2015-2017 Proposed Hunting Regulations: Public Hearings Scheduled

Hunters and other interested citizens are encouraged to review proposed changes to hunting regulations for the 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 seasons and make plans to attend a scheduled public hearing.

“The purpose of hunting regulations is to manage renewable wildlife resources consistent with the scientific principles of wildlife management while meeting public objectives for wise use of these resources,” said Tina Brunjes, Operations Manager with the Game Management Section.  “At this point in the process, we are interested in public comments specific to the proposed changes under consideration.”

The public notice and synopsis of proposed rule changes are available on the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division webpage at www.gohuntgeorgia.com/Hunting/ProposedRegulations .

Some of the proposed changes include uniform statewide deer season, expand hunting opportunity for alligators and bears, modify either-sex days to manage white-tailed deer, and regulate hunting and other activities on wildlife management areas and other state lands.

Three public hearings are scheduled to provide the public an opportunity to share comments on the proposed hunting regulation changes.  All meetings will begin at 7 p.m.

Any participant at a meeting may present data, make a statement or comment, or offer a viewpoint or argument, either orally or in writing. Statements should be concise to permit everyone an opportunity to speak. Participants must register upon arrival and notify the registering official of their intent to give a statement. Those unable to attend a meeting may submit input either electronically or in written statement form.  Input must be received by close of business (4:30 p.m.) on April 24, 2015.

• Written statements should be mailed to: GA DNR/Wildlife Resources Division/Game Management Section; Attn: Tina Brunjes; 2070 U.S. Highway 278, S.E.; Social Circle, Georgia 30025.
• Statements may be electronically submitted at: www.georgiawildlife.com/hunting/regulations/SubmitComments

These meeting sites are accessible to people with physical disabilities.  To request sign language interpretation or other auxiliary aids, contact Tina Brunjes at (770) 918-6404 no later than 4:30 p.m. on April 8, 2015.

For more information or to view the proposed regulation changes, visit www.gohuntgeorgia.com/Hunting/ProposedRegulations