Wisconsin DNR Seeks Waterfowl Season Input
OutdoorHub 07.17.13
People can learn about and provide input on the 2013 Wisconsin waterfowl hunting seasons at a series of meeting and public hearings that begin Aug. 3.
“As we do each year during this time, we request that those with a stake in waterfowl hunting provide input on the upcoming seasons during our public meetings and hearings,” said Kent Van Horn, Department of Natural Resources waterfowl ecologist. “It’s important we hear from folks whether they want to reaffirm support for past season dates or are looking for something different. Plus we encourage people to attend, even if they are not concerned with specific regulations. It’s a good way to learn about waterfowl in the state.”
The meetings are an opportunity to hear the latest on waterfowl management and population status. After a review, DNR will use public input to inform the proposed waterfowl hunting season that will be recommended to the Natural Resources Board in mid-August.
In addition to potential annual changes in season timing and daily bag limits, wildlife officials are proposing increases to the number of lakes available for open water duck hunting for the 2013 season and changes to the Horicon Canada goose zone for the 2014 season. These proposals will be presented and comments taken during these meetings.
The DNR’s proposed waterfowl seasons will be available for viewing online Aug. 5, after the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service releases federal regulatory options, at dnr.wi.gov, search keyword “waterfowl.”
The public is invited to attend the following:
Post-Flyway DNR Public Meeting – Saturday, Aug. 3, Stevens Point – 1 p.m., Holiday Inn-Stevens Point , 1001 Amber Ave.
Public Hearings (all begin at 7 p.m.) –
- Monday, Aug. 5, La Crosse – State Office Bldg, Rooms B-19 and B-20, 3550 Mormon Coulee Road
- Tuesday, Aug. 6, Rice Lake – Days Inn , 1710 South Main St.
- Wednesday, Aug. 7, Appleton – Agricultural Services Center, Main conference room, 3369 West Brewster St.
- Thursday, Aug. 8, Pewaukee – Wildwood Lodge, N14 W24121 Tower Place
Natural Resources Board Meeting – Wednesday, Aug. 14, Baraboo – 8:30 a.m. , Clarion Hotel & Convention Center 626 W. Pine St.
People who are unable to attend a meeting or hearing, comments can be send comments via email, phone or U.S. mail before midnight, Thursday, Aug. 8, to: James Christopoulos , Bureau of Wildlife Management, Wisconsin DNR, P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707-7921 or by phone at 608-261-6458 or email at james.christopoulos@wisconsin.gov.
When submitting a comment on the waterfowl seasons, please specify which zone(s) you are referring to or considering, including any other information you think may be helpful to better characterize your season preferences.
For more information on meeting and hearing dates, or waterfowl in Wisconsin, search the DNR website for keyword “waterfowl.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: James Christopoulos – 608-261-6458
