Maryland to Hold Public Meeting on Waterfowl Regulations

Proposed late season waterfowl hunting regulations will be discussed at a public meeting hosted by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources at 7 p.m. on August 13 at Chesapeake College in Wye Mills. DNR will announce the proposed dates and bag limits in early August after the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) finalizes its late season framework.

USFWS establishes hunting regulations for migratory game birds via the Service Regulation Committee, with USFWS’s director making the final rule. States are then provided with the framework, which includes the maximum season length, bag limits and hunting dates.

Migratory game bird regulations are created through a collaborative and scientifically sound process that combines input from the public and professional biologists working throughout the Atlantic Flyway. The framework allows for some flexibility so public input is an important element in the final selection.

Citizens who are unable to attend the meeting may comment by email, letter, fax, phone and an online forum that will be available on the department’s Wildlife and Heritage page. All information, including the proposals and details on providing public comment will be made available in early August. Finalized seasons and bag limits will be released in early September.