Input Sought on Proposed 2019-20 Migratory Game Bird Hunting Seasons

Public Meeting on March 6; Comment Accepted Until March 15

Illustration: “Blackwater Visitors” by Paul Makuchal, 2017 Migratory Game Bird Stamp contest winner

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is now accepting public comment on the proposed 2019-2020 Migratory Game Bird Hunting Seasons. The comment period continues until noon on March 15.

Proposed season dates for all migratory game birds can be viewed on the department’s website.

The seasons will be finalized in spring 2019, after the department reviews public input and obtains approval from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

“We appreciate the opportunity to present these season proposals for public comment well in advance of the 2019-20 hunting season” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul Peditto said. “Input from the waterfowl hunting community, as well as others who are invested in Maryland’s role in migratory bird conservation, helps guide our decision making process as we work to protect these resources for future generations.“

The department will host a public meeting to review the proposed seasons at 7 p.m. on March 6 at Chesapeake College, Room 127 in the in Wye Mills Health Professions and Athletics Center. 

Citizens may also comment online, by phone at 410-260-8540, by fax at 410-260-8596 or in writing to: Maryland Department of Natural Resources – Wildlife and Heritage Service, 580 Taylor Avenue, E-1, Annapolis, Maryland, 21401.