Migratory bird hunting final rule released for 2016-2017

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released the final framework for the 2016-2017 migratory bird hunting seasons. The Service institutes the migratory bird hunting regulations annually in order to enable the recreational harvest of migratory birds at levels that are compatible with population and habitat conditions. The final rule will facilitate each state’s selection of hunting seasons, season length, and bag limits based on recommendations made by the Flyway Council.

USFWS announced the proposed framework in December 2015, and accepted public comment until early January. The Service addressed some of the public’s concern over migratory bird hunting in the final framework.