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Opinions sought on hunting regulation changes
hunting regs
Each year the Georgia Department of Natural Resources puts out pamphlets detailing the rules governing hunting and fishing. - photo by Screenshot

SOCIAL CIRCLE — Hunters and others interested are encouraged to review proposed hunting regulations for the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons and make plans to attend one of three scheduled public hearings.

"The purpose of hunting regulations is to manage renewable wildlife resources consistent with the scientific principles of wildlife management, while meeting public objectives for wise use of these resources," Game Management Section Operations Manager Tina Johannsen said. "At this point in the process, we are interested in public comments specific to the proposed changes under consideration."

The notice and synopsis of proposed changes are available on the Georgia DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division webpage at www.georgiawildlife.com/Hunting/RegulationChanges .

Some of the proposed changes include an increase in either sex days for deer where appropriate, expand hunting for bears, add counties along the fall line to alligator zones, codify rules for hunting waterfowl on certain reservoirs, refine issuance of deer crop damage permits, and adjust wildlife management area hunting regulations where needed.

The hearings closest to our area are set for April 11 in Perry, in the Go Fish Education Center, 1255 Parkway; and in Pearson for April 13 in the Sports Complex and Civic Center, 786 Austin Ave. East. They all begin at 7 p.m.

Anyone at a hearing may present data, make a statement or comment, or offer a viewpoint or argument, either orally or in writing. Statements should be concise to permit everyone an opportunity to speak. Participants must register upon arrival and notify the registering official of their intent to give a statement. If you can’t attend a hearing, you can submit statements either electronically or in written. Input must be received by close 4:30 p.m. April 21.

Mail written statements to: GA DNR/Wildlife Resources Division/Game Management Section; Attn: Tina Johannsen; 2067 U.S. Highway 278, S.E.; Social Circle, GA 30025. Submit statements electronically at: www.georgiawildlife.com/Hunting/Regulations/SubmitComments

For more information or to view the proposed regulation changes, visit www.georgiawildlife.com/Hunting/RegulationChanges.

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