# 67 FR 53690: Migratory Bird Hunting; Proposed Frameworks for Late-Season Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations

> Federal · Regulations · In force

URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/statutes/FR_PRORULE_02-20713

## Section

- **Citation:** 67 FR 53690
- **Heading:** Migratory Bird Hunting; Proposed Frameworks for Late-Season Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations
- **Jurisdiction:** Federal
- **Kind:** Regulations
- **Status:** In force
- **Text as of:** August 14, 2026
- **Source:** Compiled text
- **Location:** Federal Register / Vol. 67 / 67 FR 53690

## Text

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service 50 CFR Part 20 RIN 1018-AI30 Migratory Bird Hunting; Proposed Frameworks for Late-Season Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations AGENCY:
Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION:
Proposed rule; supplemental.

SUMMARY:
The Fish and Wildlife Service (hereinafter Service or we) is proposing to establish the 2002-03 late-season hunting regulations for certain migratory game birds. We annually prescribe frameworks, or outer limits, for dates and times when hunting may occur and the number of birds that may be taken and possessed in late seasons. These frameworks are necessary to allow State selections of seasons and limits and to allow recreational harvest at levels compatible with population and habitat conditions.

DATES:
You must submit comments on the proposed migratory bird hunting late-season frameworks by August 30, 2002.

ADDRESSES:
Send your comments on these proposals to the Chief, Division of Migratory Bird Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior, room 634-Arlington Square, 1849 C Street, NW, Washington, DC 20240. All comments received, including names and addresses, will become part of the public record. You may inspect comments during normal business hours in room 634, Arlington Square Building, 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington, Virginia.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Robert Blohm, Acting Chief, or Ron W. Kokel, Division of Migratory Bird Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, (703) 358-1714.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Regulations Schedule for 2002
On March 19, 2002, we published in the Federal Register (67 FR 12501) a proposal to amend 50 CFR part 20
quare Building, 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington, Virginia.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Robert Blohm, Acting Chief, or Ron W. Kokel, Division of Migratory Bird Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, (703) 358-1714.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Regulations Schedule for 2002
On March 19, 2002, we published in the Federal Register (67 FR 12501) a proposal to amend 50 CFR part 20. The proposal provided a background and overview of the migratory bird hunting regulations process, and dealt with the establishment of seasons, limits, the proposed regulatory alternatives for the 2002-03 duck hunting season, and other regulations for migratory game birds under §§ 20.101 through 20.107, 20.109, and 20.110 of subpart K. On June 11, 2002, we published in the Federal Register (67 FR 40128) a second document providing supplemental proposals for early- and late-season migratory bird hunting regulations frameworks and the proposed regulatory alternatives for the 2002-03 duck hunting season. The June 11 supplement also provided detailed information on the 2002-03 regulatory schedule and announced the Service Migratory Bird Regulations Committee (SRC) and Flyway Council meetings.
On June 19-20, we held open meetings with the Flyway Council Consultants at which the participants reviewed information on the current status of migratory shore and upland game birds and developed recommendations for the 2002-03 regulations for these species plus regulations for migratory game birds in Alaska, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, special September waterfowl seasons in designated States, special sea duck seasons in the Atlantic Flyway, and extended falconry seasons. In addition, we reviewed and discussed preliminary information on the status of waterfowl as it relates to the development and selection of the regulatory packages for the 2002-03 regular waterfowl seasons
me birds in Alaska, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, special September waterfowl seasons in designated States, special sea duck seasons in the Atlantic Flyway, and extended falconry seasons. In addition, we reviewed and discussed preliminary information on the status of waterfowl as it relates to the development and selection of the regulatory packages for the 2002-03 regular waterfowl seasons. On July 17, we published in the Federal Register (67 FR 47224) a third document specifically dealing with the proposed frameworks for early-season regulations and the final regulatory alternatives for the 2002-03 duck hunting season. We will publish a rulemaking establishing final frameworks for early-season migratory bird hunting regulations for the 2002-03 season in late August.
On July 31 and August 1, 2002, we held open meetings with the Flyway Council Consultants at which the participants reviewed the status of waterfowl and developed recommendations for the 2002-03 regulations for these species. This document deals specifically with proposed frameworks for the late-season migratory bird hunting regulations. It will lead to final frameworks from which States may select season dates, shooting hours, areas, and limits.
We have considered all pertinent comments received through August 1, 2002, in developing this document. In addition, new proposals for certain late-season regulations are provided for public comment. Comment periods are specified above under DATES. We will publish final regulatory frameworks for late-season migratory game bird hunting in the Federal Register on or about September 16, 2002.
Population Status and Harvest
The following paragraphs provide a brief summary of information on the status and harvest of waterfowl excerpted from various reports. For more detailed information on methodologies and results, complete copies of the various reports are available at the address indicated under the caption ADDRESSES or from our website at http://migratorybirds.fws.gov
er 16, 2002.
Population Status and Harvest
The following paragraphs provide a brief summary of information on the status and harvest of waterfowl excerpted from various reports. For more detailed information on methodologies and results, complete copies of the various reports are available at the address indicated under the caption ADDRESSES or from our website at http://migratorybirds.fws.gov.
Status of Ducks
Federal, provincial, and State agencies conduct surveys each spring to estimate the size of breeding populations and to evaluate the conditions of the habitats. These surveys are conducted using fixed-wing aircraft and encompass principal breeding areas of North America, and cover over 2.0 million square miles. The Traditional survey area is comprised of Alaska, Canada, and the northcentral U.S., and includes approximately 1.3 million square miles. The Eastern survey area includes parts of Ontario, Quebec, Labrador, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, New York, and Maine, an area of approximately 0.7 million square miles.
Breeding Ground Conditions
In summary, below average winter and spring precipitation in the prairies and parklands and cold spring temperatures in eastern North America resulted in generally poorer habitat conditions for breeding waterfowl this year than in 2001. Dry conditions were reflected in the number of ponds counted this year. Total May ponds (U.S. prairies and Canadian prairies and parkland combined) were 2.7 ± 0.1 million, which is the second lowest count recorded since this estimate was first calculated in 1974, when this estimate was first recorded, 41% below last year's estimate of 4.6 ± 0.1 million, and 45% below the long-term average. This value was 41% below last year's estimate of 4.6 ± 0.1 million, and 45% below the long-term average (4.9 ± 0.1 million). May ponds in Canada (1.4 ± 0.1 million) and the U.S
n, which is the second lowest count recorded since this estimate was first calculated in 1974, when this estimate was first recorded, 41% below last year's estimate of 4.6 ± 0.1 million, and 45% below the long-term average. This value was 41% below last year's estimate of 4.6 ± 0.1 million, and 45% below the long-term average (4.9 ± 0.1 million). May ponds in Canada (1.4 ± 0.1 million) and the U.S. (1.3 ± 0.1 million) were below 2001 estimates (−48% in Canada and −32% in the U.S) and their long-term averages (−58% in Canada and −16% in the U.S). Canadian May ponds were the lowest recorded since surveys began in 1961.
In both the traditional (northcentral United States, western Ontario, prairie Provinces and States, Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Alaska) and eastern survey areas (the northeastern United States, eastern Ontario, Quebec, and the Canadian Maritimes), most regions entered into the spring of 2002 with a water deficit remaining from winter.
The only region where habitat conditions for breeding waterfowl improved over last year was Alaska, due to warmer post-thaw temperatures than last year. However, rapid ice melt may have caused flooding of nests in parts of Alaska as well as Labrador.
Weather and habitat conditions during the summer months can influence waterfowl production. Good wetland conditions increase renesting and brood survival. During late May and early June, many parts of the prairies, including Montana, the western Dakotas, and southern Saskatchewan and Alberta received substantial precipitation. Though this late rain and snow may have encouraged good reproductive effort by late-nesting species such as gadwall, many of the earlier nesting ducks likely bypassed the prairies altogether. For those ducks that did nest, this late water should improve brood-rearing conditions, as brood and duckling survival tends to increase with higher wetland densities. Results of the July Production Survey indicate that the number of ponds in Prairie Canada and the north-central U.S
by late-nesting species such as gadwall, many of the earlier nesting ducks likely bypassed the prairies altogether. For those ducks that did nest, this late water should improve brood-rearing conditions, as brood and duckling survival tends to increase with higher wetland densities. Results of the July Production Survey indicate that the number of ponds in Prairie Canada and the north-central U.S. combined was 1.8 ± 0.1 million ponds. This was 36% below last year's estimate of 2.9 ± 0.1 million ponds, and 33% below the long-term average. July ponds in Prairie Canada were at 1.0 ± 0.1 million. This was 46% below last year's estimate of 1.8 ± 0.07 million and 43% below the long-term average. July ponds in the north-central U.S. were estimated at 0.84 ± 0.04 million. This was 19% below last year's estimate of 1.0 ± 0.06 million, but similar to the long-term average.
Breeding waterfowl habitat conditions in the eastern survey area were highly variable, but all areas experienced a warm, dry winter. In the New York, Eastern Ontario and Southern Quebec survey area the winter of 2001-2002 was warm and dry, and drought conditions persisted throughout much of this region. Waterfowl returned early to this region, but early spring habitat conditions were poor. However, several weeks before and during surveys, cooler temperatures and increased precipitation were the rule, and wetland habitat conditions greatly improved. A similar weather pattern was reported for western Ontario. Maine and the southern Maritimes experienced a warm, dry winter, and above normal temperatures and precipitation in early spring that produced good to excellent conditions for breeding ducks. By contrast, Newfoundland and Labrador experienced a late, cool spring. In Newfoundland, temperatures moderated and good waterfowl production was expected, but extended cold, stormy weather in Labrador made for poor nesting conditions.
Breeding Population Status
In the traditional survey area, total duck abundance was 31.2 ± 0.5 million birds
ed good to excellent conditions for breeding ducks. By contrast, Newfoundland and Labrador experienced a late, cool spring. In Newfoundland, temperatures moderated and good waterfowl production was expected, but extended cold, stormy weather in Labrador made for poor nesting conditions.
Breeding Population Status
In the traditional survey area, total duck abundance was 31.2 ± 0.5 million birds. This was 14% below last year's estimate of 36.1 ± 0.6 million birds, and 6% below the long-term (1955-2001) average. Mallard abundance was 7.5 ± 0.2 million, similar to the 2001 estimate of 7.9 ± 0.2 million, and essentially identical to the long-term average. Blue-winged teal abundance was 4.2 ± 0.2 million, which was 27% below last year's estimate of 5.8 ± 0.3 million, but similar to the long-term average. Gadwall (2.2 ± 0.1 million, −17%), shovelers (2.3 ± 0.1 million, −30%), and pintails (1.8 ± 0.1 million, −46%) were below 2001 estimates. Wigeon (2.3 ± 0.1 million), green-winged teal (2.3 ± 0.1 million), redheads (0.6 ± 0.1 million), canvasbacks (0.5 ± 0.1 million), and scaup (3.5 ± 0.2 million) were unchanged from 2001 estimates. Gadwall (+37%), green-winged teal (+28%), and shovelers (+10%) all remained above their long-term averages, whereas wigeon (−12%), pintail (−58%), canvasback (−14%), and scaup numbers (−34%) were below long-term averages. Northern pintails and scaup were the lowest and second lowest counts on record, respectively. The redhead estimate was similar to the long-term average.
In the eastern survey area, the 2002 total duck population estimate for this area was 4.4 ± 0.3 million birds, 32% higher than last year's (3.3 ± 0.3 million), and 41% higher than the 1996-2001 average. Numbers of most individual species were similar to those of last year, with the exception of mergansers (0.8 ± 0.1 million, +90%) and green-winged teal (0.7 ± 0.1 million, +174%), which increased compared to last year
y area, the 2002 total duck population estimate for this area was 4.4 ± 0.3 million birds, 32% higher than last year's (3.3 ± 0.3 million), and 41% higher than the 1996-2001 average. Numbers of most individual species were similar to those of last year, with the exception of mergansers (0.8 ± 0.1 million, +90%) and green-winged teal (0.7 ± 0.1 million, +174%), which increased compared to last year. Mergansers (+68%) and green-winged teal (+102%) were also above their 1996-2001 averages, as were scoters (0.3 ± 0.1 million, +178%). Estimates for all other species were similar to last year's estimates and to long-term averages.
Breeding Activity and Production
The number of broods in the north-central U.S. and Prairie Canada combined was 352,600, 35% lower than last year's estimate, and 25% below the long-term average. The number of broods in Prairie Canada and the North-central U.S. were 54% and 37% below last year's estimates, respectively. Brood indices in Prairie Canada were 69% below the long-term average, while brood counts were 12% above the long-term average in the north-central U.S. The brood index in the Canadian boreal forest was 21% higher than last year's, but 16% below the long-term average. The late-nesting index, the number of pairs and lone drakes without broods seen during July surveys, was 9% higher than last year, but 43% lower than the long-term average, for all areas combined. The late-nesting index was down 12% and 33% relative to last year in boreal Canada and the north-central U.S., respectively, but up 32% in Prairie Canada, perhaps reflecting late rains there. However, the late nesting index was below the long-term average by more than 60% in boreal Canada and the north-central U.S., and by 24% in prairie Canada.
Fall Flight Estimate
The size of the mid-continent mallard population, which is comprised of mallards from the traditional survey area, plus Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, was 8.5 million birds. This is similar to that of 2001 (8.7 million)
er, the late nesting index was below the long-term average by more than 60% in boreal Canada and the north-central U.S., and by 24% in prairie Canada.
Fall Flight Estimate
The size of the mid-continent mallard population, which is comprised of mallards from the traditional survey area, plus Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, was 8.5 million birds. This is similar to that of 2001 (8.7 million). The 2002 mid-continent mallard fall-flight estimate is 8.9 million birds, statistically similar to the 2001 estimate of 9.7 million birds. These estimates were based on revised mid-continent mallard population models, and
See section 1.B. Regulatory Alternatives for further discussion on the implications of this information for this year's selection of the appropriate hunting regulations.
Status of Geese and Swans
We annually assess the population status and productivity of 30 populations of North American Canada geese ( Branta canadensis ), brant ( B. bernicla ), snow geese ( Chen caerulescens ), Ross's geese ( C. rossii ), emperor geese ( C. canagicus ), white-fronted geese ( Anser albifrons ) and tundra swans ( Cygnus columbianus ). Reproductive performance of several goose populations likely were impacted by colder and dryer than average conditions during spring migration in 2002. The timing of snowmelt in most areas of the Arctic was near average, but arrival to nesting areas and initiation of nesting for many goose populations were delayed by adverse migration conditions. In the Hudson Bay Lowlands and northern Quebec, a cold and snowy May delayed nesting and reduced production for several populations. Throughout most of Alaska, Wrangel Island, and the northwestern Canadian mainland the timing of snowmelt was early and conditions for nesting geese and swans were very favorable
8.4 ducks (−9%) and 2.0 geese (+6%) each. The five most commonly harvested duck species were mallard (37%), gadwall (11%), green-winged teal (10%), blue-winged/cinnamon teal (9%), and wood duck (8%).
In the Atlantic Flyway, duck stamp sales totaled 310,092 (+1% from 2000), and 1,626,300 ducks (−13%), 612,100 geese (+40%), and 12,100 coots (−37%) were harvested during 2,269,600 hunter-days (+9%). Persons buying duck stamps for hunting averaged 7.5 days afield (+6%) and bagged an average of 6.0 ducks (−14%) and 2.1 geese (+34%) each. The three most commonly harvested duck species in 2001 were mallard (25%), wood duck (22%), and green-winged teal (9%).
In the Mississippi Flyway, duck stamp sales totaled 739,387 (−1%), and 6,630,900 ducks (−16%), 1,060,000 geese (−13%), and 103,700 coots (−21%) were harvested during 7,647,300 hunter-days (+8%). Persons buying duck stamps for hunting averaged 10.0 days afield (+8%) and bagged an average of 9.4 ducks (−15%) and 1.6 geese (−10%) each. The three most commonly harvested duck species were mallard (38%), gadwall (13%), and blue-winged teal (12%).
In the Central Flyway, duck stamp sales totaled 364,538 (+2%), and 3,446,500 ducks (+6%), 1,189,800 geese (+19%), and 15,100 coots (−42%) were harvested during 3,043,000 hunter-days (+15%). Persons buying duck stamps for hunting averaged 8.0 days afield (+12) and bagged an average of 7.7 ducks (+6%) and 3.1 geese (+22%) each. The three most commonly harvested duck species were mallard (38%), gadwall (16%), and green-winged teal (10%).
In the Pacific Flyway, duck stamp sales totaled 287,138 (+2%), and 2,168,200 ducks (−5%), 354,900 geese (−11%), and 11,800 coots (−35%) were harvested during 1,984,400 hunter-days (no change). Persons buying duck stamps for hunting averaged 8.1 days afield (+3%) and bagged an average of 9.3 ducks (−2%) and 1.5 geese (−9%) each. The three most commonly harvested duck species were mallard (44%), green-winged teal (14%) and wigeon (13%)
es totaled 287,138 (+2%), and 2,168,200 ducks (−5%), 354,900 geese (−11%), and 11,800 coots (−35%) were harvested during 1,984,400 hunter-days (no change). Persons buying duck stamps for hunting averaged 8.1 days afield (+3%) and bagged an average of 9.3 ducks (−2%) and 1.5 geese (−9%) each. The three most commonly harvested duck species were mallard (44%), green-winged teal (14%) and wigeon (13%).
In Alaska, duck stamp sales totaled 10,068 (−1%), and 61,900 ducks (−12%) and 8,600 geese (+30%) were taken during 54,700 hunter-days (+3%). Persons buying duck stamps for hunting averaged 5.0 days afield (+3%) and bagged an average of 6.3 ducks (−8%) and 0.9 geese (+35%) each. The three most commonly harvested duck species were mallard (38%), wigeon (23%), and northern pintail (15%).
Review of Public Comments and Flyway Council Recommendations
The preliminary proposed rulemaking, which appeared in the March 19 Federal Register , opened the public comment period for migratory game bird hunting regulations. The supplemental proposed rule, which appeared in the June 11 Federal Register , defined the public comment period for the proposed regulatory alternatives for the 2002-03 duck hunting season. The public comment period for the proposed regulatory alternatives ended June 21, 2002. Late-season comments and comments pertaining to the proposed alternatives are summarized below and numbered in the order used in the March 19 Federal Register document. We have included only the numbered items pertaining to late-season issues and the proposed regulatory alternatives for which we received written comments. Consequently, the issues do not follow in direct numerical or alphabetical order.
We received recommendations from all four Flyway Councils. Some recommendations supported continuation of last year's frameworks
ch 19 Federal Register document. We have included only the numbered items pertaining to late-season issues and the proposed regulatory alternatives for which we received written comments. Consequently, the issues do not follow in direct numerical or alphabetical order.
We received recommendations from all four Flyway Councils. Some recommendations supported continuation of last year's frameworks. Due to the comprehensive nature of the annual review of the frameworks performed by the Councils, support for continuation of last year's frameworks is assumed for items for which no recommendations were received. Council recommendations for changes in the frameworks are summarized below.
We seek additional information and comments on the recommendations in this supplemental proposed rule. New proposals and modifications to previously described proposals are discussed below. Wherever possible, they are discussed under headings corresponding to the numbered items in the March 19, 2002, Federal Register document.
1. Ducks
Categories used to discuss issues related to duck harvest management are: (A) Harvest Strategy Considerations, (B) Regulatory Alternatives, (C) Zones and Split Seasons, and (D) Special Seasons/Species Management. The categories correspond to previously published issues/discussion, and only those containing substantial recommendations are discussed below.
B. Regulatory Alternatives
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic Flyway Council and the Lower-
The Upper-Region Regulations Committee of the Mississippi Flyway Council and the Pacific Flyway Council recommended adoption of the “moderate” regulations package for duck hunting seasons in 2002-03.
The Central Flyway Council recommended the adoption of the “liberal” regulatory package with the exception of the framework closing date. The Council recommended a framework closing date of the Sunday nearest January 20
lations Committee of the Mississippi Flyway Council and the Pacific Flyway Council recommended adoption of the “moderate” regulations package for duck hunting seasons in 2002-03.
The Central Flyway Council recommended the adoption of the “liberal” regulatory package with the exception of the framework closing date. The Council recommended a framework closing date of the Sunday nearest January 20.
Service Response: Developing duck hunting regulations that are biologically sound and broadly supported by conservation professionals and the public is always a challenge. This year is especially challenging for a number of reasons:
(1) Water conditions in the important prairie nesting area of mid-continent North America have deteriorated dramatically from last year, and pond numbers in May in southern Canada were the lowest on record. However, duck breeding population estimates this spring declined only slightly, and remained near their long-term average.
(2) Some important revisions have been made this year to the Adaptive Harvest Management (AHM) protocols that are used to suggest the appropriate regulatory alternative. Most importantly, empirical corrections have been made for the positive bias in estimated growth rates of mid-continent and eastern mallards (for more details about these corrections, refer to the reports available on the AHM website at http://migratorybirds.fws.gov ). Although there were initial indications of the bias in estimated growth rates of mid-continent mallards as early as the late 1970s, predictive population models were not used to help set hunting regulations. With the advent of AHM and the expanded use of population dynamic models to help recommend regulations, it has become necessary to correct these models for any source of bias. The bias-correction resulted in a slightly more conservative regulatory strategy ( i.e. , the regulations prescribed for a range of population and pond levels) than used in the past for mid-continent mallards
ng regulations. With the advent of AHM and the expanded use of population dynamic models to help recommend regulations, it has become necessary to correct these models for any source of bias. The bias-correction resulted in a slightly more conservative regulatory strategy ( i.e. , the regulations prescribed for a range of population and pond levels) than used in the past for mid-continent mallards. However, correction for the bias would not have changed the selection of hunting regulations since 1995 because population and pond numbers were so high. The bias correction has had little effect on the outlook for regulations in the Atlantic Flyway, which are based on the status of eastern mallards. The source of the bias in mallard growth rates remains unknown, but monitoring programs used to estimate survival and reproductive rates are being carefully scrutinized.
(3) Earlier this year, we considered a number of possible changes to the set of regulatory alternatives (very restrictive, restrictive, moderate, and liberal) (see the July 17, 2002, Federal Register ). The only change we adopted was an extension of opening and closing framework dates in the “moderate” and “liberal” regulatory alternatives. The initial prediction is that these extensions will cause harvest rates of mid-continent and eastern mallards to increase by 15% and 5%, respectively.
Drought conditions in key breeding areas, the correction for the positive bias in estimated growth rates of mallards, and framework-date extensions all tend to lead to more conservatism in hunting regulations through the AHM process. To assist the Service and Flyway Councils in developing a regulatory proposal for the 2002-03 season, the AHM Working Group derived an optimal AHM regulatory strategy for the three western Flyways (Mississippi, Central and Pacific Flyways)
bias in estimated growth rates of mallards, and framework-date extensions all tend to lead to more conservatism in hunting regulations through the AHM process. To assist the Service and Flyway Councils in developing a regulatory proposal for the 2002-03 season, the AHM Working Group derived an optimal AHM regulatory strategy for the three western Flyways (Mississippi, Central and Pacific Flyways). The strategy used the revised population models and associated model weights for mid-continent mallards, harvest and population objectives, and the 2002 regulatory alternatives specified in the July 17, 2002, Federal Register . Based on a mid-continent population size of 8.5 million mallards (traditional surveyed area plus the States of Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin) and 1.44 million ponds in Prairie Canada, the AHM prescription for the Pacific, Central, and Mississippi Flyways in 2002 is the “liberal” alternative.
Similarly, the AHM Working Group calculated an optimal regulatory strategy for the Atlantic Flyway based on the revised population models and associated weights for eastern mallards, harvest objectives, and the regulatory alternatives specified in the July 17, 2002, Federal Register . Based on a breeding population size of 1.0 million eastern mallards, the AHM prescription for the Atlantic Flyway in 2002 is the “liberal” alternative.
Considering the low numbers of ponds in May, these results were somewhat unexpected. However, the weight of biological evidence suggests that mallards can support harvest rates associated with the 2002 “liberal” regulatory alternative (the observed harvest rate on adult male mid-continent mallards during the 2001-02 “liberal” season was 11%, and with framework-date extensions it is expected to be 14%). We are comfortable that most other duck species can also support the hunting opportunity afforded by the “liberal” regulatory alternative. Generally, harvest rates of most duck species are lower than those for mallards
lternative (the observed harvest rate on adult male mid-continent mallards during the 2001-02 “liberal” season was 11%, and with framework-date extensions it is expected to be 14%). We are comfortable that most other duck species can also support the hunting opportunity afforded by the “liberal” regulatory alternative. Generally, harvest rates of most duck species are lower than those for mallards. Therefore, we are proposing the “liberal” regulatory alternative for all four Flyways (the details of Flyway-specific season lengths, bag limits, and framework dates are provided later in this document).
Nonetheless, it is increasingly apparent that the long-term success of AHM will depend heavily on our collective ability to account more rigorously for the harvest potentials of duck species other than mallards. This need is particularly evident in a year like this, when some species remain below objective levels and when production of most duck species is expected to be poor. Therefore, we believe that a general solution to this problem must be the highest priority of the AHM Working Group. In the meantime, we will not hesitate to take regulatory action to restrict hunting opportunities on species whose population status is of concern ( e.g. , pintails, canvasbacks, black ducks, scaup). Such restrictive actions are being proposed this year for some duck species (see section D. Special Seasons/Species Management below for details).
With regard to the Central Flyway's recommendation to limit the framework-date extension to the earliest opening date, we note that the specifics of the regulatory alternatives were finalized in the July 17, 2002, Federal Register . One of the primary goals of AHM has been to establish these alternatives early in the year, so that debate in the late-season process can be focused solely on selection of an alternative.
D. Special Seasons/Species Management
iii
amework-date extension to the earliest opening date, we note that the specifics of the regulatory alternatives were finalized in the July 17, 2002, Federal Register . One of the primary goals of AHM has been to establish these alternatives early in the year, so that debate in the late-season process can be focused solely on selection of an alternative.
D. Special Seasons/Species Management
iii. Black Ducks
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic Flyway Council recommended allowing States to increase the daily bag limit on black ducks to 2 per day for up to 30 consecutive hunting days, provided the black duck season is closed for an equivalent number of days. During the remainder of the season, the black duck bag daily bag limit would be 1 bird per day. Both two-bird bag days and closed days could be split into no more than two segments.
Service Response: We remain concerned about the status of black duck populations and believe the International Harvest strategy should be
iv. Canvasbacks
Council Recommendations: All four Flyway Councils recommended that the Canvasback Harvest Management Strategy be changed so that hunting seasons would be open if the population model predicts a subsequent-year breeding population of 400,000 or more. The objectives from the 1994 strategy would be modified as follows:
1. the goal for the size of the breeding population should be 540,000 birds, consistent with the North American Waterfowl Management Plan,
2. the strategy should permit a greater possibility for a sustained sport harvest than has occurred recently using a closure threshold of 500,000, and
3. the amount of harvest in any one year should not result in a predicted spring population lower than 400,000, allowing harvest opportunity on this prairie nesting species at reasonable levels above and below long-term population levels.
4
n,
2. the strategy should permit a greater possibility for a sustained sport harvest than has occurred recently using a closure threshold of 500,000, and
3. the amount of harvest in any one year should not result in a predicted spring population lower than 400,000, allowing harvest opportunity on this prairie nesting species at reasonable levels above and below long-term population levels.
4. full-length canvasback seasons with 1-bird limits should be offered to all flyways when the breeding population is predicted to be above the closure threshold; however, the option of abbreviated canvasback seasons within basic duck seasons should be considered when harvest reduction is likely to sustain the breeding population above 400,000 birds.
With the above changes in mind, the Atlantic Flyway Council recommended a limited canvasback hunting season of 20 days in the Atlantic Flyway, the Mississippi Flyway Council recommended a limited canvasback hunting season of 20 days in the Mississippi Flyway, the Central Flyway Council recommended a limited canvasback hunting season of 25 days in the Central Flyway, and the Pacific Flyway Council recommended a limited canvasback hunting season of 38 days in the Pacific Flyway during the 2002-03 season, with a daily bag limit of one bird per day.
Service Response: For canvasbacks, we continue to support the harvest strategy adopted by the Service in 1994, and believe that it should be used to guide seasons this year. The 2002 spring breeding population estimate was 487,000, which was lower than the objective level of 500,000. The number of ponds in prairie Canada was 1.44 million, the lowest recorded in the history of the survey. Because predicted production is directly proportional to the abundance of ponds in Canada in May, we expect recruitment to be among the lowest ever experienced. Even with no harvest during the 2002-03 season, the canvasback model predicts the spring population will be below 500,000 in 2003
00. The number of ponds in prairie Canada was 1.44 million, the lowest recorded in the history of the survey. Because predicted production is directly proportional to the abundance of ponds in Canada in May, we expect recruitment to be among the lowest ever experienced. Even with no harvest during the 2002-03 season, the canvasback model predicts the spring population will be below 500,000 in 2003. Thus, we believe that the season on canvasbacks should be closed.
In review of canvasback management, it is clear that this species has some unique biological attributes that have resulted in a long history of special harvest-management considerations necessary to maintain the population at the desired level. Canvasbacks have low recruitment potential and are very sensitive to drought conditions.
Further, the current population objective of 500,000 has a long history. This level was first established in a 1976 Environmental Assessment. This objective was then used in the National Species of Special Emphasis document, the National Waterfowl Management Plan, and the most recent 1983 Environmental Assessment. We believe that the current goal of 500,000 has served us well in managing this population over the past three decades.
Last year, our objective was to allow some hunting opportunity while maintaining the 2002 spring population level above the 500,000 objective level. That objective was not achieved with a breeding population already below 500,000 and with a very poor production outlook, we believe a season closure this year is warranted.
v. Pintails
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic Flyway Council recommended that the pintail season be limited to 20 days with a bag limit of one bird per day in the states of Georgia, Florida, North Carolina and South Carolina. States could select these days during any time period within their regular duck season
ry poor production outlook, we believe a season closure this year is warranted.
v. Pintails
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic Flyway Council recommended that the pintail season be limited to 20 days with a bag limit of one bird per day in the states of Georgia, Florida, North Carolina and South Carolina. States could select these days during any time period within their regular duck season.
The Upper-Region Regulations Committee of the Mississippi Flyway Council recommended a 45-day season, while the Lower-Region Regulations Committee a 30-day season.
The Central Flyway Council recommended a 1-bird daily bag limit for pintails for the entire duck season.
The Pacific Flyway Council recommends the Service adopt the “restrictive” package season length (60 days) and allow States to split those seasons, consistent with existing zone and split regulations, for pintails in the Pacific Flyway in 2002-03.
Service Response: We appreciate the time and careful attention by the Flyway Councils to the situation we currently face regarding appropriate pintail harvest regulations this year. The record low numbers, combined with the poor production forecast, have convinced us that a departure from the pintail harvest strategy is justified, as was evidenced by the majority of Council recommendations we received this year. Therefore, we propose that the restrictive season length be used for pintails in all four Flyways. Further, we support the recommendation that the restrictive pintail season may be split according to applicable zone/split configurations approved for each State during the last open season.
vi. Scaup
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic, Mississippi, and Central Flyway Councils recommended a daily bag limit of three scaup for the 2002-03 hunting season.
The Pacific Flyway Council recommended a daily bag limit of four scaup in the Pacific Flyway for the 2002-03 hunting season
according to applicable zone/split configurations approved for each State during the last open season.
vi. Scaup
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic, Mississippi, and Central Flyway Councils recommended a daily bag limit of three scaup for the 2002-03 hunting season.
The Pacific Flyway Council recommended a daily bag limit of four scaup in the Pacific Flyway for the 2002-03 hunting season.
Service Response: In 1999, the Service restricted the bag limit of scaup to 3 in the Atlantic, Mississippi, and Central Flyways and 4 in the Pacific Flyway. During the past 3 seasons, harvest has been 210,700, 300,700, and 388,900, respectively. In addition, age ratios in the harvest over the last few years have suggested reduced productivity for scaup (the lowest on record in 2000).
For the 2002-03 season, we recommend that these restrictions be maintained. We remain concerned about the status of this species, and will continue to support ongoing research efforts that are attempting to clarify those factors responsible for the decline in numbers and work with the technical committees of the Flyway Councils to improve our collective abilities to guide the harvest management of this species.
3. Mergansers
Council Recommendations: The Central Flyway Council recommends that the season on mergansers run concurrently with the duck season, with a daily bag/possession limit of 5, of which no more than 1 may be a hooded merganser. The possession limit will be twice the daily bag limit. Shooting hours for mergansers will be one-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
Service Response: We concur with the recommendation.
4. Canada Geese
B. Regular Seasons
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic Flyway Council had several recommendations concerning Canada goose populations in the Atlantic Flyway. For the North Atlantic Population (NAP), the Council recommended the establishment of high and low harvest areas within the existing NAP goose zone
rise to sunset.
Service Response: We concur with the recommendation.
4. Canada Geese
B. Regular Seasons
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic Flyway Council had several recommendations concerning Canada goose populations in the Atlantic Flyway. For the North Atlantic Population (NAP), the Council recommended the establishment of high and low harvest areas within the existing NAP goose zone. They recommended the NAP season frameworks would be October 1 to January 31 with a 60-day season and a 2-bird daily bag limit in high harvest zones, and a 70-day, 3-bird daily bag limit in low harvest zones.
For Atlantic Population (AP) hunting regulations, the Council recommended liberalization of season frameworks in 2002-03 to include a 45-day season with a daily bag limit of 2 geese in the New England and Mid-Atlantic regions, with a framework opening date of the last Saturday in October and a closing date of January 31. In the Chesapeake region, the season length would be 45 days with a daily bag limit of 1 goose and a framework opening date of November 15 and a closing date of January 31. Remaining AP harvest areas (Northeast Hunt Unit in North Carolina and Back Bay, Virginia) would remain closed.
The Atlantic Flyway Council also recommended allowing regular seasons designed to maximize harvest of Resident Population (RP) Canada geese in designated areas of the Atlantic Flyway beginning in 2002. Regular seasons in designated RP harvest areas of Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, North Carolina, and Virginia, should be 70 days with a 5-bird daily bag limit. In Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, the framework opening and closing dates would be November 15 to February 15. In New York and Connecticut, the framework dates would be the last Saturday in October to February 15. In North Carolina, the framework dates would be October 1 to February 15. The season would be subject to annual evaluation of band-recovery and harvest data
-bird daily bag limit. In Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, the framework opening and closing dates would be November 15 to February 15. In New York and Connecticut, the framework dates would be the last Saturday in October to February 15. In North Carolina, the framework dates would be October 1 to February 15. The season would be subject to annual evaluation of band-recovery and harvest data.
The Upper- and Lower-Region Regulations Committees of the Mississippi Flyway Council recommended that the opening date for regular goose seasons in all States, except Michigan and Wisconsin, be as early as the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21, 2002) if the duck hunting season framework dates are extended to the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21, 2002). The Committees also recommended a number of changes in season lengths, bag limits, zones, and quotas for Canada geese. All of these changes are based on improved population status and current management plans.
The Central Flyway Council recommended that the regular seasons for all species of geese in all Central Flyway States be as early as the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21, 2002) if the duck hunting season framework dates are extended to that date.
The Pacific Flyway Council recommended extension of the late goose season framework closing date for the Pacific Flyway to the last Sunday in January. In Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming, the Council also recommended extension of the late goose season framework opening date to the Saturday nearest September 24, and an increase of the season-length to 107 days. In addition, the Council proposed several minor area and/or season length changes. The specific changes are summarized as follow:
1. For all States, extend the regular goose season framework ending date to the last Sunday in January;
2
so recommended extension of the late goose season framework opening date to the Saturday nearest September 24, and an increase of the season-length to 107 days. In addition, the Council proposed several minor area and/or season length changes. The specific changes are summarized as follow:
1. For all States, extend the regular goose season framework ending date to the last Sunday in January;
2. For Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming, extend the regular goose season framework opening date to the Saturday nearest September 24, and increase the length of goose seasons to 107 days;
3. In California's Northeastern Zone, increase the white-fronted and cackling Canada goose season length from 44 days to 100 days;
4. In California's Southern California Zone, establish the Imperial County Special Management Area and extend the white goose season ending date to the first Sunday in February in this area;.
5. In California's Balance-of-State Zone, increase the goose season length from 79 to 86 days;
6. In California's Balance-of-State Zone, allow a 9-day Canada goose season in Del Norte and Humboldt counties;
7. In southeast Oregon, clarify wording of the Harney, Klamath, Lake, and Malheur goose zone (no change in regulations); and
8. In western Oregon, modify closed zones in Lincoln and Coos Counties to allow general fall goose hunting, and modify the zone description for the Northwest Permit Goose Zone.
Service Response: We concur with the above recommendations.
C. Special Late Seasons
Council Recommendations: The Upper- and Lower-Region Regulations Committees of the Mississippi Flyway Council recommended that Minnesota be allowed to continue their special December experimental Canada goose season in 2002 to gather additional information
zone description for the Northwest Permit Goose Zone.
Service Response: We concur with the above recommendations.
C. Special Late Seasons
Council Recommendations: The Upper- and Lower-Region Regulations Committees of the Mississippi Flyway Council recommended that Minnesota be allowed to continue their special December experimental Canada goose season in 2002 to gather additional information. The Committees also recommended that Ohio's special late Canada goose season be granted operational status in 8 counties beginning the first Saturday after January 10th, for a maximum of 22 days, with a daily bag of 2 Canada geese.
Service Response: We concur with the recommendations.
6. Brant
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic Flyway Council recommended that the 2002-03 season for Atlantic brant be 60 days in length with a 3 bird daily bag limit and with a framework opening date of the Saturday closest to September 24, and a closing date of January 31.
Service Response: We concur with the recommended change.
8. Swans
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic Flyway Council recommended the Service propose a season, or some other measure, to allow hunters participating in tundra swan seasons to substitute mute swan for tundra swan in the seasonal bag limit.
For the 2002-03 season, the Pacific Flyway Council accepts the swan frameworks outlined in the Service's Environmental Assessment (dated June 15, 2001) entitled “Proposal to establish operational/experimental general swan hunting seasons in the Pacific Flyway.”
Service Response: Given the action of the Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in December 2001, the provisions of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act now apply to mute swans. Management of this species could involve a number of options, including hunting (others include issuance of depredation permits, establishment of a depredation order, etc.)
unting seasons in the Pacific Flyway.”
Service Response: Given the action of the Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in December 2001, the provisions of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act now apply to mute swans. Management of this species could involve a number of options, including hunting (others include issuance of depredation permits, establishment of a depredation order, etc.). Consideration of hunting, however, will require the development of proper NEPA
This is comparable with those steps we follow for all other hunted species. We recognize the efforts of the Atlantic Flyway to prepare a Flyway management plan for mute swans and encourage the development of other Flyway plans that would help the Service and the Councils to establish effective hunting season frameworks.
10. Coots
Council Recommendations: The Central Flyway Council recommends that the season on coots run concurrently with the duck season, with daily bag/possession limits of 15 and 30, respectively. Shooting hours for coots will be one-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
The Pacific Flyway Council recommended outside dates, season length, and zones be the same as duck season frameworks.
Service Response: We concur with the recommendations.
Public Comment Invited
The Department of the Interior's policy is, whenever practicable, to afford the public an opportunity to participate in the rulemaking process. We intend that adopted final rules be as responsive as possible to all concerned interests and, therefore, seek the comments and suggestions of the public, other concerned governmental agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and other private interests on these proposals. Accordingly, we invite interested persons to submit written comments, suggestions, or recommendations regarding the proposed regulations to the address indicated under the caption ADDRESSES.
Special circumstances involved in the establishment of these regulations limit the amount of time that we can allow for public comment
ernmental organizations, and other private interests on these proposals. Accordingly, we invite interested persons to submit written comments, suggestions, or recommendations regarding the proposed regulations to the address indicated under the caption ADDRESSES.
Special circumstances involved in the establishment of these regulations limit the amount of time that we can allow for public comment. Specifically, two considerations compress the time in which the rulemaking process must operate: (1) The need to establish final rules at a point early enough in the summer to allow affected State agencies to adjust their licensing and regulatory mechanisms; and (2) the unavailability, before mid-June, of specific, reliable data on this year's status of some waterfowl and migratory shore and upland game bird populations. Therefore, we believe that to allow comment periods past the dates specified is contrary to the public interest.
Before promulgation of final migratory game bird hunting regulations, we will take into consideration all comments received. Such comments, and any additional information received, may lead to final regulations that differ from these proposals. You may inspect comments received on the proposed annual regulations during normal business hours at the Service's office in room 634, 4401 North Fairfax Drive, Arlington, Virginia. For each series of proposed rulemakings, we will establish specific comment periods. We will consider, but possibly may not respond in detail to, each comment. However, as in the past, we will summarize all comments received during the comment period and respond to them in the final rule.
NEPA Consideration
NEPA considerations are covered by the programmatic document, “Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement: Issuance of Annual Regulations Permitting the Sport Hunting of Migratory Birds (FSES 88-14),” filed with the Environmental Protection Agency on June 9, 1988. We published a Notice of Availability in the Federal Register on June 16, 1988 (53 FR 22582)
final rule.
NEPA Consideration
NEPA considerations are covered by the programmatic document, “Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement: Issuance of Annual Regulations Permitting the Sport Hunting of Migratory Birds (FSES 88-14),” filed with the Environmental Protection Agency on June 9, 1988. We published a Notice of Availability in the Federal Register on June 16, 1988 (53 FR 22582). We published our Record of Decision on August 18, 1988 (53 FR 31341). Copies are available from the address indicated under the caption ADDRESSES.
Additionally, issues pertaining to swan hunting in the Pacific Flyway were covered under a separate NEPA document, “Swan Hunting in the Pacific Flyway,” issued June 14, 2001, with a Finding of No Significant Impact issued June 14, 2001. Copies are available from the address indicated under the caption ADDRESSES.
Endangered Species Act Consideration
Prior to issuance of the 2002-03 migratory game bird hunting regulations, we will consider provisions of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543; hereinafter the Act) to ensure that hunting is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any species designated as endangered or threatened or modify or destroy its critical habitat and that the proposed action is consistent with conservation programs for those species. Consultations under Section 7 of this Act may cause us to change proposals in this and future supplemental proposed rulemakings.
Executive Order 12866
While this individual supplemental rule was not reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the migratory bird hunting regulations are economically significant and are annually reviewed by OMB under Executive Order 12866.
Executive Order 12866 requires each agency to write regulations that are easy to understand
s and future supplemental proposed rulemakings.
Executive Order 12866
While this individual supplemental rule was not reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the migratory bird hunting regulations are economically significant and are annually reviewed by OMB under Executive Order 12866.
Executive Order 12866 requires each agency to write regulations that are easy to understand. We invite comments on how to make this rule easier to understand, including answers to questions such as the following: (1) Are the requirements in the rule clearly stated? (2) Does the rule contain technical language or jargon that interferes with its clarity? (3) Does the format of the rule (grouping and order of sections, use of headings, paragraphing, etc.) aid or reduce its clarity? (4) Would the rule be easier to understand if it were divided into more (but shorter) sections? (5) Is the description of the rule in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of the preamble helpful in understanding the rule? What else could we do to make the rule easier to understand?
Send a copy of any written comments about how we could make this rule easier to understand to: Office of Regulatory Affairs, Department of the Interior, Room 7229, 1849 C Street, NW., Washington, DC 20240. You may also email comments to: Exsec@ios.doi.gov .
Regulatory Flexibility Act
These regulations have a significant economic impact on substantial numbers of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq. ). We analyzed the economic impacts of the annual hunting regulations on small business entities in detail and issued a Small Entity Flexibility Analysis (Analysis) in 1998. The Analysis documented the significant beneficial economic effect on a substantial number of small entities. The primary source of information about hunter expenditures for migratory game bird hunting is the National Hunting and Fishing Survey, which is conducted at 5-year intervals
regulations on small business entities in detail and issued a Small Entity Flexibility Analysis (Analysis) in 1998. The Analysis documented the significant beneficial economic effect on a substantial number of small entities. The primary source of information about hunter expenditures for migratory game bird hunting is the National Hunting and Fishing Survey, which is conducted at 5-year intervals. The Analysis was based on the 1996 National Hunting and Fishing Survey and the U.S. Department of Commerce's County Business Patterns, from which it was estimated that migratory bird hunters would spend between $429 million and $1.084 billion at small businesses in 1998. Copies of the Analysis are available upon request from the address indicated under the caption ADDRESSES.
Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act
This rule is a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804(2), the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. For the reasons outlined above, this rule
Paperwork Reduction Act
We examined these regulations under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The various recordkeeping and reporting requirements imposed under regulations established in 50 CFR part 20, Subpart K, are utilized in the formulation of migratory game bird hunting regulations. Specifically, OMB has approved the information collection requirements of the Migratory Bird Harvest Information Program and assigned control number 1018-0015 (expires 10/31/2004). This information is used to provide a sampling frame for voluntary national surveys to improve our harvest estimates for all migratory game birds in order to better manage these populations. A Federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
We have determined and certify, in compliance with the requirements of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act, 2 U.S.C. 1502 et seq
l migratory game birds in order to better manage these populations. A Federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
We have determined and certify, in compliance with the requirements of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act, 2 U.S.C. 1502 et seq. , that this rulemaking will not “significantly or uniquely” affect small governments, and will not produce a Federal mandate of $100 million or more in any given year on local or State government or private entities. Therefore, this proposed rule is not a “significant regulatory action” under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.
Civil Justice Reform—Executive Order 12988
The Department, in promulgating this proposed rule, has determined that this rule will not unduly burden the judicial system and meets the requirements of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988.
Energy Effects—Executive Order 13211
On May 18, 2001, the President issued an Executive Order 13211 on regulations that significantly affect energy supply, distribution, and use. Executive Order 13211 requires agencies to prepare Statements of Energy Effects when undertaking certain actions. While this supplemental proposed rule is a significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866, it is not expected to adversely affect energy supplies, distribution, or use. Therefore, this proposed action is not a significant energy action and no Statement of Energy Effects is required.
Takings Implication Assessment
In accordance with Executive Order 12630, this proposed rule does not have significant takings implications and does not affect any constitutionally protected property rights. This rule will not result in the physical occupancy of property, the physical invasion of property, or the regulatory taking of any property
and no Statement of Energy Effects is required.
Takings Implication Assessment
In accordance with Executive Order 12630, this proposed rule does not have significant takings implications and does not affect any constitutionally protected property rights. This rule will not result in the physical occupancy of property, the physical invasion of property, or the regulatory taking of any property. In fact, this rule will allow hunters to exercise otherwise unavailable privileges, and, therefore, reduces restrictions on the use of private and public property.
Federalism Effects
Due to the migratory nature of certain species of birds, the Federal Government has been given responsibility over these species by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. We annually prescribe frameworks from which the States make selections and employ guidelines to establish special regulations on Federal Indian reservations and ceded lands. This process preserves the ability of the States and Tribes to determine which seasons meet their individual needs. Any State or Tribe may be more restrictive than the Federal frameworks at any time. The frameworks are developed in a cooperative process with the States and the Flyway Councils. This allows States to participate in the development of frameworks from which they will make selections, thereby having an influence on their own regulations. These rules do not have a substantial direct effect on fiscal capacity, change the roles or responsibilities of Federal or State governments, or intrude on State policy or administration. Therefore, in accordance with Executive Order 13132, these regulations do not have significant federalism effects and do not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a Federalism Assessment.
List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 20
Exports, Hunting, Imports, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Transportation, Wildlife.

The rules that eventually will be promulgated for the 2002-03 hunting season are authorized under 16 U.S.C
ations do not have significant federalism effects and do not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a Federalism Assessment.
List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 20
Exports, Hunting, Imports, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Transportation, Wildlife.

The rules that eventually will be promulgated for the 2002-03 hunting season are authorized under 16 U.S.C. 703-712 and 16 U.S.C. 742 a-j.
Dated: August 8, 2002. David P. Smith, Acting Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks.
Proposed Regulations Frameworks for 2002-03 Late Hunting Seasons on Certain Migratory Game Birds
Pursuant to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and delegated authorities, the Department has approved frameworks for season lengths, shooting hours, bag and possession limits, and outside dates within which States may select seasons for hunting waterfowl and coots between the dates of September 1, 2002, and March 10, 2003.
General
Dates: All outside dates noted below are inclusive.
Shooting and Hawking (taking by falconry) Hours: Unless otherwise specified, from one-half hour before sunrise to sunset daily.
Possession Limits: Unless otherwise specified, possession limits are twice the daily bag limit.
Flyways and Management Units
Waterfowl Flyways
Atlantic Flyway—includes Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Mississippi Flyway—includes Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and Wisconsin
lantic Flyway—includes Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Mississippi Flyway—includes Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.
Central Flyway—includes Colorado (east of the Continental Divide), Kansas, Montana (Counties of Blaine, Carbon, Fergus, Judith Basin, Stillwater, Sweetgrass, Wheatland, and all counties east thereof), Nebraska, New Mexico (east of the Continental Divide except the Jicarilla Apache Indian Reservation), North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Wyoming (east of the Continental Divide).
Pacific Flyway—includes Alaska, Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and those portions of Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, and Wyoming not included in the Central Flyway.
Management Units
High Plains Mallard Management Unit—roughly defined as that portion of the Central Flyway which lies west of the 100th meridian.
Definitions: For the purpose of hunting regulations listed below, the
Dark geese—Canada geese, white-fronted geese, brant, and all other goose species except light geese.
Light geese—snow (including blue) geese and Ross' geese.
Area, Zone, and Unit Descriptions: Geographic descriptions related to late-season regulations are contained in a later portion of this document.
Area-Specific Provisions: Frameworks for open seasons, season lengths, bag and possession limits, and other special provisions are listed below by Flyway.
Compensatory Days in the Atlantic Flyway: In the Atlantic Flyway States of Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, where Sunday hunting is prohibited statewide by State law, all Sundays are closed to all take of migratory waterfowl (including mergansers and coots)
mits, and other special provisions are listed below by Flyway.
Compensatory Days in the Atlantic Flyway: In the Atlantic Flyway States of Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, where Sunday hunting is prohibited statewide by State law, all Sundays are closed to all take of migratory waterfowl (including mergansers and coots).
Atlantic Flyway
Ducks, Mergansers, and Coots
Outside Dates: Between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21) and the last Sunday in January (January 26).
Hunting Seasons and Duck Limits: 60 days, except pintails which may not exceed 30 days, and daily bag limit of 6 ducks, including no more than 4 mallards (2 hens), 3 scaup, 1 black duck, 1 pintail, 1 mottled duck, 1 fulvous whistling duck, 2 wood ducks, 2 redheads, and 4 scoters.
Closures: The season on canvasbacks and harlequin ducks is closed.
Sea Ducks: Within the special sea duck areas, during the regular duck season in the Atlantic Flyway, States may choose to allow the above sea duck limits in addition to the limits applying to other ducks during the regular duck season. In all other areas, sea ducks may be taken only during the regular open season for ducks and are part of the regular duck season daily bag (not to exceed 4 scoters) and possession limits.
Merganser Limits: The daily bag limit of mergansers is 5, only 1 of which may be a hooded merganser.
Coot Limits: The daily bag limit is 15 coots.
Lake Champlain Zone, New York: The waterfowl seasons, limits, and shooting hours shall be the same as those selected for the Lake Champlain Zone of Vermont.
Connecticut River Zone, Vermont: The waterfowl seasons, limits, and shooting hours shall be the same as those selected for the Inland Zone of New Hampshire
of which may be a hooded merganser.
Coot Limits: The daily bag limit is 15 coots.
Lake Champlain Zone, New York: The waterfowl seasons, limits, and shooting hours shall be the same as those selected for the Lake Champlain Zone of Vermont.
Connecticut River Zone, Vermont: The waterfowl seasons, limits, and shooting hours shall be the same as those selected for the Inland Zone of New Hampshire.
Zoning and Split Seasons: Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and Virginia may split their seasons into three segments; Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and West Virginia may select hunting seasons by zones and may split their seasons into two segments in each zone.
Canada Geese
Season Lengths, Outside Dates, and Limits: Specific regulations for Canada geese are shown below by State. Unless specified otherwise, seasons may be split into two segments. In areas within States where the framework closing date for Atlantic Population (AP) goose seasons overlaps with special late season frameworks for resident geese, the framework closing date for AP goose seasons is January 14.
Connecticut:
North Atlantic Population (NAP) Zone: Between October 1 and January 31, a 60-day season may be held with a 2-bird daily bag limit in the H Unit and a 70-day season with a 3-bird daily bag in the L Unit.
Atlantic Population (AP) Zone: A 45-day season may be held between the last Saturday in October (October 26) and January 31 with a 2-bird daily bag limit.
South Zone: A special experimental season may be held between January 15 and February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
Delaware: A 45-day season may be held between November 15 and January 31 with a 1-bird daily bag limit.
Florida: A 70-day season may be held between November 15 and February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
Georgia: In specific areas, a 70-day season may be held between November 15 and February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit
een January 15 and February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
Delaware: A 45-day season may be held between November 15 and January 31 with a 1-bird daily bag limit.
Florida: A 70-day season may be held between November 15 and February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
Georgia: In specific areas, a 70-day season may be held between November 15 and February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
Maine: A 60-day season may be held Statewide between October 1 and January 31 with a 2-bird daily bag limit.
Maryland:
Resident Population (RP) Zone: A 70-day season may be held between November 15 and February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit. The season may be split 3-ways.
AP Zone: A 45-day season may be held between November 15 and January 31 with a 1-bird daily bag limit.
Massachusetts:
NAP Zone: A 60-day season may be held between October 1 and January 31 with a 2-bird daily bag limit. Additionally, a special season may be held from January 15 to February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
AP Zone: A 45-day season may be held between last Saturday in October (October 26) and January 31 with a 2-bird daily bag limit.
New Hampshire: A 60-day season may be held statewide between October 1 and January 31 with a 2-bird daily bag limit.
New Jersey:
Statewide: A 45-day season may be held between the last Saturday in October (October 26) and January 31 with a 2-bird daily bag limit.
Special Late Goose Season Area: An experimental season may be held in designated areas of North and South New Jersey from January 15 to February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
New York:
Southern James Bay Population (SJBP) Zone: A 70-day season may be held between the last Saturday in October (October 26) and January 31, with a 2-bird daily bag limit.
NAP Zone: Between October 1 and January 31, a 60-day season may be held with a 2-bird daily bag limit in the High Harvest areas and a 70-day season with a 3-bird daily bag limit in the Low Harvest areas
ly bag limit.
New York:
Southern James Bay Population (SJBP) Zone: A 70-day season may be held between the last Saturday in October (October 26) and January 31, with a 2-bird daily bag limit.
NAP Zone: Between October 1 and January 31, a 60-day season may be held with a 2-bird daily bag limit in the High Harvest areas and a 70-day season with a 3-bird daily bag limit in the Low Harvest areas.
Special Late Goose Season Area: An experimental season may be held between January 15 and February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit in designated areas of Chemung, Delaware, Tioga, Broome, Sullivan, Westchester, Nassau, Suffolk, Orange, Dutchess, Putnam, and Rockland Counties.
AP Zone: A 45-day season may be held between the last Saturday in October (October 26) and January 31 with a 2-bird daily bag limit.
RP Zone: A 70-day season may be held between the last Saturday in October (October 26) and January 31 with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
North Carolina: SJBP Zone: A 70-day season may be held between October 1 and December 31, with a 2-bird daily bag limit, except for the Northeast Hunt Unit and Northampton County, which is closed.
RP Zone: A 70-day season may be held between October 1 and February 15 with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
Pennsylvania:
SJBP Zone: A 40-day season may be held between November 15 and January 14, with a 2-bird daily bag limit.
Pymatuning Zone: A 35-day season may be held between October 1 and January 31, with a 1-bird daily bag limit.
RP Zone: A 70-day season may be held between November 15 and January 31, with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
AP Zone: A 45-day season may be held between the last Saturday in October (October 26) and January 31 with a 2-bird daily bag limit.
Special Late Goose Season Area: An experimental season may be held from
Rhode Island: A 60-day season may be held between October 1 and January 31, with a 2-bird daily bag limit. An experimental season may be held in designated areas from January 15 to February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit
held between the last Saturday in October (October 26) and January 31 with a 2-bird daily bag limit.
Special Late Goose Season Area: An experimental season may be held from
Rhode Island: A 60-day season may be held between October 1 and January 31, with a 2-bird daily bag limit. An experimental season may be held in designated areas from January 15 to February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
South Carolina: In designated areas, a 70-day season may be held during November 15 to February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
Vermont: A 45-day season may be held between the last Saturday in October (October 26) and January 31 with a 2-bird daily bag limit.
Virginia:
SJBP Zone: A 40-day season may be held between November 15 and January 14, with a 2-bird daily bag limit. Additionally, an experimental season may be held between January 15 and February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
AP Zone: A 45-day season may be held between November 15 and January 31 with a 1-bird daily bag limit.
RP Zone: A 70-day season may be held between November 15 and February 15 with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
Back Bay Area: Season is closed.
West Virginia: A 70-day season may be held between October 1 and January 31, with a 3-bird daily bag limit.
Light Geese
Season Lengths, Outside Dates, and Limits: States may select a 107-day season between October 1 and March 10, with a 15-bird daily bag limit and no possession limit. States may split their seasons into three segments, except in Delaware and Maryland, where, following the completion of their duck season, and until March 10, Delaware and Maryland may split the remaining portion of the season to hunt on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays only.
Brant
Season Lengths, Outside Dates, and Limits: States may select a 60-day season between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21) and January 31, with a 3-bird daily bag limit. States may split their seasons into two segments
uck season, and until March 10, Delaware and Maryland may split the remaining portion of the season to hunt on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays only.
Brant
Season Lengths, Outside Dates, and Limits: States may select a 60-day season between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21) and January 31, with a 3-bird daily bag limit. States may split their seasons into two segments.
Mississippi Flyway
Ducks, Mergansers, and Coots
Outside Dates: Between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21) and the last Sunday in January 20 (January 26).
Hunting Seasons and Duck Limits: 60 days, except that the season for pintails may not exceed 30 days and the season for canvasbacks is closed. The daily bag limit is 6 ducks, including no more than 4 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be females), 3 mottled ducks, 3 scaup, 1 black duck, 1 pintail, 2 wood ducks, and 2 redheads.
Merganser Limits: The daily bag limit is 5, only 1 of which may be a hooded merganser. In States that include mergansers in the duck bag limit, the daily limit is the same as the duck bag limit, only one of which may be a hooded merganser.
Coot Limits: The daily bag limit is 15 coots.
Zoning and Split Seasons: Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and Wisconsin may select hunting seasons by zones.
In Alabama, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee, and Wisconsin, the season may be split into two segments in each zone.
In Arkansas, Minnesota, and Mississippi, the season may be split into three segments.
Geese
Split Seasons: Seasons for geese may be split into three segments. Three-way split seasons for Canada geese require Mississippi Flyway Council and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service approval and a 3-year evaluation by each participating State
consin, the season may be split into two segments in each zone.
In Arkansas, Minnesota, and Mississippi, the season may be split into three segments.
Geese
Split Seasons: Seasons for geese may be split into three segments. Three-way split seasons for Canada geese require Mississippi Flyway Council and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service approval and a 3-year evaluation by each participating State.
Season Lengths, Outside Dates, and Limits: States may select seasons for light geese not to exceed 107 days with 20 geese daily between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21) and March 10; for white-fronted geese not to exceed 86 days with 2 geese daily or 107 days with 1 goose daily between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21) and the Sunday nearest February 15 (February 16); and for brant not to exceed 70 days with 2 brant daily or 107 days with 1 brant daily between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21) and January 31. There is no possession limit for light geese. Specific regulations for Canada geese and exceptions to the above general provisions are shown below by State. Except as noted below, the outside dates for Canada geese are the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21) and January 31.
Alabama: In the SJBP Goose Zone, the season for Canada geese may not exceed 50 days. Elsewhere, the season for Canada geese may extend for 70 days in the respective duck-hunting zones. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
Arkansas: In the Northwest Zone, the season for Canada geese may extend for 33 days, provided that one segment of at least nine days occurs prior to October 15. In the remainder of the State, the season may not exceed 23 days. The season may extend to February 15, and may be split into two segments. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
Illinois: The total harvest of Canada geese in the State will be limited to 64,100 birds. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese. The possession limit is 10 Canada geese.
f at least nine days occurs prior to October 15. In the remainder of the State, the season may not exceed 23 days. The season may extend to February 15, and may be split into two segments. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
Illinois: The total harvest of Canada geese in the State will be limited to 64,100 birds. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese. The possession limit is 10 Canada geese.
(a) North Zone—The season for Canada geese will close after 80 days or when 9,300 birds have been harvested in the Northern Illinois Quota Zone, whichever occurs first.
(a) Central Zone—The season for Canada geese will close after 80 days or when 12,800 birds have been harvested in the Central Illinois Quota Zone, whichever occurs first.
(c) South Zone—The season for Canada geese will close after 80 days or when 16,100 birds have been harvested in the Southern Illinois Quota Zone, whichever occurs first.
Indiana: The season for Canada geese may extend for 60 days, except in the SJBP Zone, where the season may not exceed 50 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
Iowa: The season may extend for 70 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
Kentucky: (a) Western Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 56 days (71 days in Fulton County), and the harvest will be limited to 10,300 birds. Of the 10,300-bird quota, 6,700 birds will be allocated to the Ballard Reporting Area and 2,575 birds will be allocated to the Henderson/Union Reporting Area. If the quota in either reporting area is reached prior to completion of the 56-day season, the season in that reporting area will be closed. If the quotas in both the Ballard and Henderson/Union reporting areas are reached prior to completion of the 56-day season, the season in the counties and portions of counties that comprise the Western Goose Zone (listed in State regulations) may continue for an additional 7 days, not to exceed a total of 56 days (71 days in Fulton County). The season in Fulton County may extend to February 15
ed. If the quotas in both the Ballard and Henderson/Union reporting areas are reached prior to completion of the 56-day season, the season in the counties and portions of counties that comprise the Western Goose Zone (listed in State regulations) may continue for an additional 7 days, not to exceed a total of 56 days (71 days in Fulton County). The season in Fulton County may extend to February 15. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
(b) Pennyroyal/Coalfield Zone—The season may extend for 50 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
(c) Remainder of the State—The season may extend for 50 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
Louisiana: The season for Canada geese may extend for 9 days. During the season, the daily bag limit is 1 Canada goose and 2 white-fronted geese with an
Michigan: (a) Mississippi Valley Population (MVP) Zone—The total harvest of Canada geese will be limited to 46,400 birds. The framework opening date for all geese is September 16 and the season for Canada geese may extend for 21 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
(1) Allegan County GMU—The Canada goose season will close after 25 days or when 1,400 birds have been harvested, whichever occurs first. The daily bag limit is 1 Canada goose.
(2) Muskegon Wastewater GMU—The Canada goose season will close after 25 days or when 450 birds have been harvested, whichever occurs first. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
(b) SJBP Zone—The framework opening date for all geese is September 16 and the season for Canada geese may extend for 30 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
(1) Saginaw County GMU—The Canada goose season will close after 50 days or when 2,000 birds have been harvested, whichever occurs first. The daily bag limit is 1 Canada goose.
(2) Tuscola/Huron GMU—The Canada goose season will close after 50 days or when 750 birds have been harvested, whichever occurs first. The daily bag limit is 1 Canada goose.
0 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
(1) Saginaw County GMU—The Canada goose season will close after 50 days or when 2,000 birds have been harvested, whichever occurs first. The daily bag limit is 1 Canada goose.
(2) Tuscola/Huron GMU—The Canada goose season will close after 50 days or when 750 birds have been harvested, whichever occurs first. The daily bag limit is 1 Canada goose.
(c) Southern Michigan GMU—A special Canada goose season may be held between January 4 and February 2. The daily bag limit is 5 Canada geese.
(d) Central Michigan GMU—A special Canada goose season may be held between January 4 and February 2. The daily bag limit is 5 Canada geese.
Minnesota: (a) West Zone—(1) West Central Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 40 days. In the Lac Qui Parle Zone, the season will close after 40 days or when 12,000 birds have been harvested, whichever occurs first. Throughout the West Central Zone, the daily bag limit is 1 Canada goose.
(2) Remainder of West Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 40 days. The daily bag limit is 1 Canada goose.
(b) Northwest Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 40 days. The daily bag limit is 1 Canada goose.
(c) Remainder of the State—The season for Canada geese may extend for 70 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
(d) Special Late Canada Goose Season—An experimental special Canada goose season of up to 10 days may be held in December, except in the West Central and Lac qui Parle Goose zones. During the special season, the daily bag limit is 5 Canada geese, except in the Southeast Goose Zone, where the daily bag limit is 2.
Mississippi: The season for Canada geese may extend for 70 days. The daily bag limit is 3 Canada geese.
Missouri: (a) Swan Lake Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 77 days, with no more than 30 days occurring after November 30. The season may be split into 3 segments. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
geese, except in the Southeast Goose Zone, where the daily bag limit is 2.
Mississippi: The season for Canada geese may extend for 70 days. The daily bag limit is 3 Canada geese.
Missouri: (a) Swan Lake Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 77 days, with no more than 30 days occurring after November 30. The season may be split into 3 segments. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
(b) Southeast Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 77 days. The season may be split into 3 segments, provided that at least 1 segment occurs prior to December 1. The daily bag limit is 3 Canada geese through October 31, and 2 Canada geese thereafter.
(c) Remainder of the State—
(1) North Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 77 days, with no more than 30 days occurring after November 30. The season may be split into 3 segments, provided that 1 segment of at least 9 days occurs prior to October 15. The daily bag limit is 3 Canada geese through October 31, and 2 Canada geese thereafter.
(2) Middle Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 77 days, with no more than 30 days occurring after November 30. The season may be split into 3 segments, provided that 1 segment of at least 9 days occurs prior to October 15. The daily bag limit is 3 Canada geese through October 31, and 2 Canada geese thereafter.
(3) South Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 77 days. The season may be split into 3 segments, provided that at least 1 segment occurs prior to December 1. The daily bag limit is 3 Canada geese through October 31, and 2 Canada geese thereafter.
Ohio: The season for Canada geese may extend for 70 days in the respective duck-hunting zones, with a daily bag limit of 2 Canada geese, except in the Lake Erie SJBP Zone, where the season may not exceed 35 days and the daily bag limit is 1 Canada goose. A special Canada goose season of up to 22 days, beginning the first Saturday after January 10, may be held in the following counties: Allen (north of U.S
e season for Canada geese may extend for 70 days in the respective duck-hunting zones, with a daily bag limit of 2 Canada geese, except in the Lake Erie SJBP Zone, where the season may not exceed 35 days and the daily bag limit is 1 Canada goose. A special Canada goose season of up to 22 days, beginning the first Saturday after January 10, may be held in the following counties: Allen (north of U.S. Highway 30), Fulton, Geauga (north of Route 6), Henry, Huron, Lucas (Lake Erie Zone closed), Seneca, and Summit (Lake Erie Zone closed). During the special season, the daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
Tennessee:
(a) Northwest Zone—The season for Canada geese may not exceed 71 days, and may extend to February 15. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
(b) Southwest Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 50 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
(c) Kentucky/Barkley Lakes Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 50 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
(d) Remainder of the State—The season for Canada geese may extend for 70 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
Wisconsin: The total harvest of Canada geese in the State will be limited to 48,500 birds.
(a) Horicon Zone—The framework opening date for all geese is September 16. The harvest of Canada geese is limited to 18,000 birds. The season may not exceed 94 days. All Canada geese harvested must be tagged. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese, and the season limit will be the number of tags issued to each permittee.
(b) Collins Zone—The framework opening date for all geese is September 16. The harvest of Canada geese is limited to 600 birds. The season may not exceed 68 days. All Canada geese harvested must be tagged. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese, and the season limit will be the number of tags issued to each permittee.
ese, and the season limit will be the number of tags issued to each permittee.
(b) Collins Zone—The framework opening date for all geese is September 16. The harvest of Canada geese is limited to 600 birds. The season may not exceed 68 days. All Canada geese harvested must be tagged. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese, and the season limit will be the number of tags issued to each permittee.
(c) Exterior Zone—The framework opening date for all geese is September 21. The harvest of Canada geese is limited to 25,400 birds, with 500 birds allocated to the Mississippi River Subzone. The season may not exceed 94 days, except in the Mississippi River Subzone, where the season may not exceed 71 days. The daily bag limit is 1 Canada goose. In that portion of the Exterior Zone outside the Mississippi River Subzone, the progress of the harvest must be monitored, and the season closed, if necessary, to ensure that the harvest does not exceed 25,400 birds.
Additional Limits: In addition to the harvest limits stated for the respective zones above, an additional 4,500 Canada geese may be taken in the Horicon Zone under special agricultural permits.
Quota Zone Closures: When it has been determined that the quota of Canada geese allotted to the Northern Illinois, Central Illinois, and Southern Illinois Quota Zones in Illinois; the Ballard and Henderson-Union Subzones in Kentucky; the Allegan County, Muskegon Wastewater, Saginaw County, and Tuscola/Huron Goose Management Units in Michigan; the Lac Qui Parle Zone in Minnesota; and the Exterior Zone in Wisconsin will have been filled, the season for taking Canada geese in the respective zone (and associated area,
Central Flyway
Ducks, Mergansers, and Coots
Outside Dates: Between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21) and the last Sunday in January (January 26).
Hunting Seasons and Duck Limits:
ent Units in Michigan; the Lac Qui Parle Zone in Minnesota; and the Exterior Zone in Wisconsin will have been filled, the season for taking Canada geese in the respective zone (and associated area,
Central Flyway
Ducks, Mergansers, and Coots
Outside Dates: Between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21) and the last Sunday in January (January 26).
Hunting Seasons and Duck Limits:
(1) High Plains Mallard Management Unit (roughly defined as that portion of the Central Flyway which lies west of the 100th meridian): 97 days, except pintails which may not exceed 39 days, and a daily bag limit of 6 ducks, including no more than 5 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be hens), 1 mottled duck, 1 pintail, 2 redheads, 3 scaup, and 2 wood ducks. The last 23 days may start no earlier than the Saturday nearest December 10 (December 7). The season on canvasbacks is closed.
(2) Remainder of the Central Flyway: 74 days, except pintails which may not exceed 39 consecutive days, and a daily bag limit of 6 ducks, including no more than 5 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be hens), 1 mottled duck, 1 pintail, 2 redheads, 3 scaup, and 2 wood ducks. The season on canvasbacks is closed.
Merganser Limits: The daily bag limit is 5 mergansers, only 1 of which may be a hooded merganser. In States that include mergansers in the duck daily bag limit, the daily limit may be the same as the duck bag limit, only one of which may be a hooded merganser.
Coot Limits: The daily bag limit is 15 coots.
Zoning and Split Seasons: Kansas (Low Plains portion), Montana, Nebraska (Low Plains portion), New Mexico, Oklahoma (Low Plains portion), South Dakota (Low Plains portion), Texas (Low Plains portion), and Wyoming may select hunting seasons by zones.
In Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Wyoming, the regular season may be split into two segments.
In Colorado, the season may be split into three segments
a, Nebraska (Low Plains portion), New Mexico, Oklahoma (Low Plains portion), South Dakota (Low Plains portion), Texas (Low Plains portion), and Wyoming may select hunting seasons by zones.
In Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Wyoming, the regular season may be split into two segments.
In Colorado, the season may be split into three segments.
Geese
Split Seasons: Seasons for geese may be split into three segments. Three-way split seasons for Canada geese require Central Flyway Council and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service approval, and a 3-year evaluation by each participating State.
Outside Dates: For dark geese, seasons may be selected between the outside dates of the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21) and the Sunday nearest February 15 (February 17). For light geese, outside dates for seasons may be selected between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21) and March 10. In the Rainwater Basin Light Goose Area (East and West) of Nebraska, temporal and spatial restrictions consistent with the experimental late-winter snow goose hunting strategy endorsed by the Central Flyway Council in July 1999, are required.
Season Lengths and Limits:
Light Geese: States may select a light goose season not to exceed 107 days. The daily bag limit for light geese is 20 with no possession limit.
Dark Geese: In Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and the Eastern Goose Zone of Texas, States may select a season for Canada geese (or any other dark goose species except white-fronted geese) not to exceed 95 days with a daily bag limit of 3. Additionally, in the Eastern Goose Zone of Texas, an alternative season of 107 days with a daily bag limit of 1 Canada goose may be selected. For white-fronted geese, these States may select either a season of 86 days with a bag limit of 2 or a 107-day season with a bag limit of 1
geese (or any other dark goose species except white-fronted geese) not to exceed 95 days with a daily bag limit of 3. Additionally, in the Eastern Goose Zone of Texas, an alternative season of 107 days with a daily bag limit of 1 Canada goose may be selected. For white-fronted geese, these States may select either a season of 86 days with a bag limit of 2 or a 107-day season with a bag limit of 1.
In South Dakota, for Canada geese in the Big Stone Power Plant Area of Canada Goose Unit 3, the daily bag limit is 3 until November 30 and 2 thereafter.
In Colorado, Montana, New Mexico and Wyoming, States may select seasons not to exceed 107 days. The daily bag limit for dark geese is 5 in the aggregate.
In the Western Goose Zone of Texas, the season may not exceed 107 days. The daily bag limit for Canada geese (or any other dark goose species except white-fronted geese) is 5. The daily bag limit for white-fronted geese is 1.
Pacific Flyway
Ducks, Mergansers, Coots, Common Moorhens, and Purple Gallinules
Hunting Seasons and Duck Limits: Concurrent 107 days and daily bag limit of 7 ducks and mergansers, including no more than 2 female mallards, 1 pintail, 4 scaup, 2 redheads. The season on pintails is closed, except one pintail may be included in the daily bag limit for 60 days within the Pacific Flyway duck season. A single pintail may also be included in the 7-bird daily bag limit for designated youth-hunt days. The season on canvasbacks is closed.
The season on coots and common moorhens may be between the outside dates for the season on ducks, but not to exceed 107 days.
Coot, Common Moorhen, and Purple Gallinule Limits: The daily bag and possession limits of coots, common moorhens, and purple gallinules are 25, singly or in the aggregate.
Outside Dates: Between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21) and the last Sunday in January (January 26).
Zoning and Split Seasons: Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington may select hunting seasons by zones
n, and Purple Gallinule Limits: The daily bag and possession limits of coots, common moorhens, and purple gallinules are 25, singly or in the aggregate.
Outside Dates: Between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21) and the last Sunday in January (January 26).
Zoning and Split Seasons: Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington may select hunting seasons by zones.
Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington may split their seasons into two segments.
Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, and Wyoming may split their seasons into three segments.
Colorado River Zone, California: Seasons and limits shall be the same as seasons and limits selected in the adjacent portion of Arizona (South Zone).
Geese
Season Lengths, Outside Dates, and Limits: California, Oregon, and Washington: Except as subsequently noted, 100-day seasons may be selected, with outside dates between the Saturday nearest October 1 (September 28), and the last Sunday in January (January 26). Basic daily bag limits are 3 light geese and 4 dark geese, except in California, Oregon, and Washington, where the dark goose bag limit does not include brant.
Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming: Except as subsequently noted, 107-day seasons may be selected, with outside dates between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 21), and the last Sunday in January (January 26). Basic daily bag limits are 3 light geese and 4 dark geese.
Split Seasons: Unless otherwise specified, seasons for geese may be split into up to 3 segments. Three-way split seasons for Canada geese and white-fronted geese require Pacific Flyway Council and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service approval and a 3-year evaluation by each participating State.
Brant Season—A 16-consecutive-day season may be selected in Oregon. A 16-day season may be selected in Washington, and this season may be split into 2-segments. A 30-consecutive-day season may be selected in California
it seasons for Canada geese and white-fronted geese require Pacific Flyway Council and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service approval and a 3-year evaluation by each participating State.
Brant Season—A 16-consecutive-day season may be selected in Oregon. A 16-day season may be selected in Washington, and this season may be split into 2-segments. A 30-consecutive-day season may be selected in California. In these States, the daily bag
Arizona: The daily bag limit for dark geese is 3.
California:
Northeastern—The daily bag limit is 3 geese and may include no more than 2 dark geese; including not more than 1 cackling Canada goose or 1 Aleutian Canada goose.
Southern California Zone—In the Imperial County Special Management Area, light geese only may be taken from the end of the general goose hunting season through the first Sunday in February (February 2).
Balance-of-the-State Zone—An 86-day season may be selected. Limits may not include more than 3 geese per day, of which not more than 2 may be white-fronted geese and not more than 1 may be a cackling Canada goose or Aleutian Canada goose. Three areas in the Balance-of-the-State Zone are restricted in the hunting of certain geese:
(1) In the Counties of Del Norte and Humboldt, the open season for Canada geese may be 9 days. The daily bag limit shall contain no more than 1 Canada goose, cackling Canada goose or Aleutian Canada goose.
(2) In the Sacramento Valley Special Management Area (West), the season on white-fronted geese must end on or before December 14, and, in the Sacramento Valley Special Management Area (East), there will be no open season for Canada geese.
the open season for Canada geese may be 9 days. The daily bag limit shall contain no more than 1 Canada goose, cackling Canada goose or Aleutian Canada goose.
(2) In the Sacramento Valley Special Management Area (West), the season on white-fronted geese must end on or before December 14, and, in the Sacramento Valley Special Management Area (East), there will be no open season for Canada geese.
(3) In the San Joaquin Valley Special Management Area, there will be no open season for Canada geese.
Oregon: Except as subsequently noted, the dark goose daily bag limit is 4, including not more than 1 cackling Canada goose or Aleutian Canada goose.
Harney, Klamath, Lake, and Malheur County Zone—For Lake County only, the daily dark goose bag limit may not include more than 2 white-fronted geese.
Western Zone—Special Canada Goose Management Area, except for designated areas, there will be no open season on Canada geese. In the designated areas, individual quotas will be established that collectively will not exceed 165 dusky Canada geese. See section on quota zones. In those designated areas, the daily bag limit of dark geese is 4 and may include no more than 1 Aleutian Canada goose.
Closed Zone: Those portions of Coos and Curry Counties south of Bandon and west of US 101 and all of Tillamook County.
Washington: The daily bag limit is 4 geese, including 4 dark geese but not more than 3 light geese.
Southwest Quota Zone—In the Special Goose Management Area, except for designated areas, there will be no open season on Canada geese. In the designated areas, individual quotas will be established that collectively will not exceed 85 dusky Canada geese. See section on quota zones. In this area, the daily bag limit of dark geese is 4 and may include 4 cackling Canada geese. In Southwest Quota Zone Area 2B (Pacific and Grays Harbor Counties) the dark goose bag limit may include 1 Aleutian Canada goose.
Colorado: The daily bag limit for dark geese is 3 geese
vidual quotas will be established that collectively will not exceed 85 dusky Canada geese. See section on quota zones. In this area, the daily bag limit of dark geese is 4 and may include 4 cackling Canada geese. In Southwest Quota Zone Area 2B (Pacific and Grays Harbor Counties) the dark goose bag limit may include 1 Aleutian Canada goose.
Colorado: The daily bag limit for dark geese is 3 geese.
Idaho: Northern Unit—The daily bag limit is 4 geese, including 4 dark geese, but not more than 3 light geese.
Southwest Unit and Southeastern Unit—The daily bag limit on dark geese is 4.
Montana:
West of Divide Zone and East of Divide Zone—The daily bag limit of dark geese is 4.
Nevada: The daily bag limit for dark geese is 3 except in the Lincoln and Clark County Zone, where the daily bag limit of dark geese is 2.
New Mexico: The daily bag limit for dark geese is 3.
Utah: The daily bag limit for dark geese is 3.
Wyoming: The daily bag limit for dark geese is 4.
Quota Zones: Seasons on dark geese must end upon attainment of individual quotas of dusky Canada geese allotted to the designated areas of Oregon and Washington. The September Canada goose season, the regular goose season, any special late dark goose season, and any extended falconry season, combined, must not exceed 107 days, and the established quota of dusky Canada geese must not be exceeded. Hunting of dark geese in those designated areas will only be by hunters possessing a State-issued permit authorizing them to do so. In a Service-approved investigation, the State must obtain quantitative information on hunter compliance of those regulations aimed at reducing the take of dusky Canada geese. If the monitoring program cannot be conducted, for any reason, the season must immediately close. In the designated areas of the Washington Quota Zone, a special late dark goose season may be held between the Saturday following the close of the general goose season and March 10
tain quantitative information on hunter compliance of those regulations aimed at reducing the take of dusky Canada geese. If the monitoring program cannot be conducted, for any reason, the season must immediately close. In the designated areas of the Washington Quota Zone, a special late dark goose season may be held between the Saturday following the close of the general goose season and March 10. In the Special Canada Goose Management Area of Oregon, the framework closing date is extended to the Sunday closest to March 1 (March 3). Regular dark goose seasons may be split into 3 segments within the Oregon and Washington quota zones.
Swans
In designated areas of Utah, Nevada, and the Pacific Flyway portion of Montana, an open season for taking a limited number of swans may be selected. Permits will be issued by States and will authorize each permittee to take no more than 1 swan per season. The season may open no earlier than the Saturday nearest October 1 (September 28). The States must implement a harvest-monitoring program to measure the species composition of the swan harvest. In Utah and Nevada, the harvest-monitoring program must require that all harvested swans or their species-determinant parts be examined by either State or Federal biologists for the purpose of species classification. All States should use appropriate measures to maximize hunter compliance in providing bagged swans for examination or, in the case of Montana, reporting bill-measurement and color information. All States must achieve at least an 80-percent compliance rate, or subsequent permits will be reduced by 10 percent. All States must provide to the Service by June 30, 2003, a report covering harvest, hunter participation, reporting compliance, and monitoring of swan populations in the designated hunt areas. These seasons will be subject to the following conditions:
In Utah, no more than 2,000 permits may be issued
eve at least an 80-percent compliance rate, or subsequent permits will be reduced by 10 percent. All States must provide to the Service by June 30, 2003, a report covering harvest, hunter participation, reporting compliance, and monitoring of swan populations in the designated hunt areas. These seasons will be subject to the following conditions:
In Utah, no more than 2,000 permits may be issued. The season must end no later than the second Sunday in December (December 8) or upon attainment of 10 trumpeter swans in the harvest, whichever occurs earliest. Utah must enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with the Service regarding harvest monitoring, season closure procedures, and education requirements for swan seasons in Utah.
In Nevada, no more than 650 permits may be issued. The season must end no later than the Sunday following January 1 (January 5) or upon attainment of 5 trumpeter swans in the harvest, whichever occurs earliest.
In Montana, no more than 500 permits may be issued. The season must end no later than December 1.
Tundra Swans
In the Central Flyway portion of Montana, and in North Carolina, North Dakota, South Dakota (east of the Missouri River), and Virginia, an open season for taking a limited number of tundra swans may be selected. Permits will be issued by States that authorize the take of no more than 1 tundra swan per permit. A second permit may be issued to hunters from unused permits
In the Atlantic Flyway
—The season will be experimental. —The season may be 90 days, from October 1 to January 31. —In North Carolina, no more than 5,000 permits may be issued. —In Virginia, no more than 600 permits may be issued. In the Central Flyway
—The season may be 107 days, from the Saturday nearest October 1 (September 28) to January 31. —In the Central Flyway portion of Montana, no more than 500 permits may be issued. —In North Dakota, no more than 2,000 permits may be issued. —In South Dakota, no more than 1,500 permits may be issued
00 permits may be issued. —In Virginia, no more than 600 permits may be issued. In the Central Flyway
—The season may be 107 days, from the Saturday nearest October 1 (September 28) to January 31. —In the Central Flyway portion of Montana, no more than 500 permits may be issued. —In North Dakota, no more than 2,000 permits may be issued. —In South Dakota, no more than 1,500 permits may be issued. Area, Unit, and Zone Descriptions
Ducks (Including Mergansers) and Coots
Atlantic Flyway
Connecticut:
North Zone: That portion of the State north of I-95.
South Zone: Remainder of the State.
Maine:
North Zone: That portion north of the line extending east along Maine State Highway 110 from the New Hampshire and Maine border to the intersection of Maine State Highway 11 in Newfield; then north and east along Route 11 to the intersection of U.S. Route 202 in Auburn; then north and east on Route 202 to the intersection of Interstate Highway 95 in Augusta; then north and east along I-95 to Route 15 in Bangor; then east along Route 15 to Route 9; then east along Route 9 to Stony Brook in Baileyville; then east along Stony Brook to the United States border.
South Zone: Remainder of the State.
Massachusetts:
Western Zone: That portion of the State west of a line extending south from the Vermont border on I-91 to MA 9, west on MA 9 to MA 10, south on MA 10 to U.S. 202, south on U.S. 202 to the Connecticut border.
Central Zone: That portion of the State east of the Berkshire Zone and west of a line extending south from the New Hampshire border on I-95 to U.S. 1, south on U.S. 1 to I-93, south on I-93 to MA 3, south on MA 3 to U.S. 6, west on U.S. 6 to MA 28, west on MA 28 to I-195, west to the Rhode Island border; except the waters, and the lands 150 yards inland from the high-water mark, of the Assonet River upstream to the MA 24 bridge, and the Taunton River upstream to the Center St.-Elm St. bridge shall be in the Coastal Zone
border on I-95 to U.S. 1, south on U.S. 1 to I-93, south on I-93 to MA 3, south on MA 3 to U.S. 6, west on U.S. 6 to MA 28, west on MA 28 to I-195, west to the Rhode Island border; except the waters, and the lands 150 yards inland from the high-water mark, of the Assonet River upstream to the MA 24 bridge, and the Taunton River upstream to the Center St.-Elm St. bridge shall be in the Coastal Zone.
Coastal Zone: That portion of Massachusetts east and south of the Central Zone.
New Hampshire:
Coastal Zone: That portion of the State east of a line extending west from the Maine border in Rollinsford on NH 4 to the city of Dover, south to NH 108, south along NH 108 through Madbury, Durham, and Newmarket to NH 85 in Newfields, south to NH 101 in Exeter, east to NH 51 (Exeter-Hampton Expressway), east to I-95 (New Hampshire Turnpike) in Hampton, and south along I-95 to the Massachusetts border.
Inland Zone: That portion of the State north and west of the above boundary and along the Massachusetts border crossing the Connecticut River to Interstate 91 and northward in Vermont to Route 2, east to 102, northward to the Canadian border.
New Jersey:
Coastal Zone: That portion of the State seaward of a line beginning at the New York border in Raritan Bay and extending west along the New York border to NJ 440 at Perth Amboy; west on NJ 440 to the Garden State Parkway; south on the Garden State Parkway to the shoreline at Cape May and continuing to the Delaware border in Delaware Bay.
North Zone: That portion of the State west of the Coastal Zone and north of a line extending west from the Garden State Parkway on NJ 70 to the New Jersey Turnpike, north on the turnpike to U.S. 206, north on U.S. 206 to U.S. 1 at Trenton, west on U.S. 1 to the Pennsylvania border in the Delaware River.
South Zone: That portion of the State not within the North Zone or the Coastal Zone.
New York:
Lake Champlain Zone: The U.S
ate west of the Coastal Zone and north of a line extending west from the Garden State Parkway on NJ 70 to the New Jersey Turnpike, north on the turnpike to U.S. 206, north on U.S. 206 to U.S. 1 at Trenton, west on U.S. 1 to the Pennsylvania border in the Delaware River.
South Zone: That portion of the State not within the North Zone or the Coastal Zone.
New York:
Lake Champlain Zone: The U.S. portion of Lake Champlain and that area east and north of a line extending along NY 9B from the Canadian border to U.S. 9, south along U.S. 9 to NY 22 south of Keesville; south along NY 22 to the west shore of South Bay, along and around the shoreline of South Bay to NY 22 on the east shore of South Bay; southeast along NY 22 to U.S. 4, northeast along U.S. 4 to the Vermont border.
Long Island Zone: That area consisting of Nassau County, Suffolk County, that area of Westchester County southeast of I-95, and their tidal waters.
Western Zone: That area west of a line extending from Lake Ontario east along the north shore of the Salmon River to I-81, and south along I-81 to the Pennsylvania border.
Northeastern Zone: That area north of a line extending from Lake Ontario east along the north shore of the Salmon River to I-81 to NY 31, east along NY 31 to NY 13, north along NY 13 to NY 49, east along NY 49 to NY 365, east along NY 365 to NY 28, east along NY 28 to NY 29, east along NY 29 to I-87, north along I-87 to U.S. 9 (at Exit 20), north along U.S. 9 to NY 149, east along NY 149 to U.S. 4, north along U.S. 4 to the Vermont border, exclusive of the Lake Champlain Zone.
Southeastern Zone: The remaining portion of New York.
Pennsylvania:
Lake Erie Zone: The Lake Erie waters of Pennsylvania and a shoreline margin along Lake Erie from New York on the east to Ohio on the west extending 150 yards inland, but including all of Presque Isle Peninsula
NY 149, east along NY 149 to U.S. 4, north along U.S. 4 to the Vermont border, exclusive of the Lake Champlain Zone.
Southeastern Zone: The remaining portion of New York.
Pennsylvania:
Lake Erie Zone: The Lake Erie waters of Pennsylvania and a shoreline margin along Lake Erie from New York on the east to Ohio on the west extending 150 yards inland, but including all of Presque Isle Peninsula.
Northwest Zone: The area bounded on the north by the Lake Erie Zone and including all of Erie and Crawford Counties and those portions of Mercer and Venango Counties north of I-80.
North Zone: That portion of the State east of the Northwest Zone and north of a line extending east on I-80 to U.S. 220, Route 220 to I-180, I-180 to I-80, and I-80 to the Delaware River.
South Zone: The remaining portion of Pennsylvania.
Vermont:
Lake Champlain Zone: The U.S. portion of Lake Champlain and that area north and west of the line extending from the New York border along U.S. 4 to VT 22A at Fair Haven; VT 22A to U.S. 7 at Vergennes; U.S. 7 to the Canadian border.
Interior Zone: That portion of Vermont west of the Lake Champlain Zone and eastward of a line extending from the Massachusetts border at Interstate 91; north along Interstate 91 to U.S. 2; east along U.S. 2 to VT 102; north along VT 102 to VT 253; north along VT 253 to the Canadian border.
Connecticut River Zone: The remaining portion of Vermont east of the Interior Zone.
West Virginia:
Zone 1: That portion outside the boundaries in Zone 2.
Zone 2 (Allegheny Mountain Upland): That area bounded by a line extending south along U.S. 220 through Keyser to U.S. 50; U.S. 50 to WV 93; WV 93 south to WV 42; WV 42 south to Petersburg; WV 28 south to Minnehaha Springs; WV 39 west to U.S. 219; U.S. 219 south to I-64; I-64 west to U.S. 60; U.S. 60 west to U.S. 19; U.S. 19 north to I-79, I-79 north to I-68; I-68 east to the Maryland
Mississippi Flyway
Alabama:
South Zone: Mobile and Baldwin Counties.
North Zone: The remainder of Alabama
gh Keyser to U.S. 50; U.S. 50 to WV 93; WV 93 south to WV 42; WV 42 south to Petersburg; WV 28 south to Minnehaha Springs; WV 39 west to U.S. 219; U.S. 219 south to I-64; I-64 west to U.S. 60; U.S. 60 west to U.S. 19; U.S. 19 north to I-79, I-79 north to I-68; I-68 east to the Maryland
Mississippi Flyway
Alabama:
South Zone: Mobile and Baldwin Counties.
North Zone: The remainder of Alabama.
Illinois:
North Zone: That portion of the State north of a line extending east from the Iowa border along Illinois Highway 92 to Interstate Highway 280, east along I-280 to I-80, then east along I-80 to the Indiana border.
Central Zone: That portion of the State south of the North Zone to a line extending east from the Missouri border along the Modoc Ferry route to Modoc Ferry Road, east along Modoc Ferry Road to Modoc Road, northeasterly along Modoc Road and St. Leo's Road to Illinois Highway 3, north along Illinois 3 to Illinois 159, north along Illinois 159 to Illinois 161, east along Illinois 161 to Illinois 4, north along Illinois 4 to Interstate Highway 70, east along I-70 to the Bond County line, north and east along the Bond County line to Fayette County, north and east along the Fayette County line to Effingham County, east and south along the Effingham County line to I-70, then east along I-70 to the Indiana border.
South Zone: The remainder of Illinois.
Indiana:
North Zone: That portion of the State north of a line extending east from the Illinois border along State Road 18 to U.S. Highway 31, north along U.S. 31 to U.S. 24, east along U.S. 24 to Huntington, then southeast along U.S. 224 to the Ohio border.
Ohio River Zone: That portion of the State south of a line extending east from the Illinois border along Interstate Highway 64 to New Albany, east along State Road 62 to State Road 56, east along State Road 56 to Vevay, east and north on State 156 along the Ohio River to North Landing, north along State 56 to U.S. Highway 50, then northeast along U.S. 50 to the Ohio border
24 to the Ohio border.
Ohio River Zone: That portion of the State south of a line extending east from the Illinois border along Interstate Highway 64 to New Albany, east along State Road 62 to State Road 56, east along State Road 56 to Vevay, east and north on State 156 along the Ohio River to North Landing, north along State 56 to U.S. Highway 50, then northeast along U.S. 50 to the Ohio border.
South Zone: That portion of the State between the North and Ohio River Zone boundaries.
Iowa:
North Zone: That portion of the State north of a line extending east from the Nebraska border along State Highway 175 to State Highway 37, southeast along State Highway 37 to U.S. Highway 59, south along U.S. 59 to Interstate Highway 80, then east along I-80 to the Illinois border.
South Zone: The remainder of Iowa.
Kentucky:
West Zone: All counties west of and including Butler, Daviess, Ohio, Simpson, and Warren Counties.
East Zone: The remainder of Kentucky.
Louisiana:
West Zone: That portion of the State west and south of a line extending south from the Arkansas border along Louisiana Highway 3 to Bossier City, east along Interstate Highway 20 to Minden, south along Louisiana 7 to Ringgold, east along Louisiana 4 to Jonesboro, south along U.S. Highway 167 to Lafayette, southeast along U.S. 90 to the Mississippi State line.
East Zone: The remainder of Louisiana.
Catahoula Lake Area: All of Catahoula Lake, including those portions known locally as Round Prairie, Catfish Prairie, and Frazier's Arm. See State regulations for additional information.
Michigan:
North Zone: The Upper Peninsula
Louisiana 4 to Jonesboro, south along U.S. Highway 167 to Lafayette, southeast along U.S. 90 to the Mississippi State line.
East Zone: The remainder of Louisiana.
Catahoula Lake Area: All of Catahoula Lake, including those portions known locally as Round Prairie, Catfish Prairie, and Frazier's Arm. See State regulations for additional information.
Michigan:
North Zone: The Upper Peninsula.
Middle Zone: That portion of the Lower Peninsula north of a line beginning at the Wisconsin border in Lake Michigan due west of the mouth of Stony Creek in Oceana County; then due east to, and easterly and southerly along the south shore of Stony Creek to Scenic Drive, easterly and southerly along Scenic Drive to Stony Lake Road, easterly along Stony Lake and Garfield Roads to Michigan Highway 20, east along Michigan 20 to U.S. Highway 10 Business Route (BR) in the city of Midland, easterly along U.S. 10 BR to U.S. 10, easter

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Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/statutes/FR_PRORULE_02-20713. Check the current official text before relying on it. Not legal advice.