DNR Seeking Public Input On Upcoming Hunting Regulations

As 2014 comes to a close, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources is getting ready to seek public input on the development of hunting regulations for the 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 hunting seasons.

A number of public meetings will be held on the topic in January.

These meetings, sponsored by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division, are specifically designed to give the public a chance to provide input in the development process.

The closest two meetings to this area will be on January 6 at Blue Ridge EMC on Main Street East in Young Harris and on January 8 at the Gwinnett County Justice and Administration Center on Langley Drive in Lawrenceville.

Both meetings start at 7 p.m.

State officials said that those unable to attend a meeting may submit input either electronically or in written statement form by January 14.

• Written statements should be mailed to: GA DNR/Wildlife Resources Division/Game Management Section; Attn: Tina Brunjes; 2070 U.S. Highway 278, S.E.; Social Circle, Georgia 30025.
• Statements may be electronically submitted at:www.georgiawildlife.com/Hunting/Regulations/SubmitComments

Hunting regulation proposals will be available in early April and will be considered by the Board of Natural Resources in May 2015.

Geoorgia Game Management Section Chief John Bowers said public input is important and valuable.

According to Bowers, while the state currently has no proposed regulation changes, it is considering establishing a single statewide deer season and adjusting the timing of buck-only days.

He said as always, the state wants to maintain simple, easy-to-follow hunting regulations that encourage hunting participation, maximize opportunity, and are biologically appropriate.

For more information, people can contact Hunter Services at 770-761-3045.