Ga. DNR Considering License Fee Changes

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources is considering adjustments and changes to its current license fee structure.

According to the DNR, the agency continues to see an increase in requests for more hunting and fishing opportunities while continuing to provide quality recreational experiences.

However, the DNR said that stagnant license revenues have limited the short and long-term ability to respond to customer demands.

DNR officials said they are considering a number of options.

They include further expansion of efforts to recruit, retain and reactivate hunters, anglers and shooters; simplification of the license structure system to maximize funding from the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Programs; and adjustment of current license costs.

The DNR said that resident license fees have not changed in 23 years and are well below the national average.

To begin gauging interest in these options, the public is invited to attend one of seven upcoming open forums.

According to the DNR, these forums will provide interested citizens a chance to hear more about the reasoning and research behind possible changes, and to ask questions and provide thoughtful feedback.

The closest hearing to the Stephens County area is June 15 at the Gainesville Civic Center from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m.

For those unable to attend one of the public forums, comments can be sent electronically to www.georgiawildlife.com/aimforsuccess.

Written comments may be sent to: License Restructure, Wildlife Resources Division, 2070 US Hwy. 278, SE, Social Circle GA 30025.

The initial comment period will close July 6.