# 69 FR 52128: 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_04-19249

## Section

- **Citation:** 69 FR 52128
- **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. 69 / 69 FR 52128

## Text

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service 50 CFR Part 20 RIN 1018-AT53 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 2004-05 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 September 3, 2004.

ADDRESSES:
Send your comments on the proposals to the Chief, Division of Migratory Bird Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior, ms MBSP-4107-ARLSQ, 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 at the Service's office in room 4107, Arlington Square Building, 4501 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington, Virginia.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Brian Millsap, Chief, or Ron W. Kokel, Division of Migratory Bird Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, (703) 358-1714.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Regulations Schedule for 2004
On March 22, 2004, we published in the Federal Register (69 FR 13440) a proposal to amend 50 CFR part 20
gton Square Building, 4501 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington, Virginia.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Brian Millsap, Chief, or Ron W. Kokel, Division of Migratory Bird Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, (703) 358-1714.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Regulations Schedule for 2004
On March 22, 2004, we published in the Federal Register (69 FR 13440) 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 2004-05 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 9, 2004, we published in the Federal Register (69 FR 32418) a second document providing supplemental proposals for early- and late-season migratory bird hunting regulations frameworks and the regulatory alternatives for the 2004-05 duck hunting season. The June 9 supplement also provided detailed information on the 2004-05 regulatory schedule and announced the Service Migratory Bird Regulations Committee (SRC) and Flyway Council meetings.
On June 23 and 24, 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 2004-05 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 2004-05 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 2004-05 regular waterfowl seasons. On July 21, we published in the Federal Register (69 FR 43694) a third document specifically dealing with the proposed frameworks for early-season regulations. In late August, we will publish a rulemaking establishing final frameworks for early-season migratory bird hunting regulations for the 2004-05 season.
On July 28-29, 2004, we held open meetings with the Flyway Council Consultants, at which the participants reviewed the status of waterfowl and developed recommendations for the 2004-05 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 July 30, 2004, in developing this document. In addition, new proposals for certain late-season regulations are provided for public comment. The comment period is 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 20, 2004.
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, you may obtain complete copies of the various reports at the address indicated under ADDRESSES or from our Web site at http://migratorybirds.fws.gov
ut September 20, 2004.
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, you may obtain complete copies of the various reports at the address indicated under ADDRESSES or from our Web site 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 comprises Alaska, Canada, and the northcentral United States, 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
Most of the U.S. and Canadian prairies were much drier in May 2004 than in May 2003, which was reflected in the pond counts for this region. For the U.S. Prairies and Canadian Prairie and Parklands combined, the May pond estimate was 3.9 ± 0.2 million, which is 24% lower than last year's (P < 0.001) and 19% below the long-term average (P < 0.001). Pond numbers in both Canada (2.5 ± 0.1 million) and the U. S. (1.4 ± 0.1 million) were below 2003 estimates (−29% in Canada and −16% in the U.S.; P ≤ 0.033). The number of ponds in Canada was 25% below the long-term average (P < 0.001).
Unfortunately, last year's good water conditions on the short-grass prairies of southern Alberta and Saskatchewan did not continue in 2004, and habitat in these areas went from good last year to fair or poor this year. Habitat in southern Manitoba ranged from poor in the east to good in the west, conditions similar to last year's
f ponds in Canada was 25% below the long-term average (P < 0.001).
Unfortunately, last year's good water conditions on the short-grass prairies of southern Alberta and Saskatchewan did not continue in 2004, and habitat in these areas went from good last year to fair or poor this year. Habitat in southern Manitoba ranged from poor in the east to good in the west, conditions similar to last year's. In the Dakotas, a slow drying trend seen over the past few years continued, and much of eastern South Dakota was in poor condition. Conditions in the Dakotas improved to the north, and eastern Montana was a mosaic of poor to good conditions, with overall production potential rated only fair. Although prairie areas received considerable moisture from snow, including a late-spring snowstorm in southern regions, the snowmelt was absorbed by the parched ground. Furthermore, snow and cold during May probably adversely affected early nesters and young broods. Many prairie areas
Spring thaw was exceptionally late this year in the Northwest Territories, northern Alberta, northern Saskatchewan, and northern Manitoba. This meant that birds that over-flew the prairies due to poor conditions encountered winter-like conditions in the bush, and nesting may have been curtailed. This is especially true for early-nesting species like mallards and northern pintails; late nesters should have better success. Overall, the bush regions were only fair to marginally good for production due to this late thaw. However, Alaska birds should produce well due to excellent habitat conditions there. Areas south of the Brooks Range experienced a widespread, record-setting early spring breakup, and flooding of nesting areas was minimal.
Breeding habitat conditions were generally good to excellent in the eastern U.S. and Canada. Although spring was late in most areas, it was thought nesting was not significantly affected because of abundant spring rain and mild temperatures
t conditions there. Areas south of the Brooks Range experienced a widespread, record-setting early spring breakup, and flooding of nesting areas was minimal.
Breeding habitat conditions were generally good to excellent in the eastern U.S. and Canada. Although spring was late in most areas, it was thought nesting was not significantly affected because of abundant spring rain and mild temperatures. Production in the east was normal in Ontario and the Maritimes, and slightly below normal in Quebec.
Breeding Population Status
In the traditional survey area, the total duck population estimate (excluding scoters, eiders, long-tailed ducks, mergansers, and wood ducks) was 32.2 ± 0.6 million birds, 11% below (P < 0.001) last year's estimate of 36.2 ± 0.7 million birds, and 3% below the long-term (1955-2003) average (P = 0.053). Mallard abundance was 7.4 ± 0.3 million birds, which was similar to last year's estimate of 7.9 ± 0.3 million birds (P = 0.177) and the long-term average (P = 0.762). Blue-winged teal abundance was 4.1 ± 0.2 million birds. This value was 26% below last year's estimate of 5.5 ± 0.3 million birds (P < 0.001) and 10% below the long-term average (P = 0.073). Of the other duck species, only estimates of northern shovelers (2.8 ± 0.2 million) and American wigeon (2.0 ± 0.1 million) were significantly different from 2003 estimates (P < 0.003), and both were 22% below 2003 estimates. Compared to the long-term averages, gadwall (2.6 ± 0.2 million; +56%), green-winged teal (2.5 ± 0.1 million; +33%) and shovelers (+32%) were above their 1955-2003 averages (P < 0.001), as they were in 2003. In 2004, northern pintails (2.2 + 0.2 million; −48%) and scaup (3.8 ± 0.2 million; −27%) remained well below their long-term averages (P < 0.001). Wigeon also were below their long-term average in 2004 (−25%; P < 0.001). Estimates of redheads and canvasbacks were unchanged from their previous-year and long-term averages (P ≤ 0.396).
The eastern survey area comprises strata 51-56 and 62-69
2003. In 2004, northern pintails (2.2 + 0.2 million; −48%) and scaup (3.8 ± 0.2 million; −27%) remained well below their long-term averages (P < 0.001). Wigeon also were below their long-term average in 2004 (−25%; P < 0.001). Estimates of redheads and canvasbacks were unchanged from their previous-year and long-term averages (P ≤ 0.396).
The eastern survey area comprises strata 51-56 and 62-69. The 2004 total-duck estimate for this area was 3.9 ± 0.3 million birds. This estimate was similar to that of last year and the 1996-2003 average (P 0.102). Estimates for most individual species were similar to last year and to 1996-2003 averages. Only numbers of ring-necked ducks were significantly different from 2003 estimates, increasing by 67% to 0.7 ± 0.2 million birds (P = 0.095). Wigeon (0.1 ± 0.1 million; −61%) and goldeneye (0.4 ± 0.1 million; −42%) were below their 1996-2003 averages (P ≤ 0.052). All other species were similar to 2003 estimates and 1996-2003 averages.
Breeding Activity and Production
Weather and habitat conditions during the summer months can influence waterfowl production. Good wetland conditions increase renesting effort and brood survival. In general, 2004 habitat conditions stabilized or improved over most of the traditional survey area between May and July. This year, we had no traditional July Production Survey to verify the early predictions of our biologists in the field. However, experienced crew leaders in Montana and the western Dakotas, the eastern Dakotas, southern Alberta, and southern Saskatchewan returned to their May survey areas in early July to qualitatively assess habitat changes between May and July. Biologists from other survey areas communicated with local biologists to get their impressions of 2004 waterfowl production and monitored weather conditions. Habitat in some portions of the prairies, particularly in the Dakotas and Alberta, improved between May and July because of abundant summer rain
heir May survey areas in early July to qualitatively assess habitat changes between May and July. Biologists from other survey areas communicated with local biologists to get their impressions of 2004 waterfowl production and monitored weather conditions. Habitat in some portions of the prairies, particularly in the Dakotas and Alberta, improved between May and July because of abundant summer rain. However, there were few birds in these areas because many had left the prairies in the early spring when habitat conditions were dry. Therefore, the production potential from most prairie areas ranged from poor to good and was generally worse than in 2003. Pilot biologists from other survey areas communicated with local biologists to get their impressions of 2004 waterfowl production and monitored weather conditions. Habitat conditions in the northern and eastern areas are more stable because of the deeper, more permanent water bodies there. Because temperatures were so cold in May, the outlook for production from these areas remains fair in the northern Prairie Provinces, and good to excellent in the eastern survey area.
Fall Flight Estimate
The mid-continent mallard population is composed of mallards from the traditional survey area, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, and is 8.4 ± 0.3 million. This is similar to the 2003 estimate of 8.8 ± 0.4 million (P = 0.289). The 2004 mid-continent mallard fall-flight index is 9.4 ± 0.1 million, statistically similar to the 2003 estimate of 10.3 ± 0.1 million birds (P = 0.467). These indices were based on revised mid-continent mallard population models and, therefore, differ from those previously published.
See section 1.A. Harvest Strategy Considerations 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 provide information on the population status and productivity of North American Canada geese ( Branta canadensis ), brant ( B
odels and, therefore, differ from those previously published.
See section 1.A. Harvest Strategy Considerations 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 provide information on the population status and productivity of North American Canada geese ( Branta canadensis ), brant ( B. bernicla ), snow geese ( Chen caerulescens ), Ross's geese ( C. rossii ), emperor geese ( C. canagica ), white-fronted geese ( Anser albifrons ) and tundra swans ( Cygnus columbianus ). The timing of spring snowmelt in northern goose and swan nesting areas varied in 2004; from very early in western Alaska to very late in areas near Hudson Bay and in northern Quebec. Reproductive success of geese and swans in areas that experienced near-average spring phenology might have been reduced by persistent snow cover and harsh conditions that encompassed a large expanse of migration and staging habitat. Of the 26 populations for which current primary population indices were available, 7 populations (Atlantic Population, Aleutian, and 3 temperate-nesting populations of Canada geese; Pacific Population white-fronted geese; and Eastern Population tundra swans) displayed significant positive trends, and only Short Grass Prairie Population Canada geese displayed a significant negative trend over the most recent 10-year period. The forecast for production of geese and swans in North America in 2004 is improved from 2003 in the Pacific Flyway, but similar to, or lower than, 2003 for the remainder of North America.
Waterfowl Harvest and Hunter Activity
During the 2003-04 hunting season, duck harvest was about the same as the
Review of Public Comments and Flyway Council Recommendations
The preliminary proposed rulemaking, which appeared in the March 22, 2004, Federal Register , opened the public comment period for migratory game bird hunting regulations
r than, 2003 for the remainder of North America.
Waterfowl Harvest and Hunter Activity
During the 2003-04 hunting season, duck harvest was about the same as the
Review of Public Comments and Flyway Council Recommendations
The preliminary proposed rulemaking, which appeared in the March 22, 2004, Federal Register , opened the public comment period for migratory game bird hunting regulations. The supplemental proposed rule, which appeared in the June 9, 2004, Federal Register , discussed the regulatory alternatives for the 2004-05 duck hunting season. Late-season comments are summarized below and numbered in the order used in the March 22 Federal Register document. We have included only the numbered items pertaining to late-season issues for which we received written comments. Consequently, the issues do not follow in successive 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 22, 2004, 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.
A
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.
A. Harvest Strategy Considerations
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic, Central, and Pacific Flyway Councils and the Upper- and Lower-Regulations Committees of the Mississippi Flyway Council recommended the adoption of the “liberal” regulatory alternative, with the exception of some specific bag limits described below in section 1.D. Special Seasons/Species Management . More specifically, recommendations concerned sections iii. Black Ducks, iv. Canvasbacks , and v. Pintails .
Service Response: The Service is continuing development of an AHM protocol that would allow hunting regulations to vary among Flyways in a manner that recognizes each Flyway's unique breeding-ground derivation of mallards. For the 2004 hunting season, we believe that the prescribed regulatory choice for the Mississippi, Central, and Pacific Flyways should continue to depend on the status of midcontinent mallards. We also recommend that the regulatory choice for the Atlantic Flyway continue to depend on the status of eastern mallards.
For the 2004 hunting season, the Service is continuing to consider the same regulatory alternatives as those used last year. The nature of the restrictive, moderate, and liberal alternatives has remained essentially unchanged since 1997, except that extended framework dates have been offered in the moderate and liberal regulatory alternatives since 2002. Also, the Service agreed last year to place a constraint on closed seasons in the western three Flyways whenever the midcontinent mallard breeding-population size (traditional survey area plus Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin) is ≥5.5 million
ed essentially unchanged since 1997, except that extended framework dates have been offered in the moderate and liberal regulatory alternatives since 2002. Also, the Service agreed last year to place a constraint on closed seasons in the western three Flyways whenever the midcontinent mallard breeding-population size (traditional survey area plus Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin) is ≥5.5 million.
Optimal AHM strategies for the 2004 hunting season were calculated using: (1) Harvest-management objectives specific to each mallard stock; (2) the 2004 regulatory alternatives; and (3) current population models and associated weights for midcontinent and eastern mallards. Based on this year's survey results of 8.36 million midcontinent mallards (traditional surveys area plus Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin), 2.51 million ponds in Prairie Canada, and 1.11 million eastern mallards, the prescribed regulatory choice for all four Flyways is the liberal alternative.
Therefore, we concur with the recommendations of the Atlantic, Mississippi, Central, and Pacific Flyways regarding selection of the “liberal” regulatory alternative and propose to adopt the “liberal” regulatory alternative, as described in the June 9 Federal Register .
D. Special Seasons/Species Management
iii. Black Ducks
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic Flyway Council recommended allowing States the opportunity to return to a 2-black-duck daily bag limit providing they close the black duck season one day for each day a 2-black-duck bag limit is employed. No offset would be required for days when the black duck bag limit was restricted to 1 bird. Both increased bag days and closed days must be consecutive, except that 1 split is allowed.
Service Response: Last fall the Service began working with the Atlantic Flyway Council and others to develop assessment procedures that could be used to better inform black duck harvest management in the United States
fset would be required for days when the black duck bag limit was restricted to 1 bird. Both increased bag days and closed days must be consecutive, except that 1 split is allowed.
Service Response: Last fall the Service began working with the Atlantic Flyway Council and others to develop assessment procedures that could be used to better inform black duck harvest management in the United States. These procedures were intended to help the Service assess the biological implications of any proposed changes to hunting regulations, as well as complement the ongoing effort to develop an international program for the adaptive management of black duck harvests. Based on one phase of this assessment framework, historical harvest rates of black ducks generally have been consistent with the dual management objectives of maximizing sustainable harvest and attaining the North American Waterfowl Management Plan population goal for black ducks. Since 1995, however, overall harvest rates of black ducks have been higher than what seems to be optimal for meeting these management objectives. Unfortunately, not all phases of the assessment work were completed this year, mainly predicting changes in black duck harvest rates associated with proposed changes in hunting regulations. Therefore, the Service believes that it is premature to adopt any proposed changes to black duck hunting regulations without first, considering the appropriateness of departing from the traditional management objectives. And secondly, if regulatory changes are deemed appropriate, that any proposal be accompanied by an assessment to predict what changes in harvest rates would result. Additional concerns relate to the reliability of the black duck breeding ground survey data and the lack of coordination with the Mississippi Flyway or other stakeholders. Thus, we do not support the Atlantic Flyway Council's proposal and encourage the Atlantic Flyway to
iv
eemed appropriate, that any proposal be accompanied by an assessment to predict what changes in harvest rates would result. Additional concerns relate to the reliability of the black duck breeding ground survey data and the lack of coordination with the Mississippi Flyway or other stakeholders. Thus, we do not support the Atlantic Flyway Council's proposal and encourage the Atlantic Flyway to
iv. Canvasbacks
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic and Pacific Flyway Councils and the Upper- and Lower-Regulations Committees of the Mississippi Flyway Council recommended that the Service allow a “restrictive” canvasback season consisting of a 1-bird daily bag limit and a 30-day season in the Atlantic and Mississippi Flyways and 60-day season in the Pacific Flyway.
The Central Flyway Council recommended that canvasbacks be managed using the “Hunter's Choice Bag Limit” (described in the August 19, 2003, Federal Register (68 FR 50016)). However, until the “Hunter's Choice Bag Limit” becomes available, the Council recommends a 39-day season with a 1-bird daily bag limit, which may be split according to applicable zones/split duck hunting configurations approved for each State.
Service Response: Based on regulatory actions in recent years and recommendations from the Flyway Councils, the canvasback harvest strategy was modified this year in the July 21 Federal Register to allow partial seasons within the regular duck season. The modification allows a canvasback season length equal to that of the “restrictive” AHM regulatory alternative if a full season is not supported, but the reduced harvest from the restricted season predicts a spring abundance the following year equal to or greater than the objective of 500,000 birds. Otherwise, the season on canvasbacks is closed
ow partial seasons within the regular duck season. The modification allows a canvasback season length equal to that of the “restrictive” AHM regulatory alternative if a full season is not supported, but the reduced harvest from the restricted season predicts a spring abundance the following year equal to or greater than the objective of 500,000 birds. Otherwise, the season on canvasbacks is closed. Further, based on a recommendation from the Pacific Flyway Council, Alaska has a 1-bird daily bag limit for the entire regular duck season in all years unless the Service determines that it is in the best interest of the canvasback resource to close the season in Alaska as well as the lower 48 States.
This year's spring survey resulted in an estimate of 617,228 canvasbacks. However, the estimate of ponds in Prairie Canada was 2,512,608, which was 25% below average. The allowable harvest in the United States calculated from these numbers is 109,000, which is below the predicted U.S. harvest of 119,000 associated with the “liberal” duck season alternative. Thus, for 2004-05, a canvasback season the entire length of the regular season is not supported. However, the “restrictive” season length within the regular duck season is expected to result in a harvest of about 62,000 canvasbacks, and is supported. Thus, we propose a season length at the level of the “restrictive” AHM alternative ( i.e. , 30 days in the Atlantic and Mississippi Flyways, 39 days in the Central Flyway, and 60 days in the Pacific Flyway) for this year. Seasons may be split according to applicable zones/split duck hunting configurations approved for each State.
v
sult in a harvest of about 62,000 canvasbacks, and is supported. Thus, we propose a season length at the level of the “restrictive” AHM alternative ( i.e. , 30 days in the Atlantic and Mississippi Flyways, 39 days in the Central Flyway, and 60 days in the Pacific Flyway) for this year. Seasons may be split according to applicable zones/split duck hunting configurations approved for each State.
v. Pintails
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic, Central, and Pacific Flyway Councils and the Upper- and Lower-Regulations Committees of the Mississippi Flyway Council recommended a “restrictive” season for pintails consisting of a 1-bird daily bag limit and a 30-day season in the Atlantic and Mississippi Flyways, a 39-day season in the Central Flyway, and a 60-day season in the Pacific Flyway.
Service Response: For the past two years, partial seasons (“restrictive” AHM alternative) have been used for pintails, which was a departure from the existing interim pintail harvest strategy. This year, the Service requested that the Flyway Councils review the existing strategy; specifically, the provision that provides for a full season with a 1-bird daily bag limit whenever the pintail population exceeds the closure threshold established in the strategy, regardless of projected population impacts. Discussions resulted in our July 21 decision to modify the existing strategy for 2004 as follows:
• Season closed when the breeding-population estimate (BPOP) is less than 1.5 million and the projected Fall Flight is less than 2.0 million.
• Partial season (restrictive alternative) when the BPOP or Fall Flight exceeds the closure level but the BPOP is less than 2.5 million and projections in the strategy predict a decline in the following year's BPOP (not including a 6% growth factor).
• Full season, minimum 1-bird daily bag limit when the BPOP exceeds 2.5 million, regardless of the following year's BPOP projection.
• All other existing provisions of the strategy continue to apply
POP or Fall Flight exceeds the closure level but the BPOP is less than 2.5 million and projections in the strategy predict a decline in the following year's BPOP (not including a 6% growth factor).
• Full season, minimum 1-bird daily bag limit when the BPOP exceeds 2.5 million, regardless of the following year's BPOP projection.
• All other existing provisions of the strategy continue to apply.
Based on the modified strategy, a pintail breeding-population estimate of 2.18 million and a Fall-Flight projection of 2.64 million results in a projected 20 percent decline in next year's breeding population with a full season and 1-bird daily bag limit. Therefore, we propose a season length at the level of the “restrictive” AHM alternative ( i.e. , 30 days in the Atlantic and Mississippi Flyways, 39 days in the Central Flyway, and 60 days in the Pacific Flyway) for this year. Seasons may be split according to applicable zones/split duck hunting configurations approved for each State.
In addition, we recommend that further review of the strategy be cooperatively undertaken during the coming year prior to finalizing a pintail strategy to be used until a full incorporation of pintails into the formal AHM process is achieved.
4. Canada Geese
B. Regular Seasons
The Atlantic Flyway Council recommended that the Atlantic Population (AP) Canada goose season consist of a 45-day season with a daily bag limit of 3 geese in the New England and Mid-Atlantic Regions with an opening framework date of the fourth Saturday in October and a closing date of January 31. In the Chesapeake Region (except Back Bay, Virginia), the Council recommended a season length of 45 days, with a daily bag limit of 1 goose during the first 25 days and 2 geese during the last 20 days of the season. The framework opening date in the Chesapeake Region would be November 15 and the closing date would be January 31. The Council recommended that remaining AP harvest areas ( i.e
ary 31. In the Chesapeake Region (except Back Bay, Virginia), the Council recommended a season length of 45 days, with a daily bag limit of 1 goose during the first 25 days and 2 geese during the last 20 days of the season. The framework opening date in the Chesapeake Region would be November 15 and the closing date would be January 31. The Council recommended that remaining AP harvest areas ( i.e. , Northeast Hunt Unit in coastal North Carolina and Back Bay, Virginia) remain closed.
The Upper- and Lower-Regulations Committees of the Mississippi Flyway Council recommended a number of changes in season length, season dates, bag limits, and quotas for Minnesota, Iowa, and Missouri in response to changes in the status of the Eastern Prairie Population (EPP) Canada goose population and in Kentucky, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Illinois in response to changes in the status of the Mississippi Valley Population (MVP) Canada goose population.
The Pacific Flyway Council recommended increasing the season length in Humboldt and Del Norte Counties in California from 16 days to 100 days and increasing the daily bag limit for small Canada geese from 1 to 2 per day.
Service Response: We concur with all the Council recommendations. Further, last year we encouraged the Atlantic Flyway to specify population objectives for AP geese and provide a strategy to guide future harvest management. We appreciate the Flyway's effort during this past year to provide this information.
C. Special Late Season
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic Flyway Council recommended that Connecticut's special late Canada goose season become operational.
Service Response: We concur.
5. White-fronted Geese
Council Recommendations: The Pacific Flyway Council recommended increasing the season length in the Balance-of-the-State Zone in California from 86 days to 100 days and increasing the daily bag limit for white-fronted geese from 2 to 3 per day except in the Sacramento Valley Special Management Area (west)
da goose season become operational.
Service Response: We concur.
5. White-fronted Geese
Council Recommendations: The Pacific Flyway Council recommended increasing the season length in the Balance-of-the-State Zone in California from 86 days to 100 days and increasing the daily bag limit for white-fronted geese from 2 to 3 per day except in the Sacramento Valley Special Management Area (west).
Service Response: We concur.
6. Brant
Council Recommendations: The Atlantic Flyway Council recommended a 50-day season with a 2-bird daily bag limit for Atlantic brant in 2004.
Service Response: We concur.
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 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 in DATES is contrary to the public interest
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 in DATES 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 4107, 4501 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 Notice of Availability in the Federal Register on June 16, 1988 (53 FR 22582) and our Record of Decision on August 18, 1988 (53 FR 31341). In addition, in a proposed rule published in the April 30, 2001, Federal Register (66 FR 21298), we expressed our intent to begin the process of developing a new EIS for the migratory bird hunting program. We plan to begin the public scoping process in the near future.
Endangered Species Act Consideration
Prior to issuance of the 2004-05 migratory game bird hunting regulations, we will consider provisions of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C
Register (66 FR 21298), we expressed our intent to begin the process of developing a new EIS for the migratory bird hunting program. We plan to begin the public scoping process in the near future.
Endangered Species Act Consideration
Prior to issuance of the 2004-05 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 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 rulemaking documents.
Executive Order 12866
The migratory bird hunting regulations are economically significant and were reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under Executive Order 12866. As such, a cost/benefit analysis was initially prepared in 1981. This analysis was subsequently revised annually from 1990-1996, and then updated in 1998. We have updated again this year. It is further discussed below under the heading Regulatory Flexibility Act . Results from the 2004 analysis indicate that the expected welfare benefit of the annual migratory bird hunting frameworks is on the order of $734 million to $1.064 billion, with a midpoint estimate of $899 million. Copies of the cost/benefit analysis are available upon request from the address indicated under ADDRESSES or from our Web site at www.migratorybirds.gov .
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?
r Web site at www.migratorybirds.gov .
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?
(6) What else could we do to make the rule easier to understand?
Send a copy of any comments that concern how we could make this rule easier to understand to: Office of the Executive Secretariat and Regulatory Affairs, Department of the Interior, Room 7229, 1849 C Street NW., Washington, DC 20240. You may also e-mail comments to this address: 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 as part of the 1981 cost-benefit analysis discussed under Executive Order 12866 . This analysis was revised annually from 1990 through 1995. In 1995, the Service issued a Small Entity Flexibility Analysis (Analysis), which was subsequently updated in 1996, 1998, and 2004. 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 2004 Analysis was based on the 2001 National Hunting and Fishing Survey and the U.S
995. In 1995, the Service issued a Small Entity Flexibility Analysis (Analysis), which was subsequently updated in 1996, 1998, and 2004. 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 2004 Analysis was based on the 2001 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 $481 million and $1.2 billion at small businesses in 2004. Copies of the Analysis are available upon request from the address indicated under ADDRESSES or from our Web site at www.migratorybirds.gov .
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 has an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more. However, because this rule establishes hunting seasons, we do not plan to defer the effective date required by 5 U.S.C. 801 under the exemption contained in 5 U.S.C. 808(1).
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 clearance 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
mber 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. , that this rulemaking will not impose a cost of $100 million or more in any given year on local or State government or private entities. Therefore, this 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 it will not unduly burden the judicial system and that it meets the requirements of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988.
Takings Implication Assessment
In accordance with Executive Order 12630, this proposed rule, authorized by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, 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, these rules allow hunters to exercise otherwise unavailable privileges and, therefore, reduce restrictions on the use of private and public property.
Government-to-Government Relationship with Tribes
In accordance with the President's memorandum of April 29, 1994, “Government-to-Government Relations with Native American Tribal Governments” (59 FR 22951), Executive Order 13175, and 512 DM 2, we have evaluated possible effects on Federally recognized Indian tribes and have determined that there are no effects
e of private and public property.
Government-to-Government Relationship with Tribes
In accordance with the President's memorandum of April 29, 1994, “Government-to-Government Relations with Native American Tribal Governments” (59 FR 22951), Executive Order 13175, and 512 DM 2, we have evaluated possible effects on Federally recognized Indian tribes and have determined that there are no effects.
Energy Effects—Executive Order 13211
On May 18, 2001, the President issued 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 proposed rule is a significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866, it is not expected to adversely affect energy supplies, distribution, or use. Thus, it is not a significant energy action and no Statement of Energy Effects is required.
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 regarding the hunting of migratory birds, and we 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 process 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
ocess with the States and the Flyway Councils. This process 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 2004-05 hunting season are authorized under 16 U.S.C. 703-712 and 16 U.S.C. 742 a-j.
Dated: August 16, 2004. David P. Smith, Acting Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks.
Proposed Regulations Frameworks for 2004-05 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, 2004, and March 10, 2005.
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
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.
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
Management Units
High Plains Mallard Management Unit—roughly defined as that portion of the Central Flyway that lies west of the 100th meridian.
Definitions: For the purpose of hunting regulations listed below, the collective terms “dark” and “light” geese include the following species:
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
her 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).
Atlantic Flyway
Ducks, Mergansers, and Coots
Outside Dates: Between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 25) and the last Sunday in January (January 30).
Hunting Seasons and Duck Limits: 60 days, except pintails and canvasbacks which may not exceed 30 days, and season splits must conform to each State's zone/split configuration for duck hunting. The daily bag limit is 6 ducks, including no more than 4 mallards (2 hens), 3 scaup, 1 black duck, 1 pintail, 1 canvasback, 1 mottled duck, 1 fulvous whistling duck, 2 wood ducks, 2 redheads, and 4 scoters. A single pintail and canvasback may also be included in the 6-bird daily bag limit for designated youth-hunt days.
Closures: The season on 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
ow 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.
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 fourth Saturday in October (October 23) and January 31, with a 3-bird daily bag limit
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 fourth Saturday in October (October 23) and January 31, with a 3-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 during the first 25 days and a 2-bird daily bag limit during the last 20 days.
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.
AP Zone: A 45-day season may be held between November 15 and January 31, with a 1-bird daily bag limit during the first 25 days and a 2-bird daily bag limit during the last 20 days.
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 the fourth Saturday in October (October 23) and January 31, with a 3-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 fourth Saturday in October (October 23) and January 31, with a 3-bird daily bag limit
e: A 45-day season may be held between the fourth Saturday in October (October 23) and January 31, with a 3-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 fourth Saturday in October (October 23) and January 31, with a 3-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 30) 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 may be held, 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 fourth Saturday in October (October 23) and January 31, with a 3-bird daily bag limit.
RP Zone: A 70-day season may be held between the last Saturday in October (October 30) and February 15, 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
one: 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 February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
AP Zone: A 45-day season may be held between the fourth Saturday in October (October 23) and January 31, with a 3-bird daily bag limit.
Special Late Goose Season Area: An experimental season may be held from January 15 to February 15, with a 5-bird daily bag limit.
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 fourth Saturday in October (October 23) and January 31, with a 3-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 during the first 25 days and a 2-bird daily bag limit during the last 20 days.
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
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 during the first 25 days and a 2-bird daily bag limit during the last 20 days.
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 allow hunting on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays only.
Brant
Season Lengths, Outside Dates, and Limits: States may select a 50-day season between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 25) and January 31, with a 2-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 25) and the last Sunday in January (January 30).
Hunting Seasons and Duck Limits: 60 days, except that the season for pintails and canvasbacks may not exceed 30 days for each species, and season splits must conform to each State's zone/split configuration for duck hunting. 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, 1 canvasback, 2 wood ducks, and 2 redheads. A single pintail and canvasback may also be included in the 6-bird daily bag limit for designated youth-hunt days.
Merganser Limits: The daily bag limit is 5, only 1 of which may be a hooded merganser
aily 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, 1 canvasback, 2 wood ducks, and 2 redheads. A single pintail and canvasback may also be included in the 6-bird daily bag limit for designated youth-hunt days.
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.
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 25) 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 25) and the Sunday nearest February 15 (February 13); 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 25) 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
earest September 24 (September 25) and the Sunday nearest February 15 (February 13); 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 25) 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 25) 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 9 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 2 segments. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
Illinois: The total harvest of Canada geese in the State will be limited to 74,200 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 86 days or when 15,300 birds have been harvested in the Northern Illinois Quota Zone, whichever occurs first.
(a) Central Zone—The season for Canada geese will close after 86 days or when 17,500 birds have been harvested in the Central Illinois Quota Zone, whichever occurs first.
Canada geese. The possession limit is 10 Canada geese.
(a) North Zone—The season for Canada geese will close after 86 days or when 15,300 birds have been harvested in the Northern Illinois Quota Zone, whichever occurs first.
(a) Central Zone—The season for Canada geese will close after 86 days or when 17,500 birds have been harvested in the Central Illinois Quota Zone, whichever occurs first.
(c) South Zone—The season for Canada geese will close after 86 days or when 8,600 birds have been harvested in the Southern Illinois Quota Zone, whichever occurs first.
Indiana: The season for Canada geese may extend for 70 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 60 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
Kentucky: (a) Western Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 66 days (81 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 2,600 birds will be
(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 86-day white-fronted goose season or 1 white-fronted goose with a 107-day season. Hunters participating in the Canada goose season must possess a special permit issued by the State.
Michigan: (a) MVP Zone—The total harvest of Canada geese will be limited to 50,000 birds. 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.
season or 1 white-fronted goose with a 107-day season. Hunters participating in the Canada goose season must possess a special permit issued by the State.
Michigan: (a) MVP Zone—The total harvest of Canada geese will be limited to 50,000 birds. 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) Allegan County GMU—The Canada goose season will close after 25 days or when 1,500 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 500 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.
(c) Southern Michigan and Central Michigan GMUs—A special Canada goose season may be held between January 1 and January 30. The daily bag limit is 5 Canada geese.
Minnesota: (a) West Zone. (1) West Central Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 25 days. The daily bag limit is 1 Canada goose.
(2) Remainder of West Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 35 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 60 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
25 days. The daily bag limit is 1 Canada goose.
(2) Remainder of West Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 35 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 60 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
(d) Special Late Canada Goose Season—A special Canada goose season of up to 10 days may be held in December, except in the West Central Goose zone. 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) 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.
(b) 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, 2 Canada geese from November 1 to November 30, and 1 Canada goose 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, 2 Canada geese from November 1 to November 30, and 1 Canada goose thereafter.
1 Canada goose 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, 2 Canada geese from November 1 to November 30, and 1 Canada goose 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. 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 72 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 59 days, at least 9 of which must occur before Oct. 16. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese.
(c) Kentucky/Barkley Lakes Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 59 days, at least 9 of which must occur before Oct. 16. 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 49,200 birds.
Canada geese.
(c) Kentucky/Barkley Lakes Zone—The season for Canada geese may extend for 59 days, at least 9 of which must occur before Oct. 16. 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 49,200 birds.
(a) Horicon Zone—The framework opening date for all geese is September 16. The harvest of Canada geese is limited to 19,000 birds. The season may not exceed 95 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 700 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 16. The harvest of Canada geese is limited to 29,500 birds, 500 of which are allocated to the Mississippi River Subzone. The season may not exceed 95 days, except in the Mississippi River Subzone, where the season may not exceed 71 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese. 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 29,000 birds
e Mississippi River Subzone. The season may not exceed 95 days, except in the Mississippi River Subzone, where the season may not exceed 71 days. The daily bag limit is 2 Canada geese. 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 29,000 birds.
Additional Limits: In addition to the harvest limits stated for the respective zones above, an additional 4,500 Canada
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; and the Exterior Zone in Wisconsin will have been filled, the season for taking Canada geese in the respective zone (and associated area, if applicable) will be closed, either by the Director upon giving public notice through local information media at least 48 hours in advance of the time and date of closing, or by the State through State regulations with such notice and time (not less than 48 hours) as they deem necessary.
Central Flyway
Ducks, Mergansers, and Coots
Outside Dates: Between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 25) and the last Sunday in January (January 30).
Hunting Seasons and Duck Limits:
information media at least 48 hours in advance of the time and date of closing, or by the State through State regulations with such notice and time (not less than 48 hours) as they deem necessary.
Central Flyway
Ducks, Mergansers, and Coots
Outside Dates: Between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 25) and the last Sunday in January (January 30).
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 and canvasbacks, which may not exceed 39 days, and season splits must conform to each State's zone/split configuration for duck hunting. The daily bag limit is 6 ducks, including no more than 5 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be hens), 1 mottled duck, 1 pintail, 1 canvasback, 2 redheads, 3 scaup, and 2 wood ducks. The last 23 days may start no earlier than the Saturday nearest December 10 (December 11). A single pintail and canvasback may also be included in the 6-bird daily bag limit for designated youth-hunt days.
(2) Remainder of the Central Flyway: 74 days, except pintails and canvasbacks, which may not exceed 39 days, and season splits must conform to each State's zone/split configuration for duck hunting. The daily bag limit is 6 ducks, including no more than 5 mallards (no more than 2 of which may be hens), 1 mottled duck, 1 pintail, 1 canvasback, 2 redheads, 3 scaup, and 2 wood ducks. A single pintail and canvasback may also be included in the 6-bird daily bag limit for designated youth-hunt days.
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
vasback may also be included in the 6-bird daily bag limit for designated youth-hunt days.
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.
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 25) and the Sunday nearest February 15 (February 13). For light geese, outside dates for seasons may be selected between the Saturday nearest September 24 (September 25) 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
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.
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 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 Colorado, the season may not exceed 95 days. The daily bag limit is 3 dark geese in the aggregate.
In the Western Goose Zone of Texas, the season may not exceed 95 days. The daily bag limit for Canada geese (or any other dark goose species except white-fronted geese) is 3. 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, except that the season for pintails and canvasbacks may not exceed 60 days, and season splits must conform to each State's zone/split configuration for duck hunting. The daily bag limit is 7 ducks and mergansers, including no more than 2 female mallards, 1 pintail, 1 canvasback, 4 scaup, and 2 redheads
, Common Moorhens, and Purple Gallinules
Hunting Seasons and Duck Limits: Concurrent 107 days, except that the season for pintails and canvasbacks may not exceed 60 days, and season splits must conform to each State's zone/split configuration for duck hunting. The daily bag limit is 7 ducks and mergansers, including no more than 2 female mallards, 1 pintail, 1 canvasback, 4 scaup, and 2 redheads. A single pintail and canvasback may also be included in the 7-bird daily bag limit for designated youth-hunt days.
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 25) and the last Sunday in January (January 30).
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 (October 2), and the last Sunday in January (January 30). Basic
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 25), and the last Sunday in January (January 30). Basic daily bag limits are 3 light geese and 4 dark geese
nearest October 1 (October 2), and the last Sunday in January (January 30). Basic
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 25), and the last Sunday in January (January 30). 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. In these States, the daily bag limit is 2 brant and is in addition to dark goose limits.
Arizona: The daily bag limit for dark geese is 3.
California: Northeastern Zone: 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 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 6).
Balance-of-the-State Zone: Limits may not include more than 3 geese per day, of which not more than 1 may be a cackling Canada goose or Aleutian Canada goose, except in Del Norte and Humboldt Counties where the daily bag limit may include 2 Cackling or Aleutian Canada geese. Two areas in the Balance-of-the-State Zone are restricted in the hunting of certain geese:
nday in February (February 6).
Balance-of-the-State Zone: Limits may not include more than 3 geese per day, of which not more than 1 may be a cackling Canada goose or Aleutian Canada goose, except in Del Norte and Humboldt Counties where the daily bag limit may include 2 Cackling or Aleutian Canada geese. Two areas in the Balance-of-the-State Zone are restricted in the hunting of certain geese:
(1) In the Sacramento Valley Special Management Area (West), the season on white-fronted geese must begin no earlier than the last Saturday in October and end on or before December 14, and the daily bag limit shall contain no more than 2 white-fronted geese.
(2) In the Sacramento Valley Special Management Area (East), 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.
Northwest Special Permit Zone: 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. Season dates in the Lower Columbia / N. Willamette Valley Management Area may be different than the remainder of the Northwest Special Permit Zone; however, for those season segments different from the Northwest Special Permit Zone, the cackling Canada goose limit is 2.
Closed Zone: Those portions of Coos and Curry Counties south of Bandon and west of U.S. 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. A 107-day season may be selected in Areas 4 and 5 (eastern Washington)
season segments different from the Northwest Special Permit Zone, the cackling Canada goose limit is 2.
Closed Zone: Those portions of Coos and Curry Counties south of Bandon and west of U.S. 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. A 107-day season may be selected in Areas 4 and 5 (eastern Washington).
Southwest Quota Zone: In the Southwest Quota Zone, 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.
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
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 Southwest 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 Northwest Special Permit Zone of Oregon, the framework closing date is extended to the Sunday closest to March 1 (February 27). Regular dark goose seasons may be split into 3 segments within the Oregon and Washington quota zones.
Swans
In portions of the Pacific Flyway (Montana, Nevada, and Utah), an open season for taking a limited number of swans may be selected. Permits will be issued by the State and will authorize each permittee to take no more than 1 swan per season. Each State's season may open no earlier than the Saturday nearest October 1 (October 2). These seasons are also subject to the following conditions:
Montana: No more than 500 permits may be issued. The season must end no later than December 1. The State must implement a harvest-monitoring program to measure the species composition of the swan harvest and should use appropriate measures to maximize hunter compliance in reporting bill measurement and color information.
Utah: No more than 2,000 permits may be issued
the following conditions:
Montana: No more than 500 permits may be issued. The season must end no later than December 1. The State must implement a harvest-monitoring program to measure the species composition of the swan harvest and should use appropriate measures to maximize hunter compliance in reporting bill measurement and color information.
Utah: No more than 2,000 permits may be issued. During the swan season, no more than 10 trumpeter swans may be taken. The season must end no later than the second Sunday in December (December 12) or upon attainment of 10 trumpeter swans in the harvest, whichever occurs earliest. The Utah season remains subject to the terms of the Memorandum of Agreement entered into with the Service in August 2001, regarding harvest monitoring, season
Nevada: No more than 650 permits may be issued. During the swan season, no more than 5 trumpeter swans may be taken. The season must end no later than the Sunday following January 1 (January 2) or upon attainment of 5 trumpeter swans in the harvest, whichever occurs earliest.
In addition, the States of Utah and Nevada must implement a harvest-monitoring program to measure the species composition of the swan harvest. 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. The States should use appropriate measures to maximize hunter compliance in providing bagged swans for examination. Further, the States of Montana, Nevada, and Utah must achieve at least an 80-percent compliance rate, or subsequent permits will be reduced by 10 percent. All three States must provide to the Service by June 30, 2004, a report detailing harvest, hunter participation, reporting compliance, and monitoring of swan populations in the designated hunt areas
nce in providing bagged swans for examination. Further, the States of Montana, Nevada, and Utah must achieve at least an 80-percent compliance rate, or subsequent permits will be reduced by 10 percent. All three States must provide to the Service by June 30, 2004, a report detailing harvest, hunter participation, reporting compliance, and monitoring of swan populations in the designated hunt areas.
Tundra Swans
In portions of the Atlantic Flyway (North Carolina and Virginia) and the Central Flyway (North Dakota, South Dakota [east of the Missouri River], and that portion of Montana in the Central Flyway), an open season for taking a limited number of tundra swans may be selected. Permits will be issued by the 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 remaining after the first drawing. The States must obtain harvest and hunter participation data. These seasons are also subject to the following conditions:
In the Atlantic Flyway:
—The season is 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 (October 2) to January 31. —In the Central Flyway portion of Montana, no more than 500 permits may be issued. —In North Dakota, no more than 2,200 permits may be issued. —In South Dakota, no more than 1,300 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 State line to the intersection of Maine State Highway 11 in Newfield; then north and east along Route 11 to the intersection of U.S
ers) 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 State line 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 State line 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 State line.
Central Zone: That portion of the State east of the Berkshire Zone and west of a line extending south from the New Hampshire State line 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 State line; 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 State line 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 State line
e: That portion of the State east of a line extending west from the Maine State line 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 State line.
Inland Zone: That portion of the State north and west of the above boundary and along the Massachusetts State line 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 State line in Raritan Bay and extending west along the New York State line 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 State line 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 State line 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 State line.
Long Island Zone: That area consisting of Nassau County, Suffolk County, that area of Westchester County southeast of I-95, and their tidal waters
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 State line.
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 State line.
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 State line, 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 State line 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
xtending 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 State line 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 State line 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 State line; and along the State line to the point of beginning.
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 State line along Illinois Highway 92 to Interstate Highway 280, east along I-280 to I-80, then east along I-80 to the Indiana State line.
Central Zone: That portion of the State south of the North Zone to a line extending east from the Missouri State line along the Modoc Ferry route to Modoc Ferry Road, east along Modoc Ferry Road to Modoc Road, northeasterly along Modoc Road and St
rom the Iowa State line along Illinois Highway 92 to Interstate Highway 280, east along I-280 to I-80, then east along I-80 to the Indiana State line.
Central Zone: That portion of the State south of the North Zone to a line extending east from the Missouri State line 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 State line.
South Zone: The remainder of Illinois.
Indiana: North Zone: That portion of the State north of a line extending east from the Illinois State line 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 State line.
Ohio River Zone: That portion of the State south of a line extending east from the Illinois State line 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 State line.
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 State line 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 State line.
South Zone: The remainder of Iowa
on 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 State line 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 State line.
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 State line 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.
Middle Zone: That portion of the Lower Peninsula north of a line beginning at the Wisconsin State line 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, easterly along U.S. 10 to Interstate Highway 75/U.S. Highway 23, northerly along I-75/U.S. 23 to the U.S. 23 exit at Standish, easterly along U.S
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, easterly along U.S. 10 to Interstate Highway 75/U.S. Highway 23, northerly along I-75/U.S. 23 to the U.S. 23 exit at Standish, easterly along U.S. 23 to the centerline of the Au Gres River, then southerly along the centerline of the Au Gres River to Saginaw Bay, then on a line directly east 10 miles into Saginaw Bay, and from that point on a line directly northeast to the Canadian border.
South Zone: The remainder of Michigan.
Missouri: North Zone: That portion of Missouri north of a line running west from the Illinois State line (Lock and Dam 25) on Lincoln County Highway N to Missouri Highway 79; south on Missouri Highway 79 to Missouri Highway 47; west on Missouri Highway 47 to Interstate 70; west on Interstate 70 to U.S. Highway 54; south on U.S. Highway 54 to U.S. Highway 50; west on U.S. Highway 50 to the Kansas State line.
South Zone: That portion of Missouri south of a line running west from the Illinois State line on Missouri Highway 34 to Interstate 55; south on Interstate 55 to U.S. Highway 62; west on U.S. Highway 62 to Missouri Highway 53; north on Missouri Highway 53 to Missouri Highway 51; north on Missouri Highway 51 to U.S. Highway 60; west on U.S. Highway 60 to Missouri Highway 21; north on Missouri Highway 21 to Missouri Highway 72; west on Missouri Highway 72 to Missouri Highway 32; west on Missouri Highway 32 to U.S. Highway 65; north on U.S. Highway 65 to U.S. Highway 54; west on U.S. Highway 54 to the Kansas State line.
Middle Zone: The remainder of Missouri.
Ohio: North Zone: That portion of the State north of a line extending east from the Indiana State line along U.S
h on Missouri Highway 21 to Missouri Highway 72; west on Missouri Highway 72 to Missouri Highway 32; west on Missouri Highway 32 to U.S. Highway 65; north on U.S. Highway 65 to U.S. Highway 54; west on U.S. Highway 54 to the Kansas State line.
Middle Zone: The remainder of Missouri.
Ohio: North Zone: That portion of the State north of a line extending east from the Indiana State line along U.S. Highway 30 to State Route 37, south along SR 37 to SR 95, east along SR 95 to LaRue-Prospect Road, east along LaRue-Prospect Road to SR 203, south along SR 203 to SR 739, east along SR 739 to SR 4, north along SR 4 to SR 309, east along SR 309 to U.S. 23, north along U.S. 23 to SR 231, north along SR 231 to U.S. 30, east along U.S. 30 to SR 42, north along SR 42 to SR 603, south along SR 603 to U.S. 30, east along U.S. 30 to SR 60, south along SR 60 to SR 39/60, east along SR 39/60 to SR 39, east along SR 39 to SR 241, east along SR
South Zone: The remainder of Ohio.
Tennessee: Reelfoot Zone: All or portions of Lake and Obion Counties.
State Zone: The remainder of Tennessee.
Wisconsin: North Zone: That portion of the State north of a line extending east from the Minnesota State line along State Highway 77 to State 27, south along State 27 and 77 to U.S. Highway 63, and continuing south along State 27 to Sawyer County Road B, south and east along County B to State 70, southwest along State 70 to State 27, south along State 27 to State 64, west along State 64/27 and south along State 27 to U.S. 12, south and east on State 27/U.S. 12 to U.S. 10, east on U.S
Minnesota State line along State Highway 77 to State 27, south along State 27 and 77 to U.S. Highway 63, and continuing south along State 27 to Sawyer County Road B, south and east along County B to State 70, southwest along State 70 to State 27, south along State 27 to State 64, west along State 64/27 and south along State 27 to U.S. 12, south and east on State 27/U.S. 12 to U.S. 10, east on U.S. 10 to State 310, east along State 310 to State 42, north along State 42 to State 147, north along State 147 to State 163, north along State 163 to Kewaunee County Trunk A, north along County Trunk A to State 57, north along State 57 to the Kewaunee/Door County Line, west along the Kewaunee/Door County Line to the Door/Brown County Line, west along the Door/Brown County Line to the Door/Oconto/Brown County Line, northeast along the Door/Oconto County Line to the Marinette/Door County Line, northeast along the Marinette/Door County Line to the Michigan State line.
South Zone: The remainder of Wisconsin.
Central Flyway
Kansas: High Plains Zone: That portion of the State west of U.S. 283.
Low Plains Early Zone: That area of Kansas east of U.S. 283, and generally west of a line beginning at the Junction of the Nebraska State line and KS 28; south on KS 28 to U.S. 36; east on U.S. 36 to KS 199; south on KS 199 to Republic Co. Road 563; south on Republic Co. Road 563 to KS 148; east on KS 148 to Republic Co. Road 138; south on Republic Co. Road 138 to Cloud Co. Road 765; south on Cloud Co. Road 765 to KS 9; west on KS 9 to U.S. 24; west on U.S. 24 to U.S. 281; north on U.S. 281 to U.S. 36; west on U.S. 36 to U.S. 183; south on U.S. 183 to U.S. 24; west on U.S. 24 to KS 18; southeast on KS 18 to U.S. 183; south on U.S. 183 to KS 4; east on KS 4 to I-135; south on I-135 to KS 61; southwest on KS 61 to KS 96; northwest on KS 96 to U.S. 56; west on U.S. 56 to U.S. 281; south on U.S. 281 to U.S. 54; and west on U.S. 54 to U.S. 183; north on U.S. 183 to U.S. 56; southwest on U.S. 56 to U.S. 283
n U.S. 36 to U.S. 183; south on U.S. 183 to U.S. 24; west on U.S. 24 to KS 18; southeast on KS 18 to U.S. 183; south on U.S. 183 to KS 4; east on KS 4 to I-135; south on I-135 to KS 61; southwest on KS 61 to KS 96; northwest on KS 96 to U.S. 56; west on U.S. 56 to U.S. 281; south on U.S. 281 to U.S. 54; and west on U.S. 54 to U.S. 183; north on U.S. 183 to U.S. 56; southwest on U.S. 56 to U.S. 283.
Low Plains Late Zone: The remainder of Kansas.
Montana (Central Flyway Portion): Zone 1: The Counties of Blaine, Carbon, Carter, Daniels, Dawson, Fallon, Fergus, Garfield, Golden Valley, Judith Basin, McCone, Musselshell, Petroleum, Phillips, Powder River, Richland, Roosevelt, Sheridan, Stillwater, Sweet Grass, Valley, Wheatland, Wibaux, and Yellowstone.
Zone 2: The remainder of Montana.
Nebraska: High Plains Zone: That portion of the State west of highways U.S. 183 and U.S. 20 from the South Dakota State line to Ainsworth, NE 7 and NE 91 to Dunning, NE 2 to Merna, NE 92 to Arnold, NE 40 and NE 47 through Gothenburg to NE 23, NE 23 to Elwood, and U.S. 283 to the Kansas State line.
Low Plains Zone 1: That portion of the State east of the High Plains Zone and north and west of a line extending from the South Dakota State line along NE 26E Spur to NE 12, west on NE 12 to the Knox/Boyd County line, south along the county line to the Niobrara River and along the Niobrara River to U.S. 183 (the High Plains Zone line). Where the Niobrara River forms the boundary, both banks will be in Zone 1.
Low Plains Zone 2: Area bounded by designated Federal and State highways and political boundaries beginning at the Kansas-Nebraska State line on U.S. Hwy. 73; north to NE Hwy. 67 north to U.S. Hwy 136; east to the Steamboat Trace (Trace); north to Federal Levee R-562; north and west to the Trace/Burlington Northern Railroad right-of-way; north to NE Hwy 2; west to U.S. Hwy 75; north to NE Hwy. 2; west to NE Hwy. 43; north to U.S. Hwy. 34; east to NE Hwy. 63; north and west to U.S. Hwy. 77; north to NE Hwy. 92; west to U.S
ska State line on U.S. Hwy. 73; north to NE Hwy. 67 north to U.S. Hwy 136; east to the Steamboat Trace (Trace); north to Federal Levee R-562; north and west to the Trace/Burlington Northern Railroad right-of-way; north to NE Hwy 2; west to U.S. Hwy 75; north to NE Hwy. 2; west to NE Hwy. 43; north to U.S. Hwy. 34; east to NE Hwy. 63; north and west to U.S. Hwy. 77; north to NE Hwy. 92; west to U.S. Hwy. 81; south to NE Hwy. 66; west to NE Hwy. 14; south to U.S. Hwy 34; west to NE Hwy. 2; south to U.S. Hwy. I-80; west to Gunbarrrel Rd. (Hall/Hamilton county line); south to Giltner Rd.; west to U.S. Hwy. 281; south to U.S. Hwy. 34; west to NE Hwy 10; north to County Road “R” (Kearney County) and County Road #742 (Phelps County); west to County Road #438 (Gosper County line); south along County Road #438 (Gosper County line) to County Road #726 (Furnas County Line); east to County Road #438 (Harlan County Line); south to U.S. Hwy 34; south and west to U.S. Hwy. 136; east to NE Hwy. 10; south to the Kansas-Nebraska State line.
Low Plains Zone 3: The area east of the High Plains Zone, excluding Low Plains Zone 1, north of Low Plains Zone 2.
Low Plains Zone 4: The area east of the High Plains Zone and south of Zone 2.
New Mexico (Central Flyway Portion): North Zone: That portion of the State north of I-40 and U.S. 54.
South Zone: The remainder of New Mexico.
North Dakota: High Plains Unit: That portion of the State south and west of a line from the South Dakota State line along U.S. 83 and I-94 to ND 41, north to U.S. 2, west to the Williams/Divide County line, then north along the County line to the Canadian border.
Low Plains: The remainder of North Dakota.
Oklahoma: High Plains Zone: The Counties of Beaver, Cimarron, and Texas.
Low Plains Zone 1: That portion of the State east of the High Plains Zone and north of a line extending east from the Texas State line along OK 33 to OK 47, east along OK 47 to U.S. 183, south along U.S. 183 to I-40, east along I-40 to U.S. 177, north along U.S
Canadian border.
Low Plains: The remainder of North Dakota.
Oklahoma: High Plains Zone: The Counties of Beaver, Cimarron, and Texas.
Low Plains Zone 1: That portion of the State east of the High Plains Zone and north of a line extending east from the Texas State line along OK 33 to OK 47, east along OK 47 to U.S. 183, south along U.S. 183 to I-40, east along I-40 to U.S. 177, north along U.S. 177 to OK 33, west along OK 33 to I-35, north along I-35 to U.S. 412, west along U.S. 412 to OK 132, then north along OK 132 to the Kansas State line.
Low Plains Zone 2: The remainder of Oklahoma.
South Dakota: High Plains Unit: That portion of the State west of a line beginning at the North Dakota State line and extending south along U.S. 83 to U.S. 14, east along U.S. 14 to Blunt-Canning Road in Blunt, south along Blunt-Canning Road to SD 34, east to SD 47, south to I-90, east to SD 47, south to SD 49, south to Colome and then continuing south on U.S. 183 to the Nebraska State line.
North Zone: That portion of northeastern South Dakota east of the High Plains Unit and north of a line extending east along U.S. 212 to the Minnesota State line.
South Zone: That po

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Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/statutes/FR_PRORULE_04-19249. Check the current official text before relying on it. Not legal advice.