A deer hunting zone realignment and expansion of otter trapping are among topics the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources wants to discuss with hunters at this year's annual public input meetings.
Each year, the DNR holds a series of public meetings across the state to gauge hunter opinions about regulations, seasons and other wildlife management issues. Additional topics will include extending spring turkey shooting hours, the use of non-toxic shot for small game, and additional waterfowl feeding and resting areas. People who cannot attend the meetings can e-mail comments to wildlife@dnr.state.mn.us .
"Input gathered at these meetings is extremely valuable as we consider potential regulation changes," said Mike DonCarlos, DNR wildlife program manager. "We'll outline other issues as info becomes available."
Deer zone realignment
Seven Zone 4 permit areas south of U.S. Highway 10 (410, 411, 413, 414, 415, 419 and 429) would become part of Zone 2 under this proposal. This would create one continuous nine-day season instead of the current split seasons in these areas. Boundaries will remain the same.
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In addition, permit areas 417 and 418 north of Minnesota Highway 55 would become part of Zone 2. Portions south of Highway 55 will be combined into a single permit area but remain in Zone 4. Similarly, permit area 412 north of Interstate 94 would become part of Zone 2 with the south portion remaining in Zone 4.
Otter trapping zone expansion
As a result of research on otter distribution, habitat and population dynamics in southern Minnesota, the DNR is considering expanding the otter trapping zone. This would open portions of southern Minnesota, particularly along the Mississippi river, to otter trapping.
Non-toxic shot for small game
The DNR is considering non-toxic shot requirements for small game hunting, to reduce lead toxicity in wildlife and reduce environmental lead accumulation. An advisory committee that includes hunting stakeholders will investigate options and develop proposals. It is likely that DNR will restrict the use of lead shot on managed mourning dove fields on state wildlife management areas this fall, but further restrictions are not anticipated this year.
Waterfowl feeding and resting areas
Mud and Goose lakes in Itasca County have been proposed by petitions for designation as waterfowl feeding and resting areas. This designation would prohibit the use of motorized watercraft during the waterfowl hunting season.
Spring turkey shooting hours
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Legislation, supported by the National Wild Turkey Federation, may be introduced this year to change spring turkey shooting hours to one-half hour before sunrise to sunset. Currently, shooting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to 5 pm. DNR agreed to collect public comments on this proposal.
The only local opportunity for personal comment will be March 8 at the Northome School Library from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Written comments may be submitted to wildlife@dnr.state.mn.us or to Hunting and Trapping Season Comments, DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155-4007.
