[Federal Register Volume 62, Number 174 (Tuesday, September 9, 1997)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 47372-47383]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 97-23730]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Fish and Wildlife Service
50 CFR Parts 25 and 32
RIN 1018-AE18
1997-98 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations
AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: This rule adds additional national wildlife refuges to the
list of areas open for hunting and/or sport fishing, along with
pertinent refuge-specific regulations for such activities; and amends
certain regulations on other refuges that pertain to migratory game
bird hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting and sport fishing.
DATES: This rule is effective September 9, 1997.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Stephen R. Vehrs, (703) 358-2397.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Refuge hunting and fishing programs are
reviewed annually to determine whether additional refuges should be
added or whether individual refuge regulations governing existing
programs should be modified, deleted or have additions made to them.
Changing environmental conditions, State and Federal regulations, and
other factors affecting wildlife populations and habitat may warrant
modifications ensuring continued compatibility of hunting and fishing
with the purposes for which individual refuges, and the National
Wildlife Refuge System (System) were established.
The Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has determined uses in this
final rule are compatible with the purposes for which these refuges
were established. The Service further determined that this action is in
accordance with the provisions of all applicable laws, is consistent
with principles of sound fish and wildlife management, helps implement
Executive Orders 12996 (Management and Public Use of the National
Wildlife Refuge System) and 12962 (Recreational Fisheries) and is
otherwise in the public interest by providing additional recreational
opportunities at national wildlife refuges. Sufficient funds will be
available within the refuge budgets to operate the hunting and sport
fishing programs.
The Service generally closes national wildlife refuges to hunting
and sport fishing until opened by rulemaking. The Secretary of the
Interior (Secretary) may open refuge areas to hunting and/or fishing
upon a determination that such uses are compatible with the purpose(s)
for which the refuge was established. The action also must be in
accordance with provisions of all laws applicable to the areas, must be
consistent with the principles of sound fish and wildlife management,
and otherwise must be in the public interest.
50 CFR parts 25 and 32 contain administrative provisions and other
provisions governing hunting and fishing on national wildlife refuges.
Hunting and fishing are regulated on refuges to:
Ensure compatibility with refuge and System purposes;
Properly manage the fish and wildlife resource;
Protect other refuge values; and
Ensure refuge user safety.
On many refuges, the Service policy of adopting State hunting and
fishing regulations is adequate in meeting these objectives. On other
refuges, it is necessary to supplement State regulations with more
restrictive Federal regulations to ensure that the Service meets its
management responsibilities, as outlined under the section entitled
``Statutory Authority.'' The Service issues refuge-specific hunting and
fishing regulations when opening a national wildlife refuge to either
migratory game bird hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting or
sport fishing. These regulations list the wildlife species that may be
hunted or are subject to sport fishing, seasons, bag limits, methods of
hunting or fishing, descriptions of open areas, and other provisions as
appropriate. Previously issued refuge-specific regulations for hunting
and fishing are contained in 50 CFR part 32. Many of the amendments to
these sections are
[[Page 47373]]
promulgated to standardize and clarify the existing language of these
regulations.
With the passage of Public Law 102-402, the Rocky Mountain Arsenal
National Wildlife Refuge Act of 1992 (Act), the Service will establish
a refuge over what was previously a Department of Defense (Army)
military installation, but only following toxic substances cleanup.
Public Law 102-402 specifies that the Service shall manage the area
as if it were a unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System during
cleanup activities on the Rocky Mountain Arsenal (Arsenal). The Service
amends these regulations to establish regulatory authority for these
lands, before establishment as a refuge and inclusion in the System, in
accordance with Public Law 102-402. These regulations will provide
appropriate authority and jurisdiction to conduct necessary management
actions, including law enforcement, at the Arsenal.
In the July 21, 1997, issue of the Federal Register (62 FR 38959-
38969) the Service published a proposed rulemaking identifying the
refuges, their proposed hunting and/or fishing programs and invited
public comment. The Service received the following comments based on
the proposed rule:
The Animal Protection Institute, a national animal advocacy
organization with more than 75,000 members, submitted the following
comments: Refuges were established by Theodore Roosevelt in 1903 to
protect wildlife and their habitats. As sanctuaries for rare,
threatened and endangered species, the System provides some of the last
undisturbed habitat for recovery of endangered species. Hunting is
incompatible with these goals, as it is both disruptive and poses a
danger to non-target wildlife. The System harbors 168 threatened or
endangered species, although 60 percent of refuges support activities
harmful to wildlife, according to surveys conducted by the Service and
the General Accounting Office.
The comments went on to state: The majority of people who visit
refuges do so to observe wildlife and enjoy nature. According to the
Service, of the 30 million people who visited refuges last year, 21
million visited for wildlife observation and ``just to experience
nature,'' while only 1.4 million visited to hunt. Clearly, non-
consumptive users of the System far outweigh consumptive users. Hunters
already have access to millions of acres of public lands outside the
refuges for their activities. Hikers, bird watchers, campers and
photographers should not have to fear the dangers of a stray bullet as
they enjoy our public lands or witness the maiming of the very wildlife
they have come to see. The Service should manage the System to carry
out its stated mission--to protect wildlife and wildlife habitat and to
offer people an opportunity to enjoy nature and disallow hunting on all
refuges as the practice runs contrary to these goals.
The Service received over 2,300 signed resolutions and fourteen
additional letters with similar concerns as those expressed by the
Animal Protection Institute, and one individual letter in support of
hunting on refuges.
The Service reviewed the above comments regarding a proposed
closure to hunting, trapping and/or fishing on refuges. Throughout its
history, the System has experienced misconceptions about the purpose,
mission, statutory authorities and appropriate public uses. The Service
considers annually a wide range of alternatives at each refuge while
trying to improve upon consumptive use programs with a minimum impact
to bird watchers, photographers, sportsmen, and general refuge users.
In accordance with Executive Order 12996 (Management and Public Use
of the National Wildlife Refuge System), the conservation mission and
first obligation of the System is to preserve a national network of
lands and waters for the conservation and management of fish, wildlife,
and plant resources of the United States for the benefit of present and
future generations. However, the Service recognizes wildlife-dependent
recreational activities, when compatible with the purposes for which a
refuge was established, as priority general public uses within the
System. In particular, the Service especially recognizes compatible
hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, photography, and environmental
education and interpretation.
Hunting and fishing on refuges is specifically authorized by the
National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act and is an
acceptable, traditional form of wildlife-dependent recreation that is
used as a management tool to manipulate wildlife population levels. We
conduct recreational hunting and fishing today within limits
purposefully developed to ensure the long-term welfare and status of
several animal populations. Harvests on refuges constitute a very small
part of the overall harvest of animals in the United States. In the
case of waterfowl, the annual refuge harvest is about 2-5 percent of
the national total harvest. Sport harvest management has achieved a
high degree of scientific rigor and people throughout the world regard
the Refuge System as a leader in scientific harvest management.
Refuges provide free or low cost hunting opportunity to hunters
unable to afford the escalating costs to hunt on private lands. Hunters
alone, have bought more than $400 million in Federal ``Duck Stamps''
since 1934, sufficient to purchase nearly one-third of all refuges
outside Alaska--some 4 million acres. Refuges also serve as a focal
point for sportsmen education and the development of ethical behavior.
The Service also received a request on the behalf of The Fund for
Animals to extend the comment period on the proposal to permit bison
hunting on the National Elk Refuge. The Service has agreed to extend
the comment period to September 19, 1997 on that particular issue and
has deleted that amendment from these regulations.
This rule is effective upon publication. The Service has determined
that any further delay in implementing these refuge-specific hunting
and sport fishing regulations would not be in the public interest in
that it would hinder the effective planning and administration of the
hunting and fishing programs. The Service received public comment on
these proposals during the 30-day comment period. An additional 30 day
delay would jeopardize holding the hunting and/or fishing programs this
year, or shorten their duration and thereby lessen the management
effectiveness of this regulation. Therefore, the Service finds good
cause to make this rule effective upon publication (5 U.S.C.
553(d)(3)).
Statutory Authority
The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act (NWRSAA) of
1966, as amended (16 U.S.C. 668dd), and the Refuge Recreation Act of
1962 (16 U.S.C. 460k) govern the administration and public use of
national wildlife refuges. Specifically, section 4(d)(1)(A) of the
NWRSAA authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to permit the use of
any area within the System for any purpose, including but not limited
to, hunting, fishing and public recreation, accommodations and access,
when he determines that uses are compatible with the major purpose(s)
for which the area was established.
The Refuge Recreation Act (RRA) authorizes the Secretary to
administer areas within the System for public recreation as an
appropriate incidental or secondary use only to the extent that it is
practicable and not inconsistent with the primary purpose(s) for which
the areas were established. The NWRSAA and the RRA also authorize the
Secretary to issue regulations to
[[Page 47374]]
carry out the purposes of the Acts and regulate uses.
The Service develops hunting and sport fishing plans for each
existing refuge before opening it to hunting or fishing. In many cases,
we develop refuge-specific regulations to ensure the compatibility of
the programs with the purposes for which the refuge was established.
Initial compliance with the NWRSAA and the RRA has been ensured for
hunting and sport fishing on newly acquired refuges through an interim
determination of compatibility made at the time of acquisition. This
has ensured that the determinations required by these acts have been
made before the addition of refuges to the lists of areas open to
hunting and fishing in 50 CFR part 32. Continued compliance is ensured
by the development of long-term hunting and sport fishing plans and by
annual review of hunting and sport fishing programs and regulations.
In preparation for these openings, the following documents are
included in the refuge's ``openings package'' for Regional review and
approval from the Washington Office: an interim hunting and fishing
management plan; an environmental action memorandum and categorical
exclusion certification; a Section 7 determination pursuant to the
Endangered Species Act, that these openings will have no effect, or are
not likely to have an adverse effect, on listed species or critical
habitats; a letter of concurrence from the affected State; interim
compatibility determination; and refuge-specific regulations to
administer the hunting and/or fishing programs. Upon review of these
documents, the Service, acting for the Secretary, has determined that
the opening of these National Wildlife Refuges to hunting and fishing
is compatible with the principles of sound fish and wildlife management
and otherwise will be in the public interest.
The following refuges establish new hunting and/or fishing
openings: Rocky Mountain Arsenal, Colorado; Ten Thousand Islands
National Wildlife Refuge, Florida; Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife
Refuge, Louisiana; Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, Nebraska;
and Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, Texas. The remaining
regulations represent revisions to existing refuge specific
regulations.
In accordance with the NWRSAA and the RRA, the Service has
determined that these openings are compatible and consistent with the
primary purposes for which the refuge was established. The Service also
has determined that funds are available to administer the program.
Paperwork Reduction Act
These regulations have been examined under the Paperwork Reduction
Act of 1995 and have been found to contain no information collection
requirements.
Economic Effect
Service review has revealed that this rulemaking will increase
hunter and angler visitation to the surrounding area of the refuges
before, during or after the recreational uses, compared to the refuge
being closed to these recreational uses.
These refuges generally are located away from large metropolitan
areas. Businesses in the area of the refuges consist primarily of small
family-owned stores, restaurants, gas stations and other small
commercial enterprises. In addition, there are several small,
commercial recreational fishing and hunting camps and marinas in the
general areas. This final rule will have a positive effect on such
entities; however, the amount of revenue generated is not large.
Many area residents enjoy a rural lifestyle that includes frequent
recreational use of the abundant natural resources of the area. A high
percentage of the households enjoy hunting, fishing, and boating in
area wetlands, rivers and lakes. Refuge lands generally were not
available for general public use before government acquisition;
however, they were fished and hunted upon by friends and relatives of
the landowners, and some were under commercial hunting and fishing
leases. Many nearby residents also participate in other forms of non-
consumptive outdoor recreation, such as biking, hiking, camping,
birdwatching, canoeing, and other outdoor sports.
Economic impacts of refuge fishing and hunting programs on local
communities are calculated from average expenditures in the ``1996
National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated
Recreation''. In 1996, 39 million U.S. residents 16 years old and older
hunted and/or fished. More specifically, 35.2 million fished and 14
million hunted. Those who both fished and hunted account for the 10.2
million overage. Nationwide expenditures by sportsmen totaled $72
billion. Trip-related expenditures for food, lodging, and
transportation were $14 billion or 19.4 percent of all fishing and
hunting expenditures; equipment expenditures amounted to $44.2 billion,
or 61.4 percent of the total; other expenditures such as those for
magazines, membership dues, contributions, land leasing, ownership,
licenses, stamps, tags, and permits accounted for $13.8 billion, or
19.2 percent of all expenditures. Overall, anglers spent an average of
$41 per day. For each day of hunting, migratory bird hunters spent an
average of $33, upland game hunters an average of $20, and big game
hunters averaged spending $40.
At these 72 National Wildlife Refuges included in this final
regulation, 776,000 anglers are estimated to spend $31.8 million
annually in pursuit of their sport, while approximately 380,000 hunters
will spend $12.5 million annually hunting on the refuges. While many of
these anglers and hunters already make such expenditures before the
refuge opening, some of these additional expenditures directly are due
to the land now being open to the general public.
This rulemaking will have a small but positive impact on local
economies by increasing visitation and expenditures in the surrounding
area of the refuges. The Service has determined that this rulemaking
would not have a significant effect on a substantial number of small
entities in the area, such as businesses, organizations and
governmental jurisdictions, under the Regulatory Flexibility Act of
1980 (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.). This rulemaking was not subject to Office
of Management and Budget review under Executive Order 12866.
Unfunded Mandates
The Service has determined and certifies pursuant to the Unfunded
Mandates Act, 2 U.S.C. 1502 et seq., that this rulemaking will not
impose a cost of $100 million or more in any given year on local or
State governments or private entities.
Civil Justice Reform
The Department has determined that these final regulations meet the
applicable standards provided in Sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive
Order 12988.
Environmental Considerations
The Service ensures compliance with the National Environmental
Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4332(C)) when developing hunting
and sport fishing plans, and the determinations required by NEPA are
made before the addition of refuges to the lists of areas open to
hunting and fishing in 50 CFR part 32. The changes in hunting and
fishing herein were reviewed with regard to Section 7 of the Endangered
Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543) and found to either have no
affect on or are not likely to adversely affect listed species or
critical habitat. The amendment of refuge-specific hunting
[[Page 47375]]
and fishing regulations are subject to a categorical exclusion from the
NEPA process if they do not significantly alter the existing use of a
particular national wildlife refuge. The Service exclusion found at 516
DM 6, App. 1.4B(5) is employed here as these amendments are considered
``[m]inor changes in the amounts or types of public use on FWS or
State-managed lands, in accordance with regulations, management plans,
and procedures.'' These refuge-specific hunting and fishing regulations
simply qualify or otherwise define a hunting or fishing activity, for
purposes of resource management. These documents are on file in Service
offices and may be viewed by contacting the primary author noted below.
Individual refuge headquarters also retain information regarding
hunting and fishing permits and the conditions that apply to refuge
hunts, sport fishing activities, and maps of their respective areas.
You may also obtain information from the regional offices at the
addresses listed below:
Region 1--California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, and
Washington. Assistant Regional Director--Refuges and Wildlife, U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service, Eastside Federal Complex, Suite 1692, 911
N.E. 11th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97232-4181; Telephone (503) 231-
6214.
Region 2--Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. Assistant
Regional Director--Refuges and Wildlife U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
Box 1306, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87103; Telephone (505) 766-1829.
Region 3--Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri,
Ohio and Wisconsin. Assistant Regional Director--Refuges and Wildlife,
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Federal Building, Fort Snelling, Twin
Cities, Minnesota 55111; Telephone (612) 725-3507.
Region 4--Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana,
Mississippi, North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, Puerto Rico and
the Virgin Islands. Assistant Regional Director--Refuges and Wildlife,
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1875 Century Boulevard, Room 324,
Atlanta, Georgia 30345; Telephone (404) 679-7152.
Region 5--Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine,
Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York,
Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia.
Assistant Regional Director--Refuges and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, 300 Westgate Center Drive, Hadley, Massachusetts
01035-9589; Telephone (413) 253-8550.
Region 6--Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South
Dakota, Utah and Wyoming. Assistant Regional Director--Refuges and
Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Box 25486, Denver Federal
Center, Denver, Colorado 80225; Telephone (303) 236-8145.
Region 7--Alaska. Assistant Regional Director--Refuges and
Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1011 E. Tudor Rd., Anchorage,
Alaska 99503; Telephone (907) 786-3545.
Primary Author: Stephen R. Vehrs, Division of Refuges, U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service, Washington, DC 20240, is the primary author of
this rulemaking document.
List of Subjects
50 CFR Part 25
Administrative practice and procedure, Concessions, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements, Safety, Wildlife refuges.
50 CFR Part 32
Fishing, Hunting, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements,
Wildlife, Wildlife refuges.
For the reasons set forth in the preamble, the Service amends Title
50, Chapter I, subchapter C of the Code of Federal Regulations as
follows:
PART 25--[AMENDED]
1. The authority citation for part 25 is revised to read as
follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 16 U.S.C. 460k, 664, 668dd, and 715i,
3901 et seq.; and Pub. L. 102-402, 106 Stat. 1961.
2. Amend Sec. 25.11 by revising paragraph (a) to read as follows:
Sec. 25.11 Purpose of regulations.
(a) The regulations in this subchapter govern general
administration of units of the National Wildlife Refuge System, public
notice of changes in U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service policy regarding
Refuge System units, issuance of permits required on Refuge System
units and other administrative aspects involving the management of
various units of the National Wildlife Refuge System. The regulations
in this subchapter apply to areas of land and water held by the United
States in fee title and to property interests in such land and water in
less than fee, including but not limited to easements. For areas held
in less than fee, the regulations in this subchapter apply only to the
extent that the property interest held by the United States may be
affected. The regulations in this subchapter also apply to and govern
those areas of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal over which management
responsibility has been transferred to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service under the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Act of 1992 (Pub. L. 102-402,
106 Stat. 1961), before their establishment as a refuge and inclusion
in the National Wildlife Refuge System.
* * * * *
PART 32--[AMENDED]
3. The authority citation for part 32 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 16 U.S.C. 460k, 664, 668dd, and 715i.
Sec. 32.7 [Amended]
4. Amend Sec. 32.7 by removing the listing of ``Kesterson National
Wildlife Refuge'' from the State of California; by adding the
alphabetical listings of ``Rocky Mountain Arsenal'' to the State of
Colorado, ``Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge'' to the
State of Florida, ``Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge'' to the
State of Louisiana, ``Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge'' to the
State of Nebraska, ``Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge'' to
the State of Texas, ``Leopold Wetland Management District'' to the
State of Wisconsin; and by revising the listing of ``Wauby National
Wildlife Refuge'' under the State of South Dakota to read ``Waubay
National Wildlife Refuge''.
5. Amend Sec. 32.20 Alabama by revising paragraphs B. and D. of
Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.20 Alabama.
* * * * *
Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt rabbit and squirrel on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition:
Permits are required.
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish, frog and trap turtles on
designated areas of the refuge subject to State fishing regulations and
the following conditions:
1. Fishing, frogging and turtle trapping open year-round in all
waters contiguous with the Walter F. George Reservoir. Bank fishing
permitted during daylight hours only.
2. Fishing, including bow fishing, permitted in impounded refuge
waters from March 1 through October 31, during daylight hours.
[[Page 47376]]
3. Creel, possession, and size limit for Walter F. George Reservoir
apply to all impounded refuge waters.
* * * * *
6. Amend Sec. 32.22 Arizona by revising paragraphs A.4., A.6., A.9.
and A.13., by removing paragraph B.3., redesignating paragraphs B.4.,
B.5. and B.6. as paragraphs B.3., B.4., B.5. respectively, and revising
them, by revising paragraph D.1. and removing paragraph D.2. of Cibola
National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.22 Arizona.
* * * * *
Cibola National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
4. Hunters must pay a hunt fee in a portion of the refuge. Consult
refuge hunting leaflet for location.
* * * * *
6. Hunting in a portion of farm unit 2 closes at 12 p.m. each day.
Consult refuge hunting leaflet for location.
* * * * *
9. Waterfowl hunting requires the use of decoys on farm unit 2.
Daily removal of decoys from the refuge required.
* * * * *
13. The Hart Mine Marsh Area opens to hunting only between 10 a.m.
and 3 p.m. daily, during goose season.
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
3. Hunters may hunt cottontail rabbit from September 1 through the
last day of the respective State's quail season.
4. During the Arizona waterfowl season, hunters may not hunt quail
and rabbit in Farm Unit 2 until 12 p.m. each day.
5. Hunters may not hunt within 50 yards of any road or levee.
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
1. Anglers may fish and frog in Cibola Lake only from March 15
through Labor Day.
* * * * *
7. Amend Sec. 32.23 Arkansas by adding paragraph D.3. of Holla Bend
National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.23 Arkansas.
* * * * *
Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
3. Anglers may bowfish only from August 1 through August 31 subject
to State bowfishing regulations. Only bowfishing equipment permitted.
Anglers may not use broad heads, field points, or metal arrows.
* * * * *
8. Amend Sec. 32.24 California by removing Kesterson National
Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraphs A.1., A.2., A.3., A.4., and by
adding paragraphs A.6., A.7. and A.8. of San Luis National Wildlife
Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.24 California.
* * * * *
San Luis National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
1. Hunters may use only portable blinds and temporary blinds
constructed of natural materials in the free-roam hunting area.
2. Hunters must remove all portable blinds, decoys, and other
personal equipment from the refuge following each day's hunt.
3. Hunters may snipe hunt only within the free-roam portion of the
San Luis unit's waterfowl hunting area. Snipe hunters may only possess
and use nontoxic shot.
4. In areas where the refuge limits hunter numbers through a daily
permit process, hunters may not possess more than 25 shells while in
the field.
* * * * *
6. Hunters may not transport loaded firearms. This includes walking
or bicycling between parking areas and spaced blind areas, or while
traveling in a boat under power.
7. Refuge restricts hunters, in the spaced blind area, to their
original assigned blind except when they are placing decoys, traveling
to and from the parking area, retrieving downed birds, or when shooting
to retrieve crippled birds.
8. Access to Salt Slough Unit free-roam hunting area is by boat
only with a maximum speed limit of 5 mph. Prohibited boats include air-
thrust and/or inboard water-thrust types.
* * * * *
9. Amend Sec. 32.25 Colorado by removing and reserving the text of
paragraph D. of Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraph
D of Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraphs A., B.,
C., and D. of Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge; by adding the
alphabetical listing of Rocky Mountain Arsenal to read as follows:
Sec. 32.25 Colorado.
* * * * *
Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. [Reserved]
Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish in designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
1. Anglers may not fish between June 1 and July 31 each year.
2. Anglers may fish only during daylight hours.
Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt geese, ducks,
coots, and mourning doves only in designated areas of the refuge.
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt cottontail rabbits only in
designated areas of the refuge.
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt mule deer and elk only in
designated areas of the refuge.
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish only in designated areas of the
refuge.
* * * * *
Rocky Mountain Arsenal
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish only in designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
1. Refuge fishing permit required.
2. Fishing permitted only from sunrise to sunset from April 15
through October 15 annually.
3. Catch and release only fishing.
4. Additional refuge regulations listed in refuge fishing
regulations leaflet and fishing permits.
10. Amend Sec. 32.28 Florida by revising paragraph D. of Cedar Keys
National Wildlife; by revising paragraph D. of J.N. ``Ding'' Darling
National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraph D. of Lower Suwannee
National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraph A. of St. Marks
National Wildlife Refuge; and by adding the alphabetical listing of Ten
Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.28 Florida.
* * * * *
Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish in salt water year round in
accordance with State regulations subject to the following condition:
1. A 300 foot buffer zone beginning at mean high tide line and
extending into the waters around Seahorse Key will be closed to all
public entry from March 1 through June 30.
* * * * *
[[Page 47377]]
J. N. ``Ding'' Darling National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish and crab on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
1. Fishing permitted in refuge waters except in areas designated as
``closed to public entry,'' and the Mangrove Head Pond, Tower Pond, and
Tarpon Bay Slough at the Bailey Tract.
2. Crabbing permitted in refuge waters except in areas designated
as ``closed to public entry.''
3. Anglers may not take horseshoe crabs, stone crabs, or spider
crabs.
4. Anglers may not take blue crabs for commercial purposes.
5. Anglers may take blue crabs along the Wildlife Drive only with
the use of dip nets. Anglers may not use lines, traps, or bait on or
within 150 feet of the Wildlife Drive.
6. Anglers may use baited lines and traps within refuge waters if
such devises are continuously attended/monitored and removed at the end
of each day. Attended/monitored means that all devices used in the
capture of blue crabs must be within the immediate view of the sport
crabber.
7. Daily limit of blue crabs is 20 per person of which no more that
10 shall be females.
* * * * *
Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish in accordance with State
regulations subject to the following conditions:
1. Anglers may take game and nongame fish only with pole and line
or rod and reel.
2. Anglers may not take turtles and frogs.
3. Anglers may not use boats in refuge ponds. Boats may not be left
on the refuge overnight.
* * * * *
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt ducks and
coots in designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
condition: Permits required.
* * * * *
Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt ducks and
coots in designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
condition: Permits required.
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
D. Sport Fishing. [Reserved]
11. Amend Sec. 32.29 Georgia by revising paragraph D.1. of
Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraphs D.1.
and D.3. of Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge; and by revising
paragraph C. of Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.29 Georgia.
* * * * *
Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
1. Anglers may fish in freshwater year-round from sunrise to
sunset, except during managed deer hunts.
* * * * *
Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
1. Anglers may fish in freshwater year-round from sunrise to
sunset, except during managed deer hunts.
* * * * *
3. Anglers may use the Barbour River public boat ramp as public
access year-round from 4:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.(midnight), daily.
However, anglers may not use the Barbour River public boat ramp as
access from 12:00 p.m.(midnight) to 4:00 a.m., daily.
* * * * *
Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer and turkey
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition:
Permits required.
* * * * *
12. Amend Sec. 32.30 Hawaii by revising paragraph C. of Hakalau
Forest National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.30 Hawaii.
* * * * *
Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt feral pigs and feral cattle
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition:
1. Hunters must have reservations or permits to access the refuge
from Keanakolu Road.
* * * * *
13. Amend Sec. 32.32 Illinois by revising paragraphs A. and B., by
revising the introductory text of paragraph C.,by revising paragraph C.
3, by adding paragraph C.5., by revising the introductory text of
paragraph D. and paragraphs D.1., D.2., D.3., D.4. and D.5. of Crab
Orchard National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraphs A.1., A.2.,
A.3. and the introductory text of paragraph B. of Cypress Creek
National Wildlife Refuge; by adding paragraphs A.1., A.2., C.1., and
D.4. of Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.32 Illinois.
* * * * *
Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
A. Hunting of Migratory Birds. Hunters may hunt waterfowl on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with posted regulations
and subject to the following conditions.
1. Hunters may hunt waterfowl, by daily permit drawing, on the
controlled areas of Grassy Point, Carterville, and Greenbriar land
areas, plus Orchard, Sawmill, Turkey, and Grassy islands, from one-half
hour before sunrise to posted closing times each day during the goose
season. Hunters may hunt waterfowl in these areas, including the lake
shoreline, only from existing refuge blinds during the goose season.
2. Waterfowl hunters outside the controlled goose hunting areas may
use only portable or temporary blinds. Blinds must be a minimum of 200
yards apart and removed or dismantled at the end of each day's hunt.
3. Goose hunters outside the controlled goose hunting area on Crab
Orchard Lake must hunt from a blind that is on shore or anchored a
minimum of 200 yards away from any shoreline.
4. Hunters may possess and use only nontoxic shot while hunting
migratory game bird species.
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt upland game on designated
areas of the refuge in accordance with posted regulations and subject
to the following conditions:
1. Upland game hunting prohibited in the controlled goose hunting
areas during the goose hunting season, except furbearer hunting
permitted from sunset to sunrise.
2. Hunters may not use rifles or handguns with ammunition larger
than .22 caliber rim fire, except they may use black powder firearms up
to and including .40 caliber.
3. Hunters may possess and use only nontoxic shot while hunting all
permitted species except wild turkey. Hunters may possess and use lead
shot for hunting wild turkey.
[[Page 47378]]
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer on
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with posted regulations
and subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
3. Hunters may not hunt deer in the controlled goose hunting areas
during the goose hunting season.
* * * * *
5. Permitted hunters may use center fire ammunition for handgun
deer hunting during the handgun deer season.
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish on designated areas of the
refuge in accordance with posted regulations and subject to the
following conditions:
1. Crab Orchard Lake--west of Wolf Creek Road--Anglers may fish
from boats all year. Anglers must remove trot-lines/jugs from sunrise
until sunset from Memorial Day through Labor Day; east of Wolf Creek
Road, and anglers may fish from boats March 15 through September 30.
Anglers may fish all year at the Wolf Creek and Route 148 causeway
areas. Anglers must check and remove fish from all jugs and trot lines
daily. It is illegal to use stakes to anchor any trot-lines; they must
be tagged with angler's name and address. Anglers may use all
noncommercial fishing methods except they may not use underwater
breathing apparatus. Anglers may not use jugs or trot-lines with any
flotation device that has previously contained any petroleum-based
materials or toxic substances. Anglers must attach a buoyed device that
is visible on the water's surface to all trot-lines.
2. A-41, Bluegill, Blue Heron, Managers, Honkers, and Visitors
Ponds: Anglers may fish only from sunrise to sunset March 15 through
September 30. Anglers may not use boats or flotation devices.
3. Anglers may not submerge any pole or similar object to take or
locate any fish.
4. Organizers of all fishing events must possess a refuge-issued
permit.
5. Anglers may not fish within 250 yards of an occupied waterfowl
hunting blind.
* * * * *
Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
1. Site specific regulations apply to dove hunting on sunflower
fields.
2. Duck hunters may not hunt on the Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve.
3. Only goose hunters allowed in Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve
following the closure of the regular duck hunting season. Special site
regulations apply.
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt bob-white quail, rabbit,
squirrel, raccoon, opossum, coyote, red fox, grey fox and turkey
(spring) on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
* * * * *
Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
1. Only temporary structures or blinds constructed of native
materials are permitted.
2. Hunters must remove boats, decoys, and portable blinds at the
end of each day's hunt.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. Hunters must remove hunting stands at the end of each day's
hunt.
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
4. Anglers may not sportfish in areas open to hunting during
hunting seasons.
* * * * *
14. Amend Sec. 32.35 Kansas by removing paragraph C.2., and by
revising paragraph D. of Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge; by
revising paragraph D., of Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge; and by
revising paragraph D., of Quivira National Wildlife Refuge to read as
follows:
* * * * *
Sec. 32.35 Kansas.
* * * * *
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may sportfish on designated portions of
the refuge subject to State regulations and any refuge specific
regulations as listed in the refuge brochure.
Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may sportfish on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
1. Anglers may fish in accordance with the Kirwin National Wildlife
Refuge Visitor's Map and Guide.
2. Anglers may not use motorized vehicles on the ice.
Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may sportfish on designated portions of
the refuge subject to State regulations and any refuge specific
regulations as listed in the refuge brochure.
15. Amend Sec. 32.37 Louisiana by adding the alphabetical listing
of Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraph
D.3., of Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraphs A.,
B., and C. of D'Arbonne National Wildlife Refuge; and by revising the
introductory text of paragraphs A., B., and C. of Upper Ouachita
National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.37 Louisiana.
* * * * *
Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
1. Anglers may fish from sunrise to sunset.
2. Anglers may not leave boats or other personal equipment on the
refuge overnight. Anglers may launch boats only at designated sites.
Anglers may not use boat motors greater that 50 horsepower.
3. Anglers may not use trotlines, limb lines, yo-yos, traps or
nets.
4. Anglers may not take frogs, turtles and mollusks.
* * * * *
Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
3. Cowpen Bayou and the HWY 28 borrow pits open to fishing all
year.
* * * * *
D'Arbonne National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt ducks, coots,
and woodcock on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
condition: Permits required.
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt quail, squirrel, rabbit,
raccoon and opossum on designated areas of the refuge subject to the
following condition: Permits required.
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition:
Permits required.
* * * * *
Upper Ouachita National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt ducks, coots,
and woodcock on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
condition: Permits required.
* * * * *
[[Page 47379]]
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt quail, squirrel, rabbit,
raccoon and opossum on designated areas of the refuge subject to the
following condition: Permits required.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition:
Permits required.
* * * * *
16. Amend Sec. 32.42 Minnesota by revising paragraphs A., B., and
adding paragraph C.4. of Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge; by
revising paragraphs A., B., C., and D. of Morris Wetland Management
District; by removing paragraph C.3. and redesignating paragraphs C.4.
and C.5. as paragraphs C.3. and C.4., respectively, and revising them
of Rydell National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.42 Minnesota.
* * * * *
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt geese, ducks,
and coots on designated areas of the refuge. Permits are required for
special hunts.
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt upland game, except for
furbearers and crows, on designated areas of the refuge consistent with
state regulations, subject to the following conditions:
1. Hunters may only use shotguns and bows and arrows in designated
areas.
2. Hunters may only use or possess non-toxic shot.
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
4. Hunters may not use or possess single shot projectiles (shotgun
slugs, or bullets) on the Soberg Waterfowl Production Area.
* * * * *
Morris Wetland Management District
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunting of migratory game birds
is permitted throughout the district subject to the following
condition:
1. Hunters may not hunt on designated portions of the Edwards-Long
Lake Waterfowl Production Area in Stevens County.
B. Upland Game Hunting. Upland game hunting is permitted throughout
the district subject to the following condition:
1. Hunters may not hunt on designated portions of the Edwards-Long
Lake Waterfowl Production Area in Stevens County.
C. Big Game Hunting. Big game hunting is permitted throughout the
district subject to the following condition:
1. Hunters may not hunt on designated portions of the Edwards-Long
Lake Waterfowl Production Area in Stevens County.
D. Sport Fishing. Sport fishing is permitted throughout the
district subject to the following condition:
1. Anglers may not fish on designated portions of the Edwards-Long
Lake Waterfowl Production Area in Stevens County.
* * * * *
Rydell National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
3. Hunters may not construct or use permanent blinds, permanent
platforms, or permanent ladders. Hunters may use portable stands, but
must remove them from the refuge at the end of each day's hunt.
4. Hunters who harvest deer in the Special Permit Area must take
their deer to the refuge check station.
* * * * *
17. Amend Sec. 32.43 Mississippi by revising paragraphs A., B., C.,
and D., of Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraph A.
of St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraphs
A., B., and C. of Tallahatchie National Wildlife Refuge; and by
revising paragraph A. of Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge to read as
follows:
Sec. 32.43 Mississippi.
* * * * *
Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt waterfowl,
coots, and woodcock on designated areas of the refuge subject to the
following condition: Permits required.
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt quail, squirrel, rabbit,
beaver, raccoon and opossum on designated areas of the refuge subject
to the following condition: Permits required.
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer and turkey
on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition:
Permits required.
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following condition: Permits required.
* * * * *
St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt ducks, geese
and coots on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
condition: Permits required.
* * * * *
Tallahatchie National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt mourning
doves, migratory waterfowl, coots, snipe and woodcock on designated
areas of the refuge subject to the following condition: Permits
required.
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt quail, squirrel, rabbit,
beaver, raccoon and opossum on designated areas of the refuge subject
to the following condition: Permits required.
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt deer and turkey on designated
areas of the refuge subject to the following condition: Permits
required.
* * * * *
Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt mourning doves
and waterfowl on designated areas of the refuge subject to the
following condition: Permits required.
* * * * *
18. Amend Sec. 32.45 Montana by revising paragraphs A., B., and D.,
of Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraph
B. of Hailstone National Wildlife Refuge; by removing and reserving the
text of paragraphs A., B., and C. of Halfbreed Lake National Wildlife
Refuge; by revising paragraph C. of Lake Mason National Wildlife
Refuge; by revising paragraph D. of Swan River National Wildlife
Refuge; by revising paragraph B. of UL Bend National Wildlife Refuge;
and by revising paragraph D. of War Horse National Wildlife Refuge to
read as follows:
Sec. 32.45 Montana.
* * * * *
Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Refuge open to hunting of
migratory game birds in accordance with state law.
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunting of upland game birds, turkey and
coyote is permitted on designated areas of the refuge subject to the
following condition:
1. Coyote hunting allowed from the first day of antelope rifle
season through March 1 annually.
* * * * *
[[Page 47380]]
D. Sport fishing. Refuge open to sport fishing in accordance with
state law, and as specifically designated in refuge publications.
* * * * *
Hailstone National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt upland game birds on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
1. Hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only nontoxic
shot.
* * * * *
Halfbreed Lake National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
* * * * *
Lake Mason National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. Refuge open to big game hunting in accordance
with state law.
* * * * *
Swan River National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Refuge open to sport fishing in accordance with
state law, and as specifically designated in refuge publications.
UL Bend National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. Refuge is open to upland game hunting in
accordance with state laws, regulations and subject to the following
condition:
1. Coyote hunting allowed from the first day of antelope rifle
season through March 1 annually.
* * * * *
War Horse National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Refuge open to sport fishing in accordance with
state law, and as specifically designated in refuge publications.
19. Amend Sec. 32.46 Nebraska by revising paragraph C. of Crescent
Lake National Wildlife Refuge; by adding alphabetically Fort Niobrara
National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraph D. of Valentine
National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.46 Nebraska.
* * * * *
Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer and mule
deer on designated areas of the refuge pursuant to State law.
* * * * *
Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish on designated portions of the
refuge subject to state regulations and any specific regulations as
listed in refuge publications.
Valentine National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish on designated portions of the
refuge subject to state regulations and any specific regulations as
listed in refuge publications.
20. Amend Sec. 32.47 Nevada by revising paragraphs D.1. D.2., and
removing paragraph D.3., of Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge to read as
follows:
* * * * *
Sec. 32.47 Nevada.
* * * * *
Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
1. Anglers may only bank fish, fish by wading, use nonmotorized
boats, float tubes and similar floatation devices in Big Springs
Reservoir, Dufurrena Ponds, and Catnip Reservoir. Anglers may not fish
from motorized boats.
2. Only individuals 12 years of age or under, or 65 years of age or
older, or individuals who are disabled are permitted to fish in McGee
Pond.
* * * * *
21. Amend Sec. 32.49 New Jersey by revising paragraphs A., C., and
D. of Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.49 New Jersey.
* * * * *
Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt migratory game
birds on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
1. Hunters must be in possession of signed refuge hunting permits
at all times while hunting on the refuge.
2. Refuge hunting regulations, as listed in the hunting leaflet for
Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge, will be in effect.
3. Shotgun hunters may use or possess only nontoxic shot while
hunting migratory game birds.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer and wild
turkeys on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
1. Hunters must sign and be in possession of refuge hunting permits
at all times while hunting on the refuge.
2. Refuge hunting regulations, as listed in the hunting leaflet for
Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge, will be in effect.
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may sportfish on designated areas of the
refuge subject to the following conditions:
1. Anglers may fish from canoes or cartop boats on the Wallkill
River.
2. Anglers must park in designated parking areas if accessing the
Wallkill River through refuge land.
3. Anglers may not take frogs and/or turtles.
4. Anglers may fish from sunrise to sunset.
22. Amend Sec. 32.55 Oklahoma by revising paragraph B. of Deep Fork
National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraphs A., B., and C. of
Little River National Wildlife Refuge; by removing paragraph B.3. of
Optima National Wildlife Refuge; by revising the introductory text of
paragraph B., by adding paragraph B.4., by removing paragraphs C.3.and
C.4., and redesignating paragraph C.5. as paragraph C.3. of Tishomingo
National Wildlife Refuge; by removing paragraph B.2., by revising
paragraphs D.1., D.2., by removing paragraph D.4., and redesignating
paragraph D.5. as paragraph D.4. of Washita National Wildlife Refuge;
and by removing paragraph D.4., and redesignating paragraphs D.5. and
D.6. as paragraphs D.4. and D.5. of Wichita Mountains National Wildlife
Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.55 Oklahoma.
* * * * *
Deep Fork National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt rabbits and squirrels on
portions of the refuge in accordance with state hunting regulations
subject to the following exceptions and conditions:
1. Hunters may hunt squirrels on portions of Deep Fork National
Wildlife Refuge during the state season except it is closed during the
first half of archery deer season.
[[Page 47381]]
2. Hunters may hunt rabbits on portions of Deep Fork National
Wildlife Refuge during the state season except it is closed from the
beginning of the archery deer season until after rifle deer season.
3. Hunters may only use shotguns with non-toxic shot.
4. The refuge leaflet designates all hunting and parking areas.
* * * * *
Little River National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt waterfowl
(ducks) on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
1. Prohibited off-road vehicle use.
2. Hunters may not build permanent blinds.
3. Hunters may hunt only from one-half hour before sunrise until
noon each day.
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt squirrel, rabbit, turkey
and raccoon on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
1. Turkey hunters must obtain permits and pay fees.
2. Prohibited off-road vehicle use.
3. Hunters may hunt raccoons only during designated refuge seasons.
4. Shotgun hunters may not possess or use lead shot.
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt deer on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
1. Hunters must obtain permits and pay fees.
2. Prohibited off-road vehicle use.
* * * * *
Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt quail, squirrel, turkey
and rabbits on the Tishomingo Wildlife Management Unit of the refuge
subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
4. Turkey hunters may only hunt during the statewide spring shotgun
season and during the fall archery season.
* * * * *
Washita National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
1. Anglers may fish and frog only from March 15 through October 14
on the Washita River and Foss Reservoir. Anglers may bank fish from the
Lakeview Recreation Area to the Pitts Creek Recreation Area all year.
2. Access to fishing and frogging is permitted only from the
McClure, Riverside, Turkey Flat, Owl Cove, Pitts Creek and Lakeview
Recreation Areas and by boat from Foss Reservoir.
* * * * *
23. Amend Sec. 32.56 Oregon by adding paragraph A.6. of Cold
Springs National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraphs A.2., B.1.,
B.2., B.3., and D.1. of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge; by adding
paragraph A.7. of McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge; by adding
paragraph A.6. and revising paragraph C. of Umatilla National Wildlife
Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.56 Oregon.
* * * * *
Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
6. Snipe hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only
nontoxic shot.
* * * * *
Malheur National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
2. Hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only nontoxic
shot.
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. Hunters may hunt pheasant, quail, partridge, and rabbit from the
third Saturday in November to the end of the pheasant season in
designated areas of the Blitzen Valley east of Highway 205, and on
designated areas open to waterfowl hunting.
2. Hunters may hunt all upland game species during authorized State
seasons on the refuge area west of Highway 205 and south of Foster Flat
Road.
3. Hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only nontoxic
shot when hunting on designated areas east of Highway 205.
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. * * *
1. Anglers may fish year-round in the Blitzen River, East Canal,
and Mud Creek upstream from and including Bridge Creek. Anglers may
fish in Krumbo Reservoir during the State season from the fourth
Saturday in April to the end of October.
* * * * *
McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
7. Snipe hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only
nontoxic shot.
* * * * *
Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
6. Snipe hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only
nontoxic shot.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt deer on designated areas of
the refuge subject to the following condition:
1. Hunting by permit only.
* * * * *
24. Amend Sec. 32.57 Pennsylvania by adding paragraph A.3., by
revising the introductory text of paragraph B., by revising paragraphs
B.3.and B.5., and by revising paragraphs C.1., C.2., and C.3. of Erie
National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.57 Pennsylvania.
* * * * *
Erie National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
3. No dog training.
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt grouse, squirrel, rabbit,
woodchuck, pheasant, quail, raccoon, fox, skunk, opossum and coyote on
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
3. Upland game hunters must wear on head, chest and back, a minimum
of 400 square inches of blaze orange material.
* * * * *
5. Dog trainers must obtain permits.
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
1. Hunters may hunt only from September 1 through February 28
except for spring turkey season.
2. Hunters must remove blinds, platforms, scaffolds, and/or tree
stands from the refuge daily.
3. All deer hunters must wear on head, chest and back, a minimum of
400 square inches of blaze orange material during antlered, anterless
and muzzleloader seasons.
* * * * *
25. Amend Sec. 32.61 South Dakota by revising paragraph D. of
Waubay National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.61 South Dakota.
* * * * *
Waubay National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish on the refuge in accordance with
state law,
[[Page 47382]]
and as specifically designated in refuge publications.
26. Amend Sec. 32.62 Tennessee by revising paragraphs A., and D.2.,
and adding paragraph D.3. of Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge; by
revising paragraphs A. and D. of Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge
to read as follows:
Sec. 32.62 Tennessee.
* * * * *
Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt ducks, coots,
mourning doves, woodcock, and snipe on designated areas of the refuge
subject to the following condition: Permits required.
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing.* * *
* * * * *
2. Anglers may fish only from sunrise to sunset.
3. Anglers may not frog or turtle on the refuge.
* * * * *
Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt ducks, coots,
mourning doves, woodcock, and snipe on designated areas of the refuge
subject to the following condition: Permits required.
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish on designated areas of the
refuge and Sunk Lake Public Use Natural Area subject to the following
conditions:
1. Only with pole and line or rod and reel.
2. Only from sunrise to sunset.
3. Anglers may not frog or turtle.
4. Anglers may not fish in the sanctuary areas or Sunk Lake Public
Use Natural Area from November 15 through March 15 annually.
* * * * *
27. Amend Sec. 32.63 Texas by revising paragraphs A.1., A.2., A.4.,
removing paragraph A.6 and redesignating paragraph A.7. as paragraph
A.6. of Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge; by adding alphabetically the
listing of Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge; by revising
paragraphs B.2., B.3, and C. of Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge; by
revising paragraphs A.1., A.2., A.6. and adding paragraph A.7. of
McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge; and by revising paragraphs
A.1.,A.2., A.5., and adding paragraph A.6. of Texas Point National
Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.63 Texas.
* * * * *
Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
1. Permits and payment of a fee required to hunt on portions of the
refuge.
2. Hunters may hunt only on designated days of the week and on
designated areas during the general waterfowl hunting season. Hunters
may hunt on designated areas during all days of the September teal
season. Notice of hunting days and maps depicting areas open to hunting
are issued annually in the refuge hunting brochure.
* * * * *
4. Hunters must use and be in possession of Federally-approved non-
toxic shot only.
* * * * *
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. [Reserved]
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt turkey on designated areas
of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
1. Hunting will take place in December and/or January.
2. Hunters must check in and out of a hunt area.
3. Hunters may use only bows and arrows or shotguns and rifles.
4. Hunters shall be at least 12 years of age. Hunters between the
ages of 12 and 17 (inclusive) must hunt under the supervision of an
adult 21 years of age or older.
5. Bag limit must be in accordance with annual state regulations.
6. Hunters must visibly wear 400 square inches of hunter orange
above the waist. Wearing a hunter orange hat or cap mandatory.
7. Hunters must obtain a refuge permit and pay a hunt fee.
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer and feral
hogs on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
1. Hunting will take place in December and/or January.
2. Hunters must check in and out of a hunt area.
3. Hunters may use only bows and arrows, or shotguns and rifles.
4. Hunters shall be at least 12 years of age. Hunters between the
ages of 12 and 17 (inclusive) must hunt under the supervision of an
adult 21 years of age or older.
5. Bag limit must be in accordance with annual state regulations.
6. Hunters must visibly wear 400 square inches of hunter orange
above the waist. Wearing a hunter orange hat or cap mandatory.
7. Hunters must obtain a refuge permit and pay a hunt fee.
D. Sport Fishing. [Reserved]
* * * * *
Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
2. Only shotguns permitted.
3. No shot larger than No. 4 shot may be brought onto the area.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer and feral
hogs on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following
conditions:
1. Hunters may archery hunt as listed in the refuge hunt
information sheet. Hunters must obtain a refuge permit and pay a hunt
fee.
2. Firearms hunting utilizing shotguns, 20 gauge or larger, loaded
with rifled slug, permitted during a special youth hunt as listed in
the refuge hunt information sheet. Permits required.
* * * * *
McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
1. Hunters must obtain a refuge permit and pay a hunt fee to hunt
on portions of the refuge.
2. Hunters may hunt only on designated days of the week and on
designated areas during the general waterfowl hunting season. Hunters
may hunt on designated areas during all days of the September teal
season. Notice of hunting days and maps depicting areas open to hunting
issued annually in the refuge hunting brochure.
* * * * *
6. Hunters must use and be in possession of Federally-approved non-
toxic shot only.
7. Hunters may use airboats in accordance with guidelines issued in
the refuge hunting brochure.
* * * * *
Texas Point National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
1. Hunters may hunt only on designated days of the week and on
designated areas during the general waterfowl hunting season and the
September teal season. Notice of hunting days and maps depicting areas
open to hunting are issued annually in the refuge hunting brochure.
2. Hunting permitted until noon.
* * * * *
[[Page 47383]]
5. Hunters must use and be in possession of Federally-approved non-
toxic shot only.
6. Hunters may use airboats in accordance with guidelines issued in
the refuge hunting brochure.
* * * * *
28. Amend Sec. 32.64 Utah by revising paragraph D. of Ouray
National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.64 Utah.
* * * * *
Ouray National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. The refuge is open to sport fishing in accordance
with state law, and as specifically designated in refuge publications.
29. Amend Sec. 32.66 Virginia by revising paragraph C.6. and adding
paragraph C.7. of Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge to read
as follows:
Sec. 32.66 Virginia.
* * * * *
Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
6. Hunters may not possess a loaded firearm (ammunition in the
chamber, magazine, or clip), or loaded bow on or within 50 feet of a
refuge road, including roads closed to vehicles.
7. Hunters may not shoot onto or across a refuge road, including
roads closed to vehicles.
* * * * *
30. Amend Sec. 32.67 Washington by revising paragraphs A.1., A.3.
A.4., A.5., A.6. and removing paragraph A.7. of McNary National
Wildlife Refuge; and by adding paragraph A.5., and revising paragraph
B.1. of Toppenish National Wildlife Refuge; by adding paragraph A.6.,
by removing and reserving the text of paragraph C. of Umatilla National
Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.67 Washington.
* * * * *
McNary National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
1. Hunting is by permit only on the McNary Division.
* * * * *
3. Snipe hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only
nontoxic shot.
4. Hunters may not possess more than 25 shells while in the field.
5. On the first Saturday in December, only youth aged 10-17 and an
accompanying adult aged 18 or over may hunt.
6. The furthest downstream island (Columbia River mile 341-343) in
the Hanford Islands Division closed to hunting.
* * * * *
Toppenish National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
5. Snipe hunters will possess and use, while in the field, only
nontoxic shot.
B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
1. Hunters may not hunt upland game birds until noon of each hunt
day.
* * * * *
Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
6. Snipe hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only
nontoxic shot.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
* * * * *
31. Amend Sec. 32.69 Wisconsin by adding the alphabetical listing
of Leopold Wetland Management District to read as follows:
Sec. 32.69 Wisconsin.
* * * * *
Leopold Wetland Management District
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt migratory game
birds throughout the District except that hunters may not hunt on
designated portions of the Blue-wing Waterfowl Production Area in
Ozaukee County or the Wilcox Waterfowl Production Area in Waushara
County.
B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt upland game throughout the
district except that hunters may not hunt on designated portions of the
Blue-wing Waterfowl Production Area in Ozaukee County or the Wilcox
Waterfowl Production Area in Waushara County.
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt big game throughout the
District except that hunters may not hunt on designated portions of the
Blue-wing Waterfowl Production Area in Ozaukee County or the Wilcox
Waterfowl Production Area in Waushara County.
D. Sport Fishing. [Reserved]
* * * * *
32. Amend Sec. 32.70 Wyoming by revising paragraph D. of National
Elk Refuge; and by revising paragraphs A., C., and D. of Seedskadee
National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:
Sec. 32.70 Wyoming.
* * * * *
National Elk Refuge
* * * * *
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may sport fish on the refuge in
accordance with state law, as specifically designated in refuge
publications.
* * * * *
Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge
A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt migratory game
birds only on designated areas of the refuge.
* * * * *
C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt pronghorn antelope, mule deer
and moose only on designated areas of the refuge.
D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may sportfish on the refuge only in
accordance with State law, and as specifically designated in refuge
publications.
Dated: August 29, 1997.
Donald Barry,
Acting Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks.
[FR Doc. 97-23730 Filed 9-8-97; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-55-U
