The Department of the Interior and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are working diligently for the sportsman, and we need to support them in their actions. DSC has weighed in on this important action, and I am writing to ask that you also make your voice heard.
This proposal opens three National Wildlife Refuges (NWRs) to hunting, opens one NWR to sport fishing, increases the hunting activities available at 26 NWRs, increases sport fishing activities at four NWRs, and adds 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 2018–2019 season.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking comments from the public about this proposal and I urge you to add your voice to the issue. The comment period closes June 28. When submitting a comment, you can use your own language or copy the language below.
To submit your comment:
- Click on the link: 2018-2019 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations
- Click on: Comment Now
- Enter your information and provide your comment
- Review the comment and click: Submit Comment
Corey Mason
DSC Executive Director
Suggested Comment
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
I applaud the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for its proposal to open three National Wildlife Refuges (NWR) to hunting and one NWR to sport fishing, increase the hunting activities available at 26 NWRs, increase sport fishing activities at four NWRs, 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 2018–2019 season. These actions clearly show that the USFWS recognizes the demonstrated and important role of the hunter and angler in wildlife and fisheries conservation in North America.
Additionally, as stated, the proposal will result in an estimated increase of 17,575 user days yielding approximately $711,000 in recreation-related expenditures. Thus, the proposed rule not only increases opportunities for the public to participate in outdoor activities, but also will have a total economic impact of approximately $1.6 million.
In conclusion, I support the proposed rule and thank the USFWS for its actions to increase hunting and fishing opportunities on public land.
