The Savannah Coastal Refuges Complex is proposing to collect beginning July 1, 2014, a once-per-season, $25 hunt-permit fee from any individual wanting to participate in any or all complex hunts.  
Hunters wishing to participate in any refuge lottery hunt would be required to submit an application for that hunt and charged an additional $5 application fee. These hunts are held on Blackbeard Island, Harris Neck, Pinckney Island, Savannah and Wassaw National Wildlife Refuges.
The complex currently charges a $15 permit fee to approximately 80 hunters who are selected for any refuge lottery hunt. Also, the complex hosts non-lottery hunts, for which more than 500 participants do not have to pay.
All of these hunts, especially those conducted on barrier-island refuges, have costs associated with them.  The refuges are facing budget cuts.
Public comments will be collected through Nov. 12.  Comments may be submitted to the complex project leader by emailing to savannahcoastal@fws.gov, calling 843-784-2468, faxing 843-784-2465 or mailing to 694 Beech Hill Lane, Hardeeville, SC 29927.  
For more information, call 843-784-2468 or go to www.fws.gov/savannah.