[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 215 (Wednesday, November 8, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 51940-51962]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-24329]
[[Page 51939]]
Vol. 82
Wednesday,
No. 215
November 8, 2017
Part II
Department of the Interior
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Fish and Wildlife Service
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50 CFR Part 32
2017-2018 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations; Final
Rule
Federal Register / Vol. 82 , No. 215 / Wednesday, November 8, 2017 /
Rules and Regulations
[[Page 51940]]
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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Fish and Wildlife Service
50 CFR Part 32
[Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2017-0005; FXRS12650900000-178-FF09R26000]
RIN 1018-BB75
2017-2018 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations
AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, increase the hunting
activities available at nine refuges, open one refuge to sport 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 2017-2018 season.
DATES: This rule is effective November 8, 2017.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Katherine Harrigan, (703) 358-2440.
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 and step-down management plans, and by annual review
of hunting and sport fishing programs and regulations.
[[Page 51941]]
Summary of Comments and Responses
On August 10, 2017, we published a proposed rule (82 FR 37398) to
increase the hunting activities available at nine refuges and open one
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 2017-2018 season. We accepted public comments on the proposed rule
for 30 days, ending September 11, 2017. By that date, we received 106
comments. Of those, two comments concerned only National Monuments,
which are not the subject of our proposed rule. Therefore, we do not
consider them below. We discuss the other 104 comments we received
below 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. Thirteen of these comments
specifically opposed hunting at Baskett Slough National Wildlife
Refuge, one commenter opposed hunting at Horicon National Wildlife
Refuge, one commenter opposed hunting at Savannah River National
Wildlife Refuge, one commenter opposed hunting at all refuges within
the State of Alabama, and one commenter opposed sport fishing at Siletz
Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
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, 92
Stat. 3114) 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. Thirty-nine of these commenters
specifically supported youth waterfowl hunting at Baskett Slough
National Wildlife Refuge. Two commenters supported the new
opportunities for hunting and fishing, and stated that hunting and
fishing should be open on all public lands. Two commenters expressed
[[Page 51942]]
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 commenters, more
than 40 percent of the more than 566 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 commenters 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 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.
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. The 10 refuges in
this rulemaking completed environmental assessments (EAs). 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 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. 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 or environmental impact statement (EIS). 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): A few commenters were of the opinion that hunting can
disrupt the natural balance of the ecosystem that people enjoy, can
impact the safety of other refuge users, 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 Fish and
Wildlife Service Manual (FW) 3) guides decision-making 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): One commenter requested that we increase non-motorized
access at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge in Utah, and eliminate
motorized boat access to some units of the refuge.
Our Response: Non-motorized access at Bear River Migratory Bird
Refuge 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. We received no comments regarding an increase in
non-motorized access during this process. We appreciate the feedback,
but we cannot accommodate these requests in this final rule; adding
additional non-motorized access would require us to update our plan,
compatibility determination, and NEPA documentation and allow for
additional public comment. Therefore, we made no changes to this rule
as a result of these comments. However, we may consider making these
changes in the future after conducting the required above described
actions.
Comment (6): One commenter expressed interest in opening fishing at
the Morgan Lake unit of Baskett Slough NWR.
Our Response: The hunt plan for Baskett Slough 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.
We received no
[[Page 51943]]
comments regarding fishing at Morgan Lake during this process. We
appreciate the feedback, but we cannot accommodate these requests in
this final rule; adding fishing would require us to update our plan,
compatibility determination, and NEPA documentation and allow for
additional public comment. Therefore, we made no changes to this rule
as a result of these comments. However, we may consider making these
changes in the future after conducting the required above described
actions.
Comment (7): Two commenters expressed interest in expanding
waterfowl hunting to adults in addition to youth at Baskett Slough NWR.
One of these commenters suggested wheelchair accessible hunting
opportunities.
Our Response: The hunt plan limiting opportunities only for youths
at Baskett Slough 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 small size of the refuge and
number of permits issued for the youth hunt allow the refuge to
maintain a safe hunter density to provide an uncrowded, high-quality
experience. Expanding adult waterfowl hunting opportunities would
require us to update our hunt plan, compatibility determination, and
NEPA documentation and allow for additional public comment. Wheelchair
accessibility is outside the scope of this regulatory process, and
would be considered within the refuge's facilities plan. Therefore, we
made no changes to this rule as a result of these comments. However, we
may consider making these changes in the future after conducting the
required above described actions.
Comment (8): One commenter expressed concern regarding the
regulatory change at Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge to close Swan
Check Lake to non-motorized boating for 4 months of the year and stated
that this regulatory change was proposed without public involvement.
The commenter also stated that opening Willow Lake to non-motorized
access must be examined through the NEPA process.
Our Response: We reverse our decision for now to close Swan Check
Lake to non-motorized boating for 4 months to minimize the burden on
the public, and we will revise the regulatory language to keep the unit
open year-round in accordance with the CCP. The opening of Willow Lake
to non-motorized access was previously analyzed in compliance with NEPA
as part of the CCP process. Public comment was also sought during this
process. We are updating the regulatory language for Stillwater
National Wildlife Refuge in this rule to reflect these changes.
Comment (9): Three commenters expressed concern over allowing lead
ammunition to be used on refuges; some requested that the Service ban
lead ammunition for all hunting.
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. We
note for State of California, lead ammunition is already banned under
State law and is therefore banned on all refuges in California.
We made no changes to the rule as a result of these comments.
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 Stillwater
NWR (in Nevada). Specifically, for Stillwater NWR, we revised the
regulations to keep non-motorized access on Swan Check Lake open year-
round.
In addition, we are adding to this final rule changes not included
in our proposed rule. Specifically, we are adding regulations for
upland and big game hunting for Kankakee National Wildlife Refuge to 50
CFR 32.32 (Illinois). We are also making changes to refuge-specific
regulations for, Rocky Mountain Arsenal in Colorado, and Benton Lake
National Wildlife Refuge and Benton Lake Wetland Management District in
Montana. Over all, these changes were deemed minor and not
controversial.
Effective Date
We are making this rule 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
August 10, 2017, proposed rule (82 FR 37398). 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.
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 (81
FR 68874; October 4, 2016) 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.
Table 1--Changes for 2017-2018 Hunting/Fishing Season
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Migratory bird
Refuge/region (*) State hunting Upland game hunting Big game hunting Sport fishing
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Baskett Slough (1)................ Oregon.................... C.................... Closed............... Closed.............. Closed.
Des Lacs (6)...................... North Dakota.............. Closed............... Already Open......... C/D................. Closed.
Fox River (3)..................... Wisconsin................. Closed............... Closed............... C................... Closed.
[[Page 51944]]
Horicon (3)....................... Wisconsin................. D.................... C/D.................. C................... Already Open.
Minnesota Valley (3).............. Minnesota................. C.................... C.................... C................... Already Open.
Patoka River (3).................. Indiana................... C.................... C.................... C................... C.
Savannah River (4)................ Georgia and South Carolina C/D.................. C/D.................. C/D................. Already Open.
Sequoyah (2)...................... Oklahoma.................. Already Open......... C.................... C................... Already Open.
Siletz Bay (1).................... Oregon.................... Already Open......... Closed............... Closed.............. B.
Upper Souris (6).................. North Dakota.............. Closed............... C/D.................. C/D................. Already Open.
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* Number in ( ) refers to the Region as defined in the preamble to this rule under Available Information for Specific Refuges.
Key:
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 2017-18 hunting/fishing season noted in the
chart above are each based on a complete administrative record which,
among other detailed documentation, also includes a hunt plan, a
compatibility determination, and the appropriate National Environmental
Policy Act (NEPA; 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) analysis, all of which were
the subject of a public review and comment process. These documents are
available upon request.
Fish Advisory
For health reasons, anglers should review and follow State-issued
consumption advisories before enjoying recreational sport fishing
opportunities on Service-managed waters. You can 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'').
Executive Order 13771--Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory
Costs
This rule is not an Executive Order (E.O.) 13771 (82 FR 9339,
February 3, 2017) regulatory action because this rule is not
significant under E.O. 12866.
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 will not have a significant economic
impact on a substantial number of small entities. Thus, for a
regulatory flexibility analysis to be required, impacts must exceed a
threshold for ``significant impact'' and a threshold for a
``substantial number of small entities.'' See 5 U.S.C. 605(b). SBREFA
amended the Regulatory Flexibility Act to require Federal agencies to
provide a statement of the factual basis for certifying that a rule
will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of
small entities.
This rule adds one NWR to the list of refuges open to sport
fishing, and increases hunting or fishing activities on nine additional
refuges. 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 914 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.
[[Page 51945]]
Table 2--Estimated Change in Recreation Opportunities in 2017/2018
[Dollars in thousands]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Additional
Refuge days expenditures
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Baskett Slough.......................... 2 $0.1
Des Lacs................................ 50 2.0
Fox River............................... 5 0.2
Horicon................................. 187 7.4
Minnesota Valley........................ 0 0.0
Patoka River............................ 0 0.0
Savannah River.......................... 315 12.4
Sequoyah................................ 5 0.2
Siletz Bay.............................. 150 6.3
Upper Souris............................ 200 7.9
-------------------------------
Total............................... 914 36.4
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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
$36,400 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 $83,500 (2016 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 $83,500, 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 $16,700 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 $36,400 to be spent in total in the refuges' local
economies. The maximum increase at most would be less than one-
hundredth of 1 percent for local retail trade spending (Table 3).
Table 3--Comparative Expenditures for Retail Trade Associated With Additional Refuge Visitation for 2017/2018
[Thousands, 2016 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Baskett Slough:
Polk, OR................... $377,029 $0.1 <0.01 125 89
Des Lacs:
Burke, ND.................. 1,988,596 1.0 <0.01 293 169
Ward, ND................... 40,290 1.0 <0.01 10 6
Fox River:
Marquette, WI.............. 74,141 0.2 <0.01 35 27
Horicon:
Dodge, WI.................. 870,743 3.7 <0.01 234 159
Fond du Lac, WI............ 1,465,969 3.7 <0.01 354 225
Minnesota Valley:
Carver, MN................. 948,923 .............. .............. 209 132
Dakota, MN................. 6,779,786 .............. .............. 1,132 689
Hennepin, MN............... 25,012,109 .............. .............. 4,209 2,657
Le Sueur, MN............... 220,214 .............. .............. 84 58
Scott, MN.................. 1,397,711 .............. .............. 323 215
[[Page 51946]]
Sibley, MN................. 79,291 .............. .............. 54 39
Patoka River:
Gibson, IN................. 582,859 .............. .............. 120 84
Pike, IN................... 75,823 .............. .............. 31 23
Savannah River:
Chatham, GA................ 4,449,471 6.2 <0.01 1,198 851
Effingham, GA.............. 374,811 6.2 <0.01 108 79
Jasper, SC................. 600,879 6.2 <0.01 104 80
Sequoyah:
Haskell, OK................ 149,403 0.1 <0.01 33 22
Muskogee, OK............... 970,020 0.1 <0.01 258 178
Sequoyah, OK............... 405,258 0.1 <0.01 116 86
Siletz Bay:
Lincoln, OR................ 607,106 6.3 <0.01 241 310
Upper Souris:
Renville, ND............... 84,795 3.9 <0.01 12 10
Ward, ND................... 1,988,596 3.9 <0.01 293 169
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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
This 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 will apply 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 will affect only visitors at NWRs and
describe 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 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 will 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 will clarify established regulations and result in
better understanding of the regulations by refuge visitors.
Energy Supply, Distribution or Use (E.O. 13211)
On May 18, 2001, the President issued E.O. 13211 on regulations
that significantly affect energy supply, distribution, and use. E.O.
13211 requires agencies to prepare Statements of Energy Effects when
undertaking certain actions. Because this rule will add one NWR to the
list of refuges open to sport fishing and increase hunting or fishing
activities on nine other NWRs, 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.
[[Page 51947]]
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 (PRA)
This rule does not contain any new collection of information that
requires approval by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under
the PRA of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.). OMB has approved the
information collection requirements associated with regulations
implementing refuge-specific hunting and sport fishing regulations and
has assigned OMB control numbers 1018-0102 (expires August 31, 2020),
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 would include
hunting and/or fishing plans--for public use of refuges, and prior to
implementing any new or revised public recreation program on a refuge
as identified in 50 CFR 26.32. We have completed section 7 consultation
on each of the affected refuges.
National Environmental Policy Act
We analyzed this 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
Katherine Harrigan, 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:
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 `` ``Kankakee National
Wildlife Refuge'' in the State of Illinois; and
0
b. Adding in alphabetical order an entry for ``Loess Bluffs National
Wildlife Refuge'' and removing the entry for ``Squaw Creek National
Wildlife Refuge'' in the State of Missouri.
0
3. Amend Sec. 32.23 in the entry for Dale Bumpers White River National
Wildlife Refuge by:
0
a. Removing the second, duplicate appearance of paragraph A.16;
[[Page 51948]]
0
b. Adding paragraph A.17;
0
c. Revising paragraphs A.18 through A.20, C.2 through C.5, C.8, and
C.18;
0
d. Adding paragraphs C.20 and C.21; and
0
e. Revising paragraph D.1.
The additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.23 Arkansas.
* * * * *
Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
* * * * *
17. We prohibit the use of decoys that contain moving parts or
electrical components, except that you may use manually operated 'jerk
strings' to simulate decoy movement.
18. You may not utilize a guide, guide service, outfitter, club,
organization, or any other person who provides equipment, services, or
assistance on the refuge for compensation.
19. We prohibit commercial guiding for the take of wildlife or
fish.
20. We allow camping only in designated sites and areas identified
in the refuge user brochure/permit (signed brochure), and we restrict
camping to individuals involved in wildlife-dependent activities. We
limit camping on the refuge to no more than 14 days during any 30
consecutive-day period. Campers must occupy camps daily. We prohibit
all disturbances, including use of generators, after 10 p.m.
* * * * *
C. * * *
* * * * *
2. Archery deer seasons on the North Unit are from the beginning of
October until the end of January except during quota muzzleloader and
quota gun deer hunts, when the archery season is closed. We provide
annual season dates and bag limits in the refuge user brochure/permit
(signed brochure).
3. Archery deer seasons on the South Unit are from the beginning of
October until the end of December except during quota muzzleloader and
quota gun deer hunts, when the archery season is closed. We provide
annual season dates and bag limits in the refuge user brochure/permit
(signed brochure).
4. Muzzleloader season for deer will begin in October and will
continue for a period of up to 3 days of quota hunting and 4 days of
non-quota hunting in the North Unit. We provide annual season dates and
bag limits in the refuge user brochure/permit (signed brochure).
5. The gun deer hunt will begin in November and will continue for a
period of 3 days of quota hunting in the North and South Units, and 4
days of non-quota hunting in the North Unit. We provide annual season
dates, bag limits, and areas in the refuge user brochure/permit.
* * * * *
8. If you harvest deer or turkey on the refuge, you must
immediately record the zone number (Zone 145 for the South Unit or Zone
146 for the North Unit) on your hunting license and later check deer
and/or turkey through the State checking system. Outlying tracts use
the same zone number as the surrounding State zone.
* * * * *
18. We close the Kansas Lake Area to all entry on December 1 and
reopen it on March 1.
* * * * *
20. We prohibit the possession and/or use of toxic shot by hunters
using shotguns (see Sec. 32.2(k) of this chapter) when hunting.
21. Feral hog regulations are found in the refuge brochure/permit
(signed brochure).
D. * * *
1. Conditions A1, A9, A10, A11, A15, and A21 through A25 apply.
* * * * *
0
4. Amend Sec. 32.24 by:
0
a. Revising paragraph A.3 under the entry Colusa National Wildlife
Refuge;
0
b. Revising paragraph A.3 under the entry Delevan National Wildlife
Refuge;
0
c. Revising paragraph A.3 under the entry Sacramento National Wildlife
Refuge; and
0
d. Revising paragraph C.3 under the entry Sacramento River National
Wildlife Refuge.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.24 California.
* * * * *
Colusa National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
3. Junior hunters age 15 or younger must be accompanied by, and
remain within sight and normal voice contact of, an adult (age 18 or
older) at all times while hunting.
* * * * *
Delevan National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
3. Junior hunters age 15 or younger must be accompanied by, and
remain within sight and normal voice contact of, an adult (age 18 or
older) at all times while hunting.
* * * * *
Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
3. Junior hunters age 15 or younger must be accompanied by, and
remain within sight and normal voice contact of, an adult (age 18 or
older) at all times while hunting.
* * * * *
Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. * * *
3. We prohibit using dogs while hunting feral hogs and black-tailed
deer.
* * * * *
0
5. Amend Sec. 32.25 by revising paragraph D under the entry Rocky
Mountain Arsenal to read as follows:
Sec. 32.25 Colorado.
* * * * *
Rocky Mountain Arsenal
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing at designated times and on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow fishing from the third Saturday in April to the second
Sunday in October.
2. We allow fishing on Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday from legal
sunrise to sunset.
3. You must possess a signed refuge fishing permit (signed refuge
fishing brochure), when fishing, for all anglers age 16 and older.
Refuge brochures are available at the refuge visitor center, fishing
fee stations, and on the refuge's Web site (https://www.fws.gov/refuge/rocky_mountain_arsenal/).
4. You must stop and pay the daily fishing recreation fee for each
licensed angler age 16 and older. Payments are made at self-serving
fishing fee stations, and you must display a receipt of payment or an
annual pass while fishing.
5. We allow bank fishing only at Lake Mary and Lake Ladora.
6. We allow wade fishing only in Lake Ladora after Memorial Day.
7. We only allow the use of one rod and reel or pole and line with
one hook per line.
8. We only allow barbless hooks.
9. We only allow artificial lures and flies on Lake Ladora. We
allow artificial lures and flies and artificial bait, cut bait, and
food products only on Lake Mary.
10. We prohibit the use of live bait on all refuge waters.
11. We only allow catch and release fishing.
12. We prohibit the possession and consumption of alcoholic
beverages while fishing.
[[Page 51949]]
0
6. Amend Sec. 32.27 by revising the entry for Prime Hook National
Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.27 Delaware.
* * * * *
Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow the hunting of waterfowl,
coot, mourning dove, snipe, and woodcock on designated areas of the
refuge during designated seasons in accordance with State regulations
and subject to the following conditions:
1. General Hunting Regulations.
i. Anyone age 16 or older, regardless of license status, must
obtain a migratory bird hunting permit (Migratory Bird Hunt
Application, FWS Form 3-2357) to hunt or enter hunt areas, except non-
hunting assistants assisting disabled hunters in the disabled area. You
must print and validate your permit (name/address/phone) with your
signature, in ink, and retain it on your person while hunting or
scouting.
ii. You must abide by the terms and conditions outlined in the
refuge hunt brochure (see Sec. 32.2(e) of this chapter). Brochures
contain information on seasons, bag limits, methods of hunting, maps
depicting areas open to hunting, hunt unit reservation procedures, and
the terms and conditions under which we issue hunting permits. They are
available at the visitor center, at the administration office, and on
the refuge's Web site (see Sec. 32.2(f) of this chapter).
iii. You, and those who accompany you who are age 16 or older, must
possess and carry the following at all times while on refuge property:
A valid Delaware hunting license or document exhibiting your License
Exempt Number (LEN), all required State and Federal stamps, a valid
form of government-issued photo identification, a signed refuge hunt
brochure appropriate for the hunt in question, and a printed valid
hunting permit. We will not accept photocopies or electronic copies of
these documents.
iv. Youths age 15 or younger must be accompanied by a supervisor
age 18 or older who possesses all documents required in A.1.iii,
including non-hunting assistants. All supervisors may only be
accompanied by one youth. Youths must possess and carry a signed refuge
waterfowl hunt brochure and an LEN or license in accordance with State
law. The youth must remain within sight and normal voice contact of the
supervisor at all times while hunting on the refuge.
v. Other than using motor vehicles on designated roads, you may
only access the refuge by foot, except as authorized by the refuge
manager.
vi. You may use trained dogs to assist in retrieval of harvested
game.
vii. You must notify and receive permission from a Service law
enforcement officer, refuge manager, or designee if you need to
retrieve game from a closed refuge area or a hunting area for which you
do not possess a valid permit (see Sec. 26.21(a) of this chapter).
viii. You must park in designated areas. We prohibit parking in
front of any gate. Parked vehicles may not impede any road traffic (see
Sec. 27.31(h) of this chapter).
ix. You may enter the refuge up to 2 hours before legal morning
shooting time. You must stop hunting by 3 p.m. and leave the hunting
area or unit by 4 p.m., except when snow goose hunting, in the
designated snow goose area, during the snow goose conservation order
season.
x. You must complete and return a Migratory Bird Hunt Report (FWS
Form 3-2361), available at the refuge administration office or on the
refuge's Web site, within 15 days of the close of the season.
xi. We prohibit the use of natural vegetation for camouflaging
blind material (see Sec. 27.51(a) of this chapter).
xii. We prohibit entry to designated safety zones as identified by
polygons on the refuge map.
xiii. You may access the Lottery Waterfowl hunt area by boat. The
maximum horsepower allowed for boat motors is 30 horsepower (HP). You
must abide by the slow, no-wake zones on designated portions of refuge
waterways as depicted in maps or within the brochure.
xiv. We allow the use of non-motorized boats within the Walk-in
Hunt Area. Boats may be transported to refuge waters by hand or by the
use of a cart.
2. General and Disabled Waterfowl Draw Hunt Areas.
i. You must obtain a Daily General or Disabled Waterfowl Draw Area
Permit (signed brochure), which reserves your hunt unit/area/site in
advance for a specific date using an online system. Only hunters age 16
or older may reserve a hunt unit.
ii. You must print and validate your Daily Waterfowl Draw Area
Permit (signed brochure) with your signature in ink.
iii. You must hunt from your boat or, if applicable, provided
blind. You must hunt within 75 feet (22.9 meters) of your designated
site.
iv. We allow you to have up to two additional hunters accompany you
on your reserved site.
v. Disabled Waterfowl Draw Area.
a. All disabled hunters must possess and carry a State of Delaware
Certified Hunter with Disabilities Card while hunting in disabled
areas. We will not accept photocopies or electronic copies of these
forms.
b. Disabled hunters may have a non-hunting assistant who is age 18
or older. The assistant must remain within sight and normal voice
contact; must not be engaged in hunting; and must possess a valid
refuge hunt brochure signed in ink and a valid government-issued photo
identification. Any assistant engaged in hunting must possess and carry
all documents as specified in A.1.iii.
c. We do not allow assistants to enter a designated disabled
hunting area unless they are accompanied by a certified disabled
hunter.
d. We do not require assistants to maintain sight and normal voice
contact while retrieving game.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of rabbit, quail,
pheasant, and red fox on designated areas of the refuge in accordance
with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. A.1.i. through A.1.viii. and A.1.xii. apply.
2. We prohibit shooting a projectile from a firearm, muzzleloader,
bow, or crossbow from, down, or across any refuge road. A refuge road
is any road that is traveled by vehicular traffic.
3. You must make a reasonable effort to retrieve all wounded or
killed game and include it in your daily bag limit. We prohibit leaving
entrails or other waste within 50 feet (15.2 meters) of any road,
parking area, trail, or refuge structure on the refuge.
4. You must use daylight florescent orange in accordance with State
regulations (see Sec. 32.2(d) of this chapter).
5. You may enter the refuge no earlier than 1 hour before legal
morning shooting time and you must exit the refuge by 1 hour after
legal sunset.
6. We prohibit the use of centerfire and rimfire rifles.
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. General Hunt Regulations.
i. Conditions A.1.i. through A.1.v., A.1.vii., A.1.viii., A.1.xii.,
B2, and B3 apply.
ii. We prohibit organized deer drives.
iii. We allow the use of temporary tree stands and blinds for
hunting. All stands and blinds left on refuge property
[[Page 51950]]
unoccupied must be tagged in plain sight with your permit number and
the years that are printed on your permit. You must remove all stands
and blinds by legal sunset of a date established annually by the refuge
manager. We are not responsible for damage, theft, or use of the stand
by other hunters.
iv. You may use marking devices, including flagging or tape, but
you must remove them by legal sunset on a date established annually by
the refuge manager. You may not use paint or any other permanent marker
to mark trails.
v. You must use daylight florescent orange in accordance with State
regulations during all designated firearm and muzzleloader deer hunts
(see Sec. 32.2(d) of this chapter).
2. General and Disabled Deer Draw Hunt Areas.
i. Youth hunters must obtain a hunting permit before applying for a
General and Disabled Deer Draw Area Permit (signed brochure). Hunters
age 15 or younger must obtain a hunting permit; however, A.1.iv. still
applies.
ii. You must obtain a Daily General or Disabled Deer Draw Area
Permit (signed brochure), which reserves your hunt unit/area/site in
advance for a specific date using an online system.
iii. You must print and sign your Daily Deer Draw Area Permit
(signed brochure) in ink.
3. For designated disabled hunt areas, A.2.v. applies.
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. Conditions A.1.i. through A.1.iv. apply for those age 17 and
older.
2. All youth age 16 or younger must be accompanied by a licensed
angler age 18 or older who possesses all documents required in D.1.i.
3. The refuge is open from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise to \1/2\
hour after legal sunset.
4. Other than using motor vehicles on designated roads, you may
only access the refuge by foot, except as authorized by the refuge
manager.
5. We allow fishing and crabbing from boats and from designated
areas of the refuge, on designated days, during designated times,
routes of travel, waterways, and launch sites.
i. You must remove boats from the water by legal sunset.
ii. When on Turkle and Fleetwood Ponds, you may only propel boats
manually or with electric motors.
iii. We allow a maximum of 30 horsepower (HP) outboard or motor.
iv. You must abide by the slow, no-wake zones on designated
portions of refuge waterways as depicted in maps or within the
brochure.
6. Fishing tackle and crabbing gear:
i. You must use hook-and-line tackle when fishing for finfish.
ii. You may use only hand lines, crab dip nets, hoop crab nets,
and/or manually operated crab traps (collapsible traps) in any
combination for crabbing.
iii. You must attend to your crabbing and fishing lines or gear at
all times.
0
7. Amend Sec. 32.28 by:
0
a. Under the entry Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs C.1, C.2, C.8, and C.16;
0
ii. Adding paragraphs C.17 and C.18;
0
iii. Removing paragraph D.5; and
0
iv. Redesignating paragraph D.6 as D.5;
0
b. Under the entry Lower Suwanee National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.9, A.12, and A.14; and
0
ii. Adding paragraph D.4; and
0
c. Under the entry Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.3 through A.6;
0
ii. Adding paragraphs A.10 and A.11;
0
iii. Revising paragraphs A.14, A.16, C.8, C.15, C.16, C.24, and D.3;
0
iv. Removing paragraph D.9;
0
v. Redesignating paragraphs D.10 through D.14 as D.9 through D.13,
respectively;
0
vi. Removing paragraph D.15;
0
vii. Redesignating paragraphs D.16 and D.17 as D.14 and D.15,
respectively;
0
viii. Revising newly redesignated paragraph D. 14; and
0
ix. Removing paragraph D.18.
The additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.28 Florida.
* * * * *
Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. * * *
1. You must have a valid signed Lake Woodruff National Wildlife
Refuge Big Game Permit (signed brochure). The permits (signed brochure)
are free and nontransferable, and anyone on refuge land engaged in
hunting must sign and carry the permit at all times.
2. You must obtain a State-issued Lake Woodruff Quota Hunt Permit
(Quota Permit), which can be purchased through Florida Fish and
Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). You must have on your person
all applicable Florida hunting licenses and permits. State requirements
for hunter safety apply.
* * * * *
8. Hunting areas on the refuge are seasonally closed to all public
use except to permitted hunters during the season, and are marked on
refuge maps. 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 leave the refuge
within 2 hours of legal sunset.
* * * * *
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 deer.
17. 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.
18. It is unlawful to drive nails, spikes, or other metal objects
into any tree, or to hunt from any tree in which a metal object has
been driven (see Sec. 32.2(i) of this chapter).
* * * * *
Lower Suwanee National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
9. In addition to State hunter-education requirements, an adult
(parent or guardian) age 21 or older must supervise and must remain
within sight of and in normal voice contact of the youth hunter age 15
or younger. Parents or adult guardians are responsible for ensuring
that hunters age 15 and younger do not engage in conduct that would
constitute a violation of refuge regulations. An adult may not
supervise more than two youths.
* * * * *
12. We prohibit marking any tree, or other refuge feature, with
flagging, litter, paint, tacks, spider eyes, or blaze.
* * * * *
14. You may leave a temporary tree stand on refuge property
starting 1 week before archery season, but you must remove it by the
last day of hog season. All tree stands left on the refuge within the
hunt season must display the hunter's name and hunting license number
legibly written on or attached to the stand. We may seize and dispose
of any tree stands not in compliance, according to Federal regulations.
You may also use a temporary tree stand during small game season, but
you must remove it by the last day of small game season.
* * * * *
[[Page 51951]]
D. * * *
4. We prohibit the use or possession of alcohol while fishing.
* * * * *
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
3. You must carry (or hunt within 30 yards of a hunter who
possesses) 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 the
end of January. The Waterfowl Quota Permit can be used for a single
party consisting of the permit holder and up to three guests. The
permit holder must be present.
4. During the State's waterfowl season, we allow hunting on
Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and the following Federal holidays:
Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
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). Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and KSC maintain
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.
6. We allow hunting of waterfowl on refuge-established hunt days
from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise until 12 p.m. (noon). Hunters must
remove all equipment and check out at the refuge check station prior to
1 p.m. daily.
* * * * *
10. We prohibit accessing a hunt area from Black Point Wildlife
Drive, Playalinda Beach Road (Beach Road), and Scrub Ridge Trail. We
prohibit launching a boat and leaving vehicles parked for hunting
purposes on Black Point Wildlife Drive, Playalinda Beach Road (Beach
Road), or Scrub Ridge Trail.
11. We prohibit construction of permanent blinds or digging into
dikes (see Sec. 27.92 of this chapter).
* * * * *
14. You must leave the refuge by 1 p.m. Prior to that, 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.
* * * * *
16. You may use gasoline or diesel motors only inside the
impoundment perimeter ditch. Outside the perimeter ditch, vessels must
be propelled by paddling, push pole, or electric trolling motor.
* * * * *
C. * * *
8. You are prohibited from entering the normal or expanded
restricted areas of KSC. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and
KSC maintain 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.
* * * * *
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. You may not possess hunting weapons while scouting.
16. We allow parking for scouting and/or hunting only along State
Road (SR) 3, but not within the hunt areas or on any road marked as
``Area Closed.''
* * * * *
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. We define antlered and antlerless deer according to State
regulations.
* * * * *
D. * * *
3. You may launch boats for night fishing and boating activities
only from Bair's Cove, Beacon 42, and Biolab boat ramps.
* * * * *
14. When inside the impoundment perimeter ditch, you may use
gasoline or diesel motors. Outside the perimeter ditch, vessels must be
propelled by paddling, push pole, or electric trolling motor.
* * * * *
0
8. Amend Sec. 32.29 by revising paragraphs A, B, and C under the entry
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.29 Georgia.
* * * * *
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of waterfowl and
mourning dove on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with
State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. All hunters age 16 and older must possess and carry a signed
refuge hunt permit (name/address/phone) and a State license. We charge
a fee for all hunt permits.
2. To participate in the youth waterfowl hunt, youth hunters must
submit the Waterfowl Lottery Application (FWS Form 3-2355). You must
pay an application fee to enter the hunt drawing.
3. We allow temporary blinds only. You must remove decoys and other
personal property from the refuge daily (see Sec. 27.93 of this
chapter).
4. We allow shotguns for all migratory game bird hunting, but only
with nontoxic shot size #2 or smaller.
5. Youth hunters, defined as those age 15 and younger, must remain
within sight and normal voice contact of an adult age 21 or older; the
adult must possess a valid hunting license for the State in which they
are hunting. One adult may supervise no more than two youth hunters.
6. You may take feral hog and coyote during all refuge hunts
(migratory bird, upland, and big game) with weapons authorized and
legal for those hunts.
7. You may use retrieving dogs. Dogs must remain under direct and
constant control of the hunter.
8. You must comply with all provisions of State and local law when
possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on national wildlife
refuges. You may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with
refuge regulations (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge
regulations in part 32.)
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. Conditions A1, A6, and A8 apply.
2. For squirrel hunting, we allow rimfire rifles, rimfire pistols,
or shotguns with nontoxic shot size #2 shot or smaller. We recommend
but do not require solid copper or other nontoxic rimfire bullets. For
rabbit hunting, we allow shotguns, but only with nontoxic shot size #2
or smaller.
3. You may not hunt on or within 100 yards (90 meters) of public
roads, refuge facilities, roads and trails, and railroad rights-of-way,
or in closed areas.
4. You may not use dogs for upland game hunting.
5. During the period when upland game hunting coincides with the
refuge gun hunt for deer and hogs, you must wear an outer garment
containing a minimum of 500 square inches (3,226 square centimeters) of
hunter-orange material above the waistline.
6. Youth hunters, defined as those age 15 and younger, must remain
within sight and normal voice contact of an adult age 21 or older; the
adult must possess a valid hunting license for the State in which they
are hunting. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter.
[[Page 51952]]
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, turkey,
feral hog, and coyote on designated areas of the refuge in accordance
with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. Conditions A1, A6, A8, B3, and B6 apply.
2. To participate in the gun hunt for wheelchair-dependent hunters,
hunters must submit the Quota Deer Hunt Application (FWS Form 3-2354).
To participate in the Youth Turkey Hunt & Learn Weekend, youth hunters
must submit the Big/Upland Game Hunt Application (FWS Form 3-2356). You
must pay an application fee to enter these hunt drawings.
3. To participate in the youth-only deer or turkey hunts, youth
hunters must request a free hunt permit from the refuge headquarters.
4. You may only use bows, in accordance with State regulations, for
deer, hog, and coyote hunting during the archery hunt for these
species.
5. You may only use shotguns (20 gauge or larger, slugs only),
center-fire rifles, center-fire pistols, muzzleloaders, and bows, in
accordance with State regulations, for deer, hog, and coyote hunting
during the firearm hunts for these species.
6. You must remove hunt stands following each day's hunt (see Sec.
27.93 of this chapter).
7. Hunters may take as many as five deer (no more than two
antlered). There is no bag limit on feral hog or coyote.
8. Turkey hunters may harvest only three gobblers (male turkey).
9. We allow only shotguns with nontoxic #2 shot or smaller, and
bows, in accordance with State regulations, for turkey hunting. We
prohibit the use of slugs or buckshot for turkey hunting.
10. We prohibit the use of trail or game cameras. We also prohibit
the use of trail marking tacks, bright eyes, reflectors, reflecting
tape, and any other markers, including biodegradable markers such as
toilet paper and paper tape.
11. We prohibit the use of dogs for big game hunting.
* * * * *
0
9. Amend Sec. 32.32 by adding in alphabetical order an entry for
Kankakee National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.32 Illinois.
* * * * *
Kankakee National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. [Reserved].
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of wild turkey on the
Kolar Savanna Unit in accordance with State seasons and regulations,
and subject to the following condition: 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. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on the
Kolar Savanna Unit in accordance with State seasons and regulations.
D. Sport Fishing. [Reserved].
* * * * *
0
10. Amend Sec. 32.37 by:
0
a. Revising paragraph A.19 under the entry Bayou Sauvage National
Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Revising paragraphs A.14, C.3, C.5, and C.7 under the entry Bayou
Teche National Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Under the entry Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.15, C.5, C.6, D.5, and D.6; and
0
ii. Adding paragraph D.8;
0
d. Under the entry Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.6, A.7, A.10, A.11, B.4, C.3, and C.8;
0
ii. Adding paragraphs C.11 and C.12; and
0
iii. Revising paragraph D.3;
0
e. Revising paragraphs B.2, B.7, and C.5 under the entry Catahoula
National Wildlife Refuge;
0
f. Revising paragraph A.16 under the entry Delta National Wildlife
Refuge; and
0
g. Revising paragraph A.12 under the entry Mandalay National Wildlife
Refuge.
The additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.37 Louisiana.
* * * * *
Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
19. We prohibit the use of any type of material used as flagging or
trail markers, except reflective tacks.
* * * * *
Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
14. We prohibit the use of any type of material used as flagging or
trail markers, except reflective tacks.
* * * * *
C. * * *
3. We allow hunting in the Centerville, Garden City, Bayou Sale,
North Bend East, and North Bend West Units. We do not allow hunting
within 500 feet (152.4 meters) of the Garden City parking area and
boardwalk. The Bayou Sale Unit is not open for big game firearm hunts.
* * * * *
5. You may take feral hogs only as incidental take while
participating in the refuge deer archery hunt.
* * * * *
7. During deer gun seasons, all hunters, except waterfowl hunters,
must wear and display 400 square inches (2,580.6 square centimeters) of
unbroken hunter-orange or blaze pink as the outermost layer of clothing
on the chest and back and a hunter-orange or blaze pink cap. Deer
hunters hunting from concealed ground blinds must display a minimum of
400 square inches (2,580.6 square centimeters) of hunter-orange or
blaze pink above or around their blinds; this must be visible from 360
degrees.
* * * * *
Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
15. We prohibit all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility-terrain
vehicles (UTVs).
* * * * *
C. * * *
5. You may erect temporary deer stands 2 days prior to the start of
deer archery season. You must remove all deer stands within 2 days
after the archery deer season closes. You may place only one deer stand
on the refuge. Deer stands must have the owner's name, address, and
phone number clearly printed on the stand. Hunting stands are not
allowed on trees painted with white bands. You must place stands in a
non-hunting position when not in use (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
6. You may take hogs only as incidental take while participating in
the refuge deer archery hunt.
* * * * *
D. * * *
5. We prohibit all commercial finfishing and shellfishing,
including guiding, outfitting, lodging, club membership, or
participating in a paid guided fishing trip (see Sec. 27.97 of this
chapter).
6. Conditions A6, A8, A9, and A14 through A17 apply.
* * * * *
8. You must attend to any fishing, crabbing, and crawfishing
equipment at all times.
* * * * *
Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
6. An adult at least age 21 must supervise youth hunters during all
[[Page 51953]]
hunts. State regulations define youth hunter age and hunter-education
requirements. One adult may supervise two youths during small game
hunts and migratory bird hunts but may supervise only one youth during
big game hunts. Youths must remain within normal voice contact of the
adult who is supervising them. Parents or adult guardians are
responsible for ensuring that youth hunters do not engage in conduct
that would constitute a violation of refuge regulations.
7. We prohibit hunting within 150 feet (45.7 meters) from the
centerline of any public road, refuge road, designated or maintained
trail, building, residence, designated camping area, or designated
public facility, or from or across aboveground oil, 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.
* * * * *
10. You may not act as a hunting guide, outfitter, or in any other
capacity whereby another individual(s) pays or promises to pay directly
or indirectly for services rendered. You may not provide payment to any
other person or persons for hunting on the refuge, regardless of
whether the payment is for guiding, outfitting, lodging, or club
membership (see Sec. 27.97 of this chapter).
11. We prohibit horses, trail cameras, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs),
and utility-terrain vehicles (UTVs), except UTVs are allowed on
designated physically challenged hunt trails for big game. We provide
specific size and tire pressure restrictions for UTVs in the refuge
hunt permit (signed brochure).
* * * * *
B. * * *
4. All hunters in Louisiana (including archery hunters and small
game hunters), except waterfowl hunters, must wear and display not less
than 400 square inches (2,580.6 square centimeters) of unbroken hunter-
orange or blaze pink as the outermost layer of clothing on the chest
and back and a hunter-orange cap during deer gun seasons. While walking
to and from elevated stands, all deer hunters must display a minimum of
400 square inches (2,580.6 square centimeters) of hunter-orange or
blaze pink or a hunter-orange or blaze pink hat. All hunters in
Mississippi must wear at least 500 square inches (3,226 square
centimeters) of hunter-orange or blaze pink; this replaces the 400
square inches (2,580.6 square centimeters) required in Louisiana.
During the dog season for squirrels and rabbits, all hunters, except
waterfowl hunters, must wear a hunter-orange or blaze pink hat. Deer
hunters hunting from concealed blinds must display at least 400 square
inches (2,580.6 square centimeters) of hunter-orange or blaze pink
above or around their blinds; this must be visible from 360 degrees.
* * * * *
C. * * *
3. We allow archery deer hunting during the open State deer archery
season. You may take deer of either sex in accordance with State
regulations. The State season limits apply.
* * * * *
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 February in the refuge hunt permit (signed brochure). During the
special hog hunt in February, you must use trained hog-hunting dogs to
aid in the take of hog. During the special hog hunt, 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. Condition A8 applies during special hog hunts
in February.
* * * * *
11. We prohibit using shot larger than BB lead or T steel while
hunting during turkey season.
12. We allow physically challenged big game hunters exclusive use
of designated physically challenged hunt trails with limited use of
UTVs in accordance with specific size and weight specifications.
Specific hunt trails will be designated on the refuge hunt permit.
Physically challenged hunters must pre-register hunting dates and
specific location at the refuge office. An assistant may accompany the
physically challenged hunter, but the assistant may not hunt.
D. * * *
3. We close the fishing ponds at the Pearl River Turnaround to
fishing from April through the first full week of June and to boating
during the months of April, May, June, and July.
* * * * *
Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. * * *
2. At the Headquarters Unit, we only allow squirrel and rabbit
hunting. We set seasons annually.
* * * * *
7. You may use shotguns for hunting but only with nontoxic shot and
rifles .22 caliber rimfire or smaller. We prohibit possession of toxic
shot when hunting.
C. * * *
5. We allow hunting of deer with primitive firearms during the
first segment of the State season for area 1, weekdays only (Monday
through Friday) and 2 days in December with these dates set annually.
We allow either-sex, deer gun hunting for the Friday, Saturday, and
Sunday immediately following Thanksgiving Day and for 2 days in
December with these dates to be set annually.
* * * * *
Delta National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
16. We prohibit the use of any type of material used as flagging or
trail markers, except reflective tacks.
* * * * *
Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
12. We prohibit the use of any type of material used as flagging or
trail markers, except reflective tacks.
* * * * *
0
11. Amend Sec. 32.39 by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A, C, D.2, and D.3 under the entry Blackwater
National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
b. Revising paragraph C and D.4 under the entry Eastern Neck National
Wildlife Refuge.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.39 Maryland.
* * * * *
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose and duck
on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations
and subject to the following conditions:
1. You must obtain a refuge waterfowl hunting permit (signed
brochure) by signing the corresponding season's refuge waterfowl
hunting brochure in ink. You must abide by the terms and conditions
outlined in the brochure (see Sec. 32.2(e) of this chapter). Refuge
waterfowl hunting brochures contain seasons, bag limits, methods of
hunting, maps depicting areas open to hunting, hunt unit reservation
procedures, and the terms and conditions under which we issue hunting
permits. They are available at the refuge visitor center,
administration office, and on the refuge's Web site.
2. You must reserve your hunt unit in advance for a specific date
using the call reservation system. You must be age 18 or older to
reserve a hunt unit.
[[Page 51954]]
3. Up to three additional hunters may accompany you on your
reserved unit.
4. You and those who accompany you must possess on your person a
valid Maryland hunting license and all required stamps, a valid form of
government-issued photo identification, and a printed valid hunting
permit (signed brochure) at all times while on refuge property. We will
not accept photocopies or electronic copies of these forms.
5. We prohibit the use of natural vegetation for camouflaging blind
material.
6. Other than using motor vehicles on designated roads, you may
only access the refuge by foot, except as authorized by the refuge
manager.
7. You may use trained dogs to assist in the retrieval of harvested
birds.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow the hunting of white-tailed and sika
deer and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with
State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. General Hunt Regulations.
i. Condition A6 applies.
ii. You must obtain a deer or turkey hunting permit (Big/Upland
Game Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2356 or Quota Deer Hunt Application,
FWS Form 3-2354). Hunting brochures, hunting application procedures,
seasons, bag limits, methods of hunting, maps depicting areas open to
hunting, and the terms and conditions under which we issue hunting
permits are available at the refuge visitor center, administration
office, and on the refuge's Web site.
iii. You must possess on your person at all times while on refuge
property: A valid Maryland hunting license and all required stamps, a
valid form of government-issued photo identification, and a printed
valid hunting permit (Big/Upland Game Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2356
or Quota Deer Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2354) issued by the refuge.
We will not accept photocopies or electronic copies of these forms.
iv. You may not hunt from a permanently constructed tree stand or
blind.
v. We prohibit organized deer drives, unless otherwise authorized
by the refuge manager on designated hunt days.
vi. You must notify and receive permission from a Service law
enforcement officer, refuge manager, or designee if you need to
retrieve game from a refuge closed area or a hunting area for which you
do not possess a valid permit.
vii. We prohibit shooting a projectile from a firearm,
muzzleloader, bow, or crossbow from, down, or across any refuge road. A
refuge road is any road that is traveled by vehicular traffic.
viii. We prohibit parking in front of any gate. Parked vehicles may
not impede any road traffic (see Sec. 27.31(h) of this chapter).
ix. You must make a reasonable effort to retrieve all wounded or
killed game and include it in your daily bag limit. We prohibit leaving
deer or turkey entrails or other waste within 50 feet (15.2 meters) of
any road, parking area, trail, or refuge structure on the refuge.
x. We allow the use of temporary tree stands and blinds for
hunting. All stands and blinds left on refuge property, unoccupied,
must be tagged in plain sight with your permit number and the years
that are printed on your permit. You must remove all stands and blinds
by legal sunset of a date established annually by the refuge manager.
xi. We allow the use of marking devices, including flagging or
tape, but you must remove them by legal sunset of a date established
annually by the refuge manager. You may not use paint or any other
permanent marker to mark trails.
xii. You must wear fluorescent orange in accordance with State
regulations during all designated firearm and muzzleloader deer hunts.
xiii. You must check all deer harvested at the refuge-sponsored
check station during hunt days when the refuge-sponsored check station
is open. If you fail to check deer during operation hours of the check
station, you must notify the hunt coordinator by noon on the day after
your kill.
xiv. You must adhere to the bag limits set forth annually in the
brochure. Deer harvested on the refuge do not count toward State bag
limits but must be recorded and checked with the State. Deer harvested
on the refuge must be checked pursuant to the refuge hunt in which they
are taken, regardless of the weapon used or corresponding State season.
xv. The maximum speed limit on all refuge unpaved roads is 15 miles
per hour (MPH).
xvi. We prohibit the use of rimfire or centerfire rifles and all
handguns, including muzzleloading pistols, for hunting.
2. Archery Deer Hunt.
i. We do not allow archery hunters to hunt within areas designated
for the youth hunt on designated days.
ii. Archery hunters are not required to wear fluorescent orange
during State youth hunt days.
3. Turkey Hunt.
i. We allow you to take one bearded turkey per year; turkeys taken
on the refuge count toward the State bag limit.
ii. We allow turkey hunt permit holders to have an assistant, who
must remain within sight and normal voice contact.
a. Assistants must not be engaged in hunting; must read the turkey
hunting brochure; and must sign, in ink, the permit (Big/Upland Game
Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2356 or Quota Deer Hunt Application, FWS
Form 3-2354) of the person they are assisting.
b. Assistants must possess a valid government-issued photo
identification on their person while assisting.
c. Assistants who call and/or set up decoys must possess a valid
Maryland hunting license.
4. Youth Deer and Turkey Hunt.
i. We allow hunters to hunt on designated areas on designated days
(Youth Hunt) if they meet the criteria of a ``youth hunter'' as defined
by State law.
ii. Youth hunters must be accompanied by an assistant consistent
with the regulations established by State law.
iii. All youth deer hunters and their assistants must wear
fluorescent orange in accordance with State regulations while hunting
in designated youth hunt areas.
iv. Assistants must possess a valid refuge hunt brochure, signed in
ink, and a valid government-issued photo identification.
v. Deer taken during youth days do not count toward the State bag
limit and are in addition to any other deer taken during any other
hunts on the refuge.
vi. Deer and turkey taken must be recorded and checked with the
State.
5. Designated Disabled Hunt Areas.
i. All disabled hunters must possess a Federal Government Access
pass (OMB Control 1024-0252).
ii. Disabled hunters are required to have their Federal Government
Access pass (OMB Control 1024-0252) in their possession while hunting
in disabled areas. We will not accept photocopies or electronic copies.
iii. Disabled hunters may have an assistant, at least age 18, who
must remain within sight and normal voice contact.
a. Non-hunting assistants must not be engaged in hunting and must
possess a valid refuge hunt brochure, signed in ink, and a valid
government-issued photo identification. Non-hunting assistants must
also use fluorescent orange in accordance with condition C.1.xii.
[[Page 51955]]
b. Assistants who wish to hunt deer must possess a valid hunt
permit (Big/Upland Game Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2356 or Quota Deer
Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2354) for that day for any hunt area.
c. We do not allow assistants to enter a designated disabled
hunting area unless they are accompanied by a certified disabled
hunter.
d. All refuge-provided hunt blinds are reserved for disabled
hunters only; however, when a disabled hunter and their assistant
occupy the same blind, both may take game.
e. We do not require assistants to maintain sight and normal voice
contact while retrieving game.
iv. We only allow disabled hunters to operate all-terrain vehicles
(ATVs) and off-road vehicles (ORVs); when the disabled hunter is unable
to physically do so, the assistant may operate the ATV/ORV.
a. Assistants may not operate an ATV/ORV without being accompanied
on the same ATV/ORV by a disabled hunter.
b. ATVs/ORVs must have at least one headlight and one red tail
light that are operational between legal sunset and legal sunrise.
c. Anyone who operates or rides on an ATV/ORV must wear protective
headgear that meets the standards established in Transportation
Article, section 21-1306, Annotated Code of Maryland, and use an eye-
protective device or a windscreen that is of a type approved in
Transportation Article, section 21-1306, Annotated Code of Maryland.
d. We only allow ATVs/ORVs to be operated on established routes of
travel and around field edges.
e. We do not allow ATVs/ORVs to be operated in excess of 15 MPH.
D. * * *
* * * * *
2. We allow only fishing and crabbing from the Key Wallace roadway
(bridge) across the Little Blackwater River and by boat, unless
otherwise authorized by the refuge manager.
3. You must possess a valid Maryland sport fishing license, all
required stamps, and a valid form of government-issued photo
identification while fishing on the refuge.
* * * * *
Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and
turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
hunting regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. General Hunt Regulations.
i. You must obtain a deer or turkey hunting permit (Big/Upland Game
Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2356). Hunting brochures contain hunting
application procedures, seasons, bag limits, methods of hunting, maps
depicting areas open to hunting, and the terms and conditions under
which we issue hunting permits. They are available at the refuge
visitor center, administration office, and on the refuge's Web site.
ii. You must possess on your person at all times while on refuge
property: A valid Maryland hunting license and all required stamps, a
valid form of government-issued photo identification, and a valid
hunting permit (Big/Upland Game Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2356)
issued by the refuge. We will not accept photocopies or electronic
copies of these documents.
iii. You must display your refuge hunt parking pass in plain sight,
on the dash of your vehicle during hunt and scout days.
iv. We prohibit hunting from a permanently constructed tree stand
or blind.
v. You must notify and receive permission from a Service law
enforcement officer, refuge manager, or designee if you need to
retrieve game from a refuge closed area or a hunting area for which you
do not possess a valid permit (Big/Upland Game Hunt Application, FWS
Form 3-2356).
vi. Other than using motor vehicles on designated roads, you may
only access the refuge by foot, except as authorized by the refuge
manager.
vii. We prohibit shooting a projectile from a firearm,
muzzleloader, bow, or crossbow from, down, or across any refuge road. A
refuge road is any road that is traveled by vehicular traffic.
viii. You must park in designated areas. We prohibit parking in
front of any gate. Parked vehicles may not impede any road traffic (see
Sec. 27.31(h) of this chapter).
ix. You must make a reasonable effort to retrieve all wounded or
killed game and include it in your daily bag limit. We prohibit leaving
deer entrails or other waste within 50 feet (15.2 meters) of any refuge
road, trail, parking area, or structure.
x. We allow the use of temporary tree stands and blinds for
hunting. All stands and blinds left on refuge property, unoccupied,
must be tagged in plain sight with your permit number and the years
that are printed on your permit. You must remove all stands and blinds
by legal sunset of a date established annually by the refuge manager.
xi. We allow the use of marking devices, including flagging or
tape, but they must be removed by legal sunset of date established
annually by the refuge. You may not use paint or any other permanent
marker to mark trails.
xii. You must use florescent orange in accordance with State
regulations during all designated firearm and muzzleloader deer hunts.
xiii. We prohibit the use of rimfire or centerfire rifles and all
handguns, including muzzleloading pistols, for hunting.
xiv. You must adhere to the bag limits set fourth annually in the
brochure. Deer harvested on the refuge do not count toward State bag
limits but must be recorded and checked with the State. Deer harvested
on the refuge must be checked pursuant to the refuge hunt in which they
are taken, regardless of the weapon used or corresponding State season.
xv. The maximum speed limit on unpaved refuge roads is 15 miles per
hour (MPH).
2. Youth Deer Hunt.
i. We allow hunters to hunt on designated areas on designated days
(Youth Hunt) if they meet the criteria of a ``youth hunter'' as defined
by State law.
ii. Youth hunters must be accompanied by an assistant consistent
with the regulations established by State law.
iii. All youth deer hunters and their assistants must wear
fluorescent orange in accordance with State regulations while hunting
in designated youth hunt areas.
iv. Assistants must possess a valid refuge hunt brochure, signed in
ink, and a valid government-issued photo identification.
v. Deer taken during youth days do not count toward the State bag
limit and are in addition to any other deer taken during any other
hunts on the refuge.
vi. Deer taken must be recorded and checked with the State.
3. Designated Disabled Hunt.
i. All disabled hunters must possess a Federal Government Access
pass (OMB Control 1024-0252). Disabled hunters are required to have
their Federal Government Access pass (OMB Control 1024-0252) in their
possession while hunting in disabled areas. We will not accept
photocopies or electronic copies of the Federal Government Access pass.
ii. Disabled hunters may have an assistant who must be age 18 or
older and remain within sight and normal voice contact.
a. Non-hunting assistants must not be engaged in hunting and must
possess a valid refuge hunt brochure, signed in
[[Page 51956]]
ink, and a valid government-issued photo identification. We will not
accept photocopies of these documents. Non-hunting assistants must also
wear fluorescent orange in accordance with C.1.xii.
b. Assistants who wish to deer hunt must possess a valid refuge
hunt permit (Big/Upland Game Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2356) for
that day.
c. We do not allow assistants to enter a designated disabled
hunting area unless they are accompanied by a certified disabled
hunter.
d. All refuge-provided hunt blinds are reserved for disabled
hunters only; however, when a disabled hunter and their assistant
occupy the same blind, both may take game.
e. We do not require assistants to maintain sight and normal voice
contact while retrieving game.
iii. We allow only disabled hunters to operate all-terrain vehicles
(ATVs) and off-road vehicles (ORVs); when the disabled hunter is unable
to physically do so, the assistant may operate the ATV/ORV.
a. Assistants may not operate an ATV without being accompanied on
the same ATV by a disabled hunter.
b. ATVs/ORVs must have at least one headlight and one red tail
light that are operational between legal sunset and legal sunrise.
c. Anyone who operates or rides on a ATV/ORV must wear protective
headgear that meets the standards established in Transportation
Article, section 21-1306, Annotated Code of Maryland, and must use an
eye-protective device or a windscreen of a type approved in
Transportation Article, section 21-1306, Annotated Code of Maryland.
d. We only allow ATVs/ORVs to be operated on established routes of
travel and around field edges.
e. We do not allow ATVs/ORVs to be operated in excess of 15 miles
per hour (MPH).
D. * * *
4. You must possess a valid Maryland sport fishing license and all
required stamps, and valid form of government-issued photo
identification while fishing on the refuge.
* * * * *
0
12. Amend Sec. 32.43 by:
0
a. Under the entry Hillside National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.1 and A.7;
0
ii. Redesignating paragraph A.21 as A.22; and
0
iii. Adding a new paragraph A.21;
0
b. Revising paragraph B.6 under the entry Holt Collier National
Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Under the entry Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraph A.7; and
0
ii. Adding paragraph A.22;
0
d. Under the entry Morgan Brake National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraph A.7; and
0
ii. Adding paragraph A.21;
0
e. Under the entry Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraph A introductory text and paragraph A.7; and
0
ii. Adding paragraphs A.22 and C.9; and
0
f. Under the entry Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraph A.7;
0
ii. Adding paragraph A.20; and
0
iii. Revising paragraphs B introductory text and C introductory text.
The additions and revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.43 Mississippi.
* * * * *
Hillside National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
1. Each person age 16 and older hunting or fishing must possess a
valid Theodore Roosevelt Complex Annual Public Use Permit (name/
address/phone number).
* * * * *
7. We prohibit the use of plastic flagging tape, reflective tacks,
and other similar marking devices.
* * * * *
21. Waterfowl hunters are limited to 25 shotshells per person in
the field.
* * * * *
Holt Collier National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. * * *
6. We prohibit the use of plastic flagging tape, reflective tacks,
and other similar marking devices.
* * * * *
Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
7. We prohibit the use of plastic flagging tape, reflective tacks,
and other similar marking devices.
* * * * *
22. Waterfowl hunters are limited to 25 shotshells per person in
the field.
* * * * *
Morgan Brake National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
7. We prohibit the use of plastic flagging tape, reflective tacks,
and other similar marking devices.
* * * * *
21. Waterfowl hunters are limited to 25 shotshells per person in
the field.
* * * * *
Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck,
merganser, coot, and dove on designated areas of the refuge in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
regulations:
* * * * *
7. We prohibit the use of plastic flagging tape, reflective tacks,
and other similar marking devices.
* * * * *
22. Waterfowl hunters are limited to 25 shotshells per person in
the field.
* * * * *
C. * * *
9. Limited draw hunts for persons with disabilities will be held in
November, December, and/or January. We will make hunt dates and permit
application procedures (name/address/phone number) available at the
Theodore Roosevelt Complex headquarters.
* * * * *
Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
7. We prohibit the use of plastic flagging tape, reflective tacks,
and other similar marking devices.
* * * * *
20. Waterfowl hunters are limited to 25 shotshells per person in
the field.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, and
raccoon on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
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:
* * * * *
Sec. 32.44 [Amended]
0
13. Amend Sec. 32.44 by removing the heading ``Squaw Creek National
Wildlife Refuge''; adding in its place the heading ``Loess Bluffs
National Wildlife Refuge'' and moving the entry into alphabetical order
within the section.
0
14. Amend Sec. 32.45 by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A and B.1 in the entry Benton Lake National
Wildlife Refuge; and
0
b. Revising the entry Benton Lake Wetland Management District.
The revisions read as follows:
[[Page 51957]]
Sec. 32.45 Montana.
* * * * *
Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose,
swan, and coot in designated areas of the refuge in accordance with
State regulations and subject to the following conditions (consult
refuge manager prior to hunting to learn of changes or updates):
1. We allow hunters to enter and remain in open hunting areas 2
hours before legal sunrise until 2 hours after legal sunset.
2. We prohibit hunting on or within 25 yards (22.5 meters) of dikes
or roads except the marked portion of the dike between Marsh Units 5
and 6.
3. We prohibit access to refuge hunting areas from other than
authorized refuge parking areas.
4. We allow hunting with the opening of waterfowl season and close
November 30.
5. We allow hunting during youth waterfowl and pheasant hunts in
accordance with State regulations.
6. We allow hunting from temporary portable blinds or blinds made
from natural vegetation.
7. We prohibit the retrieval of downed game from areas closed to
hunting.
8. Hunters must have a means of bird retrieval, using a boat,
waders, or a trained dog (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
9. You must remove boats, decoys, portable blinds, other personal
property, and any materials brought onto the area for blind
construction at the end of each day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of
this chapter).
B. * * *
1. Conditions A1 and A8 apply.
* * * * *
Benton Lake Wetland Management District
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow migratory game bird
hunting on Waterfowl Production Areas (WPA) throughout the District,
excluding Sands WPA in Hill County and H2-0 WPA in Powell County, in
accordance with State regulations and subject to the following
condition: You must remove boats, decoys, portable blinds, other
personal property, and any materials brought onto the area for blind
construction at the end of each day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of
this chapter).
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow the hunting of coyotes, skunks,
red fox, raccoons, hares, rabbits, and tree squirrels on Waterfowl
Production Areas (WPAs) throughout the District, excluding Sands WPA in
Hill County and H2-0 WPA in Powell County, in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following condition: Hunters may possess
only approved nontoxic shot (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow big game hunting on WPAs throughout
the District, excluding Sands WPA in Hill County and H2-0 WPA in Powell
County, in accordance with State regulations.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on WPAs throughout the
District in accordance with State regulations subject to the following
condition: You must remove boats, fishing equipment, and other personal
property at the end of each day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this
chapter).
* * * * *
0
15. Amend Sec. 32.47 by revising paragraph A.5 under the entry
Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.47 Nevada.
* * * * *
Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
5. We prohibit boating outside of the waterfowl and youth waterfowl
hunting season except in Swan Check Lake where we allow non-motorized
boating all year.
* * * * *
0
16. Amend Sec. 32.49 by revising paragraph D.1 under the entry
Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.49 New Jersey.
* * * * *
Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. * * *
1. We allow fishing in and along the banks of the Wallkill River.
We allow shore fishing only in the pond at Owens Station Crossing,
Vernon, New Jersey. Fishing at Owens State Crossing is catch and
release only.
* * * * *
0
17. Amend Sec. 32.51, the entry for Montezuma National Wildlife
Refuge, by:
0
a. Redesignating paragraphs A.1.xiii through A.1.xix as A.1.xiv through
A.1.xx;
0
b. Adding a new paragraph A.1.xiii;
0
c. Revising newly redesignated paragraphs A.1.xvii and A.1.xx; and
0
d. Revising paragraphs A.2.iii, B.1, and C.13.
The revisions and addition read as follows:
Sec. 32.51 New York.
* * * * *
Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
1. * * *
xiii. If you have a reservation but do not show up to hunt, and do
not cancel your reservation 12 hours prior to legal shooting time, then
you may be ineligible to hunt the next 3 hunt days. This decision is at
the refuge manager's discretion.
* * * * *
xvii. Waterfowl hunters may possess a maximum of 15 shot shells on
their person or in their means of conveyance.
* * * * *
xx. 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). You must return the daily hunt permit card at
the end of hunting. You may obtain a permit at the Hunter Check Station
during the check-in process, and return it to the Hunter Check Station
or at the box located at the north end of the Tschache Pool dike.
2. * * *
iii. You must possess, carry, and present upon request to any
Service law enforcement officer a valid daily hunt permit card
(Migratory Bird Hunt Report, FWS Form 3-2361). You must return the
daily hunt permit card at the end of hunting or at the end of the day.
You may 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.
* * * * *
B. * * *
1. You must carry and present upon request to any Service law
enforcement officer a valid daily hunt permit card (Big/Upland Game
Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2356). You must return the daily hunt
permit card at the end of hunting or at the end of the day. You may
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.
* * * * *
C. * * *
13. We prohibit boats and canoes on refuge pools. We prohibit
hunting on the open-water portions of the refuge pools until the pools
are frozen; when frozen, we allow access for hunting at the refuge
manager's discretion.
* * * * *
0
18. Amend Sec. 32.53 by:
0
a. Revising paragraph C introductory text under the entry Des Lacs
National Wildlife Refuge; and
[[Page 51958]]
0
b. Under the entry Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraph B introductory text and paragraphs B.1 through
B.5; and
0
ii. Revising paragraph C introductory text.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.53 North Dakota.
* * * * *
Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow deer and moose hunting on designated
areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to
the following conditions:
* * * * *
Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of wild turkey during the
spring season, and sharp-tailed grouse, Hungarian partridge, and
pheasant on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow the use of dogs for hunting and retrieving of upland
game birds with the exception of wild turkey. Dogs must be under
immediate control of the hunter (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
2. We open for sharp-tailed grouse, Hungarian partridge, and
pheasant hunting on Unit I during the State hunting season. Unit I
includes all refuge land north of the township road that runs east of
Tolley, across Dam 41 (Carter Dam), and east to State Route 28.
3. We open for sharp-tailed grouse, Hungarian partridge, and
pheasant hunting on Unit II during the State hunting season, except we
close from the first day of the regular State waterfowl season through
the last day of State deer gun season. Unit II includes refuge land
between Lake Darling Dam and Unit I.
4. We close land south of Lake Darling Dam to sharp-tailed grouse,
Hungarian partridge, and pheasant hunting.
5. We prohibit sharp-tailed grouse, Hungarian partridge, pheasant,
and spring wild turkey hunting in the area around refuge headquarters,
buildings, shops, residences, Outlet Fishing Area, and Lake Darling Dam
water control structure. We post these areas with ``Closed to Hunting''
signs.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow deer and moose hunting on designated
areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to
the following conditions:
* * * * *
0
19. Amend Sec. 32.55 by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A.7, A.8, B.6, C.1, C.3, and C.5 under the entry
Deep Fork National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
b. Revising paragraphs B and C under the entry Sequoyah National
Wildlife Refuge.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.55 Oklahoma.
* * * * *
Deep Fork National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
7. We prohibit horse and mule use on the refuge.
8. We provide access for hunters with disabilities.
* * * * *
B. * * *
6. We offer refuge-controlled turkey hunts. You must possess a
State-issued controlled hunt letter and pay a fee for these hunts.
* * * * *
C. * * *
1. You must possess and carry a signed refuge permit (name only)
for the archery deer hunt. Hunters must turn in a Big Game Harvest
Report (FWS Form 3-2359) by December 31 annually. Failure to submit the
report will render the hunter ineligible for the next year's limited
season archery deer hunt.
* * * * *
3. You may hunt feral hog during any established refuge hunting
season. Refuge permits (either a signed refuge permit or a State-issued
controlled hunt letter) and legal weapons apply for the current hunting
season.
* * * * *
5. We offer refuge-controlled deer hunts (primitive weapon,
disabled primitive, and youth primitive). You must possess a permit (a
State-issued controlled hunt letter) and pay a fee for these hunts.
* * * * *
Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of Eastern gray and fox
squirrel and swamp and Eastern cottontail rabbit on designated areas of
the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. Conditions A3, A4, A5, A8, and A12 apply.
2. You must possess and carry a signed refuge brochure; this serves
as your Upland Game Hunting Permit. The permit/brochure is available
free of charge at the refuge headquarters, at various entry points to
the refuge, and on our Web site. You must abide by all rules and
regulations listed on the permit (see Sec. 32.2(e) of this chapter).
3. We prohibit hunters entering the Sandtown Bottom Unit prior to 5
a.m. during the hunting season. Hunters must leave the Sandtown Bottom
Unit by 1 hour after legal sunset.
4. We open the refuge to hunting on Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays,
and Tuesdays. We generally open the following units: Sandtown Bottom,
Webber Bottom, Girty Bottom, Possum Hollow, and Vian Creek.
5. Season lengths and bag limits will be in accordance with State
regulations with the exception that all upland game hunting will close
on January 31 of each year.
6. We only allow legal shotguns and approved nontoxic shot (see
Sec. 32.2(k) of this chapter). You must plug hunting shotguns so that
they are incapable of holding more than three shells. We also allow
.22/.17 rimfire rifles for hunting upland game.
7. We prohibit squirrel and rabbit hunting in the Cook, Hi-Saw/
Shelby, Delta Islands, and Haskell Management Units.
8. Incidental take of feral hogs may occur during squirrel and
rabbit hunting season.
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 A8, A9, and A12 apply.
2. You must possess and carry a hunt permit (State-issued permit),
and comply with the designated refuge season, hunting methods, and
location guidelines for that year.
3. Hunters must apply to the State-controlled deer hunt drawing
administered by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation for
selection. You must attend a pre-hunt briefing.
4. You must pay State and Federal special deer hunting fees.
5. Incidental take of feral hogs may occur during deer hunting
season.
* * * * *
0
20. Amend Sec. 32.56 by:
0
a. Under the entry Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraph A.1;
0
ii. Redesignating paragraphs A.2 through A.11 as A.3 through A.12,
respectively;
0
iii. Adding a new paragraph A.2; and
0
iv. Revising newly redesignated paragraph A.8; and
0
b. Revising paragraph D under the entry Siletz Bay National Wildlife
Refuge.
[[Page 51959]]
The revisions and addition read as follows:
Sec. 32.56 Oregon.
* * * * *
Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
1. Only hunters age 17 or younger are allowed to participate in the
Youth Waterfowl Hunt. Youths must be accompanied by an adult age 21 or
older.
2. Youth must obtain a refuge waterfowl hunting permit using the
Waterfowl Lottery Application (FWS Form 3-2355). All youth hunting
waterfowl must do so from designated blinds.
* * * * *
8. Waterfowl and goose permit hunters are required to check in and
out at the Hunter Check Station (refuge office), which is open from
1\1/2\ hours before legal hunting hours to 8 a.m. and from 11 a.m. to 1
p.m. We prohibit hunting after 12 p.m. (noon).
* * * * *
Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing and clamming in accordance with
State regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. We allow recreational bank fishing from the Alder Island Nature
Trail.
2. We allow clamming on refuge lands and access across refuge lands
to State-managed tidelands for clamming on the west side of U.S.
Highway 101.
3. We prohibit pets on refuge trails or other refuge lands. We
allow leashed pets only in the parking lot.
4. We allow fishing only from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
* * * * *
0
21. Amend Sec. 32.63, the entry for Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge,
by:
0
a. Revising paragraph A.10;
0
b. Adding paragraph A.15;
0
c. Revising paragraph B;
0
d. Revising paragraphs C.2, D.2, and D.4; and
0
e. Adding paragraphs D.15 through D.18.
The revisions and additions read as follows:
Sec. 32.63 Texas.
* * * * *
Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
10. We prohibit airboats, hovercraft, and personal watercraft (such
as Jet Skis, wave runners, and jet boats) on refuge waters.
* * * * *
15. We prohibit blocking of gates and roads (see Sec. 27.31(h) of
this chapter).
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 A15 apply.
C. * * *
2. Conditions A2, A5 through A7, and A10 through A15 apply.
* * * * *
D. * * *
2. Conditions A10, and A12 through A15 apply.
* * * * *
4. We allow wade fishing March 15 through October 1 annually from
all areas except Refuge Road, Wildlife Drive, Plover Road, Tern Road,
and Egret Road.
* * * * *
15. We prohibit boats and other floating devices on all open waters
of Lake Texoma, except Big Mineral Creek from October 1 through March
14 annually.
16. At the point where Big Mineral Creek joins Lake Texoma, Big
Mineral Creek becomes a year-round no wake zone to the end of upstream
navigable waters.
17. From October 1 through March 14, we allow only nonmotorized
boats in Big Mineral Creek from the point where it joins Lake Texoma to
the upstream end of navigable waters. You may not have any type of gas
or electric motor onboard that is capable of use. You may launch boats
from a boat ramp only from L Pad Road or by hand at the Big Mineral Day
Use Area.
18. We prohibit discarding fish whole or in part on refuge lands
and waters.
* * * * *
0
22. Amend Sec. 32.65 by revising paragraphs A.1.ii, A.1.iii
introductory text, A.1.iii.c, A.1.iii.d, A.1.iv.a through A.1.iv.d,
A.1.iv.g through A.1.iv.i, A.1.iv.m, A.1.iv.p, A.1.v.c, and A.1.vi.
introductory text under the entry Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge
to read as follows:
Sec. 32.65 Vermont.
* * * * *
Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge
A. * * *
1. * * *
ii. Maquam Shore Area encompasses a 30-acre area along the
lakeshore of Maquam Bay and is bounded by private land on the west and
a Vermont wildlife management area on the east. In the Maquam Shore
Area, conditions A.1.i.a. through A.1.i.f. apply.
iii. Saxes Pothole/Creek and Shad Island Pothole encompass Saxes
Creek, Saxes Pothole, and Shad Island Pothole. This is a controlled
hunting area. We stake and make available five zones (numbered 1
through 5) to five hunting parties in Saxes Pothole; zone 6 is staked
and available to one hunting party in Shad Island Pothole.
* * * * *
c. You may apply to a preseason lottery (Waterfowl Lottery
Application, FWS Form 3-2355) to obtain a permit (Migratory Bird Hunt
Report, FWS Form 3-2361) for the opening day of duck hunting season
through the first Sunday of the duck hunting season and for the second
weekend of the duck hunting season. During the years when the State
elects to have a split season, you may also obtain your permit
(Migratory Bird Hunt Report, FWS Form 3-2361) for the second opening
day through the following Sunday through application to the preseason
lottery (Waterfowl Lottery Application, FWS Form 3-2355). On all other
hunt days, you must acquire a permit (Migratory Bird Hunt Report, FWS
Form 3-2361) through self-registration at the Mac's Bend Landing no
earlier than 2 hours before legal shooting time on the day of the hunt.
d. Hunters selected during the preseason lottery (Waterfowl Lottery
Application, FWS Form 3-2355) must pay a $10 fee. The refuge must
receive the fee no later than 2 days before the opening of the season
or the selected hunter forfeits the permit (Migratory Bird Hunt Report,
FWS Form 3-2361), which we will then make available to other hunters on
a first-come, first-served basis. The fee is paid for any permit
(Migratory Bird Hunt Report, FWS Form 3-2361) assigned before the day
of the hunt. There is no fee for any permit (Migratory Bird Hunt
Report, FWS Form 3-2361) obtained on the day of the hunt.
* * * * *
iv. * * *
a. Junior waterfowl hunters (ages 12-17, inclusive, at the time of
the hunt), following successful completion of the annual training
program (usually held the third or fourth Saturday in August), vie for
blind site assignments during a lottery drawing (Waterfowl Lottery
Application, FWS Form 3-2355) at the conclusion of the training. The 11
blind sites are available exclusively to these junior waterfowl hunters
and their mentors during the first four Saturdays and Sundays of the
duck season.
[[Page 51960]]
b. During a lottery drawing (Waterfowl Lottery Application, FWS
Form 3-2355) at the conclusion of the annual junior waterfowl hunter
training, adult volunteers who serve as mentors to junior waterfowl
hunters will vie for the use of junior hunt area blind sites on the
first Wednesday following the second weekend of the season. This is
known as Mentor Day, and there is no fee charged to mentors. Any junior
hunt area blinds not assigned at the conclusion of the annual junior
waterfowl hunter training will be available to other adult hunters via
a preseason lottery (Waterfowl Lottery Application, FWS Form 3-2355).
Mentors will also be permitted to hunt alongside the junior hunters on
the last two Saturdays and Sundays of the junior hunt period.
c. Following the use of the blind sites in this area by junior
hunters and junior hunter mentors, all blind sites are then available
to all adult hunters by permit (Migratory Bird Hunt Report, FWS Form 3-
2361) awarded via a preseason lottery (Waterfowl Lottery Application,
FWS Form 3-2355) for the second Wednesday following the second weekend
of the duck season; and on weekends following the junior hunt by a
first-come, first-served basis; hunters must self-register at the Mac's
Bend boat launch.
d. Hunters, including junior hunters, with preregistered permits
(Migratory Bird Hunt Report, FWS Form 3-2361) must sign in at the Mac's
Bend boat launch no later than 7 a.m. on the date of their scheduled
hunt. After 7 a.m., other hunters may sign in, self-register, and use
unoccupied blind sites. Only junior hunters may hunt on the first four
Saturdays and Sundays of the season. Adult mentors may hunt alongside
their junior hunters for the last two Saturdays and Sundays of the
junior hunt period. During this time, there still can only be two
hunters per blind site (one junior and one mentor, or two juniors),
regardless of the number of mentees.
* * * * *
g. Each adult hunter, except mentors on Mentor Day, must pay $10
for each permit (Migratory Bird Hunt Report, FWS Form 3-2361) issued
during the preseason lottery (Waterfowl Lottery Application, FWS Form
3-2355). Permits acquired by self-registration are free.
h. Only junior hunters may discharge a firearm in this area during
the youth weekend and the first two weekends of the season. Adult
mentors may hunt alongside one junior mentee for the remainder of the
junior hunt period.
i. We allow and recommend hunting from portable blinds and boat
blinds constructed and placed by the refuge at some of the junior blind
sites. Junior hunters are assigned a blind location by a lottery. We
prohibit permanent blinds.
* * * * *
m. At the end of each day's hunt, each hunter must complete and
deposit at Mac's Bend boat launch that portion of their permit
(Migratory Bird Hunt Report, FWS Form 3-2361) that provides the number
of birds harvested and number of birds knocked down but not retrieved.
* * * * *
p. A hunting party consists of the hunter named on the permit
(Migratory Bird Hunt Report, FWS Form 3-2361) and one guest hunter per
blind site per day. Junior hunters may not invite a guest hunter unless
it is another refuge-trained junior hunter. Nonhunters may accompany a
hunting party.
* * * * *
v. * * *
c. Hunters selected during the preseason lottery (Waterfowl Lottery
Application, FWS Form 3-2355) must pay a $10 fee. The refuge must
receive the fee no later than 2 days before the opening of the season
or the selected hunter forfeits the permit (Migratory Bird Hunt Report,
FWS Form 3-2361), which will be made available first to standby hunters
identified at the time of the drawing, and second to other hunters on a
first-come, first-served basis. You must pay the fee for any permit
(Migratory Bird Hunt Report, FWS Form 3-2361) before the day of the
hunt. There is no fee for any permit (Migratory Bird Hunt Report, FWS
Form 3-2361) obtained on the day of the hunt.
* * * * *
vi. Maquam Swamp Area encompasses about 200 acres (80.9 hectares)
west of the Central Vermont Railroad and south of Coleman's inholding
and is open to migratory bird hunting with the following special
requirements:
* * * * *
0
23. Amend Sec. 32.66 by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A, C, and D under the entry Chincoteague
National Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Under the entry Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Revising paragraphs C.3 and C.5;
0
ii. Removing paragraphs C.6, C.10, and C.11;
0
iii. Redesignating paragraphs C.7 through C.9 as C.6 through C.8,
respectively; and
0
iv. Revising newly redesignated paragraph C.8; and
0
c. Revising paragraph C under the entry Wallops Island National
Wildlife Refuge.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.66 Virginia.
* * * * *
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of waterfowl (as
defined by the Virginia Waterfowl Hunting Guide) and rail on designated
areas of the refuge within Wildcat Marsh, Morris Island, Assawoman
Island, and Metompkin Island Divisions in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. You must obtain a Refuge Migratory Game Bird Hunt Permit
(Migratory Bird Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2357) and maintain the
permit on your person while hunting on the refuge.
2. You may only access hunting areas by boat.
3. You may erect portable blinds and deploy decoys; however, during
the regular duck seasons, you must remove the blinds and decoys at the
end of each day's hunt (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). We prohibit
hunting from a permanent blind or pit blind.
4. You may use trained dogs to assist in the retrieval of harvested
birds.
5. We prohibit hunting on Assawoman and Metompkin Islands' beach
and dune habitats beginning March 15.
6. We do not allow hunting on Sunday.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and sika
in designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations
and subject to the following conditions:
1. General hunt information:
i. You must possess a refuge hunt permit (Quota Deer Hunt
Application, FWS Form 3-2354) while hunting.
ii. You must certify on your application you have viewed the
refuge's hunt orientation.
iii. We allow holders of a refuge hunt permit (Quota Deer Hunt
Application, FWS Form 3-2354) to access areas of the refuge typically
closed to the non-hunting public. All occupants of a vehicle or hunt
party must possess a refuge hunt permit and be actively engaged in
hunting. We allow an exception to exist for those persons aiding a
disabled person who possesses a valid State-issued Commonwealth of
Virginia Disabled Resident Lifetime License or Commonwealth of Virginia
Resident Disabled Veteran's Lifetime License.
iv. You must sign in at the hunter registration station prior to
entering your hunt zone and sign out upon exiting your hunt zone. All
hunters
[[Page 51961]]
must sign out no later than 2 hours after the end of legal shooting
hours.
v. You must check all harvested animals at the hunter registration
station prior to signing out.
vi. We prohibit the use of a boat, all-terrain vehicle (see Sec.
27.31(f) of this chapter), or saddled animal to access hunt areas or
while hunting.
vii. We allow the use of portable tree stands, but you must remove
stands at the end of each day's hunt (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
viii. You may not hunt within 100 feet (30.5 meters) of any
building.
ix. We prohibit deer drives. We define a ``drive'' as four or more
persons involved in the act of chasing, pursuing, disturbing, or
otherwise directing deer so as to make the animal more susceptible to
harvest.
x. We prohibit hunting on Sundays.
2. Archery hunt information:
i. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and sika with archery
tackle, as defined by the State, in designated areas of the refuge.
ii. You may not hunt or nock an arrow or crossbow bolt within 50
feet (15.2 meters) of the centerline of any road, whether improved or
unimproved, or paved trail.
3. Firearm hunt information:
i. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and sika with firearms in
designated areas of the refuge.
ii. You may not hunt or discharge a firearm on or within 50 feet
(15.2 meters) of the centerline of any road, whether improved or
unimproved, or paved trail. You may not shoot across or down any road
or paved trail.
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing, crabbing, and clamming
from the shoreline of the refuge in designated areas of Tom's Cove,
Swan's Cove, and the Atlantic Ocean in accordance with State
regulations and subject to the following conditions:
1. You may not wade or launch a vessel in any water management
areas.
2. You must attend minnow traps, crab traps, crab pots, and
handlines at all times.
3. We prohibit the use of seine nets and pneumatic (compressed air
or otherwise) bait launchers.
4. The State regulates certain species of finfish, shellfish, and
crustacean (crab) using size or possession limits. You may not alter
these species, to include cleaning or filleting, in such a way that we
cannot determine its species or total length.
5. In order to fish after the refuge closes, anglers must obtain an
overnight fishing pass (name/address/phone) issued by the National Park
Service. Anglers can obtain a pass in person at the National Park
Service Tom's Cove Visitor Center.
6. We allow only three surf fishing poles per licensed angler, and
those poles must be attended at all times. This includes persons age 65
or older who are license-exempt in Virginia.
Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. * * *
3. We allow holders of a refuge big game hunt permit (signed
brochure) to access areas of the refuge typically closed to the non-
hunting public. All occupants of a vehicle or hunt party must possess a
refuge hunt permit and be actively engaged in hunting. We allow an
exception to exist for those persons aiding a disabled person who
possesses a valid State-issued Commonwealth of Virginia Disabled
Resident Lifetime License or Commonwealth of Virginia Resident Disabled
Veteran's Lifetime License.
* * * * *
5. We allow the use of portable tree stands, but stands must be
removed daily.
* * * * *
8. We only allow shotguns loaded with buckshot during the firearm
season.
* * * * *
Wallops Island National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer in
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. You must obtain a refuge hunt permit (Big/Upland Game Hunt
Application, FWS Form 3-2356) and carry it on your person while
hunting.
2. You must sign in at the hunter registration station prior to
entering your hunt zone and sign out upon exiting your hunt zone. All
hunters must sign out no later than 2 hours after the end of legal
shooting hours.
3. You must report all harvested animals on the sign-out sheet at
the hunter registration station when signing out.
4. We allow the use of portable tree stands. You must remove stands
by the end of the hunt season (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
5. We prohibit dogs.
6. You must park your vehicle in designated areas.
7. We prohibit deer drives. We define a ``drive'' as four or more
persons involved in the act of chasing, pursuing, disturbing, or
otherwise directing deer so as to make the animal more susceptible to
harvest.
* * * * *
0
24. Amend Sec. 32.69 by:
0
a. Under the entry Fox River National Wildlife Refuge:
0
i. Removing paragraph C.2;
0
ii. Redesignating paragraphs C.3 through C.5 as C.2 through C.4,
respectively; and
0
iii. Revising newly redesignated paragraph C.3;
0
b. Revising paragraphs A, B, and C under the entry Horicon National
Wildlife Refuge; and
0
c. Revising paragraph D under the entry Leopold Wetland Management
District.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 32.69 Wisconsin.
* * * * *
Fox River National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. * * *
3. You may enter the refuge no earlier than 1 hour before legal
shooting hours and must exit the refuge no later than 1 hour after
legal shooting hours end.
* * * * *
Horicon 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 condition: We allow only
participants in the Learn to Hunt and other special programs to hunt.
B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of wild turkey, ring-
necked pheasant, gray partridge, squirrel, and cottontail rabbit on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations
during the State seasons 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) of this chapter).
2. We prohibit field possession of upland game species in areas
closed to upland game hunting.
3. We prohibit engaging in hunting in areas closed to upland game
hunting.
C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer in
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following conditions:
1. We prohibit the construction or use of permanent blinds,
platforms, or ladders.
2. You must remove all stands and personal property from the refuge
[[Page 51962]]
following each day's hunt. We prohibit hunting from any stand left up
overnight (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
3. You must possess a refuge permit (Big/Upland Game Hunt
Application, FWS Form 3-2356) to hunt in Area E (surrounding the
office/visitor center).
4. You may only hunt in Area D (auto tour/hiking trail) during the
State 9-day gun season and December antlerless-only hunts. The refuge
will post these dates annually.
5. You may enter the refuge no earlier than 1 hour before legal
shooting hours and must exit the refuge no later than 1 hour after
legal shooting hours.
6. Any ground blind used during any gun deer season must display at
least 144 square inches (929 square centimeters) of solid-blaze-orange
material visible from all directions.
7. We prohibit the field possession of white-tailed deer in areas
closed to white-tailed deer hunting.
8. We prohibit engaging in hunting in areas closed to white-tailed
deer hunting.
* * * * *
Leopold Wetland Management District
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on Waterfowl Production
Areas throughout the District in accordance with State regulations and
subject to the following condition: We prohibit the use of motorized
boats.
* * * * *
Dated: October 26, 2017.
Jason Larrabee,
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks.
[FR Doc. 2017-24329 Filed 11-7-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4333-15-P