Comment on FR Doc # 2011-06703

Hunting seasons and programs within the CCNS have always been based upon the schedule developed and administered by the MDFW that are based upon proven wildlife management programs and conservation. For years, a limited number of Cape resident turkey hunters had to travel to Western Mass in the spring to hunt. In the late 90s, the MDFW introduced a Southeastern Mass spring season. Despite this MDFW season, hunters were excluded from a spring turkey hunt because the land where hunting could occur is almost exclusively within the CCNS and Seashore’s current prohibition of weapons from March 1st to September 1st. During this time, turkey numbers have grown exponentially to a point where car-turkey crashes have increased and birds are known to frequent residential yards where people have taken to feeding them. These unintended consequences are partially due to a lack of a management plan to control the turkey. Part of the enabling legislation creating the Cape Cod National Seashore allowed for the exercising of long standing traditional rights enjoyed by residents and visitors of Cape Cod and in particular the land now comprising the CCNS. These activities included hunting and while no one today can boast of turkey hunts of years before the Park was established, allowing a spring turkey season will foster the intent of the initial creators of the CCNS and maintain the exercising of those traditional rights. I firmly believe a spring turkey hunt can occur with without any negative impact on the other activities within the CCNS during the late April – May. I would strongly encourage the CCNS to adopt the proposed rule change and allow a spring turkey season within the CCNS beginning in 2011. A spring turkey season consistent with the MDFW’s program can occur without jeopardizing public safety or creating conflicts with other park visitors. By instituting a spring turkey season, the CCNS superintendent and staff will continue its demonstration of a strong