower Klamath National
Wildlife Refuge;
0
f. Revising paragraphs A.2, A.3, and A.12 under the entry Sacramento
National Wildlife Refuge;
0
g. Revising paragraph A under the entry Salinas River National Wildlife
Refuge;
0
h. Revising paragraphs A.1, A.3, A.4, A.5, A.6, and A.8 under the entry
San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge;
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.2 and A.3 under the entry Sutter National
Wildlife Refuge; and
0
j. Under the entry Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraph A.4;
0
ii. Redesignating paragraphs A.5 through A.9 as A.6 through A.10; and
0
iii. Adding a new paragraph A.5.
The revisions and addition read as follows:
Sec. 32.24 California.
* * * * *
Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
1. We allow waterfowl hunting on designated areas of the refuge 7
days per week during the State regulated season.
i. You may hunt from the shoreline only.
ii. You may not use a boat of any kind while conducting waterfowl
hunting activities.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field
(see Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
C. * * *
1. You may hunt only in the unit for 9 consecutive days beginning
on the first Saturday following the third Wednesday in August.
* * * * *
Colusa National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
2. You must return the State-issued entry permit and vacate the
refuge no later than 1\1/2\ hours after legal sunset unless
participating in an overnight stay in accordance with A13.
3. Youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult (age 18 or older)
at all times while hunting.
* * * * *
Delevan National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
2. You must return the State-issued entry permit and vacate the
refuge no later than 1\1/2\ hours after legal sunset unless
participating in an overnight stay in accordance with A14.
3. Youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult (age 18 or older)
at all times while hunting.
* * * * *
12. We prohibit snipe hunting in the assigned pond/spaced blind
areas.
* * * * *
Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
2. * * *
iii. Ponds AB1, A2E, AB2, A3N, and A3W in the Alviso Unit. These
ponds are located on the west side of the Bay between Stevens Creek and
Guadalupe Slough. You must obtain a refuge permit (name, address, phone
number, and signature required) to hunt these ponds. Access to Ponds
AB1 and A2E will be from the Crittenden Lane Trailhead in Mountain
View. Access to Ponds A3W will be from the Carl Road Trailhead in
Sunnyvale. Access to Ponds A3N and AB2 is by boat from the other ponds.
We allow hunting only from existing hunting blinds. We allow hunting
only on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays on these ponds.
iv. Ponds A5, A7, and A8N in the Alviso Unit. These ponds are
located on the south end of the Bay between Guadalupe Slough and Alviso
Slough. You must obtain a refuge permit (name, address, phone number,
and signature required) to hunt these ponds. Access is via walking and
bicycling from the Gold Street gate in Alviso. We allow hunting by boat
and by walking pond levees. We allow hunting only on Wednesdays,
Saturdays, and Sundays on these ponds.
3. During the 2 weeks before the opening of the hunt season, you
may bring a boat into Ponds AB1, A2E, AB2, A3N, A3W, A5, A7, and A8N,
and moor
[[Page 68892]]
it at a designated site. These boats will be used to access the hunting
ponds and can stay on the refuge during the hunt season. You must
remove your boat within 2 weeks following the close of the hunt season.
We allow nonmotorized boats and motorized boats powered by electric,
gasoline direct fuel injection 2-stroke, or 4-stroke gasoline motors
only.
4. You may maintain an existing blind in the ponds open to hunting
if you have a refuge permit (name, address, phone number, and signature
required), but the blind will be open for general use on a first-come,
first-served basis. We prohibit pit blinds or digging into the levees
(see Sec. 27.92 of this chapter).
5. You must remove all decoys and other personal property, except
personal boats, from the refuge by legal sunset. You must remove all
trash, including shotshell hulls, when leaving hunting areas (see
Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
6. You may enter closed areas of the refuge to retrieve downed
birds, provided you leave all weapons in a legal hunting area. We
encourage the use of retriever dogs. We prohibit other domesticated
animals or pets. You must keep your dog(s) under immediate control of
the handler at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter). Dogs
must remain inside a vehicle or be on a leash until they are on the
ponds or on the levees (Ponds R1, 2, A5, 7, and 8N only) as a part of
the hunt.
7. You may possess shotshells in quantities of 25 or fewer when in
the field.
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
this part 32). We prohibit target practice on the refuge or any
nonhunting discharge of any firearm (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
* * * * *
Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
4. Shooting hours end at 1 p.m. on all California portions of the
refuge with the following exceptions:
i. The refuge manager may designate up to 6 afternoon special
youth, ladies, veteran, or disabled hunter waterfowl hunts per season.
ii. The refuge manager may designate up to 3 days per week of
afternoon waterfowl hunting for the general public after December 1.
* * * * *
Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
2. You must return the State-issued entry permit and vacate the
refuge no later than 1\1/2\ hours after legal sunset unless
participating in an overnight stay in accordance with A14.
3. Youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult (age 18 or older)
at all times while hunting.
* * * * *
12. We prohibit snipe hunting in the assigned pond/spaced blind
areas.
* * * * *
Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck,
coot, and moorhen on a hunt area along the Salinas River on the
southeast portion of the refuge, as designated by posted signs, in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. You may possess shotshells only in quantities of 25 or fewer.
2. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. We prohibit
bicycles and other conveyances. Mobility-impaired hunters should
consult with the refuge manager for allowed conveyances.
3. We only allow dogs engaged in hunting activities on the refuge
during the waterfowl season. You must keep dog(s) under your immediate
control at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter). We prohibit
training of dogs on the refuge. We prohibit other domesticated animals
or pets.
4. 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
this part 32). We prohibit target practice on the refuge or any
nonhunting discharge of any firearm (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
5. You must remove all decoys and other personal property from the
refuge at the end of each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). You
must remove all trash, including shotshell hulls, when leaving hunting
areas (see Sec. 27.94 of this chapter).
* * * * *
San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
1. Unless posted in the field and/or noted below, we only allow
hunting in the open waters of San Pablo Bay and its navigable sloughs.
The following areas are closed to hunting:
i. Lower Tubbs Island;
ii. Lower Tubbs Setback;
iii. Cullinan Ranch Unit;
iv. Sonoma Baylands Unit; and
v. Within 300 feet (90 meters) of Highway 37.
* * * * *
3. You may possess shotshells only in quantities of 25 or fewer
while in the field.
4. You must remove all decoys, boats, and other personal property
from the refuge at the end of each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter). You must remove all trash, including shotshell hulls, when
leaving hunting areas (see Sec. 27.94 of this chapter).
5. We prohibit entry to closed areas of the refuge prior to the
hunting season in order to scout for hunting sites.
6. We only allow dogs engaged in hunting activities on the refuge
during waterfowl season. We prohibit other domesticated animals or
pets. You must keep dog(s) under your immediate control at all times
(see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter). We prohibit training of dogs on
the refuge.
* * * * *
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
this part 32). We prohibit target practice on the refuge or any
nonhunting discharge of any firearm (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter).
* * * * *
Sutter National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
2. You must return the State-issued entry permit and vacate the
refuge no later than 1\1/2\ hours after legal sunset unless
participating in an overnight stay in accordance with A13.
3. Youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult (age 18 or older)
at all times while hunting.
* * * * *
Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
4. Shooting hours end at 1 p.m. on all California portions of the
refuge with the following exceptions:
i. The refuge manager may designate up to 6 afternoon special
youth, ladies, veteran, or disabled hunter waterfowl hunts per season.
ii. The refuge manager may designate up to 3 days per week of
afternoon waterfowl hunting for the general public after December 1.
5. You must be drawn daily to hunt all spaced blinds, including
numbered blind areas, Sump 1B, and Frey's Island
[[Page 68893]]
units, from the first day of the regulated hunting season through
November 30. Drawings are held at the hunter check station located on
County Road 103. Beginning December 1 through the last day of the
season, spaced blinds are first-come, first-served.
* * * * *
0
7. Amend Sec. 32.25 by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A, B, and C under the entry Alamosa National
Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Adding, in alphabetical order, an entry for Baca National Wildlife
Refuge; and
0
c. Revising paragraphs A, B, and C under the entry Monte Vista National
Refuge.
The addition and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.25 Colorado.
* * * * *
Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of geese, ducks,
coots, snipe, Eurasian collared-doves, and mourning doves on designated
areas of the refuge in accordance with State and Federal regulations,
and subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow Eurasian collared-dove hunting only during the mourning
dove season.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot for hunting (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
3. The only acceptable methods of take are shotguns, hand-held
bows, and hawking/falconry.
4. 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).
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of cottontail rabbit, and
black-tailed and white-tailed jackrabbit, on designated areas of the
refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. Conditions A2, A3 and A4 apply.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of elk on designated areas of
the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. Condition A4 applies.
2. You must possess a valid State license and a refuge-specific
permit from the State, or a valid State license issued specifically for
the refuge, to hunt elk. State license selection will be made via the
Colorado Parks and Wildlife hunt selection process.
* * * * *
Baca National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of Eurasian
collared-doves and mourning doves only in designated areas of the
refuge in accordance with State and Federal regulations, and subject to
the following conditions:
1. We allow Eurasian collared-dove hunting only during the mourning
dove season.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot for hunting (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
3. The only acceptable methods of take are shotguns, hand-held
bows, and hawking/falconry.
4. 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).
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of cottontail rabbit, and
black-tailed and white-tailed jackrabbit, on designated areas of the
refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. Conditions A2 and A4 apply.
2. We prohibit handguns for hunting.
3. Shotguns, rifles firing rim-fire cartridges less than .23
caliber, hand-held bows, pellet guns, slingshots, and hawking/falconry
are the only acceptable methods of take.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of elk on designated areas of
the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. Condition A4 applies.
2. You must possess a valid State license and a refuge-specific
permit from the State, or a valid State license issued specifically for
the refuge, to hunt elk. State license selection will be made via the
Colorado Parks and Wildlife hunt selection process.
3. During firearms elk seasons, hunters must follow State law for
use of hunter orange.
* * * * *
0
8. Amend Sec. 32.27 by revising paragraph D under the entry Prime Hook
National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.27 Delaware.
* * * * *
Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing and crabbing on designated areas
of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. We require all individuals fishing and/or crabbing on or from
the refuge or within refuge waters to possess a signed refuge fishing/
crabbing application (FWS Form 3-2358) and a valid form of government-
issued photo identification.
2. Anglers using boats on Turkle and Fleetwood Ponds may propel
them manually or with electric motors only.
3. We do not allow fishing or crabbing from water control
structures.
4. You may use or possess only nontoxic terminal tackle, weights,
sinkers, and/or split shot while fishing or crabbing within refuge
boundaries.
5. You may use only hook-and-line tackle when fishing for finfish.
6. You may use only hand lines, crab dip nets, hoop crab nets, and/
or manually operated crab traps (collapsible traps) for crabbing.
7. You must attend to your fishing and/or crabbing lines and gear
at all times.
8. We do not allow commercial fishing and/or crabbing.
* * * * *
0
9. Amend Sec. 32.28 by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs C and D under the entry Lake Woodruff National
Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Under the entry Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraph A introductory text and paragraphs A.1 through
A.9, A.12, A.14, and A.15;
0
ii. Adding paragraph A.16;
0
iii. Revising paragraph C;
0
iv. Revising paragraph D introductory text and paragraphs D.1, D.3,
D.4, D.5, D.8, D.11, D.14, D.15, D.16, and D.17; and
0
v. Removing paragraph D.18;
0
c. Revising paragraphs C.6 through C.9 and C.12 under the entry St.
Marks National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
d. Revising paragraphs C.1, C.2, C.3, C.8, C.9, C.18 and D.6 under the
entry St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge.
The addition and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.28 Florida.
* * * * *
Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
feral hog on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. We require Lake Woodruff hunt permits. The permits (signed
annual hunt brochure) are free and nontransferable, and anyone on
refuge land in possession of hunting equipment must sign, possess, and
carry the permit at all times.
[[Page 68894]]
2. In addition to the valid, paid Lake Woodruff Quota Hunt Permit
(Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission State Permit), which
can be purchased through Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission (FWC), and a signed Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge
hunt permit (signed annual hunt brochure), hunters must have on their
person all applicable Florida hunting licenses and permits. State
requirements for hunter safety apply.
3. All hunters must be on stands or in blinds while hunting.
4. We prohibit stalking or movement through the hunt area while
hunting.
5. We prohibit scouting in the hunt area, whether you hold a permit
for the current hunt or a future hunt, during the quota hunt.
6. We prohibit possession of hunting weapons while scouting.
7. 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 refuge-specific
regulations in this part 32).
8. We close the hunt areas of the refuge to all public use except
to permitted hunters. The refuge is closed between legal sunset and
legal sunrise, except permitted hunters may access the refuge 2 hours
prior to legal sunrise each hunting day. All hunters must be off the
refuge 2 hours after legal sunset.
9. You may set up stands or blinds 2 days prior to the hunt for
which you are permitted, and you must remove them on or before the last
day of your permitted hunt. You must clearly mark stands with the
hunter's name and address or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission (FWC) customer number found on your hunting license. No more
than one stand or blind per person may be on the refuge at any time,
unless a permitted hunter is accompanied by a youth hunter. Stands and/
or blinds for youth hunters must be placed within sight and normal
voice contact of the permitted hunter's stand and marked with the adult
permitted hunter's name and address or the FWC customer number and the
word ``YOUTH.''
10. If you use flagging or other trail marking material, you must
print your name or FWC customer number on each piece or marker. You may
set up flagging and trail markers 2 days prior to the permitted hunt,
and you must remove them on or before the last day of the permitted
hunt.
11. You must check out any game taken during the hunts at a self-
check station.
12. We allow primitive gun hunting only in the Western Unit, which
is only accessible by boat.
13. We prohibit hunting with dogs.
14. We prohibit accessing the refuge through the railroad right-of-
way.
15. Hunters under age 16 do not need a quota permit, but must be
accompanied by an adult age 18 or older. Each adult may supervise one
youth hunter and must remain within sight and normal voice contact; the
pair must share a single bag limit unless hunting during a designated
Family or Youth Hunt.
16. Archery hunters must wear a vest or jacket containing back and
front panels of at least 500 square inches (3,226 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 archery hunters to wear
solid-colored-fluorescent hunter orange when positioned in their stands
to hunt.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of the
refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. We require a Florida Freshwater Fishing license, and we adhere
to State regulations for bag and length limits.
2. Fishing on the refuge is by hook and line only. We prohibit cast
nets.
3. We allow fishing from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
4. We prohibit the use of airboats on the refuge.
5. We prohibit commercial fishing and the taking of frogs, turtles,
or any other wildlife without permit (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
6. We prohibit the use of snatch hooks in the refuge impoundments.
* * * * *
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of ducks,
mergansers, and coots in designated areas of the refuge in accordance
with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. 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
this part 32).
2. You must possess and carry a current, signed Merritt Island
National Wildlife Refuge hunt permit (signed brochure, non-
transferable) at all times while hunting waterfowl on the refuge.
3. You must carry a valid State-issued Merritt Island Waterfowl
Quota Permit (Waterfowl Quota Permit), which can be purchased through
the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) while
hunting in areas 1 or 4 from the beginning of the regular waterfowl
season through January 31.
4. We allow hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Federal
holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day, that
fall within the State's waterfowl season.
5. We allow hunting in four designated areas of the refuge as
delineated in the refuge hunting regulations map. We prohibit hunters
entering the normal or expanded restricted areas of the Kennedy Space
Center (KSC).
6. We only allow hunting of waterfowl on refuge-established hunt
days from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise until 12 p.m. (noon). All
equipment must be removed by 1 p.m. daily.
7. You may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m. for the purpose
of waterfowl hunting.
8. You must comply with State requirements for hunter-education
courses.
9. We require an adult, age 18 or older, to supervise hunters age
15 and younger. The adult must remain within sight and normal voice
contact of the youth hunter.
* * * * *
12. We prohibit hunting or shooting within 25 feet (7.6 meters), or
shooting from any portion of, a dike, dirt road, or railroad grade.
* * * * *
14. You must stop at posted refuge waterfowl check stations and
report statistical hunt information on the Migratory Bird Hunt Report
(FWS Form 3-2361) to refuge personnel.
15. You may not possess more than 25 shells in 1 hunt day.
16. You may only use gasoline, diesel, or electric motors inside
the impoundment perimeter ditch.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow the hunting of white-tailed deer and
feral hog in designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. We require a State-issued Merritt Island National Wildlife
Refuge Big Game Quota Hunt Permit (Quota Hunt Permit), which can be
purchased through the FWC. The Quota Hunt Permit is a limited entry
quota permit, is zone-specific, and is nontransferable.
2. You must have a valid signed Big Game Hunt Permit (signed annual
hunt brochure). The permits are free and
[[Page 68895]]
nontransferable, and anyone on refuge land in possession of hunting
equipment must sign and carry the signed permit at all times.
3. You must also have on your person all applicable Florida hunting
licenses and permits. State requirements for hunter safety apply.
4. Licenses, permits, all hunting equipment and effects, and
vehicles and/or other conveyances are subject to inspection by law-
enforcement officials.
5. We allow hunting as a 3-day weekend within the State's deer
season. Legal shooting hours are \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise to \1/
2\ hour after legal sunset.
6. We close the hunt areas of the refuge to all public use except
to permitted hunters.
7. The refuge is closed between legal sunset and legal sunrise
except permitted hunters may access the refuge no earlier than 2 hours
before legal sunrise and must leave the refuge no later than 2 hours
after legal sunset.
8. You are prohibited from entering the normal or expanded
restricted areas of KSC. KSC maintains the right to close any portion
of the refuge for any length of time. In that case, we will not refund
or reissue any permits.
9. We prohibit hunting from refuge roads or within 100 yards of
roads open to public vehicle traffic or within 200 yards of a building
or KSC facility.
10. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on a
National Wildlife 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 this part 32).
11. Hunters under age 16 do not need a Quota Hunt Permit, but must
be accompanied by an adult age 18 or older. Each adult may supervise
one youth hunter and must remain within sight and normal voice contact.
The pair must share a single bag limit unless hunting during a
designated Youth or Family hunt.
12. You may set up stands or blinds up to 2 days prior to the
permitted hunt; you must remove them on the last day of your permitted
hunt. You must clearly mark stands and blinds with your name and
address or the FWC customer number found on your hunting license. You
may have no more than one stand or blind per person on the refuge at
any time. Stands or blinds for youth hunters must be placed within
sight and normal voice contact of the supervisory hunter's stand and
marked with the supervisory hunter's name and address or FWC customer
number and the word ``YOUTH.''
13. We prohibit all scouting in the hunt area during the quota
hunt.
14. If you use flagging or other trail-marking material, you must
print your name or FWC customer number on each piece or marker. You may
set out flagging and trail markers up to 2 days prior to the permitted
hunt, and you must remove them on the last day of the permitted hunt.
15. We allow legally permitted hunters to scout within their
permitted zones up to 7 days prior to their permitted hunts. You must
carry your valid Quota Hunt Permit identifying the permitted hunt zone
while scouting.
16. We allow parking for scouting and/or hunting only along State
Road (SR) 3, not within the hunt areas.
17. You must be on your stand or in your blind while hunting.
18. We prohibit stalking or moving through the hunt area while
hunting.
19. You must be at your vehicle within 1 hour after legal shooting
time. If you wish to track wounded game beyond 1 hour after legal
sunset, you must gain consent from a Federal Wildlife Officer to do so.
20. We prohibit hunting with dogs.
21. We prohibit using dogs for tracking unless authorized by a
Federal Wildlife Officer. Dogs must remain on a leash and be equipped
with a GPS tracking device.
22. You may field dress game; however, we prohibit cleaning game
within 1,000 feet of any public area, road, game-check station, or
gate. We prohibit dumping game carcasses on the refuge.
23. Archery hunters must wear at least 500 square inches (3,226
square centimeters) of solid fluorescent-orange color while moving to
and from their vehicles, to their stands or hunting spots, and while
tracking or dragging out game.
24. The bag limit and antler requirements for white-tailed deer on
the refuge will follow State regulations but will not exceed two deer
per hunt. Antlered and antlerless deer are defined per State
regulations. It is illegal to take spotted fawns.
25. There is no bag limit or size limit for the take of feral hogs.
26. You must report all hunting activities at one of the two check
stations, including both successful and non-successful hunts, prior to
leaving the refuge.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow recreational fishing, crabbing,
clamming, and shrimping in designated areas of the refuge as delineated
in the refuge fishing regulations map in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. You must possess a current, signed refuge fishing permit (signed
brochure) and a Florida State Freshwater and/or Saltwater fishing
license at all times while fishing on the refuge. All State regulations
for bag and length limits apply.
* * * * *
3. We allow launching of boats for night fishing activities only
from Bair's Cove, Beacon 42, and Biolab boat ramps.
4. We prohibit crabbing or fishing from Black Point Wildlife Drive
or any side road connected to Black Point Wildlife Drive except from L
Pond Road.
5. We prohibit launching boats, canoes, or kayaks from Black Point
Wildlife Drive or any side road connected to Black Point Wildlife Drive
except from L Pond Road.
* * * * *
8. We prohibit use of personal watercraft, kite surfing, kite
boarding, wind surfing, sail boarding, use of air thrust boats, and use
of hovercraft or any similar non-wildlife oriented watercraft on the
refuge or in refuge waters.
* * * * *
11. We prohibit fishing within the normal or expanded restricted
areas of the KSC, unless those areas are officially designated by KSC
as special fishing opportunity sites.
* * * * *
14. We prohibit fishing from, or in the immediate vicinity of, the
Manatee Viewing Deck on the northeast side of Haulover Canal.
15. We require all commercial fishing guides to purchase, possess,
and carry a Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383-C).
16. You may only use gasoline, diesel, or electric motors inside
the impoundment perimeter ditch.
17. 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
this part 32).
* * * * *
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. * * *
6. There are two fall archery hunts: You may harvest either-sex
deer, feral hog, and bearded turkey during the fall archery hunts. We
will hold one hunt on the Panacea Unit and one hunt on the Wakulla
Unit. See condition C8 for specific information on bag limits.
[[Page 68896]]
Contact the refuge office for specific dates.
7. There are two modern gun hunts. You may harvest deer, feral hog,
and bearded turkey. Modern guns must meet State requirements. We will
hold one hunt on the Panacea Unit and one hunt on the Wakulla Unit. See
condition C8 for specific information on bag limits. Contact the refuge
office for specific dates.
8. The bag limit for white-tailed deer is two deer per hunt, either
two antlerless deer or one antlerless deer and one antlered deer.
Antlerless deer are defined per State regulations as deer with no
antler or antlers less than 5 inches (12.75 centimeters). Antlered deer
must have at least three points, 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) or greater on
one antler to be harvested.
9. There is one youth white-tailed deer hunt and one youth turkey
hunt for youth ages 12 to 17, on the St. Marks Unit in an area we will
specify in the refuge hunt brochure. Youth hunters age 12 to 15 may
harvest two deer, either two antlerless deer or one antlerless and one
antlered. There are no restrictions on antler size for youth age 12 to
15. Youth hunters age 16 to 17 may harvest two deer, either two
antlerless or one antlerless and one antlered. Antlered deer must have
at least two points, 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) or greater on one antler
to be harvested by youth age 16 to 17. Antlerless deer are defined in
C8. The youth turkey hunt will be conducted in the St. Marks Unit in an
area we will specify in the refuge hunt brochure. The limit will be one
bearded turkey per hunter. Unlimited hogs may be harvested on both
hunts. Only the youth hunter may handle or discharge firearms used for
hunting. An adult age 21 or older must accompany and remain in sight
and normal voice contact with each youth hunter. Contact the refuge
office for specific dates.
* * * * *
12. Portions of the St. Marks Unit 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).
* * * * *
St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. * * *
1. We require refuge permits (State license--fee charged). The
permits are nontransferable, and the hunter must possess them while
hunting. Only signed permits are valid. We only allow people with a
signed refuge hunt permit or the helpers of mobility-impaired hunters
on the island during the hunt periods. Contact the refuge office for
details on receiving a permit. We will charge fees for duplicate
permits.
2. We restrict hunting to three periods: Primitive Weapons Sambar
Deer (sambar deer, raccoon, and feral hog); Archery (white-tailed deer,
raccoon, feral hog); and Primitive Weapons White-Tailed Deer (white-
tailed deer, raccoon, and feral hog). Contact the refuge office for
specific dates. You may check-in and set up camp sites and stands on
the day prior to the scheduled hunt as specified in the brochure. You
must leave the island and remove all equipment by the date and time
specified in the brochure.
3. You must check-in at the check stations on the island. We
restrict entry onto St. Vincent Island to the Indian Pass and West Pass
Campsites. All access to hunt areas will be on foot or by bicycle from
these areas.
* * * * *
8. You may retrieve game from the closed areas only if accompanied
by a refuge staff member or a Federal Wildlife Officer.
9. We limit weapons to primitive weapons (bow and arrow and
muzzleloader) on the primitive weapons sambar deer hunt and the
primitive weapons white-tailed deer hunt. We limit the archery hunt to
bow and arrow. Weapons must meet all State regulations. We prohibit
crossbows during the white-tailed deer archery hunt except with a State
disabled persons permit. You may take feral hog and raccoon only with
the weapons allowed for that period.
* * * * *
18. Bag limits:
i. Primitive Weapons Sambar Deer Hunt: One sambar deer of either
sex, no limit on feral hog or raccoon.
ii. Archery Hunt: One white-tailed deer of either sex. Antlered
deer must have at least two points, 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) or more on
one antler to be harvested. Antlerless deer are defined per State
regulations as deer with no antler or antlers less than 5 inches (12.75
centimeters). Youth age 15 or younger may harvest any deer except
spotted fawn. We prohibit harvesting of spotted fawns. There is no
limit on feral hog or raccoon.
iii. Primitive Weapons White-Tailed Deer Hunt: One white-tailed
deer. Antlered deer must have at least two points, 1 inch (2.5
centimeters) or more in length on one antler, to be harvested. We issue
a limited number of either-sex tags. If you have an either-sex tag, the
bag limit is one deer that may be antlerless or antlered with legal
antler configuration. Antlerless deer are defined per State regulation
as deer with no antler or antlers less than 5 inches (12.75
centimeters). Youth age 15 or younger may harvest any deer except
spotted fawn. We prohibit harvesting of spotted fawns. There is no
limit on feral hog or raccoon.
* * * * *
D. * * *
6. You may take only fish species, and you must comply with the
fish limits, authorized by State regulations. We prohibit the taking of
frog and/or turtle.
0
10. Amend Sec. 32.31 by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A, C.2, C.7, C.8, D.1, and D.4 under the entry
Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
b. Revising paragraph A introductory text and paragraphs A.4 and C
under the entry for Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.31 Idaho.
* * * * *
Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck,
coot, common snipe, and dove on designated areas of the refuge in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. You may hunt only duck, coot, and mourning dove on the Lake
Lowell Unit.
2. You may hunt duck and coot only within 200 yards (180 meters) of
the shoreline.
3. Duck and coot hunting in the East Side Recreation Area is walk-
in only. We prohibit using float tubes and boats. Duck and coot hunters
in the South Side Recreation Area may use float tubes, nonmotorized
boats, or boats equipped with electric motors within 200 yards (180
meters) of the shoreline. We prohibit the use or possession of gas-
powered motors.
4. You may possess only 25 or fewer shotgun shells per day for
hunting duck and coot.
5. You may only use portable and temporary blinds. We prohibit
permanent structures (see Sec. 27.92 of this chapter).
6. You must remove boats, decoys, blinds, other personal property,
and any materials brought onto the refuge for blind construction at the
end of each day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
7. You may enter the refuge 1 hour before official shooting hours
(\1/2\ hour before legal sunrise), and remain on the
[[Page 68897]]
refuge until 1 hour after official shooting hours (legal sunset).
8. You may use dogs for hunting. Dogs must be under the immediate
control of the handler at all times.
9. From February 1 through June 14, we prohibit hunting on all
islands in the Snake River Islands Unit. From June 15 through June 30,
we prohibit hunting on islands used by nesting birds. You must comply
with all posted signs.
* * * * *
C. * * *
2. Only the southern portion of the Lake Lowell Unit is open to
deer hunting. We define the boundary of the deer hunting area on the
north by the southern shoreline of Lake Lowell, on the east by the New
York Canal, on the south by the southern boundary of the refuge, and on
the west by Riverside Road.
* * * * *
7. You may enter the Lake Lowell Unit no earlier than 2 hours
before official shooting hours (\1/2\ hour before legal sunrise) and
must leave the area within 2 hours after official shooting hours (\1/2\
hour after legal sunset). Successful hunters may extend their departure
time only as long as is necessary to retrieve dead deer.
8. A refuge employee, State Game Warden, or local law-enforcement
officer must accompany hunters to retrieve a wounded or dead deer from
any area that is closed to deer hunting.
D. * * *
1. From October 1 through April 14, we only allow ice fishing
within 200 yards (180 meters) of the shoreline in front of both the
Lower Dam (Fishing Area A) and the Upper Dam (Fishing Area B) on the
Lake Lowell Unit, unless otherwise posted by the Bureau of Reclamation.
* * * * *
4. From February 1 through June 14, we prohibit fishing from all
islands in the Snake River Islands Unit. From June 15 through June 30,
we prohibit fishing from islands used by nesting birds. You must comply
with all posted signs.
* * * * *
Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck,
and coot on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
4. On waterfowl hunt days, we allow waterfowl hunters to access the
waterfowl hunt area after 3 a.m.
* * * * *
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 in accordance with State regulations and subject to
the following conditions:
1. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer at the designated
accessible blind for hunters with disabilities subject to the following
conditions:
i. You may only participate in deer hunting at the accessible blind
with a refuge permit (name/address/phone number), which is issued
through a random drawing in early August. You may apply for a 7-day
archery-only permit (name/address/phone number) or a 7-day archery/
special weapons-only permit (name/address/phone number). A total of 4
weeks of archery-only permits and 6 weeks of archery/special weapon-
only permits will be available.
ii. You must possess a valid State disabled hunting license and tag
and provide proof of this prior to the drawing.
iii. We only allow deer hunting at the accessible blind using the
following weapons: Muzzleloader, archery equipment, crossbow, shotgun,
or handgun. For shotguns, you may only use slugs. For handguns, you may
only use straight-walled cartridges not originally established for
rifles.
iv. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot for hunting (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
2. We prohibit the use of dogs to hunt big game.
* * * * *
0
11. Amend Sec. 32.32 by:
0
a. Under the entry Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Removing paragraph B.6;
0
ii. Redesignating paragraphs B.3 through B.5 as B.4 through B.6,
respectively;
0
iii. Adding a new paragraph B.3; and
0
iv. Revising paragraphs C.3. and D.10;
0
b. Under the entry Great River National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraph C.5; and
0
ii. Removing paragraph C.7.iii;
0
c. Revising paragraphs B.1, C.1, C.2, and D.4 under the entry Middle
Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
d. Under the entry Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Adding introductory text to the entry; and
0
ii. Revising paragraphs B.2 through B.5.
The revisions and additions read as follows:
Sec. 32.32 Illinois.
* * * * *
Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. * * *
3. For hunting, you may possess only approved nontoxic shot shells
while in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey
(see Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
C. * * *
3. We allow the use of legal-sized lead ammunition (see current
Illinois hunting digest) for the taking of deer.
* * * * *
D. * * *
10. Anglers may not submerge any poles or similar object to take or
locate any fish.
* * * * *
Great River National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. * * *
5. On the Fox Island Division, we only allow deer hunting during
the Statewide archery deer season and special managed hunts.
* * * * *
Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. * * *
1. On the Wilkinson Island Division, you must comply with both
Illinois and Missouri firearm blaze-orange safety requirements from
October 1 to January 31.
* * * * *
C. * * *
1. Conditions A1, A2, and B1 apply. Condition A4 applies only to
wild turkey.
2. On the Harlow, Crains, and Meissner Island Divisions, you may
only use archery equipment to harvest white-tailed deer.
* * * * *
D. * * *
4. You must remove all fishing devices (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter) at the end of each day's fishing.
* * * * *
Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge
Refer to Sec. 32.34 (Iowa) for regulations regarding Iowa River
Corridor Lands.
* * * * *
B. * * *
2. Condition A3 applies to upland game, including wild turkey. We
allow shotgun slug or muzzleloading rifle for hunting coyotes.
3. We allow only squirrel hunting on the Keithsburg Division from
the beginning of the State season to September 15. We prohibit hunting
of any other upland game on the Keithsburg Division.
4. We allow hunting on the Horseshoe Bend Division from September 1
until
[[Page 68898]]
September 15, and December 1 until February 28. We allow spring turkey
hunting.
5. We allow hunting on the Big Timber Division from September 1
until February 28. We allow spring turkey hunting.
* * * * *
0
12. Amend Sec. 32.33, the entry for Patoka River National Wildlife
Refuge and Management Area, by:
0
a. Adding paragraph A.9; and
0
b. Revising paragraphs B.1, B.3, and C.6.
The addition and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.33 Indiana.
* * * * *
Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge and Management Area
A. * * *
9. We prohibit the use of trail and game cameras on the refuge.
B. * * *
1. You must register to hunt furbearers at the refuge office,
record the number of furbearers harvested on the Upland Game Hunt
Report (FWS Form 3-2362), and return the completed form to the refuge
office after the hunting season.
* * * * *
3. Conditions A7 through A9 apply.
C. * * *
6. Conditions A6 through A9 apply. Condition A8 applies only to
wild turkey.
* * * * *
0
13. Amend Sec. 32.34 by:
0
a. Revising the entry for Iowa Wetland Management District; and
0
b. Adding introductory text to the entry for Port Louisa National
Wildlife Refuge.
The addition and revision read as follows:
Sec. 32.34 Iowa.
* * * * *
Iowa Wetland Management District
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game
birds throughout the district in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. For hunting, you may possess only approved nontoxic shot shells
while in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey
(see Sec. 32.2(k)).
2. We prohibit leaving boats, decoys, or other personal property
unattended at any time. You must remove all personal property, which
includes boats, decoys, and blinds, brought onto the district at the
end of each day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
3. We allow boats or other floating devices. We restrict all
watercraft motors to 15 horsepower (11.2 kW) or less.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow upland game hunting throughout the
district in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following condition: Conditions A1 and A2 apply.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow big game hunting throughout the
district in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. You may leave tree stands in an area for a continuous period of
time beginning 7 days prior to the open season for hunting deer and
ending 7 days after the final day of that season. You must clearly mark
the stand with your name or Iowa hunting license number.
2. You do not have exclusive use of the tree stand when unattended
or exclusive use of the tree stand site.
3. We prohibit driving nails, screws, spikes, or other metal
objects into a tree (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing throughout the district in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. Condition A3 applies.
2. You must remove all ice fishing shelters and other personal
property at the end of each day's fishing (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter).
* * * * *
Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge
Refer to Sec. 32.32 (Illinois) for Port Louisa National Wildlife
Refuge fee title lands.
* * * * *
0
14. Amend Sec. 32.35 by:
0
a. Under the entry Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Redesignating paragraphs A.1 through A.9 as A.2 through A.10,
respectively;
0
ii. Adding a new paragraph A.1;
0
iii. Revising newly redesignated paragraph A.10;
0
iv. Revising paragraphs B.1 and C.6; and
0
v. Adding paragraph C.7;
0
b. Under the entry Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Removing paragraph A.8;
0
ii. Redesignating paragraphs A.9 through A.12 as A.8 through A.11,
respectively;
0
iii. Removing paragraph B.3;
0
iv. Redesignating paragraphs B.4 through B.6 as B.3 through B.5,
respectively;
0
v. Revising newly redesignated paragraph B.5; and
0
vi. Revising paragraphs C.9 and D.9; and
0
c. Under the entry Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Redesignating paragraphs A.1 through A.4 as A.2 through A.5,
respectively;
0
ii. Adding a new paragraph A.1;
0
iii. Revising paragraphs B.1, B.4, and C.1;
0
iv. Adding paragraphs C.4 and C.5; and
0
v. Revising paragraph D.
The revisions and additions read as follows:
Sec. 32.35 Kansas.
* * * * *
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
1. You must possess and carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed
brochure) when hunting.
* * * * *
10. We allow crow hunting on designated areas of the refuge subject
to the following conditions:
i. We prohibit the use of centerfire rifles and pistols for hunting
on the refuge.
ii. We close hunting areas on the north side of the Neosho River to
all hunting from November 1 through March 1.
iii. Conditions A1, A3, A4, A7, and A8 apply.
B. * * *
1. Conditions A1, A3, A7, and A8 apply.
* * * * *
C. * * *
6. We prohibit the use of electronic or photographic trail-
monitoring devices.
7. Conditions A1, A3, A7, A8, B3 and B4 apply.
* * * * *
Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. * * *
5. Conditions A1, A8, A9, A10, and A11 apply.
C. * * *
9. Conditions A8 through A11 apply.
D. * * *
9. Conditions A8 through A11 apply.
Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
1. You must possess and carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed
brochure) when hunting.
* * * * *
B. * * *
1. Conditions A1 and A3 apply.
* * * * *
4. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot for hunting (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
[[Page 68899]]
C. * * *
1. Conditions A1, A3, A4, A5, and B2 apply.
* * * * *
4. We prohibit the use of electronic or photographic trail
monitoring devices.
5. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot for turkey hunting
(see Sec. 32.2(k)).
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following condition: Condition A2 applies.
* * * * *
0
15. Amend Sec. 32.36, the entry for Clarks River National Wildlife
Refuge, by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A.5, A.6, A.9, A.12, A.17, A.18, and A.19;
0
b. Removing paragraph A.20; and
0
c. Revising paragraphs C.2 and C.5.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.36 Kentucky.
* * * * *
Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
5. You must possess and carry a signed refuge permit (signed
brochure) while hunting and/or fishing on the refuge.
6. To retrieve or track game from a posted closed area of the
refuge, you must first receive authorization from the refuge manager at
270-527-5770 or the law enforcement officer at 270-703-2836.
* * * * *
9. We prohibit discharge of firearms on or within 200 feet (90
meters) of any home, the abandoned railroad tracks, graveled roads, and
hiking trails.
* * * * *
12. We allow trail cameras. Cameras may be used year-round. Cameras
must have the owner's name, address, and phone number clearly displayed
or they may be confiscated.
* * * * *
17. By 12 p.m. (noon) during the Statewide waterfowl season: you
must cease hunting; unload firearms used for waterfowl hunting (see
Sec. 27.42(b) of this chapter); remove decoys, blinds, boats, and all
other equipment (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter); and be out of the
field daily.
18. We close to all entry of, as posted, the Clarks River Waterfowl
Units from November 1 through March 31, with the exception of drawn
permit holders (name/address/phone) and their guests.
19. We only allow waterfowl hunting on the Clarks River Waterfowl
Units on specified days during the State waterfowl season. We only
allow hunting by individuals in possession of a drawn permit and their
guests. State regulations and the following conditions apply:
i. Application procedures and eligibility requirements are
available from the refuge office.
ii. We allow drawn permit holders and up to four guests to hunt
their assigned zone and/or provided blind on the designated date. We
prohibit guests on the Clarks River Waterfowl Units without the
attendance of the drawn permit holder.
iii. We prohibit selling, trading, or bartering of drawn permits.
These permits are nontransferable.
iv. You may place decoys out the first morning of the drawn hunt,
and you must remove them at the close of the drawn hunt (see Sec.
27.93 of this chapter).
v. We prohibit watercraft on the Clarks River Waterfowl Units,
except for drawn permit holders to access their blinds and retrieve
downed birds as needed.
* * * * *
C. * * *
2. We only allow the use of portable and climbing stands. You may
place stands in the field no earlier than 2 weeks prior to the opening
of deer season, and you must remove them from the field within 1 week
after the season closes (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this
chapter). The hunter's name, address, and phone number must appear on
all stands left in the field.
* * * * *
5. Ground blinds used for the purpose of hunting any species during
the deer modern gun, muzzleloader, and youth firearms seasons must
display one square foot (144 square inches) of solid, unbroken, hunter
orange visible from all sides. You must remove ground blinds when not
in use.
* * * * *
0
16. Amend Sec. 32.37 by:
0
a. Revising the entry for Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Under the entry Bayou Cocodrie National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraph A;
0
ii. Revising paragraphs B.3, B.5, and B.6;
0
iii. Revising paragraphs C.2, C.3, C.4, and C.5;
0
iv. Redesignating paragraphs C.11 and C.12 as C.12 and C.13,
respectively;
0
v. Adding a new paragraph C.11;
0
vi. Revising newly redesignated paragraph C.13; and
0
vii. Revising paragraph D;
0
c. Revising paragraph C.1 under the entry Bayou Teche National Wildlife
Refuge;
0
d. Revising paragraphs A.15 and B.1 under the entry Big Branch Marsh
National Wildlife Refuge;
0
e. Under the entry Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A, B, and C;
0
ii. Removing paragraph D.8; and
0
iii. Redesignating paragraph D.9 as D.8;
0
f. Revising paragraphs A.7, A.11, and C.8 under the entry Bogue Chitto
National Wildlife Refuge;
0
g. Under the entry Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A, B.3, C.3, C.4, C.7, and C.8;
0
ii. Redesignating paragraphs C.9 and C.10 as C.10 and C.11,
respectively;
0
iii. Adding a new paragraph C.9; and
0
iv. Revising paragraph D.8;
0
h. Revising paragraphs A, B, C, D.1, and D.3 under the entry D'Arbonne
National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
i. Revising paragraphs A, B, C, D.2, and D.4 under the entry Upper
Ouachita National Wildlife Refuge.
The additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.37 Louisiana.
* * * * *
Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of migratory game
birds on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Hunting must be in accordance with State-issued Sherburne
Wildlife Management Area regulations.
2. Feral hogs are incidental take species. You may take feral hog
during any open hunting season, only with the weapon allowed for that
season, and only if you are a hunter with proper licenses and State
permits for that season. There is no bag limit on feral hog.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of upland game on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions: A1 and A2 apply.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions: A1 and A2 apply.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow finfishing and shellfishing year-round
in accordance with Sherburne Wildlife Management Area regulations and
subject to the following condition: We prohibit all commercial
finfishing and shellfishing without a Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-
1383-C).
[[Page 68900]]
Bayou Cocodrie National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose,
coot, and woodcock on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with
State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. We require that all hunters and anglers age 16 and older
purchase an annual public use permit (name/address/telephone number).
We waive the fee for individuals age 60 and older. You must sign the
permit, certifying that you understand and will comply with all
regulations. You must carry this permit at all times while on the
refuge.
2. We allow migratory game bird hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays,
and Sundays until 12 p.m. (noon) during the State season. We do not
open for the special teal season or the State youth waterfowl hunt.
3. We prohibit hunting within 150 feet (45 meters) of the
maintained rights-of-way of roads, refuge roads or designated trails,
buildings, residences, or designated public facilities.
4. You must remove harvested waterfowl, temporary blinds, and
decoys (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) used for duck hunting by 1
p.m. daily.
5. We only allow dogs to locate, point, and retrieve when hunting
for migratory game birds.
6. While hunting, all persons age 16 or younger must be in the
presence and under direct supervision of a licensed or exempt hunter
age 18 or older.
7. We prohibit any person or group to act as a hunting guide,
outfitter, or in any other capacity that any other individual(s) pays
or promises to pay directly or indirectly for services rendered to any
other person or persons hunting on the refuge, regardless of whether
the payment is for guiding, outfitting, lodging, or club membership.
8. We prohibit use or possession of any type of trail-marking
material.
9. Coyote, beaver, feral hog, and raccoon are incidental take
species and you may take them during any open hunting season only with
the weapon allowed for that season if you are a hunter having the
required licenses and permits. There is no bag limit on coyote, feral
hog, and beaver. State regulations apply on other incidental species.
10. You must check all game taken on the refuge before leaving the
refuge at one of the self-clearing check stations indicated on the map
in the refuge Hunting and Fishing Regulations Brochure.
11. We allow all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility vehicles in
accordance with State Wildlife Management Area (WMA) regulations and
size specifications on designated trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this
chapter) from scouting season until February 28. An ATV is an off-road
vehicle with factory specifications not to exceed the following: Weight
750 pounds (337.5 kilograms), length 85 inches (212.5 centimeters
(cm)), and width 48 inches (120 cm). We restrict ATV tires to those no
larger than 26 inches (66 cm) by 12 inches (30.5 cm) with a maximum 1-
inch (2.5-cm) lug height and a maximum allowable tire pressure of 7 psi
(48 kPa) as indicated on the tire by the manufacturer.
12. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting on
the refuge (see Sec. 32.2(k)). This requirement only applies to the
use of shotgun ammunition.
13. You must obtain a daily use reporting card (one per person) and
place it on the dashboard of your vehicle or in your boat so that your
personal information (name/city/State/zip code) is readable and in
plain view. You must complete all the information requested (name/
address/phone number) and return the cards to the refuge kiosk/check
stations upon departure from the refuge.
14. You may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m. and must exit
the refuge by 2 hours after legal sunset except that raccoon and
opossum hunters during the month of February may use the refuge at
night.
15. Waterfowl hunters are allowed no more than 25 shotshells per
person.
B. * * *
3. We allow the use of dogs to hunt squirrel and rabbit during that
portion of the season designated as small game with dogs. We list
specific season dates in the refuge brochure.
* * * * *
5. You may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m. and must exit
the refuge by 2 hours after legal sunset.
6. While hunting, all persons age 16 and younger must be in the
presence and under direct supervision of a licensed or exempt hunter
age 18 or older.
C. * * *
2. The bag limit is one deer per day. The State tagging regulations
apply.
3. You must check all deer on the same day taken during lottery
deer hunts at the nearest refuge check station.
4. You must wear a minimum of 500 square inches (3,226 square
centimeters) of unbroken hunter orange as the outermost layer of
clothing on the chest and back, and a hat or cap of unbroken hunter
orange. You must wear the solid-hunter-orange items while in the field.
5. You may place stands up to 2 days prior to established hunting
season dates. You must remove stands by 2 days after the hunting season
closes. You must mark your name and phone number on your stand. You are
allowed one portable stand or blind on the refuge.
* * * * *
11. We prohibit the use of trail cameras.
* * * * *
13. There is an application fee per person for the lottery gun hunt
application (name/address/phone number). We waive the fee for youth and
special access applications.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on the refuge in accordance with
State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A11 through A15 apply.
2. We prohibit commercial fishing.
3. We prohibit the taking of alligator snapping turtle (see Sec.
27.21 of this chapter).
4. We only allow fishing during daylight hours.
5. The refuge boat ramp is open for daylight use only, except
during specified hunting seasons when the ramp is open from 4 a.m.
until 2 hours after legal sunset.
6. We prohibit wire traps, slat traps, wire nets, hoop nets,
trotlines, yo-yos, and jug lines on the refuge.
* * * * *
Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. * * *
1. We allow hunting of deer only with firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of
this chapter) during 5 specific days during October and November. A
youth gun hunt will occur during the last weekend of October. The
general gun hunt will occur during the final full weekend in November.
The youth gun hunt includes both Saturday and Sunday. The general gun
hunt includes the Friday immediately before the weekend.
* * * * *
Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
15. We prohibit all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility-type
vehicles (UTVs).
* * * * *
B. * * *
1. We allow upland game hunting during the open State season. When
hunting, you may possess only approved nontoxic shot (see Sec. 32.2(k)
of this chapter), shot size 4 or smaller, or 0.22 caliber rimfire
rifles or smaller.
* * * * *
[[Page 68901]]
Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of certain species
of migratory birds on designated areas of the refuge as indicated in
the annual Public Use Regulations brochure in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. You must carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed Public Use
Regulations brochure) and must carry and fill out daily a Visitor
Check-In Permit and Report (FWS Form 3-2405).
2. We allow migratory bird hunting on designated areas as indicated
in the annual Public Use Regulations brochure.
3. We allow waterfowl hunting until 12 p.m. (noon) during the State
season.
4. We prohibit accessing the hunting area by boat from Black Bayou
Lake.
5. You may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m.
6. We prohibit hunting within 100 feet (30 meters) of the
maintained right-of-way of roads and from or across all-terrain vehicle
(ATV) trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter). We prohibit hunting
within 50 feet (15 meters), or trespassing on above-ground oil, gas, or
electrical transmission facilities.
7. We prohibit leaving boats, blinds, and decoys overnight.
8. We only allow hunting dogs to locate, point, and retrieve when
hunting migratory game birds.
9. Youths are generally defined as those individuals age 17 or
younger, except that for migratory bird hunts youth are defined as age
15 or younger. Youths younger than age 16 may hunt without hunter-
education certification if they are accompanied by and under direct
supervision of a person born before September 1, 1969, who has a valid
hunting license or if they are accompanied by and under the direct
supervision of a person who is age 18 or older and has proof of
successful completion of a hunter-education course approved by
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Direct supervision
means that the person being supervised is within a normal audible voice
contact and in direct line of sight of the supervising person at all
times while hunting. The supervising adult is responsible for ensuring
that youth hunters do not violate refuge regulations.
10. We prohibit any person or group to act as a hunting guide,
outfitter, or in any other capacity that any other individual(s) pays
or promises to pay directly or indirectly for services rendered to any
other person or persons hunting on the refuge, regardless of whether
the payment is for guiding, outfitting, lodging, or club membership.
11. We only allow ATVs on trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter)
designated for their use and marked by signs. ATV trails are closed
March 1 through August 31. An ATV is an off-road vehicle with factory
specifications not to exceed the following: Weight 750 lbs. (337.5
kilograms), length 85 inches (212.5 centimeters (cm)), and width 48
inches (120 cm). We restrict ATV tires to those no larger than 25
inches by 12 inches (62.5 cm by 30 cm) with a maximum of 1-inch (2.5-
cm) lug height and a maximum allowable tire pressure of 7 psi (48 kPa)
as indicated on the tire by the manufacturer.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of certain species of
upland game on designated areas of the refuge as indicated in the
annual Public Use Regulations brochure and in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A4, A6, A9, A10, and A11 apply.
2. Specific open dates and open areas to small game hunting will
appear in the annual Public Use Regulations brochure.
3. We prohibit taking small game with firearms larger than .22
caliber rimfire, shotgun slugs, and buckshot.
4. You may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m. and must exit no
later than 1 hour after legal shooting hours end.
5. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot (see Sec. 32.2(k))
while hunting on the refuge. This requirement only applies to the use
of shotgun ammunition.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow archery hunting of white-tailed deer
on designated areas of the refuge as indicated in the annual Public Use
Regulations brochure in accordance with State regulations and subject
to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A4, A6, A9, A10, A11, and B4 apply.
2. Specific open dates and open areas will appear in the annual
Public Use Regulations brochure.
3. We prohibit gun deer hunting.
4. The daily bag limit is one deer of either sex. The State season
limit applies.
5. We prohibit leaving deer stands, blinds, cameras, and other
equipment unattended.
6. An adult at least age 21 must supervise youth hunters under age
16 during all hunts. One adult may supervise two youths during small
game and migratory bird hunts but may supervise only one youth during
big game hunts. Youth must remain within normal voice contact of the
adult who is supervising them. Parents or adult guardians are
responsible for ensuring that hunters under age 16 do not violate
refuge regulations.
7. We prohibit possession or distribution of bait or hunting with
the aid of bait, including any grain, salt, minerals, or other feed or
any nonnaturally occurring attractant, on the refuge (see Sec.
32.2(h)).
* * * * *
Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
7. We prohibit hunting within 150 feet (45 meters) from the
centerline of any public road, refuge road, designated or maintained
trail, building, residence, designated public facility, or from or
across aboveground oil or gas or electric facilities. We prohibit
hunting in refuge-designated closed areas, which we post on the refuge
and identify in the refuge hunt permits (signed brochure).
* * * * *
11. We prohibit horses, trail cameras, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs),
and utility-type vehicles (UTVs).
* * * * *
C. * * *
8. You may take hog as incidental game while participating in the
refuge archery, primitive weapon, and general gun deer hunts and where
otherwise specified. We list specific dates for the special hog hunts
in January, February, and March in the refuge hunt permit (signed
brochure). During the special hog hunts in February, you must use
trained hog-hunting dogs to aid in the take of hog. During the special
hog hunts, you may take hog from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise until
\1/2\ hour after legal sunset. You may possess only approved nontoxic
shot or pistol or rifle ammunition not larger than .22 caliber rimfire
to take the hog after it has been caught by dogs. During the special
hog hunt in March, you may use any legal firearm. A8 applies during
special hog hunts in February.
* * * * *
Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose,
coot, and woodcock on designated areas of the refuge as shown on the
refuge hunt brochure map in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. We require that all hunters and anglers age 16 and older
purchase an annual public use permit (name/address/telephone number).
We waive the fee for hunters age 65 and older. The refuge user is
required to sign, certifying that you understand and will comply
[[Page 68902]]
with all regulations, and carry this permit at all times while on the
refuge.
2. You may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m. and must exit
the refuge by 2 hours after legal sunset.
3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting on the
refuge (see Sec. 32.2(k)). This requirement applies only to the use of
shotgun ammunition.
4. Waterfowl hunters may possess no more than 25 shotshells per
person.
5. While hunting, all persons age 17 or younger must be in the
presence and under direct supervision of a licensed or exempt hunter
age 18 or older.
6. We allow take of beaver, feral hog, nutria, raccoon, and coyote
incidental to any refuge hunt with weapons legal for that hunt until
you take the daily bag limit of game.
7. You must check all game (name) taken prior to leaving the refuge
at one of the self-clearing check stations indicated on the map in the
refuge public use brochure.
8. We allow all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility-type vehicle
(UTVs) in accordance with State Wildlife Management Area regulations
and size specifications on designated trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this
chapter) from scouting season until February 28. An ATV is an off-road
vehicle with factory specifications not to exceed the following: Weight
750 pounds (337.5 kilograms), length 85 inches (212.5 centimeters
(cm)), and width 48 inches (120 cm). We restrict ATV tires to those no
larger than 26 inches by 12 inches (66 cm by 30 cm) with a maximum 1-
inch (2.5-cm) lug height and a maximum allowable tire pressure of 7 psi
(48 kPa) as indicated on the tire by the manufacturer.
9. We prohibit hunting within 150 feet (45 meters) of any public
road, refuge road, trail or ATV trail, building, residence, or
designated public facility.
10. We prohibit the possession or use of any type of trail-marking
material.
11. We prohibit horses or mules.
12. We prohibit camping or overnight parking on the refuge.
13. We prohibit air-thrust boats on the refuge.
14. We prohibit all other hunting during refuge lottery deer hunts.
15. We allow waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and
Sundays until 12 p.m. (noon) during the designated State duck season.
16. You must remove harvested waterfowl, temporary blinds, and
decoys (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) used for duck hunting by 1
p.m. daily.
17. We allow dogs to only locate, point, and retrieve when hunting
for migratory game birds.
18. We prohibit accessing refuge property by boat from the
Mississippi River.
19. We prohibit trapping.
20. We prohibit the possession of saws, saw blades, or machetes.
21. We prohibit the use or possession of alcohol while hunting (see
Sec. 32.2(j)).
22. We prohibit all commercial activities (including, but not
limited to, guiding).
B. * * *
3. We allow the use of squirrel and rabbit dogs during designated
small game with dog seasons. We allow up to two dogs per hunting party
for squirrel hunting.
* * * * *
C. * * *
3. There is no application fee per person for each lottery hunt
application (name/address/phone number).
4. You may place stands up to 2 days prior to established hunting
season dates, and you must remove them no more than 2 days after the
hunting season closes. You must mark your name and phone number on your
stand. You are allowed one portable stand or blind on the refuge.
* * * * *
7. You must wear a minimum of 500 square inches (3,226 square
centimeters) of unbroken-hunter orange as the outermost layer of
clothing on the chest and back, and a hat or cap of unbroken-hunter
orange.
8. We prohibit nailing deer stands or steps to trees. We prohibit
attaching any blind or stand to a tree by using any metal object
inserted into the tree.
9. We prohibit the use of trail cameras.
* * * * *
D. * * *
8. We prohibit boat launching by trailer from all refuge roads and
parking lots except at designated boat ramps.
* * * * *
D'Arbonne National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of certain species
of migratory birds on designated areas of the refuge as indicated in
the annual Public Use Regulations brochure in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. You must carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed Public Use
Regulations brochure) and must carry and fill out daily a Visitor
Check-In Permit and Report (FWS Form 3-2405).
2. We allow migratory game bird hunting on designated areas as
indicated in the annual Public Use Regulations brochure.
3. We allow waterfowl hunting until 12 p.m. (noon) during the State
season.
4. You may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m.
5. We prohibit hunting within 100 feet (30 meters (m)) of the
maintained rights-of-way of roads. We prohibit hunting within 50 feet
(15 m) or trespassing on above-ground oil, gas, or electrical
transmission facilities.
6. We prohibit leaving boats, blinds, and decoys overnight.
7. We only allow hunting dogs to locate, point, and retrieve when
hunting migratory game birds.
8. Youths are generally defined as those individuals age 17 or
younger, except that for migratory bird hunts youth are defined as age
15 or younger. Youths younger than age 16 may hunt without hunter-
education certification if they are accompanied by and under direct
supervision of a person born before September 1, 1969, who has a valid
hunting license or if they are accompanied by and under the direct
supervision of a person who is age 18 or older and has proof of
successful completion of a hunter-education course approved by
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Direct supervision
means that the person being supervised is within a normal audible voice
contact and in direct line of sight of the supervising person at all
times while hunting. The supervising adult is responsible for ensuring
that youth hunters do not violate refuge regulations.
9. We prohibit any person or group to act as a hunting guide,
outfitter, or in any other capacity that any other individual(s) pays
or promises to pay directly or indirectly for services rendered to any
other person or persons hunting on the refuge, regardless of whether
the payment is for guiding, outfitting, lodging, or club membership.
10. We prohibit motorized boats in the No Gun Hunting Area (the
``Beanfield'') from November 1 through January 31.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of certain species of
upland game on designated areas of the refuge as indicated in the
annual Public Use Regulations brochure in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A5, A8, A9, and A10 apply.
2. Specific open dates and open areas to small game hunting will
appear in the annual Public Use Regulations brochure.
3. We prohibit taking small game with firearms larger than .22
caliber rimfire, shotgun slugs, and buckshot.
4. You may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m. and must exit no
later than 2 hours after legal shooting hours.
[[Page 68903]]
5. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot for hunting (see
Sec. 32.2(k)). This requirement only applies to the use of shotgun
ammunition.
6. We allow hunting dogs only to locate, point, and retrieve when
hunting for upland game species.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on
designated areas of the refuge as indicated in the annual Public Use
Regulations brochure in accordance with State regulations and subject
to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A5, A8, A9, A10, and B4 apply.
2. Specific open dates and open areas will appear in the annual
Public Use Regulations brochure.
3. You must check all deer taken during general Gun Deer Hunts at a
refuge check station on the same day taken.
4. We prohibit leaving deer stands, blinds, cameras, and other
equipment unattended.
5. Deer hunters must wear hunter orange in accordance with State
deer hunting regulations in Wildlife Management areas.
6. We prohibit hunters from placing or hunting from stands on pine
trees with white-painted bands or rings.
7. We prohibit possession or distribution of bait or hunting with
the aid of bait, including any grain, salt, minerals, or other feed or
any nonnaturally occurring attractant, on the refuge (see Sec.
32.2(h)).
8. We prohibit the hunting of big game species with dogs.
D. * * *
1. We prohibit leaving boats and other personal property on the
refuge overnight.
* * * * *
3. We prohibit commercial fishing. For recreational fishing using
commercial gear (slat traps, etc.) we require you to carry a Special
Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383-G), which is available at the refuge
office.
* * * * *
Upper Ouachita National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of certain species
of migratory birds on designated areas of the refuge as indicated in
the annual Public Use Regulations brochure in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. You must carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed Public Use
Regulations brochure) and must carry and fill out daily a Visitor
Check-In Permit and Report (FWS Form 3-2405).
2. We allow migratory game bird hunting on designated areas as
indicated in the annual Public Use Regulations brochure.
3. We allow waterfowl hunting until 12 p.m. (noon) during the State
season.
4. You may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m.
5. We prohibit hunting within 100 feet (30 meters (m)) of the
maintained rights-of-way of roads and from or across all-terrain
vehicle (ATV) trails. We prohibit hunting within 50 feet (15 m), or
trespassing on aboveground oil, gas, or electrical transmission
facilities.
6. We prohibit leaving boats, blinds, and decoys overnight.
7. We only allow hunting dogs to locate, point, and retrieve when
hunting migratory game birds.
8. Youths are generally defined as those individuals age 17 or
younger; for migratory bird hunts youth are defined as age 15 or
younger. Youths younger than age 16 may hunt without hunter-education
certification if they are accompanied by and under direct supervision
of a person born before September 1, 1969, who has a valid hunting
license or if they are accompanied by and under the direct supervision
of a person who is age 18 or older and has proof of successful
completion of a hunter-education course approved by Louisiana
Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Direct supervision means that the
person being supervised is within a normal audible voice contact and in
direct line of sight of the supervising person at all times while
hunting. The supervising adult is responsible for ensuring that youth
hunters do not violate refuge regulations.
9. We prohibit any person or group to act as a hunting guide or
outfitter, or in any other capacity that receives payment directly or
indirectly for services rendered to any other person or persons hunting
on the refuge, regardless of whether the payment is for guiding,
outfitting, lodging, or club membership.
10. We allow ATVs only on trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter)
designated for their use and marked by signs. ATV trails are closed
March 1 through August 31. An ATV is an off-road vehicle with factory
specifications not to exceed the following: Weight 750 lbs. (337.5
kilograms), length 85 inches (212.5 centimeters (cm)), and width 48
inches (120 cm). We restrict ATV tires to those no larger than 25
inches by 12 inches (62.5 cm by 30 cm) with a maximum of 1-inch (2.5-
cm) lug height and a maximum allowable tire pressure of 7 psi (48 kPa)
as indicated on the tire by the manufacturer.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of certain species of
upland game on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A5, A8, A9, and A10 apply.
2. Specific open dates and open areas to hunt small game will
appear in the annual Public Use Regulations brochure.
3. We prohibit taking small game with firearms larger than .22
caliber rimfire, shotgun slugs, and buckshot.
4. You may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m. and must exit no
later than 2 hours after legal shooting hours.
5. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot for hunting (see
Sec. 32.2(k)). This requirement only applies to the use of shotgun
ammunition.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of certain species of big
game on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A5, A8, A9, A10, and B4 apply.
2. Specific open dates and open areas will appear in the Annual
Public Use Regulations Brochure.
3. We prohibit leaving deer stands, blinds, cameras, and other
equipment unattended.
4. Deer hunters must wear hunter orange in accordance with State
deer hunting regulations in Wildlife Management Areas.
5. We prohibit hunters from placing stands or hunting from stands
on pine trees with white-painted bands and/or rings.
6. We prohibit possession or distribution of bait or hunting with
the aid of bait, including any grain, salt, minerals, or other feed or
nonnaturally occurring attractant, on the refuge (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
7. We prohibit the use of dogs for hog hunting.
D. * * *
2. We prohibit outboard motors in the Wigeon Ponds (only trolling
motors allowed).
* * * * *
4. We prohibit leaving boats and other personal property on the
refuge overnight (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
* * * * *
0
17. Amend Sec. 32.38 by:
0
a. Revising paragraph C.15 under the entry Moosehorn National Wildlife
Refuge; and
0
b. Revising paragraphs B.3 and C.3 under the entry Umbagog National
Wildlife Refuge.
The revisions read as follows:
[[Page 68904]]
Sec. 32.38 Maine.
* * * * *
Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. * * *
15. We prohibit hunting in the following areas:
i. The South Magurrewock Area: The boundary of this area begins at
the intersection of the Charlotte Road and U.S. Route 1; it follows the
Charlotte Road in a southerly direction to a point just south of the
fishing pier and observation blind, where it turns in an easterly
direction, crossing the East Branch of the Magurrewock Stream, and
proceeds in a northerly direction along the upland edge of the Upper
and Middle Magurrewock Marshes to U.S. Route 1 where it follows Route 1
in a southerly direction to the point of origin.
ii. The North Magurrewock Area: The boundary of this area begins
where the northern exterior boundary of the refuge and Route 1
intersect; it follows the boundary line in a westerly direction to the
railroad grade where it follows the main railroad grade and refuge
boundary in a southwest direction to the upland edge of the Lower Barn
Meadow Marsh; then it follows the upland edge of the marsh in a
southerly direction to U.S. Route 1 where it follows Route 1 to the
point of origin.
iii. The posted safety zone around the refuge headquarters: The
boundary of this area starts where the snowmobile trail intersects with
Charlotte Road. The boundary follows the southern edge of the field,
across the abandoned Maine Central Railroad grade, where it follows the
snowmobile trail in a northwesterly direction to Barn Meadow Road. It
proceeds across Barn Meadow Road to the South Fireline, where it
follows the South Fireline to the Headquarters Road. It follows the
Headquarters Road in a southerly direction to Two Mile Meadow Road. It
follows the westerly side of Two Mile Meadow Road to the intersection
with Mile Bridge Road. It then follows Mile Bridge Road to the
intersection with Hanson Pit Road, then along Hanson Pit Road leaving
the road in an easterly direction at the site of the old crossing,
across the abandoned Maine Central Railroad grade to Charlotte Road
(directly across from the Moosehorn Ridge Road gate). The line follows
Charlotte Road in a northerly direction to the point of origin.
iv. The Southern Gravel Pit: The boundary of this area starts at a
point where Cranberry Brook crosses the Charlotte Road and proceeds
south along the Charlotte Road to the Baring/Charlotte Town Line, east
along the Town Line to a point where it intersects the railroad grade
where it turns in a northerly direction, and follows the railroad grade
to Cranberry Brook, following Cranberry Brook in a westerly direction
to the point of origin.
* * * * *
Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. * * *
3. We open the refuge to hunting during the hours stipulated under
State hunting regulations. You must unload all hunting firearms (see
Sec. 27.42 of this chapter) and nock no arrows outside of legal
hunting hours.
* * * * *
C. * * *
3. We allow prehunt scouting of the refuge; however, we prohibit
dogs and hunting firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter) during
prehunt scouting.
* * * * *
0
18. Amend Sec. 32.39 by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A.1, A.3, and C.13 under the entry Blackwater
National Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Revising paragraph C.12 under the entry Eastern Neck National
Wildlife Refuge; and
0
c. Under the entry Patuxent Research Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.12, B.2, C.6, C.7, and C.8;
0
ii. Removing paragraph C.16;
0
iii. Redesignating paragraphs C.17 through C.20 as C.16 through C.19,
respectively;
0
iv. Revising newly redesignated paragraphs C.17, C.18, and C.19; and
0
v. Revising paragraphs D.15.iv and D.15.v.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.39 Maryland.
* * * * *
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
1. We require you to obtain a refuge waterfowl hunting permit using
the Waterfowl Lottery Application (FWS Form 3-2355) or a signed refuge
permit (signed brochure) while hunting on refuge property.
* * * * *
3. We allow only hunters possessing a valid refuge waterfowl
hunting permit issued by the refuge to participate in the waterfowl
hunt during designated days.
* * * * *
C. * * *
13. Disabled persons may have an assistant during the hunt in
designated areas of the refuge. Persons assisting disabled hunters must
be at least age 18 and obey all refuge, State, and Federal laws and
regulations. Non-hunting assistants assisting disabled hunters must not
be afield with a hunting firearm, bow, or other hunting device.
Assistants who wish to hunt must abide by the conditions in C1 and C3.
Assistants may not enter a designated disabled hunting area unless they
are accompanied by a certified disabled hunter. All refuge-provided
hunt blinds are reserved for disabled hunters only; however, when a
certified disabled hunter and their assistant occupy the same blind,
both may take game.
* * * * *
Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. * * *
12. Disabled persons may have an assistant during the hunt on
designated areas of the refuge. Persons assisting disabled hunters must
be at least age 18 and obey all refuge, State, and Federal laws and
regulations. Non-hunting assistants assisting disabled hunters must not
be afield with a hunting firearm, bow, or other hunting device.
Assistants who wish to hunt must abide by the conditions in C1 and C3.
Assistants participating in a disabled hunt must be accompanied by a
hunter certified by the State as being disabled.
* * * * *
Patuxent Research Refuge
A. * * *
12. Goose, duck, and dove hunting is suspended during the
muzzleloader and firearms seasons, with the exceptions that waterfowl
hunting will remain open during the 2-day January firearms season,
during the early muzzleloader season, and waterfowl hunters are
restricted to hunting only Blue Heron Pond, Lake Allen, and Area Z.
* * * * *
B. * * *
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting in the
field (see Sec. 32.2(k)), except for the use of .22-caliber rimfire
rifles during the months of December and January only to hunt squirrel.
* * * * *
C. * * *
6. We require turkey hunters to pattern their hunting weapons prior
to going afield. Contact refuge headquarters for more information.
7. Prior to issuing a hunt permit, we require you to pass a yearly
proficiency test with each hunting weapon used. See A1 for issuing
information.
8. We only allow the use of a hunting shotgun, muzzleloader, or bow
and
[[Page 68905]]
arrow according to refuge hunting regulations.
* * * * *
17. North Tract: We allow shotgun, muzzleloader, and bow hunting in
accordance with the following: Conditions C1 through C16 apply.
18. Central Tract: Headquarters/Mills Race (MR) Lottery Hunt: We
only allow shotgun and bow hunting in accordance with the following:
Conditions C1 through C15 apply (except C8).
19. South Tract: We allow shotgun, muzzleloader, and bow hunting in
accordance with the following: Conditions C1 through C16 apply.
D. * * *
15. * * *
iv. Anglers may fish from April 1 until mid-October, as posted. We
also reserve the right to close Cash Lake at any time.
v. We allow fishing from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
* * * * *
0
19. Amend Sec. 32.40 by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A.4, A.5, A.9, C.9, and D.1 under the entry
Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Revising paragraphs A.5, A.10, and C.8 under the entry Great Meadows
National Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Revising paragraphs D.1 and D.3 under the entry Nantucket National
Wildlife Refuge; and
0
d. Revising the heading of paragraph A, and paragraphs A.6, A.11, C.7,
and C.9 under the entry Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.40 Massachusetts.
* * * * *
Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
4. We prohibit use of motorized vehicles on the refuge. The refuge
will provide designated parking areas for hunters. You must display
issued hunter parking permits (generated from the Migratory Bird Hunt
Application, FWS Form 3-2357) on their dashboards when parked in
designated hunter parking areas.
5. During any season when it is legal to hunt deer with a shotgun
or muzzleloader, we require all hunters, including archers and small
game hunters, to wear a minimum of 500 square inches (3,226 square
centimeters) of solid-orange clothing or material in a conspicuous
manner on their chest, back, and head. During all other times, if you
are engaged in woodcock hunting on the refuge, you must wear a minimum
of a solid-orange hat.
* * * * *
9. You may begin scouting hunting areas 1 month prior to the
opening day of your permitted season. We require possession of refuge
permits (Migratory Bird Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2357) while
scouting.
* * * * *
C. * * *
9. We prohibit construction or use of permanent structures while
hunting.
* * * * *
D. * * *
1. We allow fishing from designated locations on the banks of
Puffer Pond. We prohibit the use of motorized and non-motorized boats
on Puffer Pond.
* * * * *
Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
5. We prohibit use of motorized vehicles on the refuge. The refuge
will provide designated parking areas for hunters. You must display
issued hunter parking permits (generated from the Migratory Bird Hunt
Application, FWS Form 3-2357) on their dashboards when parked in
designated hunter parking areas.
* * * * *
10. You may begin scouting hunting areas beginning 1 month prior to
the opening day of your permitted season. We require possession of
refuge permits (FWS Form 3-2357) while scouting. We prohibit the use of
dogs during scouting.
* * * * *
C. * * *
8. We prohibit construction or use of permanent structures while
hunting.
* * * * *
Nantucket National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. * * *
1. We reserve the right to close the refuge shoreline and beach
area to surf fishing and over-sand vehicle use during the period of
April 1 through mid-September annually, based on biological needs and
beach conditions. Seasonal closures are delineated with posted signs. A
portion of the northernmost area of the shoreline, commonly referred to
as the point, is posted closed from April 1 through mid-September.
* * * * *
3. We require a permit obtained from the Trustees of Reservations
for the use of over-sand, surf-fishing vehicles on the refuge.
* * * * *
Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
6. We prohibit use of motorized vehicles on the refuge. The refuge
will provide designated parking areas for hunters. You must display
issued hunter parking permits (generated from the Migratory Bird Hunt
Application, FWS Form 3-2357) on their dashboards when parked in
designated hunter parking areas.
* * * * *
11. You may begin scouting hunting areas 1 month prior to the
opening day of your permitted season. We require possession of refuge
permits while scouting. We prohibit the use of dogs during scouting.
* * * * *
C. * * *
7. You may use decoys to hunt turkey.
* * * * *
9. We prohibit construction or use of permanent structures while
hunting.
* * * * *
0
20. Amend Sec. 32.41, the entry for Detroit River International
Wildlife Refuge, by revising paragraphs A.4, B.1, B.2, and C to read as
follows:
Sec. 32.41 Michigan.
* * * * *
Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
4. For hunting, you may possess only approved nontoxic shot while
in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see
Sec. 32.2(k)). Discarded shells are considered litter.
* * * * *
B. * * *
1. Conditions A1, A2, A3, A5, A6, A7, A8, and A9 apply.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot (see Sec. 32.2(k))
while in the field with the following exception: While hunting fox,
coyotes, and raccoons in units where we allow it, you may use single
projectile shot such as bullets, slugs, or muzzleloader bullets
containing lead. We prohibit the use of buckshot for any hunting on the
refuge. Discarded shells are considered litter.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of deer and turkey on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A8, and A9 apply.
2. We prohibit the distribution of bait or hunting with the aid of
bait, salt, minerals, or other ingestible attractant (see Sec.
32.2(h)).
3. For deer hunting, you may use only single projectile shot. We
prohibit the use of buckshot for any hunting on the refuge. Discarded
shells are considered litter.
[[Page 68906]]
4. We allow portable tree stands for deer hunting.
5. We allow only one tree stand per hunter per refuge unit.
6. We do not require hunters to remove tree stands at the end of
each day's hunt, but we strictly enforce State rules on tree stands.
7. For Humbug Marsh Only:
i. You must obtain State-issued permits for this unit by entering
the Michigan Department of Natural Resources annual drawing.
ii. You must possess a valid State-issued permit for the date you
are hunting in the Humbug Marsh Unit.
iii. We will provide fixed hunting platforms and blinds for
selected hunters.
8. The Fix Unit is closed to firearm deer hunting. We allow only
archery deer hunting in the Fix Unit.
* * * * *
0
21. Amend Sec. 32.43 by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A, D.1, D.2, and D.8 under the entry Coldwater
River National Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Revising paragraphs A, B, C, D.1, D.2, and D.7 under the entry
Dahomey National Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Revising paragraphs A.2, A.3, A.13, and A.14 under the entry
Hillside National Wildlife Refuge;
0
d. Revising paragraphs B.2, B.3, and B.9 under the entry Holt Collier
National Wildlife Refuge;
0
e. Revising paragraphs A.2, A.3, and A.12 under the entry Mathews Brake
National Wildlife Refuge;
0
f. Revising paragraphs A.2, A.3, A.13, and A.14 under the entry Morgan
Brake National Wildlife Refuge;
0
g. Revising paragraphs A.2, A.3, and A.13 under the entry Panther Swamp
National Wildlife Refuge;
0
h. Revising the entry for Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife
Refuge;
0
i. Under the entry St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.1, A.9, A.11, A.12, and A.14;
0
ii. Revising paragraphs B.3.iii and B.6;
0
iii. Revising paragraphs C.3, C.4, C.7, and C.9;
0
iv. Adding paragraph C.13; and
0
v. Revising paragraph D introductory text and paragraphs D.1 and D.5;
0
j. Revising the entry for Tallahatchie National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
k. Revising paragraphs A.2, A.3, A.10, and A.13 under the entry Yazoo
National Wildlife Refuge.
The addition and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.43 Mississippi.
* * * * *
Coldwater River National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of migratory
waterfowl, coots, snipe, and woodcock on designated areas of the refuge
in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. All hunters must comply with all State hunter education
requirements. All hunters age 16 and older must possess and carry a
valid, signed refuge hunting permit (Visitor Check-In Permit and
Report, FWS Form 3-2405). While hunting on the refuge, all persons
younger than age 16 (``youth hunter'') must be in the presence and
under the direct supervision of a licensed or exempt hunter at least
age 21 (``licensed hunter''). A hunter supervising a youth hunter must
hold all required licenses and permits.
2. General refuge hours are legal sunrise to legal sunset. During
hunting season, hunters may enter the refuge at 4 a.m. and must exit
the refuge no later than 2 hours after legal sunset except during
raccoon and frog hunts.
3. We allow hunting of migratory game birds, including under the
Light Goose Conservation Order, only on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and
Sundays ending at 12 p.m. (noon).
4. Each hunter must obtain a daily Big Game Harvest Report (FWS
Form 3-2359), available at each refuge information station, and follow
the printed instructions on the card. You must display the card in
plain view on the dashboard of your vehicle so that the personal
information is readable. Prior to leaving the refuge, you must complete
the reverse side of the card and deposit it at one of the refuge
information stations. Include all game harvested, and if you harvest no
game, report ``0.'' We prohibit hunters possessing more than one Big
Game Harvest Report at a time.
5. We may close certain areas of the refuge for sanctuary or
administrative purposes. We will mark those areas with ``No Hunting''
or ``Area Closed'' signs.
6. We restrict motor vehicle use to roads designated as vehicle
access roads on the refuge map (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter). We
prohibit blocking access to any road or trail entering the refuge (see
Sec. 27.31(h) of this chapter). It is unlawful to hunt from or shoot
into the 100-foot (30.5-meter) zone along either side of designated
roads and parking lots.
7. During the refuge deer firearm season (to include primitive
weapons and youth gun hunt) all hunters and visitors on the refuge
except waterfowl hunters and nighttime raccoon hunters must wear in
full view a minimum of 500 square inches (3,226 square centimeters
(cm)) of solid, unbroken, fluorescent orange. Deer archery hunters on
the refuge must also wear in full view a minimum of 500 square inches
(3,226 square cm) of solid, unbroken, fluorescent orange when there is
a State gun season on private land. When hunting quail or rabbit on a
refuge outside the refuge's general gun and primitive weapon season,
hunters must wear a fluorescent orange vest or cap.
8. We only allow dogs on the refuge when specifically authorized
for hunting. We encourage the use of dogs to retrieve dead or wounded
waterfowl. Dogs must remain in the immediate control of their handlers
at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
9. You must remove decoys, blinds, boats, other personal property,
and litter (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter) from the
hunting area following each morning's hunt. We prohibit cutting or
removing trees and other vegetation (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
We prohibit the use of flagging, paint, blazes, tacks, or other types
of markers.
10. We prohibit all-terrain vehicles (ATVs, see Sec. 27.31(f) of
this chapter), horses, and mules on the refuge. We prohibit the
overnight storage of boats on the refuge.
11. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages while
hunting on the refuge (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
12. We prohibit all commercial activities, including guiding or
participating in a paid guided hunt.
13. We prohibit possession of bait in the field, placement of bait,
and hunting over bait (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
14. You are allowed no more than 25 shotshells per person in the
field.
* * * * *
D. * * *
1. Condition A12 applies.
2. All anglers must carry a valid refuge permit (Visitor Check-In
Permit and Report, FWS Form 3-2405), certifying that they understand
and will comply with all regulations.
* * * * *
8. We allow take of frog only with a Special Use Permit (FWS Form
3-1383-G).
Dahomey National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of migratory
waterfowl, coots, snipe, and woodcock on designated areas of the refuge
in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. All hunters must comply with all State hunter education
requirements. All hunters age 16 and older must carry a valid, signed
refuge hunting permit
[[Page 68907]]
(Visitor Check-In Permit and Report, FWS Form 3-2405). While hunting on
the refuge, all persons younger than age 16 (``youth hunter'') must be
in the presence and under the direct supervision of a licensed or
exempt hunter at least age 21 (``licensed hunter''). A hunter
supervising a youth hunter must hold all required licenses and permits.
2. General refuge hours are legal sunrise to legal sunset. During
hunting season, hunters may enter the refuge at 4 a.m. and must exit
the refuge no later than 2 hours after legal sunset except during
raccoon and frog hunts.
3. We allow hunting of migratory game birds, including under the
Light Goose Conservation Order, only on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and
Sundays ending at 12 p.m. (noon).
4. Each hunter must obtain a daily Big Game Harvest Report (FWS
Form 3-2359), available at each refuge information station, and follow
the printed instructions on the card. You must display the card in
plain view on the dashboard of your vehicle so that the personal
information is readable. Prior to leaving the refuge, you must complete
the card and deposit it at one of the refuge information stations.
Include all game harvested, and if you harvest no game, report ``0.''
We prohibit hunters possessing more than one Big Game Harvest Report
(FWS Form 3-2359) at a time.
5. We may close certain areas of the refuge for sanctuary or
administrative purposes. We will mark those areas with ``No Hunting''
or ``Area Closed'' signs.
6. We restrict motor vehicle use to roads designated as vehicle
access roads on the refuge map (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter). We
prohibit blocking access to any road or trail entering the refuge (see
Sec. 27.31(h) of this chapter). It is unlawful to hunt from or shoot
into the 100-foot (30.5-meter) zone along either side of designated
roads and parking lots.
7. During the refuge deer firearm season (to include primitive
weapons and youth gun hunt) all hunters and visitors on the refuge
except waterfowl hunters and nighttime raccoon hunters must wear in
full view a minimum of 500 square inches (3,226 square centimeters
(cm)) of solid, unbroken, fluorescent orange. Deer archery hunters on
the refuge must also wear in full view a minimum of 500 square inches
(3,226 square cm) of solid, unbroken, fluorescent orange when there is
a State gun season on private land. When hunting quail or rabbit on a
refuge outside the refuge's general gun and primitive weapon season,
hunters must wear a fluorescent orange vest or cap.
8. We only allow dogs on the refuge when specifically authorized
for hunting. We encourage the use of dogs to retrieve dead or wounded
waterfowl. Dogs must remain in the immediate control of their handlers
at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
9. You must remove decoys, blinds, boats, other personal property,
and litter (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter) from the
hunting area following each morning's hunt. We prohibit cutting or
removing trees and other vegetation (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
We prohibit the use of flagging, paint, blazes, tacks, or other types
of markers.
10. We prohibit all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility-type
vehicles (UTVs) (see Sec. 27.31(f) of this chapter), horses, and mules
on the refuge.
11. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages while
hunting on the refuge (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
12. We prohibit all commercial activities, including guiding or
participating in a paid guided hunt.
13. We prohibit possession of bait in the field, placement of bait,
and hunting over bait (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
14. You are allowed no more than 25 shotshells per person in the
field.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of quail, squirrel,
rabbit, and raccoon (raccoon by general Special Use Permit [FWS Form 3-
1383-G] only) on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with
State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A2, A4 through A7, and A10 through A13 apply.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot for hunting (see
Sec. 32.2(k)) while in the field if hunting small game with a shotgun.
Small game also may be hunted with .22 magnums, .17 calibers, and .22
caliber rimfire rifles and archery equipment using arrows with points
other than broadheads.
3. You may use dogs, but dogs must remain under the immediate
control of their handlers at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this
chapter).
4. We prohibit the cutting or removal of trees and other vegetation
(see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
5. We prohibit the use of flagging, paint, blazes, tacks, or other
types of markers.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
feral hog on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A2, A4 through A7, and A10 through A13 apply.
2. We prohibit dogs for any big game hunt.
3. We prohibit possession of any drug on any arrow for bow hunting
(see Sec. 32.2(g)).
4. We prohibit organized drives for deer.
5. We prohibit hunting or shooting across any open, fallow, or
planted field from ground level.
6. We prohibit the construction of, and hunting from, any permanent
stands or blinds on the refuge. We allow valid permit holders to
possess and hunt from one portable stand or blind on the refuge. You
must permanently and legibly write your name and phone number on all
stands on the refuge. Stands left in the area do not reserve the
hunting locations. You may place stands up to 2 days prior to the hunt,
and you must remove them no more than 2 days after the refuge's deer
season closes. We may confiscate and dispose of stands not in
compliance with these regulations. Ground blinds must display a minimum
400 square inches (2,581 square centimeters) of fluorescent orange that
is visible from all sides. We prohibit nailing deer stands and/or steps
to trees and attaching any blind or stand to a tree by any metal object
inserted into the tree (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
7. Hunters using a climbing tree stand must use a fall-arrest
system manufactured to Treestand Manufacturers Association standards.
8. We prohibit cutting or removing trees and other vegetation (see
Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
9. We prohibit the use of flagging, paint, blazes, tacks, or other
types of markers.
10. We prohibit the use of buckshot on the refuge.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. Condition A11 applies.
2. All anglers must carry a valid refuge permit (Visitor Check-In
Permit and Report, FWS Form 3-2405), certifying that they understand
and will comply with all regulations.
* * * * *
7. We allow take of frog only by Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-
1383-G).
* * * * *
Hillside National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
2. All youth hunters age 15 and younger must be in the presence and
direct supervision of a Mississippi licensed or exempt hunter, age 21
or older. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter.
3. Before hunting or fishing, all participants must display their
Daily Visitor Information/Harvest Report Card (Big Game Harvest Report,
FWS Form
[[Page 68908]]
3-2359) in plain view in their vehicle so that the required information
is readable. All cards must be returned upon completion of the activity
and before leaving the refuge.
* * * * *
13. Valid permit holders may incidentally take opossum, coyote,
beaver, bobcat, nutria, and feral hog in any refuge hunt season with
weapons legal for that hunt.
14. We allow all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility-type vehicles
(UTVs) only on designated trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter; see
refuge brochure map) from September 15 through February 28. We prohibit
horses and mules.
* * * * *
Holt Collier National Wildlife Refuge
B. * * *
2. All youth hunters age 15 and younger must be in the presence and
direct supervision of a Mississippi licensed or exempt hunter, age 21
or older. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter.
3. Before hunting or fishing, all participants must display their
Daily Visitor Information/Harvest Report Card (Big Game Harvest Report,
FWS Form 3-2359) in plain view in their vehicle so that the required
information is readable. All cards must be returned upon completion of
the activity and before leaving the refuge.
* * * * *
9. Valid permit holders may incidentally take opossum, coyote,
beaver, bobcat, nutria, and feral hog in any refuge hunt season with
weapons legal for that hunt.
* * * * *
Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
2. All youth hunters age 15 and younger must be in the presence and
direct supervision of a Mississippi licensed or exempt hunter, age 21
or older. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter.
3. Before hunting or fishing, all participants must display their
Daily Visitor Information/Harvest Report Card (Big Game Harvest Report,
FWS Form 3-2359) in plain view in their vehicle so that the required
information is readable. All cards must be returned upon completion of
the activity and before leaving the refuge.
* * * * *
12. Valid permit holders may incidentally take opossum, coyote,
beaver, bobcat, nutria, and feral hog in any refuge hunt season with
weapons legal for that hunt.
* * * * *
Morgan Brake National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
2. All youth hunters age 15 and younger must be in the presence and
direct supervision of a Mississippi licensed or exempt hunter, age 21
or older. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter.
3. Before hunting or fishing, all participants must display their
Daily Visitor Information/Harvest Report Card (Big Game Harvest Report,
FWS Form 3-2359) in plain view in their vehicle so that the required
information is readable. All cards must be returned upon completion of
the activity and before leaving the refuge.
* * * * *
13. Valid permit holders may incidentally take opossum, coyote,
beaver, bobcat, nutria, and feral hog in any refuge hunt season with
weapons legal for that hunt.
14. We allow all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility-type vehicles
(UTVs) only on designated trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter; see
refuge brochure map) from September 15 through February 28. We prohibit
horses and mules.
* * * * *
Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
2. All youth hunters age 15 and younger must be in the presence and
direct supervision of a Mississippi licensed or exempt hunter, age 21
or older. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter.
3. Before hunting or fishing, all participants must display their
Daily Visitor Information/Harvest Report Card (Big Game Harvest Report,
FWS Form 3-2359) in plain view in their vehicle so that the required
information is readable. All cards must be returned upon completion of
the activity and before leaving the refuge.
* * * * *
13. Valid T R Complex Annual Public Use Permit (name/address/phone
number)holders may incidentally take opossum, coyote, beaver, bobcat,
nutria, and feral hog in any refuge hunt season with weapons legal for
that hunt.
* * * * *
Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck, woodcock,
and coot on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. You must purchase a refuge waterfowl permit (Waterfowl Lottery
Application; FWS Form 3-2355) for waterfowl hunting in addition to
meeting other applicable State and Federal requirements. No more than
two companions may accompany each permitted hunter, and we do not
require these companions to purchase permits. Permits are
nontransferable and only issued to hunters ages 16 and older. Permit
holders can hunt as standby hunters for any date for which waterfowl
hunting is open. Youth age 15 or younger are not required to obtain a
refuge waterfowl permit and can obtain a free permit from the refuge's
office.
2. Information on hunts and hunt dates are available at refuge
headquarters, on the refuge Web site, and as specified in the refuge
brochure.
3. You must remove all decoys, blind material, and harvested game
and return to the check station by 1 p.m. each day (see Sec. Sec.
27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
4. All youth hunters age 15 and younger must remain within sight
and normal voice contact of an adult age 21 or older. One adult may
supervise not more than two youth hunters.
5. All waterfowl hunters must check-in and check-out at the
refuge's duck check station both before and after a day's hunt.
6. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages while
hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
7. 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
this part 32).
8. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting within
wetlands and green-tree reservoirs (see Sec. 32.2(k)). Waterfowl
hunters are limited to 25 shotshells per person.
9. We prohibit leaving any personal property, including, but not
limited to, boats or vehicles of any type, geocaches, and cameras,
overnight on the refuge (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). You may not
bring any mechanized equipment into the Noxubee Wilderness Area, and
you must remove all personal property daily from the Noxubee Wilderness
Area. Outside the Noxubee Wilderness Area, you may leave properly
labeled tree stands used for deer hunting and trotlines and jugs used
for fishing overnight.
10. During the deer firearm (primitive or modern gun) hunts, any
person hunting species other than waterfowl,
[[Page 68909]]
accompanying another person hunting species other than waterfowl, or
walking off-trail within areas open to deer hunting must wear at least
500 square inches (3,226 square centimeters (cm)) of unbroken
fluorescent-orange material visible above the waistline as an outer
garment at all times. Ground blinds when occupied must display a
minimum of 400 square inches (2,581 square cm) of unbroken fluorescent-
orange material.
11. We allow unleashed dogs for retrieval of migratory and upland
game only. Livestock is prohibited, and pets must remained restrained
and under the owner's control.
12. We prohibit marking trees and using flagging tape, reflective
tacks, and other similar marking devices.
13. We require all hunters and anglers to record hours active and
game harvested using the Visitor Check-In Permit and Report (FWS Form
3-2405).
14. We require all users to possess and display a valid Entrance
Pass. You may use a current Federal Recreational Lands Pass or valid
Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (Federal Duck
Stamp) as the Entrance Pass.
15. Waterfowl hunters must stay within 100 feet (30.5 meters (m))
of the assigned hunt location. You may exceed 100 feet (30.5 m) when
retrieving downed birds.
16. We prohibit using real or artificial agricultural grain baits,
salts and other minerals, scents, and other food-like attractants (see
Sec. 32.2(h)). We allow you to use baited lines for fishing on the
refuge.
17. We prohibit off-road vehicle use including the use of all-
terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility-type vehicles (UTVs), and livestock,
including horses and mules.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit,
quail, opossum, and raccoon on designated areas of the refuge in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. When waterfowl hunting is actively taking place, we prohibit all
public use other than waterfowl hunting within the designated areas for
waterfowl hunting.
2. We allow hunting of squirrel, raccoon, rabbit, quail, and
opossum with unleashed dogs during designated hunts. All pets must
remain restrained and within the immediate control of the owner.
3. We allow raccoon and opossum hunting between the hours of legal
sunset and legal sunrise.
4. Conditions A2, A4, A6 through A14, A16, and A17 apply.
5. We prohibit hunting or entry into areas designated as being
``closed'' (see refuge brochure map).
6. You may take incidental species (coyote, beaver, nutria, and
feral hog) during any hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts.
7. Bobwhite quail and rabbit hunters are required to wear at least
a solid hunter orange vest or cap.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A2, A4, A6 through A14, A16, A17, B1, B2, B5 and B6
apply.
2. You must purchase a refuge quota deer permit (Quota Deer Hunt
Application; FWS Form 3-2354) in addition to meeting State requirements
for all refuge deer hunts. Permits are nontransferable. Youth age 15 or
younger are not required to a purchase a refuge quota deer permit and
can obtain a free permit from the refuge's office.
3. We prohibit organized drives for deer.
4. You may place one portable tree stand or ground blind for deer
hunting on the refuge only during the open deer season. You must
clearly label the stand or blind with the name, address, and phone
number of the hunter. When not in use and left on the refuge, you must
place stands in a non-hunting position at ground level.
5. While climbing a tree, installing a tree stand that uses
climbing aids, or hunting from a tree stand on the refuge, you must use
a fall-arrest system (full body harness) that is manufactured to the
Treestand Manufacturer's Association's standards.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of the
refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. The general sport fishing, boating, and bow fishing season
extends from March 1 through October 31, except for the shoreline of
Bluff Lake from the Bluff Lake Boardwalk to the visitor center, the
entire Noxubee River, and all borrow pit areas along Highway 25 that
are open year-round to fishing.
2. Conditions A2, A6, A7, A9 through A14, A16, A17, B1, and B5
apply.
3. Anglers must keep boat travel at idle speed, and they must not
create a wake when moving.
4. We prohibit limb lines, jug fishing, trotlines, snag lines, and
hand grappling in Ross Branch, Bluff, and Loakfoma Lakes as well as
areas within 100 yards of refuge water and transportation structures.
5. When left unattended, anglers must tag fishing gear with their
name, address, and phone number. Anglers must check all gear within 24
hours each day or remove these devices.
6. Trotlining:
i. Anglers must label each end of the trotline floats with the
owner's name, address, and phone number.
ii. We limit trotlines to one line per person, and we allow no more
than two trotlines per boat.
iii. Anglers must tend all trotlines every 24 hours and remove them
when not in use.
iv. Trotlines must possess at least 6-inch (15.2-centimeter) cotton
string leads.
7. Jug fishing:
i. Anglers must label each jug with their name, address, and phone
number.
ii. Anglers must check all jugs every 24 hours and remove them when
not in use.
8. We prohibit nighttime bow fishing.
9. We prohibit fishing tournaments on all refuge waters.
10. We prohibit the taking of frogs, turtles, and crawfish (see
Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
11. We prohibit the use of airboats, sailboats, hovercrafts, and
inboard-water-thrust boats such as, but not limited to, personal
watercraft, watercycles, and waterbikes.
12. We prohibit using nets of any type to capture free-roaming fish
or wildlife. Fishing nets can be used to recover fish caught by hook
and line.
St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
1. We allow hunting in Butler Lake, Salt Lake, and Gillard Lake
from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise until 12 p.m. (noon) on
Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
* * * * *
9. Waterfowl hunters are allowed no more than 25 shotshells per
person.
* * * * *
11. We allow all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility-type vehicles
(UTVs) in accordance with State WMA regulations and size specifications
on designated trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter) from scouting
season until February 28. An ATV is an off-road vehicle with factory
specifications not to exceed the following: Weight 750 pounds (337.5
kilograms), length 85 inches (212.5 centimeters (cm)), and width 48
inches (120 cm). We restrict ATV tires to those no larger than 26
inches (66 cm) by 12 inches (30 cm) with a maximum 1-inch (2.5-cm) lug
height and a maximum allowable tire
[[Page 68910]]
pressure of 7 psi (48 kPa) as indicated on the tire by the
manufacturer.
12. You must be age 16 or older to operate an ATV or UTV on the
refuge.
* * * * *
14. We prohibit the following acts: Use or possession of alcohol
while hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)); entering the refuge from private
property; hunters entering the refuge from public waterways; overnight
parking; parking or hunting within 150 feet (45 meters) of any
petroleum facility or equipment, or refuge residences and buildings;
parking by hunters in refuge headquarters parking lot; and use of
handguns for hunting on the refuge.
B. * * *
3. * * *
iii. We prohibit the use of boats, ATVs, and UTVs.
* * * * *
6. We prohibit the following acts: Target practice; and the
possession of any trail-marking material.
C. * * *
3. You must wear a minimum of 500 square inches (3,226 square
centimeters) of unbroken hunter orange as the outermost layer of
clothing on the chest and back, and a hat or cap of unbroken hunter
orange. You must wear the solid-hunter-orange items while in the field.
4. While hunting, all persons under age 16 must be in the presence
and under direct supervision of a licensed or exempt hunter at least
age 21.
* * * * *
7. We prohibit nailing deer stands and/or steps to trees. We
prohibit attaching any blind or stand to a tree by any metal object
inserted into the tree (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
* * * * *
9. You may place stands up to 2 days prior to established hunting
season dates, and you must remove them no more than 2 days after the
hunting season closes. You must mark your stand with your name and
phone number. We allow each hunter one portable stand or blind on the
refuge.
* * * * *
13. We prohibit the use of trail cameras.
D. * * *. We allow fishing during daylight hours only from February
1-November 15 in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. We prohibit the use of ATVs and UTVs (see Sec. 27.31(f) of this
chapter).
* * * * *
5. We prohibit taking alligator gar.
* * * * *
Tallahatchie National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of migratory
waterfowl, coots, snipe, and woodcock on designated areas of the refuge
in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. All hunters must comply with all State hunter education
requirements. All hunters age 16 and older must possess and carry a
signed North Mississippi NWR hunting permit (code 606, available from
the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks). While
hunting on the refuge, all persons younger than age 16 (``youth
hunter'') must be in the presence and under the direct supervision of a
licensed or exempt hunter at least age 21 (``licensed hunter''). A
licensed hunter supervising a youth hunter must hold all required
licenses and permits.
2. General refuge hours are legal sunrise to legal sunset. During
hunting season, hunters may enter the refuge at 4 a.m. and must exit
the refuge no later than 2 hours after legal sunset except during
raccoon and frog hunts.
3. We allow hunting of migratory game birds, including under the
Light Goose Conservation Order, only on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and
Sundays ending at 12 p.m. (noon).
4. We prohibit public hunting north of Mississippi Highway 8.
5. Each hunter must obtain a daily Big Game Harvest Report (FWS
Form 3-2359) available at each refuge information station and follow
the printed instructions on the card. You must display the card in
plain view on the dashboard of your vehicle so that the personal
information is readable. Prior to leaving the refuge, you must complete
the card and deposit it at one of the refuge information stations.
Include all game harvested, and if you harvest no game, report ``0.''
We prohibit hunters possessing more than one Big Game Harvest Report at
a time.
6. We may close certain areas of the refuge for sanctuary or
administrative purposes. We will mark those areas with ``No Hunting''
or ``Area Closed'' signs.
7. We restrict motor vehicle use to roads designated as vehicle
access roads on the refuge map (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter). We
prohibit blocking access to any road or trail entering the refuge (see
Sec. 27.31(h) of this chapter). It is unlawful to hunt from or shoot
into the 100-foot (30.5-meter) zone along either side of designated
roads and parking lots.
8. During the refuge deer firearm season (to include primitive
weapons and youth gun hunt), all hunters and visitors on the refuge
except waterfowl hunters and nighttime raccoon hunters must wear in
full view a minimum of 500 square inches (3,226 square centimeters
(cm)) of solid, unbroken, fluorescent orange. Deer archery hunters on
the refuge must also wear in full view a minimum of 500 square inches
(3,226 square cm) of solid, unbroken, fluorescent orange when there is
a State gun season on private land. When hunting quail or rabbit on a
refuge outside the refuge's general gun and primitive weapon season,
hunters must wear a fluorescent orange vest or cap.
9. We only allow dogs on the refuge when specifically authorized
for hunting. We encourage the use of dogs to retrieve dead or wounded
waterfowl. Dogs must remain in the immediate control of their handlers
at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
10. You must remove decoys, blinds, boats, other personal property,
and litter (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94) from the hunting area
following each morning's hunt. We prohibit cutting or removing trees
and other vegetation (see Sec. 27.51 of this chapter). We prohibit the
use of flagging, paint, blazes, tacks, or other types of markers.
11. We prohibit all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility-type
vehicles (UTVs) (see Sec. 27.31(f) of this chapter), horses, and mules
on the refuge.
12. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages while
hunting on the refuge (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
13. We prohibit all commercial activities, including guiding or
participating in a paid guided hunt.
14. We prohibit possession of bait in the field, placement of bait,
and hunting over bait (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
15. You are allowed no more than 25 shotshells per person in the
field.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of quail, squirrel,
rabbit, and raccoon (raccoon by general Special Use Permit [FWS Form 3-
1383-G] only) on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with
State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A2, A4 through A8, and A10 through A14 apply.
2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot for hunting (see
Sec. 32.2(k)) while in the field if hunting for small game with a
shotgun. Small game also may be hunted with .22 magnums, .17 calibers,
and .22 caliber rimfire rifles and archery equipment using arrows with
points other than broadheads.
3. You may use dogs, but they must remain under the immediate
control of their handlers at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this
chapter).
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
feral hog on designated areas of the refuge in
[[Page 68911]]
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A2, A4 through A8, and A10 through A13 apply.
2. We prohibit dogs for any big game hunt.
3. We prohibit possession of any drug on any arrow for bow hunting
(see Sec. 32.2(g)).
4. We prohibit organized drives for deer.
5. We prohibit hunting or shooting across any open, fallow, or
planted field from ground level.
6. We prohibit the construction of, and hunting from, any permanent
stands or blinds on the refuge. We allow valid permit holders to
possess and hunt from one portable stand or blind on the refuge. You
must permanently and legibly write your name and phone number on all
stands on the refuge. Stands left on the area do not reserve the
hunting locations. You may place stands up to 2 days prior to the hunt,
and you must remove them no more than 2 days after the refuge's deer
season closes. We may confiscate and dispose of stands not in
compliance with these regulations. Ground blinds must display a minimum
400 square inches (2,581 square centimeters) of fluorescent orange that
is visible from all sides. We prohibit nailing deer stands and/or steps
to trees and attaching any blind or stand to a tree by any metal object
inserted into the tree (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
7. Hunters using a climbing tree stand must use a fall-arrest
system manufactured to Treestand Manufacturers Association standards.
8. We prohibit cutting or removing trees and other vegetation (see
Sec. 27.51 of this chapter). We prohibit the use of flagging, paint,
blazes, tacks, or other types of markers.
9. We prohibit the use of buckshot on the refuge.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. Condition A12 applies.
2. All anglers must carry a valid refuge permit (Visitor Check-In
Permit and Report, FWS Form 3-2405), certifying that they understand
and will comply with all regulations.
3. We only allow bank or boat sport fishing south of Mississippi
Highway 8.
4. We prohibit possession or use of jugs, seines, nets, hand-grab
baskets, slat traps/baskets, or any other similar devices and
commercial fishing of any kind.
5. We only allow trotlines, yo-yos, limb lines, crawfish traps, or
any other similar devices for recreational use. You must tag or mark
them with the angler's full name and full residence address, including
zip code written with waterproof ink, legibly inscribed or legibly
stamped on the tag, and you must attend the devices a minimum of once
daily. When not attended, you must remove these devices (see Sec.
27.93 of this chapter) from the refuge.
6. We prohibit snagging or attempting to snag fish.
7. We allow crawfishing.
8. We allow take of frog only with a Special Use Permit (FWS Form
3-1383-G).
Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
2. All youth hunters age 15 and younger must be in the presence and
direct supervision of a Mississippi licensed or exempt hunter, age 21
or older. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter.
3. Before hunting or fishing, all participants must display their
Daily Visitor Information/Harvest Report Card (Big Game Harvest Report,
FWS Form 3-2359) in plain view in their vehicle so that the required
information is readable. All cards must be returned upon completion of
the activity and before leaving the refuge.
* * * * *
10. For hunting, you may possess only approved nontoxic shot (see
Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
13. Valid T R Complex Annual Public Use Permit (name/address/phone
number) holders may incidentally take opossum, coyote, beaver, bobcat,
nutria, and feral hog in any refuge hunt season with weapons legal for
that hunt.
* * * * *
0
22. Amend Sec. 32.44 by:
0
a. Revising the entry for Great River National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
b. Revising the entry for Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife
Refuge.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.44 Missouri.
* * * * *
Great River National Wildlife Refuge
Refer to Sec. 32.32 (Illinois) for regulations.
Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge
Refer to Sec. 32.32 (Illinois) for regulations.
* * * * *
0
23. Amend Sec. 32.46 by revising paragraphs C.1, C.2, C.4, and C.9
under the entry Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge to read as
follows:
Sec. 32.46 Nebraska.
* * * * *
Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. * * *
1. We require the submission of a Big/Upland Game Hunt Application
(FWS Form 3-2356). You must possess and carry a signed refuge hunt
permit (signed brochure) when 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 hunting with muzzleloader and archery equipment. We
prohibit hunting with firearms capable of firing cartridge ammunition.
* * * * *
4. We allow 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.
* * * * *
9. We prohibit permanent tree stands, nails, screw-in steps, or
other items that penetrate the outer bark of a tree (see Sec.
32.2(i)). We prohibit leaving tree stands and ground blinds in the same
location for more than 7 consecutive days. You must label unattended
tree stands, elevated platforms, and ground blinds with your name and
address; the label must be legible from the ground. You may put up tree
stands, elevated platforms, and ground blinds, but no earlier than
opening day of deer season; you must remove them by the last day of
deer season.
* * * * *
0
24. Amend Sec. 32.48, the entry for Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge,
by revising paragraphs A.1 and C.3 to read as follows:
Sec. 32.48 New Hampshire.
* * * * *
Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
1. You must wear hunter-orange clothing or material in accordance
with State of Maine regulations for the season and/or species you are
hunting; one article of hunter-orange clothing is required during moose
season, and two articles are required during firearm and muzzleloader
season for deer.
* * * * *
C. * * *
3. We allow prehunt scouting of the refuge; however, we prohibit
dogs and hunting firearms during prehunt scouting.
* * * * *
[[Page 68912]]
0
25. Amend Sec. 32.51, the entry for Montezuma National Wildlife
Refuge, by revising paragraphs A, B, and C.11 to read as follows:
Sec. 32.51 New York.
* * * * *
Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow waterfowl, Canada goose,
and snow goose hunting on designated areas of the refuge in accordance
with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. For the regular waterfowl season:
i. We require daily refuge permits (Migratory Bird Hunt Report, FWS
Form 3-2361) and reservations. You must possess and carry refuge
permits while in the field and present them upon request to any law-
enforcement officer.
ii. We allow hunting only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays
during the established refuge season set within the State western zone
season. We allow a youth waterfowl hunt during the Saturday of the
State's established youth waterfowl hunt dates each year.
iii. Except for opening day, we take telephone reservations from
8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays for the next
hunt day.
iv. We take opening day reservations between 8:30 a.m. and 9 a.m.
on the Thursday of the week before the season opener (Note: This is not
the Thursday directly before the opener). We take youth hunt
reservations between 8:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. on the Thursday of the week
before the youth hunt (Note: This is not the Thursday directly before
the youth hunt.).
v. The reservation telephone number is 315-568-4136.
vi. All telephone reservations are on a first-come, first-served
basis.
vii. If you have a reservation for Tschache Pool, you may bring one
companion; we will determine party limits for other areas annually.
viii. You may request the parking area of your choice when making
reservations; parking areas are given on a first-come, first-served
basis.
ix. Only refuge personnel may move parking signs and blinds.
x. All hunters with reservations and their hunting companions must
check-in at the Route 89 Hunter Check Station area at least 1 hour
before legal shooting time or forfeit their reservation.
xi. You must set up in your chosen hunting spot before legal
shooting time.
xii. Forfeited reservations become available on a first-come,
first-served basis to standby hunters at the Route 89 Hunter Check
Station.
xiii. In Tschache Pool, you must use motorless boats to hunt, and
we limit hunters to one boat per reservation. We also limit hunters to
one motor vehicle in the Tschache Pool area per reservation.
xiv. We prohibit shooting from any dike or within 50 feet (15.2
meters) of any dike or road, or from within 500 feet (152.4 meters) of
the Tschache Pool observation tower. We do not limit hunting to
specific blind sites.
xv. We will announce selection procedures for hunting sites on
areas other than Tschache Pool annually.
xvi. You may possess a maximum of 15 nontoxic shot shells for
hunting while in the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)); you may not take more
than 15 shot shells per hunter into the hunting area.
xvii. You must stop hunting at 12 p.m. (noon), and you must check-
out and be out of the hunting area by 1 p.m.
xviii. We require proof of successful completion of the New York
State Waterfowl Identification Course, the Montezuma Nonresident
Waterfowl Identification Course, or a suitable nonresident State
Waterfowl Identification Course to hunt in the refuge; all hunters must
show proof each time they hunt, in addition to showing their valid
hunting license and signed Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and
Conservation Stamp (Federal Duck Stamp).
xix. You must possess, carry, and present upon request to any law
enforcement officer a valid daily hunt permit card (Migratory Bird Hunt
Report, FWS Form 3-2361). We also require you to return the daily hunt
permit card at the end of hunting. You can obtain a permit at the
Hunter Check Station during the check-in process, and you can return it
to the Hunter Check Station or at the box located at the north end of
the Tschache Pool dike.
2. For Canada goose and snow goose hunting:
i. We allow hunting of Canada goose during the New York State
September (or ``early'') season and of snow goose during portions of
the New York State snow goose season and portions of the period covered
by the Light Goose Conservation Order according to New York State
regulations and any special postings or publications set forth by the
refuge manager.
ii. Canada goose and snow goose hunting will be permitted 7 days
per week during the refuge's set hunting dates. Hunting hours are in
accordance with New York State regulations for Canada goose and snow
goose seasons.
iii. You must possess, carry, and present upon request to any law
enforcement officer a valid daily hunt permit card (Migratory Bird Hunt
Report, FWS Form 3-2361). We also require you to return the daily hunt
permit card at the end of hunting or at the end of the day. You can
obtain a permit at the Hunter Check Station on State Route 89 and
return it to the same location; obtaining a permit will be on a first-
come, first-served basis each hunt day until the day's permits are all
taken.
3. We allow hunting with dogs.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of wild turkey on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. You must carry and present upon request to any law-enforcement
officer a valid daily hunt permit card (Big/Upland Game Hunt
Application, FWS Form 3-2356). We also require you to return the daily
hunt permit card at the end of hunting or at the end of the day. You
can obtain a permit at the Hunter Check Station on State Route 89 and
return it to the same location; obtaining a permit during the fall
season will be on a first-come, first-served basis each hunt day until
the day's permits are all taken.
2. We only allow hunting from legal sunrise to legal sunset during
the fall season and from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise to noon during
the youth hunt weekend. We prohibit night hunting.
3. We allow hunting within the New York State fall turkey season.
We prohibit hunting during the New York State spring turkey season.
4. We allow youth hunting during the New York State youth wild
turkey hunt weekend, depending on whether mentors for youth hunters are
available. Participants must make a reservation to hunt; each year, the
refuge manager will set the date and time that we will accept
reservations by phone. The reservation phone number is (315) 568-4136.
5. Youth hunters and their mentors must attend an orientation
program conducted by refuge staff.
6. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot for hunting (see
Sec. 32.2(k)) while in the field if hunting with a shotgun. The refuge
manager reserves the right to restrict hunting implements beyond State
restrictions (e.g., based on visitor safety).
7. We prohibit hunting with dogs.
8. You may use portable blinds and decoys, but you must remove all
equipment (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) at the conclusion of each
day.
9. We prohibit parking and walking along the Wildlife Drive for the
purpose of hunting, unless otherwise posted by refuge personnel.
10. We prohibit use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) (see Sec.
27.31(f) of this
[[Page 68913]]
chapter), dirt bikes, bicycles, snowmobiles, and watercraft for the
purpose of turkey hunting.
C. * * *
11. Hunting weapon restrictions follow New York State regulations;
successful harvest with a bow or other hunting weapon during firearms
season requires use of a State-issued firearms season tag. The refuge
manager reserves the right to restrict hunting implements beyond State
restrictions (e.g., based on visitor safety).
* * * * *
0
26. Amend Sec. 32.52, the entry for Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife
Refuge, by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A.4 and A.9;
0
b. Removing paragraphs A.12 and B.9;
0
c. Revising paragraphs C.2 and C.5;
0
d. Removing paragraph C.8; and
0
e. Redesignating paragraph C.9 as C.8.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.52 North Carolina.
* * * * *
Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
4. We open the refuge for daylight use only (\1/2\ hour before
legal sunrise to \1/2\ hour after legal sunset), except that we allow
hunters to enter and remain in hunting areas from 2 hours before legal
sunrise until 2 hours after legal sunset when we allow hunting in those
areas.
* * * * *
9. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot (see Sec. 32.2(k))
while migratory game bird hunting.
* * * * *
C. * * *
2. You may hunt turkey only if you carry a valid permit (General
Activities Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3-1383-G). These
permits are valid only for the dates and areas shown on the permit. We
require an application and a fee for those permits and hold a drawing,
when necessary, to select the permittees. You may possess only approved
nontoxic shot (see Sec. 32.2(k)) while hunting turkeys west of Evans
Road and on the Pungo Unit.
* * * * *
5. We allow hunters to take feral hogs in any area that is open to
hunting deer using only those weapons authorized for taking deer. On
the Frying Pan tracts, we also allow hunters to take feral hogs, using
only those weapons authorized for taking deer, whenever we open those
tracts to hunting any game species with firearms.
* * * * *
0
27. Amend Sec. 32.53 by:
0
a. Under the entry Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs C.2, C.5, D.2, and D.3;
0
ii. Removing paragraphs D.4, D.5, and D.6; and
0
iii. Redesignating paragraphs D.7 through D.9 as D.4 through D.6,
respectively;
0
b. Revising paragraph B introductory text and paragraphs B.3 and C.6
under the entry Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Revising paragraphs B and C under the entry Lake Zahl National
Wildlife Refuge; and
0
d. Revising paragraphs B and C under the entry Lostwood National
Wildlife Refuge.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.53 North Dakota.
* * * * *
Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. * * *
2. We allow deer hunting on the refuge during the State Youth Deer
Season except in select closed areas as posted.
* * * * *
5. We prohibit permanent tree stands. We allow temporary tree
stands, blinds, and game cameras for daily use; you must remove them by
the end of the day. You may clamp, rope, or chain stands, steps, and
cameras to trees; you may not nail, wire, screw, or bolt them to trees
(see Sec. 32.2(i)).
* * * * *
D. * * *
2. We allow shore fishing, archery, and spearfishing along major
road rights-of-way and interior portions of the refuge and by-pass
channel during the entire State fishing season. We only allow walk-in
access, except in designated areas.
3. We allow ice fishing and dark house spearfishing. We allow fish
houses, cars, and trucks on the ice as conditions allow. You may leave
fish houses on the ice overnight until March 15; after March 15 you
must remove fish houses from the refuge before leaving for the day.
* * * * *
Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. * * *. You may hunt sharp-tailed grouse, Hungarian partridge,
turkey, and ring-necked pheasant on designated areas of the refuge in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
* * * * *
3. Upland game bird season opens on the day following the close of
the regular deer gun season through the end of the State season.
* * * * *
C. * * *
6. Conditions B6 through B9 apply.
* * * * *
Lake Zahl National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of sharp-tailed grouse,
Hungarian partridge, and ring-necked pheasant 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 season opens on the day following the close of
the regular deer gun season through the end of the State season.
4. You may use hunting dogs to retrieve upland game. Dogs must be
under your direct control at all times.
5. You may only enter the refuge by foot.
6. We prohibit the use of snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs),
off-highway vehicles (OHVs), utility-type vehicles (UTVs), bicycles, or
similar vehicles on the refuge.
7. We prohibit the use of horses, mules, or similar livestock on
the refuge during all hunting seasons.
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. Conditions B1 and B5 through B7 apply.
2. You may only use portable tree stands and ground blinds. We
prohibit leaving stands and blinds overnight (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter). We prohibit driving nails, screws, spikes, or other objects
into a tree or otherwise injuring a tree (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
3. We prohibit entry to the refuge before 12 p.m. (noon) on the
first day of the respective archery, gun, or muzzleloader deer hunting
season.
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.
* * * * *
Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of sharp-tailed grouse,
[[Page 68914]]
Hungarian partridge, and ring-necked pheasant 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. We prohibit upland game hunting on the portion of the refuge
south of Highway 50 during regular deer gun season.
4. We allow upland game hunting on the portion of the refuge north
of Highway 50 on the day following the close of the regular deer gun
season through the end of the State season.
5. You may use hunting dogs to retrieve upland game. Dogs must be
under your direct control at all times.
6. You must comply with all ``Closed to Hunting'' signs.
7. You may only enter the refuge by foot.
8. We prohibit the use of snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs),
off-highway vehicles (OHVs), utility-type 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. We allow deer hunting on designated areas of
the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. Conditions B1 and B6 through B9 apply.
2. You may only use portable tree stands and ground blinds. We
prohibit leaving stands and blinds overnight (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter). We prohibit driving nails, screws, spikes, or other objects
into a tree or otherwise injuring a tree (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
3. We prohibit entry to the refuge before 12 p.m. (noon) on the
first day of the respective archery, gun, or muzzleloader deer hunting
season.
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.
* * * * *
0
28. Amend Sec. 32.55, the entry for Washita National Wildlife Refuge,
by revising paragraphs A.1, A.2, and C to read as follows:
Sec. 32.55 Oklahoma.
* * * * *
Washita National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
1. We require permits (signed brochure) and payment of a fee to
hunt goose, duck, and sandhill crane.
2. Goose, duck, and sandhill crane hunters must hunt from
designated pit blinds.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, feral
hog, and Rio Grande wild turkey on designated areas of the refuge in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. We allow deer and feral hog hunting during the special refuge
season in accordance with the refuge hunt information sheet. We will
hold turkey hunts during the State spring turkey season.
2. We allow shotguns and lawful archery equipment for turkey
hunting.
3. You must obtain a refuge hunt permit from the State and pay a
fee (fee waived for youth hunters and mentors during the youth hunt).
4. You must check in and out of hunt areas daily at the refuge
office or check station.
5. You must take bagged deer, hog, and/or turkey to the refuge
check station.
6. We will determine bag limits on deer and turkey annually.
7. We prohibit the use of bait (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
8. A non-hunting mentor age 21 or older must accompany, and be in
the immediate presence of, youth hunters participating in the youth
hunt. Youth hunters must be age 17 or younger. Both youth hunters and
mentors must wear hunter orange clothing meeting or exceeding the
minimum State requirements.
9. We prohibit using handguns for hunting.
* * * * *
0
29. Amend Sec. 32.56 by:
0
a. Revising paragraph A.8 under the entry Bandon Marsh National
Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Revising paragraphs A.5, A.6, and A.7 under the entry Lower Klamath
National Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Removing paragraph A.6 under the entry Nestucca Bay National
Wildlife Refuge; and
0
d. Adding paragraph A.8 under the entry Siletz Bay National Wildlife
Refuge.
The revisions and addition read as follows:
Sec. 32.56 Oregon.
* * * * *
Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
8. You may enter posted retrieval zones while retrieving downed
birds and when traveling to and from the hunting areas. We prohibit
discharging firearms while in a retrieval zone.
* * * * *
Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
5. You may not set decoys in retrieving zones.
6. We prohibit the use of air-thrust and water-thrust boats.
7. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field
(see Sec. 32.2(k)).
* * * * *
Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
8. You may enter posted retrieval zones while retrieving downed
birds and when traveling to and from the hunting areas. We prohibit
discharging firearms while in a retrieval zone.
* * * * *
0
30. Amend Sec. 32.60 by:
0
a. Under the entry Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs B.11, B.15, D.11, and D.12; and
0
ii. Adding paragraphs D.14, D.15, and D.16;
0
b. Under the entry Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.1, A.3, and A.5 through A.9;
0
ii. Adding paragraph A.10;
0
iii. Revising paragraph B.1 and C.1;
0
iv. Removing paragraph C.11;
0
v. Redesignating paragraphs C.13 through C.19 as C.11 through C.17,
respectively; and
0
vi. Revising paragraph D.9;
0
c. Revising paragraphs B, C, and D under the entry Santee National
Wildlife Refuge; and
0
d. Revising the entry for Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge.
The additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.60 South Carolina.
* * * * *
Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. * * *
11. We prohibit camping on the refuge except for designated archery
hunters on Bulls Island and individuals obtaining a Special Use Permit
(FWS Form 3-1383-G) from the refuge manager.
* * * * *
15. We prohibit overnight parking at Garris Landing, except for
archery
[[Page 68915]]
hunters during the designated refuge archery white-tailed deer season
and individuals obtaining a Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-1383-G) from
the refuge manager. We require individuals parking vehicles at Garris
Landing to obey all posted signs.
* * * * *
D. * * *
11. We prohibit the commercial transport of passengers to any
refuge island for any purpose without a Special Use Permit (FWS Form 3-
1383-C) from the refuge manager.
12. We prohibit feeding or harassing any marine mammal.
* * * * *
14. We prohibit any amphibious vehicle, hovercraft, airboat, or
vessel from landing upon refuge islands.
15. We prohibit the use of any amphibious vehicle or vessel upon
refuge lands or waters.
16. We prohibit any personal watercraft, as defined at 33 CFR
174.3, from landing upon refuge islands.
Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
1. All hunters must carry a signed refuge General Hunt Permit
(signed brochure) and government-issued picture identification.
* * * * *
3. Each youth hunter (younger than age 16) must remain within sight
and normal voice contact and under supervision of an adult age 21 or
older with a valid license and General Hunt Permit (signed brochure).
Each adult may supervise no more than two youth hunters. Each youth
hunter must carry evidence of successful completion of a State-approved
hunter-education course.
* * * * *
5. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages while
hunting on the refuge (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
6. We prohibit discharge of weapons for any purpose other than to
take or attempt to take legal game animals during established hunting
seasons.
7. We prohibit the use of outdoor recreational vehicles (ORVs)
except by mobility-impaired hunters with a Special Use Permit (FWS Form
3-1383-G) to use ORV in designated areas during specified hunts.
Mobility-impaired hunters must have a State Disabled Hunting license in
order to receive the Special Use Permit. Companions assisting disabled
hunters must possess required State license(s) and refuge permit(s) and
be listed on the Special Use Permit.
8. For hunting, you may possess shotguns with shot no larger than
No. 5.
9. Legal shooting hours for September dove hunts are 12 p.m. (noon)
to 6 p.m.
10. We prohibit the possession of more than 50 shotgun shells
during the September dove hunts.
B. * * *
1. Conditions A1 through A7 apply.
* * * * *
C. * * *
1. Conditions A1 through A7 apply (with the following exception for
condition A3: Each adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter).
* * * * *
D. * * *
9. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages while
fishing on the refuge (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
* * * * *
Santee National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of raccoon and opossum on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow hunters to use only weapons, firearms, and ammunition
specifically authorized for each hunt.
2. All refuge hunters under age 16 must show proof of successfully
completing a hunter-education/safety course. A properly licensed adult
at least age 21 must directly supervise (within sight and normal voice
contact) hunters under age 16. An adult may supervise only one youth.
3. We require hunters to possess a refuge hunt permit (signed
refuge hunt brochure), a valid State hunting license, and government-
issued picture identification while hunting. The refuge hunt permit is
not valid until signed by the hunter.
4. Before hunting, each individual participant must obtain from a
designated check station and display their completed User Information/
Harvest Report Card (Big Game Harvest Report, FWS Form 3-2359) in plain
view in their vehicle so that the required information is readable.
After checking a harvested animal at a check station, the hunter must
record species harvest information on reporting card. You must return
all cards upon completion of the activity and before leaving the
refuge.
5. You must check all animals taken on the refuge before removing
the animal from the refuge and prior to 8:30 p.m. at the check station.
6. We require hunters to make a reasonable effort to retrieve
wounded game. You must obtain permission from refuge personnel to enter
a ``No Hunting Zone'' or ``Closed Area'' for any purpose.
7. We allow vehicles only on established roads marked open for
vehicular traffic. You may travel roads marked ``Closed to all
vehicles'' on foot or by bicycle. The speed limit for all roads is 15
mph. We prohibit all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility-type vehicles
(UTVs) or other off-road vehicles. You may park vehicles alongside
roads but only in a manner that will not block gates, roads, or fire
lanes or interfere with the normal flow of traffic.
8. Hunting firearms being transported in vehicles and boats during
refuge hunts must be unloaded and cased or locked in a secure
compartment (e.g., toolbox or trunk). We define a loaded firearm as
having ammunition in the chamber or magazine. Muzzleloaders will be
considered unloaded if the percussion cap is not seated in the chamber.
9. We prohibit hunting with poison tip arrows (pods), exploding
arrows, center fire rifles, and handguns (see Sec. 32.2(g)).
10. We prohibit possession of bait, baiting, and/or hunting in the
vicinity of bait (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
11. We prohibit camping, overnight parking, fires, and littering
(see Sec. Sec. 27.95(a) and 27.94 of this chapter).
12. We prohibit the possession of remote photography, videography,
or any other remote device and trail-monitoring/counting devices.
13. We prohibit entry beyond ``Closed Area'' or ``No Hunting Zone''
signs. We prohibit discharging weapons within, into, or across a ``No
Hunting Zone'' or ``Closed Area.''
14. We prohibit discharging a firearm from, on, or across any
refuge road, or designated refuge foot trail.
15. We prohibit hunting from within 100 feet (30 meters (m)) of any
roadway, whether open or closed to vehicular traffic, or from or within
300 yards (270 m) of any designated hunter check station or residence.
16. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages while
hunting (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
17. We prohibit man or dog drives, stalk hunting, and/or hunting
from artificially pruned trees for deer and feral hogs.
18. We allow hunting on each refuge unit only within specified hunt
periods and only for raccoon or opossum, and white-tailed deer (see
paragraph C, Big Game Hunting, of this entry).
19. We allow unlimited harvest of feral hog as an incidental take
while hunting during the day.
20. We will open hunting areas from 5 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. during
designated hunt periods.
[[Page 68916]]
21. We allow use of dogs only for raccoon and opossum hunting. The
dogs must wear a collar displaying the owner's name, address, and
telephone number.
22. We allow take of raccoon and opossum only during night hunting
from the hours of 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. We prohibit hunting on Saturday
nights and Sunday nights. Special State regulations apply for night
hunting.
23. We allow take of raccoon and opossum with a shotgun using
nontoxic shot size no larger than #4 or a .22-caliber rimfire rifle. We
prohibit possession of buckshot or slugs. We prohibit the use of all
other weapons for hunting.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions B1 through B20 apply.
2. We prohibit the use of dogs during deer hunts.
3. We prohibit night hunting of deer and feral hogs. On the refuge,
nighttime is defined from \1/2\ hour after legal sunset to \1/2\ hour
before legal sunrise.
4. We prohibit driving nails, screws, spikes, or other metal
objects into a tree, and we prohibit hunting from a tree into which
those objects have been driven (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
5. We prohibit destroying or cutting vegetation (see Sec. 27.51 of
this chapter). We prohibit the possession of axes, saws, machetes, or
other tools used for cutting vegetation on the refuge while scouting or
hunting.
6. We prohibit trail flagging. You may use clothes pins with
reflective tape/tack or commercially made reflective orange glow or
trail clips to mark the path to the tree. You must mark all clips and
pins with your full name, and you must remove them at the end of the
hunt period. We will consider any clips or pins found without a
hunter's name or any found after the end of a hunt period to be
littering (see Sec. 27.94 of this chapter), and we will remove them
immediately.
7. We require hunters to wear an outer garment visible above the
waist that contains a minimum of 500 square inches (3,226 square
centimeters) of unbroken, solid fluorescent orange (hunter orange)
material at all times during firearms and muzzleloader hunts. This does
not apply to dove, raccoon, and turkey hunts.
8. Deer and feral hog hunting must occur from portable elevated
hunting stands. A safety belt or harness must be used while using a
hunting stand. We prohibit ground blinds. We allow only one stand per
hunter, and each hunter must clearly mark stands with his or her full
name, date, and phone number. We will confiscate any stands found
without the hunter's name, date, and phone number marked on them.
9. We allow scouting on both the Pine Island and Cuddo Units during
periods when these units are open to general public access. We allow
vehicles only on roads designated as open for vehicular traffic. All
other roads and trails are open to walk-in or bicycle traffic. We
prohibit hunting weapons and dogs during scouting activities.
10. We will open access roads, closed to the general public for
driving, only during each deer hunt and on the Friday, Saturday, and
Sunday prior to each hunt.
11. You may place stands, clothes pins, or clips, only on open hunt
areas on the Friday, Saturday, and Sunday immediately prior to each
hunt (from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m.) and must remove them by 8:30 p.m. on
the last day of each hunt period. We will confiscate any stands found
outside of allowed periods.
12. We open the Plantation Islands (Cuddo Unit) to deer and feral
hog hunting only from 5 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.
13. Shooting hours are from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise until
\1/2\ hour after legal sunset.
14. The refuge conducts one lottery draw hunt (Quota Deer Hunt
Application, FWS Form 3-2354) for the Family, Friends, and Kids (Family
Friendly) hunts conducted on the Bluff Unit of the refuge. Contact the
refuge office for dates, application information, and more information
about this special hunt opportunity.
15. We allow the use of non-motorized boats for accessing the
unit's interior canals to inland areas open to hunting.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on the refuge in accordance with
State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. A valid State fishing license, a signed refuge fishing permit
(signed brochure), and government-issued picture identification must be
in each angler's possession while fishing on the refuge. A signed
refuge permit must be in each fisherman's possession while fishing on
the refuge, except all recreational fishing boat operators are only
required to have one refuge fishing permit per boat. A refuge fishing
permit is not valid until signed.
2. We allow public fishing on all four refuge units. We open waters
of Lake Marion within refuge boundaries for fishing 24 hours a day,
except in areas posted as ``Closed Areas'' or closed for migratory bird
management (sanctuaries). We allow fishing only on the inland ponds and
canals during times the refuge units are open for general public access
or as posted. We prohibit fishing at night, to include bank fishing,
except by boat in Lake Marion.
3. Cantey Bay (Bluff Unit), Black Bottom (Cuddo Unit), and Savannah
Branch (Pine Island Unit) are only open to public access, including
boating and fishing, from March 1 through October 31.
4. We limit access to the interior freshwater canals and ponds to
canoes or kayaks, or by foot or bicycle travel only. We prohibit use of
internal combustion engines on interior ponds and canals.
5. We prohibit littering, camping and/or overnight parking, open
fires, swimming or wading, collecting or searching for or taking of any
items of antiquity, and overnight mooring of boats (see Sec. Sec.
27.62, 27.94, and 27.95(a) of this chapter). We allow pets only in
designated areas, and they must remain on a leash or within vehicles/
vessels.
6. We prohibit fishing or boating within 100 feet (30 meters) of
any nesting bird or bird rookeries within refuge boundaries.
7. We prohibit nighttime access to boat-launching areas.
8. We prohibit commercial fishing.
9. We prohibit attaching trotlines, bush/limb lines, fishing
devices, signs, or any other objects to trees, posts, or markers within
refuge boundaries.
10. We prohibit shellfishing of all mollusks, including Asian
clams.
11. We prohibit mooring or attaching boats to any refuge boundary
marker, post, or navigational post within refuge waters.
12. We prohibit air-thrust boats, hovercraft, airboats, and
personal watercraft (jet skis) within the waters of and/or boundary of
the refuge.
* * * * *
Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose,
dove, woodcock, and snipe on designated areas of the refuge in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. You must possess and carry at all times while hunting a signed,
current refuge hunting regulations brochure, which serves as the hunt
permit. The hunt permit is invalid until signed by the hunter.
2. Each youth hunter age 15 and younger must remain within sight,
within normal voice contact, and under the supervision of an adult age
21 or older, except when participating in the Federal Youth Days
waterfowl hunt,
[[Page 68917]]
when the youth hunter must be under the supervision of an adult age 18
or older. We do not require youth hunters to have a hunter-education
card for migratory gamebird hunting, but they must possess a signed
refuge hunting regulations brochure. The supervising adult must comply
with all State and Federal hunting license requirements and also
possess a signed refuge hunting regulations brochure. Each supervising
adult may supervise no more than two youths.
3. We allow waterfowl hunting only until 12 p.m. (noon) each
Saturday and Wednesday during the State waterfowl season. Hunters may
enter the refuge no earlier than 5 a.m. on hunt days and must be off
the refuge by 2 p.m.
4. We allow scouting Monday through Friday during the waterfowl
season. Hunters must be off the refuge by 2 p.m.
5. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot (see Sec. 32.2(k))
while hunting all species of migratory birds on the refuge.
6. We prohibit permanent blinds (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
Hunters must remove portable blinds and decoys at the end of each day's
hunt.
7. We allow use of dogs only while hunting. We require dogs to wear
a collar displaying the owner's name, address, and phone number.
8. We do not require hunter check-in and check-out, with the
exception of special lottery hunts. There is no quota on the number of
hunters for general hunting.
9. We prohibit discharge of weapons for any purpose other than to
take or attempt to take legal game animals during established hunting
seasons (see Sec. 27.42(a) of this chapter).
10. We prohibit hunting on any unit for wildlife species not
officially opened to hunting or posted as ``No Hunting Zones.'' We
prohibit entering any unit or area posted as ``Closed.''
11. We require individuals parking vehicles in the refuge to obey
all posted signs.
12. Access into all refuge hunt areas for hunting and scouting is
by foot, bicycle, or boat. We prohibit ATVs (see Sec. 27.31(f) of this
chapter) and air boats on the refuge.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of gray squirrel, raccoon,
and opossum on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A2, and A8 through A12 apply.
2. We allow hunting only in designated areas and only on days
designated annually by the refuge within the State season.
3. You may possess only nontoxic shot no larger than #2 in shotguns
for hunting. We allow .22-caliber rimfire rifles.
4. We prohibit shooting any game from a boat except waterfowl.
5. We require the use of dogs for hunting raccoon and opossum.
6. The refuge prohibits upland game hunting during refuge Big Game
Hunts.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, feral
hog, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge. The State of South
Carolina does not classify feral hog as big game; however, for the
purpose of these regulations, we include feral hog in the big game
category. We allow big game hunting on the refuge in accordance with
State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A8 through A12, B2 and B4 apply.
2. We only allow hunting for designated species on days designated
annually by the refuge, within the State season and limits, and
according to refuge unit-specific regulations annually listed in the
refuge hunting regulations brochure.
3. We close areas open to hunting to the general public during big
game hunts.
4. We allow archery, muzzleloading (black powder), rifles
(centerfire larger than .22 caliber), and shotguns according to refuge
unit-specific regulations.
5. We prohibit blow guns and drugged arrows (see Sec. 32.2(g)). We
allow muzzleloading rifles that use only a single projectile on the
muzzleloader hunts. We prohibit buckshot, rimfire ammunition, and full-
metal-jacketed military ammunition.
6. Access into all refuge hunt areas for hunting and scouting is by
foot or boat. We may open some refuge roads on hunt days. We prohibit
ATVs (see Sec. 27.31(f) of this chapter) and air boats on the refuge.
7. We allow scouting all year during daylight hours except during
the State waterfowl season. During the waterfowl season, the same
regulations that apply to scouting for waterfowl (see condition A4)
apply to scouting for big game species. We prohibit the use of trail
cameras and other scouting devices.
8. Hunters may enter the refuge no earlier than 5 a.m. on hunt days
and must leave the refuge no later than 1 hour after legal sunset.
9. We do not require hunter check-in and check-out, with the
exception of special lottery hunts.
10. The refuge limit on antlered deer is one antlered buck per hunt
session that must have at least three antler points on one side. We
define a ``point'' as an antler projection of at least 1 inch (2.5
centimeters) or more in length. Hunters can harvest two antlerless deer
per year during coinciding State doe days or by using personal doe
tags.
11. You may take feral hogs during refuge deer hunts. There is no
size or bag limit on hogs. We may offer special hog hunts during and
after deer season to further control this invasive species. You must
dispatch all feral hogs before removing them from the refuge.
12. We prohibit hunting on or within 100 feet (30 meters) of all
routes marked as roads or trails on the hunt brochure map.
13. You must hunt deer and feral hog from an elevated hunting
stand.
14. We allow only one portable tree stand per hunter, and you must
clearly mark it with your full name and phone number. We prohibit
placing deer stands on the refuge more than 3 days prior to the opening
day of a hunting session. Hunters must remove stands from the refuge no
later than 3 days after each refuge big game hunt (see Sec. 27.93 of
this chapter).
15. We allow hunters to use flagging to mark the site of hunter
entry from roads or trails and again at the stand site. We allow
hunters to use clothes pins with reflective tape between entry and
stand sites to mark the route to the stand. You must label all pins
with your full name and remove them at the end of the hunt.
16. We require hunters to wear an outer garment visible above the
waist that contains a minimum of 500 square inches (3,226 square
centimeters) of solid, fluorescent-orange material at all times during
big game hunts except for wild turkey.
17. We prohibit the use of organized drives, including the use of
boats, as an aid in the taking or attempting to take big game species.
18. We prohibit possession of bait, distribution of bait, or
hunting over a baited area (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
19. We allow crossbows only during the big game hunting sessions,
when we allow muzzleloaders and modern weapons. We may also allow
crossbows during special hunts if determined to be appropriate.
20. Each youth hunter age 15 and younger must remain within sight,
within normal voice contact, and under supervision of an adult age 21
or older, and must possess a signed refuge hunting regulations
brochure. We do not require youth hunters who are sitting in the same
hunting stand as the supervising adult to possess a hunter-education
card. We require youth hunters who are sitting in a hunting
[[Page 68918]]
stand by themselves to possess a valid hunter-education card. The
supervising adult must comply with all State and Federal hunting
license requirements and possess a signed refuge hunting regulations
brochure. Each supervising adult may supervise a maximum of one youth.
21. We only allow deer and hog hunting on the uplands of Sandy
Island during a special archery-only lottery hunt. Hunters must apply
for lottery entry (name/address/phone number) and are chosen by a
random selection process. There is a quota on the number of hunters
selected for this hunt.
22. We have special hunts for youth and mobility-impaired hunters
on the Normandy Tract. You may obtain information about the drawing
from the refuge office or Web site.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing in accordance with State
regulations.
0
31. Amend Sec. 32.61, the entry for Lake Andes National Wildlife
Refuge, by revising paragraph D to read as follows:
Sec. 32.61 South Dakota.
* * * * *
Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of the
refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. You must remove all 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 fishing on the Center and South units of Lake Andes.
* * * * *
0
32. Amend Sec. 32.62 by:
0
a. Under the entry Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.2, A.3, A.8, B.2, B.3, and B.8;
0
ii. Removing paragraph B.9; and
0
iii. Revising paragraphs C.4. and D.1;
0
b. Revising paragraphs A.6, B.1, B.4, and D.8 under the entry Hatchie
National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
c. Under the entry Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.2, A.8, B.2, and B.9;
0
ii. Removing paragraph B.10; and
0
iii. Redesignating paragraph B.11 as B.10.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.62 Tennessee.
* * * * *
Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
2. We require a refuge hunt permit (name and address) for all
hunters age 17 and older. We charge a fee for all hunt permits. You
must carry a valid refuge permit while hunting on the refuge.
3. We set and publish season dates and bag limits annually in the
Refuge Hunting and Fishing Regulations available at the refuge office.
* * * * *
8. Youth hunters under age 17 must remain in sight and normal voice
contact with an adult hunter age 21 or older. One adult hunter may
supervise no more than two youth hunters.
* * * * *
B. * * *
2. We require a refuge hunt permit (name and address) for all
hunters age 17 and older. We charge a fee for all hunt permits. You
must carry a valid refuge permit while hunting on the refuge.
3. We set and publish season dates and bag limits annually in the
Refuge Hunting and Fishing Regulations available at the refuge office.
* * * * *
8. Each youth hunter under age 17 must remain within sight and
normal voice contact of an adult age 21 or older. One adult hunter may
supervise no more than two youth hunters.
* * * * *
C. * * *
4. Each youth hunter younger than age 17 must remain within sight
and normal voice contact of an adult age 21 or older. One adult hunter
may supervise no more than one youth hunter.
* * * * *
D. * * *
1. We allow fishing on the refuge pools and reservoirs from March
16 through November 14 from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise to \1/2\
hour after legal sunset.
* * * * *
Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
6. Mourning dove, woodcock, and snipe seasons close during all deer
archery, quota deer gun, and youth deer gun hunts. In the area west of
Interstate 40 we follow the State seasons, except we close during youth
deer gun and quota deer gun hunts.
* * * * *
B. * * *
1. Conditions A1 through A4, A6, and A8 through A12 apply.
* * * * *
4. We close all small game hunts during the refuge deer archery,
quota, and youth gun hunts, except in the area west of Interstate 40,
where small game reopens after the second quota deer gun hunt in
accordance with State seasons.
* * * * *
D. * * *
8. We allow the use of nonmotorized boats and boats with electric
motors only; we prohibit the use of gas and diesel motors on refuge
lakes except in the waterfowl hunting area.
* * * * *
Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
2. We require a refuge hunt permit (name and address) for all
hunters age 17 and older. We charge a fee for all hunt permits. You
must carry a valid refuge permit while hunting on the refuge.
* * * * *
8. Youth hunters under age 17 must remain in sight and normal voice
contact with an adult hunter age 21 or older. One adult hunter may
supervise no more than two youth hunters.
* * * * *
B. * * *
2. We require a refuge hunt permit (name and address) for all
hunters age 17 and older. We charge a fee for all hunt permits. You
must possess and carry a valid refuge hunt permit while hunting on the
refuge.
* * * * *
9. Each youth hunter (under age 17) must remain within sight and
normal voice contact and under supervision of an adult age 21 or older.
One adult may supervise no more than two youth hunters.
* * * * *
0
33. Amend Sec. 32.63 by:
0
a. Revising paragraph A introductory text and paragraphs A.1 through
A.4 under the entry Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Revising paragraphs B.1 and C under the entry Buffalo Lake National
Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Under the entry Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.10, A.12, A.13, and A.14;
0
ii. Removing paragraphs A.15 through A.17; and
0
iii. Revising paragraphs B, C.1 through C.4, C.6, and D;
0
d. Under the entry Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraph C.7; and
0
ii. Adding paragraph C.19; and
0
e. Under the entry Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraph A.6;
0
ii. Adding paragraph A.23; and
0
iii. Revising paragraphs C.1 and C.4.
The revisions and additions read as follows:
[[Page 68919]]
Sec. 32.63 Texas.
* * * * *
Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *. We allow hunting of goose, duck, coot, white-winged dove,
mourning dove, Eurasian collared-dove, and rock pigeon on designated
areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to
the following conditions:
1. You must carry a current signed refuge hunting permit (signed
brochure) while waterfowl hunting on all refuge hunt units.
2. Season dates for waterfowl will be concurrent with the State,
except as specified in the refuge hunting permit (signed brochure).
3. For waterfowl hunting, you 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). You must leave refuge hunt units by
12:30 p.m. For dove hunting, you may enter the refuge an hour before
legal sunrise and must leave the refuge by \1/2\ hour after legal
sunset. We close refuge hunt units on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New
Year's Day.
4. For waterfowl hunting, we allow hunting in portions of the East
Unit on Saturdays, Sundays, and Tuesdays during the regular waterfowl
seasons. We require payment of a $10 per day or $40 per year to hunt on
the East Unit. All hunters must check in and out through the check
station when accessing the East Unit by vehicle. We will allow a
limited number of parties to access the East Unit by vehicle. All
hunters entering the East Unit through the check station will designate
a hunt area on a first-come, first-served basis (special duck hunt
areas will be assigned through a random drawing). We will require
hunters to remain in an assigned area for that day's hunt. We allow
hunters to access designated areas of the East Unit by boat from
Jackson Ditch, East Bay Bayou, or Onion Bayou. We require hunters
accessing the East Unit by boat from Jackson Ditch, East Bay Bayou, or
Onion Bayou to pay the $40 annual fee. We prohibit access to the East
Unit Reservoirs from Onion Bayou via boat. We prohibit the use of
motorized boats on the East Unit, except on ponds accessed from Jackson
Ditch via Onion Bayou. We prohibit motorized boats launching from the
East Unit. For dove hunting, you are allowed to access and hunt the
designated areas on the East Unit by vehicles via Farm Market Road 1985
only. Hunters are required to follow rules published annually by TPWD
relating to the TPWD AHP.
* * * * *
Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. * * *
1. We require hunters to pay a fee and obtain a Special Use Permit
(FWS Form 3-1383-G).
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, mule
deer, and feral hogs on designated areas of the refuge in accordance
with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. We prohibit recreational shooting and target practice or any
non-hunting discharge.
2. We prohibit shooting or hunting of all animals except deer and
feral hogs during the hunt.
3. We prohibit any use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
4. We prohibit the use of dogs for big game hunting.
5. We prohibit the use of horses.
6. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages while
hunting on refuge lands (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
7. We prohibit the use of tree stands or any devices such as nails,
tacks, and scaffolding used to climb trees, tripod types of blinds, or
other elevated blinds.
8. You are not allowed on the refuge after dark except in
designated camping areas.
9. Youth hunt:
i. We define youth hunters as ages 9 to 16 years of age. To
participate in the youth hunt, youth hunters must be no younger than
age 9 and no older than age 16 at the time they apply for a permit to
hunt (see condition A.10.iv) and when the hunt occurs.
ii. A Texas-licensed, adult supervisor age 18 or older who has
successfully completed a Hunter Education Certification Course (``adult
supervisor'') must accompany youth hunters. Adult supervisors born
prior to September 2, 1971, are exempt from the hunter-education
requirement.
iii. When hunting, each adult supervisor may supervise only one
youth hunter. A youth hunter may have up to two supervisors.
iv. All youth hunters must carry a valid Special Use Permit (FWS
Form 3-1383-G) when hunting. Special Use Permits are available at the
refuge office.
v. You must provide proof of the youth hunter's or supervisor's
successful completion of a State hunter-safety course to refuge staff
at the time of the hunt or the youth hunter will not be allowed to
hunt. Adult supervisors born prior to September 2, 1971, are exempt
from the hunter-safety course requirement.
vi. When hunting, the adult supervisor must be within normal voice
control of the youth hunter at all times.
vii. Adult supervisors are not allowed to hunt during the youth
hunt.
10. We may close hunting areas at any time due to fire dangers,
inclement weather, or other unforeseen circumstances.
* * * * *
Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
10. We prohibit airboats, hovercraft, and personal watercraft (Jet
Skis, wave runner, jet boats, etc.) year-round on refuge waters.
* * * * *
12. We prohibit all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
13. We prohibit horses.
14. We prohibit glass containers.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel and rabbit in
the months of February and September on designated areas of the refuge
in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions: Conditions A1 through A14 apply.
C. * * *
1. We require a limited hunt permit (name) for archery deer, feral
hog, and spring turkey hunts. In partnership with Texas Parks and
Wildlife Department, we allow a special youth hunt as listed on the
refuge hunt information sheet. For additional information on how to
apply, contact the refuge headquarters at 903-786-2826.
2. Conditions A2, A5 through A7, and A10 through A14 apply.
3. We restrict hunt participants for limited hunts to those drawn
for and in possession of a limited hunt permit (name). The permits are
nontransferable. Hunt dates and application procedures will be
available annually at the refuge headquarters.
4. We allow limited hunts for feral hog, archery deer, and spring
turkey. We allow muzzleloaders, bow and arrow, and shotguns for feral
hog and spring turkey hunts. You may possess only lead-free, nontoxic
(steel, bismuth, copper, or tungsten) bullets, slugs, and shot (00 buck
for hogs, no shell larger than No. 4 shot size for turkey).
* * * * *
6. We limit each hunter to one stand, which the hunter may place on
the refuge during the day preceding each hunt. You must remove all
stands by legal sunset on the last day of each hunt.
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the
refuge in
[[Page 68920]]
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
conditions:
1. Lake Texoma and connected streams are open to fishing year-
round. We require a valid State of Texas or Lake Texoma fishing license
in accordance with State regulations.
2. Conditions A10, and A12 through A14 apply.
3. You may bank fish on Lake Texoma with pole and line, rod and
reel, or hand line year-round.
4. We allow wade fishing in refuge ponds March 15 through October 1
annually from all areas except Refuge Road, Wildlife Drive, Plover
Road, Tern Road, and Egret Road.
5. We allow fishing in refuge ponds March 15 through September 30
annually. We require a valid State of Texas or Lake Texoma fishing
license in accordance with State regulations.
6. Anglers may not use any glass containers, plastic jugs, or
plastic bottles as floats.
7. We prohibit discarding any type of fishing line.
8. You may only take bait for personal use while fishing in refuge
waters in accordance with Texas State law. We prohibit removal of bait
from the refuge for commercial sales or use.
9. We prohibit fishing from bridges.
10. We allow the use of bow and arrow to take nongame fish on
refuge waters except from Refuge Road, Wildlife Drive, Plover Road,
Tern Road, and Egret Road.
11. We prohibit limb line, throw lines, jug lines, seine nets,
noodling, and yo-yos.
12. We prohibit taking frog, turtle, and mussel from refuge lands
and waters (see Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
13. We prohibit taking any fish or bait for any purpose from refuge
impoundments year-round.
14. We prohibit entry into refuge impoundments and ponds by any
means (i.e., foot, boat, other floating device) for any purpose year-
round.
Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. * * *
7. Hunting means and methods, including use of firearms, archery,
and crossbows, will be in accordance with State regulations unless
otherwise designated. We publish this information in the refuge hunting
sheet.
* * * * *
19. 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).
* * * * *
Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
A. * * *
6. We require hunters to pay a fee to obtain a refuge hunt permit
(signed brochure) and to possess and carry that permit at all times
during your designated hunt period. Hunters must also display the
refuge-issued vehicle placard (part of the hunt permit) while
participating in the designated hunt period. Hunters, including youth
hunters, must also have a valid hunting license, proof of hunter's
education certification, and picture identification in order to obtain
a refuge hunt permit and must possess the items listed in this
condition (A6) while on the refuge hunt.
* * * * *
23. 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).
* * * * *
C. * * *
1. Conditions A4 through A13, and A16 through A23 apply.
* * * * *
4. Hunters must follow the Hunting Means and Methods of Firearms,
Archery and Crossbows outlined in the Texas Wildlife and Parks
Department's (TPWD's) regulations unless otherwise designated. We will
publish changes from the TPWD regulations that are applicable to
hunting on the refuge in the refuge hunting tear sheet, which is
available at the refuge office.
* * * * *
0
34. Amend Sec. 32.64 by revising paragraph B.4 under the entry Ouray
National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.64 Utah.
* * * * *
Ouray National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. * * *
4. We allow turkey hunting for youth hunters only.
* * * * *
0
35. Amend Sec. 32.66 by:
0
a. Revising paragraph C.15 under the entry Back Bay National Wildlife
Refuge; and
0
b. Under the entry Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraph C.6;
0
ii. Removing paragraph C.7;
0
iii. Redesignating paragraph C.8 as C.7;
0
iv. Removing paragraph C.9;
0
v. Redesignating paragraphs C.10 and C.11 as C.8 and C.9, respectively;
and
0
vi. Revising paragraph D.1.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.66 Virginia.
* * * * *
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. * * *
15. We prohibit use of tree stands except on Long Island (Zone 1).
* * * * *
Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
C.* * *
6. 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
this part 32).
* * * * *
D.* * *
1. During daylight hours, we allow fishing in Lake Drummond and in
the Feeder Ditch from boat, and from the piers at Washington Ditch and
Interior Ditch.
* * * * *
0
36. Amend Sec. 32.67 by:
0
a. Under the entry Little Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.2 and B; and
0
ii. Removing paragraph C.3;
0
b. Revising the entry Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge to read,
``Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge'', moving the
entry into alphabetical order within the section, and revising
paragraph D; and
0
c. Revising paragraph A.3 under the entry Ridgefield National Wildlife
Refuge.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.67 Washington.
* * * * *
Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing and shellfishing on designated
areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to
the following conditions:
1. In concurrence with the State, we allow fishing from boats
outside the
[[Page 68921]]
Sanctuary Area and outside the Research Natural Area.
2. We prohibit bank fishing within the refuge along the Nisqually
River and McAllister Creek.
3. We prohibit shellfishing (clams, oysters, mussels) on the
tideflats.
4. We prohibit boat launching on the refuge.
5. We prohibit tidal flat and marsh access from refuge trails.
* * * * *
Little Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
A.* * *
2. We allow hunting during approved State hunting seasons occurring
from September through December. We prohibit hunting and discharging
firearms during all other periods.
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of upland game and other
small game on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow hunting during approved State hunting seasons occurring
September through December, and during the State spring wild turkey
season. We prohibit hunting and discharge of firearms during all other
periods.
2. During the State spring turkey season, we prohibit hunting of
all species except wild turkey.
3. We prohibit raccoon hunting with dogs.
4. Condition A3 applies.
* * * * *
Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge
A.* * *
3. We limit or prohibit hunting of dusky Canada goose in accordance
with State regulations. 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). In addition, we will close the refuge goose season early if
the dusky Canada goose harvest reaches a quota adopted by the refuge.
* * * * *
Michael J. Bean
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks.
[FR Doc. 2016-23190 Filed 10-3-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4333-15-P