2015-2016 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations

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Federal Register › Vol. 80 › 80 FR 33342

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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service 50 CFR Part 32 [Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2015-0029; FXRS12650900000-156-FF09R20000] RIN 1018-BA57 2015-2016 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations AGENCY:

Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION:

Proposed rule.

SUMMARY:

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, propose to add 1 national wildlife refuge (NWR or refuge) to the list of areas open for hunting, add 4 NWRs to the list of areas open for fishing, increase the hunting activities available at 16 other NWRs, increase fishing opportunities at 1 NWR, and add pertinent refuge-specific regulations for other NWRs that pertain to migratory game bird hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting, and sport fishing for the 2015-2016 season.

DATES:

We will accept comments received or postmarked on or before July 13, 2015.

ADDRESSES:

You may submit comments by one of the following methods:

• Electronically: Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov . Search for Docket No. FWS-HQ-NWRS-2015-0029, which is the docket number for this rulemaking. On the resulting screen, find the correct document and submit a comment by clicking on “Comment Now!”

• By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail or hand delivery: Public Comments Processing, Attn: FWS-HQ-NWRS-2015-0029, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MS: BPHC, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803.

We will not accept email or faxes. We will post all comments on http://www.regulations.gov . This generally means that we will post any personal information you provide us (see the Request for Comments section, below, for more information). For information on specific refuges' public use programs and the conditions that apply to them or for copies of compatibility determinations for any refuge(s), contact individual programs at the addresses/phone numbers given in Available Information for Specific Refuges under SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION .

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Brian Salem, (703) 358-2397

below, for more information). For information on specific refuges' public use programs and the conditions that apply to them or for copies of compatibility determinations for any refuge(s), contact individual programs at the addresses/phone numbers given in Available Information for Specific Refuges under SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION .

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Brian Salem, (703) 358-2397.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 closes NWRs in all States except Alaska to all uses until opened. The Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) may open refuge areas to any use, including hunting and/or sport fishing, upon a determination that such uses are compatible with the purposes of the refuge and National Wildlife Refuge System mission. The action also must be in accordance with provisions of all laws applicable to the areas, developed in coordination with the appropriate State fish and wildlife agency(ies), consistent with the principles of sound fish and wildlife management and administration, and otherwise in the public interest. These requirements ensure that we maintain the biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health of the Refuge System for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.

We annually review refuge hunting and sport fishing programs to determine whether to include additional refuges or whether individual refuge regulations governing existing programs need modifications. Changing environmental conditions, State and Federal regulations, and other factors affecting fish and wildlife populations and habitat may warrant modifications to refuge-specific regulations to ensure the continued compatibility of hunting and sport fishing programs and to ensure that these programs will not materially interfere with or detract from the fulfillment of refuge purposes or the Refuge System's mission

tal conditions, State and Federal regulations, and other factors affecting fish and wildlife populations and habitat may warrant modifications to refuge-specific regulations to ensure the continued compatibility of hunting and sport fishing programs and to ensure that these programs will not materially interfere with or detract from the fulfillment of refuge purposes or the Refuge System's mission.

Provisions governing hunting and sport fishing on refuges are in title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations in part 32 (50 CFR part 32). We regulate hunting and sport fishing on refuges to:

• Ensure compatibility with refuge purpose(s);

• Properly manage fish and wildlife resource(s);

• Protect other refuge values;

• Ensure refuge visitor safety; and

• Provide opportunities for quality fish- and wildlife-dependent recreation.

On many refuges where we decide to allow hunting and sport fishing, our general policy of adopting regulations identical to State hunting and sport fishing regulations is adequate in meeting these objectives. On other refuges, we must supplement State regulations with more-restrictive Federal regulations to ensure that we meet our management responsibilities, as outlined in the Statutory Authority section, below. We issue refuge-specific hunting and sport fishing regulations when we open wildlife refuges to migratory game bird hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting, or sport fishing. These regulations may list the wildlife species that you may hunt or fish, seasons, bag or creel (container for carrying fish) limits, methods of hunting or sport fishing, descriptions of areas open to hunting or sport fishing, and other provisions as appropriate. You may find previously issued refuge-specific regulations for hunting and sport fishing in 50 CFR part 32. In this rulemaking, we are also proposing to standardize and clarify the language of existing regulations.

Statutory Authority

The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 (16 U.S.C

riptions of areas open to hunting or sport fishing, and other provisions as appropriate. You may find previously issued refuge-specific regulations for hunting and sport fishing in 50 CFR part 32. In this rulemaking, we are also proposing to standardize and clarify the language of existing regulations.

Statutory Authority

The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 (16 U.S.C. 668dd-668ee, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997 [Improvement Act]) (Administration Act), and the Refuge Recreation Act of 1962 (16 U.S.C. 460k-460k-4) (Recreation Act) govern the administration and public use of refuges.

Amendments enacted by the Improvement Act built upon the Administration Act in a manner that provides an “organic act” for the Refuge System, similar to organic acts that exist for other public Federal lands. The Improvement Act serves to ensure that we effectively manage the Refuge System as a national network of lands, waters, and interests for the protection and conservation of our Nation's wildlife resources. The Administration Act states first and foremost that we focus our Refuge System mission on conservation of fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitats. The Improvement Act requires the Secretary, before allowing a new use of a refuge, or before expanding, renewing, or extending an existing use of a refuge, to determine that the use is compatible with the purpose for which the refuge was established and the mission of the Refuge System. The Improvement Act established as the policy of the United States that wildlife-dependent recreation, when compatible, is a legitimate and appropriate public use of the Refuge System, through which the American public can develop an appreciation for fish and wildlife. The Improvement Act established six wildlife-dependent recreational uses as the priority general public uses of the Refuge System

The Improvement Act established as the policy of the United States that wildlife-dependent recreation, when compatible, is a legitimate and appropriate public use of the Refuge System, through which the American public can develop an appreciation for fish and wildlife. The Improvement Act established six wildlife-dependent recreational uses as the priority general public uses of the Refuge System. These uses are: Hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, and environmental education and interpretation.

The Recreation Act authorizes the Secretary to administer areas within the Refuge System for public recreation as an appropriate incidental or secondary use only to the extent that doing so is practicable and not inconsistent with the primary purpose(s) for which

The Administration Act and Recreation Act also authorize the Secretary to issue regulations to carry out the purposes of the Acts and regulate uses.

We develop specific management plans for each refuge prior to opening it to hunting or sport fishing. In many cases, we develop refuge-specific regulations to ensure the compatibility of the programs with the purpose(s) for which we established the refuge and the Refuge System mission. We ensure initial compliance with the Administration Act and the Recreation Act for hunting and sport fishing on newly acquired refuges through an interim determination of compatibility made at or near the time of acquisition. These regulations ensure that we make the determinations required by these acts prior to adding refuges to the lists of areas open to hunting and sport fishing in 50 CFR part 32. We ensure continued compliance by the development of comprehensive conservation plans, specific plans, and by annual review of hunting and sport fishing programs and regulations

ty made at or near the time of acquisition. These regulations ensure that we make the determinations required by these acts prior to adding refuges to the lists of areas open to hunting and sport fishing in 50 CFR part 32. We ensure continued compliance by the development of comprehensive conservation plans, specific plans, and by annual review of hunting and sport fishing programs and regulations.

Amendments to Existing Regulations

This document proposes to codify in the Code of Federal Regulations all of the Service's hunting and/or sport fishing regulations that we would update since the last time we published a rule amending these regulations (79 FR 14809; March 17, 2014) and that are applicable at Refuge System units previously opened to hunting and/or sport fishing. We propose this to better inform the general public of the regulations at each refuge, to increase understanding and compliance with these regulations, and to make enforcement of these regulations more efficient. In addition to now finding these regulations in 50 CFR part 32, visitors to our refuges may find them reiterated in literature distributed by each refuge or posted on signs.

We cross-reference a number of existing regulations in 50 CFR parts 26, 27, 28, and 32 to assist hunting and sport fishing visitors with understanding safety and other legal requirements on refuges. This redundancy is deliberate, with the intention of improving safety and compliance in our hunting and sport fishing programs.

Table 1—Changes for 2015-2016 Hunting/Fishing Season Refuge/Region (*) State Migratory bird hunting Upland game hunting Big game hunting Sport fishing Ardoch NWR (6) North Dakota Closed Closed Closed A. Bayou Cocodrie NWR (4) Louisiana Already open C C/D Already open. Great River NWR (3) Illinois and Missouri Already open C C Already Open. Lake Alice NWR (6) North Dakota Already open Already open Already open B. Merritt Island NWR (4) Florida Already open Closed B Already open

atory bird hunting Upland game hunting Big game hunting Sport fishing Ardoch NWR (6) North Dakota Closed Closed Closed A. Bayou Cocodrie NWR (4) Louisiana Already open C C/D Already open. Great River NWR (3) Illinois and Missouri Already open C C Already Open. Lake Alice NWR (6) North Dakota Already open Already open Already open B. Merritt Island NWR (4) Florida Already open Closed B Already open. Mingo NWR (3) Missouri Already open Already open D Already open. Minnesota Valley NWR (3) Minnesota Already open D Already open Already open. Missisquoi NWR (5) Vermont C/D C/D C/D Already open. Northern Tallgrass Prairie NWR (3) Iowa and Minnesota C/D C/D C/D Closed. Patoka River NWR and Management Area (3) Indiana C C C C. Prime Hook NWR (5) Delaware C C/D C Already open. Rose Lake NWR (6) North Dakota Closed Closed Closed A. Sacramento River NWR (8) California Already open Already open C/D Already open. St. Marks NWR (4) Florida Already open C C Already open. Seney NWR (3) Michigan C C C Already open. Silver Lake NWR (6) North Dakota Closed Closed Closed A. Swan Lake NWR (3) Missouri C/D C/D C/D Already open. Tualatin River NWR (1) Oregon A Closed Closed Closed. Two Rivers NWR (3) Illinois and Missouri C Already Open C Already open. Wallkill River NWR (5) New Jersey and New York Already open B C/D Already open. William L. Finley NWR (1) Oregon Closed Closed D Closed. Key: * number in () refers to the Region as explained in the preamble to this proposed rule for additional information regarding refuge specific regulations. A = New refuge opened. B = New activity on a refuge previously open to other activities. C = Refuge already open to activity, but added new lands/waters or modified areas open to hunting or fishing. D = Refuge already open to activity but added new species to hunt

fers to the Region as explained in the preamble to this proposed rule for additional information regarding refuge specific regulations. A = New refuge opened. B = New activity on a refuge previously open to other activities. C = Refuge already open to activity, but added new lands/waters or modified areas open to hunting or fishing. D = Refuge already open to activity but added new species to hunt. The changes for the 2015-16 hunting/fishing season noted in the chart above are each based on a complete administrative record which, among other detailed documentation, also includes a hunt plan, a compatibility determination, and the appropriate National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA; 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) analysis, all of which were the subject of a public review and comment process. These documents are available upon request.

Fish Advisory

For health reasons, anglers should review and follow State-issued consumption advisories before enjoying recreational sport fishing opportunities on Service-managed waters. You can find information about current fish consumption advisories on the Internet at: http://www.epa.gov/waterscience/fish/ .

Plain Language Mandate

In this proposed rule, we propose some of the revisions to the individual i.e., “We restrict entry into the refuge” vs. “Entry into the refuge is restricted”).

Request for Comments

You may submit comment and materials on this proposed rule by any one of the methods listed in the ADDRESSES section. We will not accept comments sent by email or fax or to an address not listed in the ADDRESSES section. We will not consider hand-delivered comments that we do not receive, or mailed comments that are not postmarked, by the date specified in the DATES section.

delivered comments that we do not receive, or mailed comments that are not postmarked, by the date specified in the DATES section.

We will post your entire comment on http://www.regulations.gov . Before including personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware that we may make your entire comment—including your personal identifying information—publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. We will post all hardcopy comments on http://www.regulations.gov .

Public Comment

Department of the Interior policy is, whenever practicable, to afford the public a meaningful opportunity to participate in the rulemaking process. The process of opening refuges is done in stages, with the fundamental work being performed on the ground at the refuge and in the community where the program is administered. In these stages, the public is given other opportunities to comment, for example, on the comprehensive conservation plans and the compatibility determinations. The second stage is this document, when we publish the proposed rule in the Federal Register for additional comment, commonly for a 30-day comment period.

There is nothing contained in this proposed rule outside the scope of the annual review process where we determine whether individual refuges need modifications, deletions, or additions made to them. We make every attempt to collect all of the proposals from the refuges nationwide and process them expeditiously to maximize the time available for public review. We believe that a 30-day comment period, through the broader publication following the earlier public involvement, gives the public sufficient time to comment and allows us to establish hunting and fishing programs in time for the upcoming seasons. Many of these rules would also relieve restrictions and allow the public to participate in recreational activities on a number of refuges

ublic review. We believe that a 30-day comment period, through the broader publication following the earlier public involvement, gives the public sufficient time to comment and allows us to establish hunting and fishing programs in time for the upcoming seasons. Many of these rules would also relieve restrictions and allow the public to participate in recreational activities on a number of refuges. In addition, in order to continue to provide for previously authorized hunting opportunities while at the same time providing for adequate resource protection, we must be timely in providing modifications to certain hunting programs on some refuges.

We considered providing a 60-day, rather than a 30-day, comment period. However, we determined that an additional 30-day delay in processing these refuge-specific hunting and sport fishing regulations would hinder the effective planning and administration of our hunting and sport fishing programs. Such a delay would jeopardize enacting amendments to hunting and sport fishing programs in time for implementation this year and/or early next year, or shorten the duration of these programs.

Even after issuance of a final rule, we accept comments, suggestions, and concerns for consideration for any appropriate subsequent rulemaking.

When finalized, we will incorporate these regulations into 50 CFR part 32. Part 32 contains general provisions and refuge-specific regulations for hunting and sport fishing on refuges.

Clarity of This Rule

Executive Orders 12866 and 12988 and the Presidential Memorandum of June 1, 1998, require us to write all rules in plain language. This means that each rule we publish must:

(a) Be logically organized;

(b) Use the active voice to address readers directly;

(d) Be divided into short sections and sentences; and

g on refuges.

Clarity of This Rule

Executive Orders 12866 and 12988 and the Presidential Memorandum of June 1, 1998, require us to write all rules in plain language. This means that each rule we publish must:

(a) Be logically organized;

(b) Use the active voice to address readers directly;

(d) Be divided into short sections and sentences; and

(e) Use lists and tables wherever possible.

If you feel that we have not met these requirements, send us comments by one of the methods listed in the ADDRESSES section. To better help us revise the rule, your comments should be as specific as possible. For example, you should tell us the numbers of the sections or paragraphs that are unclearly written, which sections or sentences are too long, the sections where you feel lists or tables would be useful, etc.

Regulatory Planning and Review (Executive Orders 12866 and 13563)

Executive Order 12866 provides that the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) will review all significant rules. OIRA has determined that this rule is not significant.

Executive Order 13563 reaffirms the principles of E.O. 12866 while calling for improvements in the nation's regulatory system to promote predictability, to reduce uncertainty, and to use the best, most innovative, and least burdensome tools for achieving regulatory ends. The executive order directs agencies to consider regulatory approaches that reduce burdens and maintain flexibility and freedom of choice for the public where these approaches are relevant, feasible, and consistent with regulatory objectives. E.O. 13563 emphasizes further that regulations must be based on the best available science and that the rulemaking process must allow for public participation and an open exchange of ideas. We have developed this rule in a manner consistent with these requirements

xibility and freedom of choice for the public where these approaches are relevant, feasible, and consistent with regulatory objectives. E.O. 13563 emphasizes further that regulations must be based on the best available science and that the rulemaking process must allow for public participation and an open exchange of ideas. We have developed this rule in a manner consistent with these requirements.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (as amended by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act [SBREFA] of 1996) (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq. ), whenever a Federal agency is required to publish a notice of rulemaking for any proposed or final rule, it must prepare and make available for public comment a regulatory flexibility analysis that describes the effect of the rule on small entities ( i.e., small businesses, small organizations, and small government jurisdictions). However, no regulatory flexibility analysis is required if the head of an agency certifies that the rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. Thus, for a regulatory flexibility analysis to be required, impacts must exceed a threshold for “significant impact” and a threshold for a “substantial number of small entities.” See 5 U.S.C. 605(b). SBREFA amended the Regulatory Flexibility Act to require Federal agencies to provide a statement of the factual basis for certifying that a rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.

This proposed rule adds 1 NWR to the list of refuges open to hunting and increases hunting activities on 16 additional NWRs. It adds 4 NWRs to the list of refuges open to fishing and increases fishing activities at 1 additional NWR

gencies to provide a statement of the factual basis for certifying that a rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.

Table 2—Estimated Change in Recreation Opportunities in 2015/2016 [Dollars in thousands] Refuge Additional days Additional expenditures Ardoch 150 $6.2 Bayou Cocodrie 60 2.3 Great River 185 7.2 Lake Alice 6,442 266.7 Merritt Island 1,350 52.5 Mingo 0 Minnesota Valley 64 2.5 Missisquoi 665 25.9 Northern Tallgrass Prairie 125 4.9 Patoka River 1,112 45.5 Prime Hook 336 13.1 Rose Lake 502 20.8 Sacramento River 250 9.7 St. Marks 1,000 38.9 Seney 0 Silver Lake 2,244 92.9 Swan Lake 1,320 51.4 Tualatin River 224 8.7 Two Rivers 195 7.6 Wallkill River 30 1.2 William L. Finley 12 0.5 Total 16,266 658.5 To the extent visitors spend time and money in the area of the refuge that they would not have spent there anyway, they contribute new income to the regional economy and benefit local businesses. Due to the unavailability of site-specific expenditure data, we use the national estimates from the 2011 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife Associated Recreation to identify expenditures for food and lodging, transportation, and other incidental expenses. Using the average expenditures for these categories with the maximum expected additional participation of the Refuge System yields approximately $658,500 in recreation-related expenditures (Table 2). By having ripple effects throughout the economy, these direct expenditures are only part of the economic impact of these recreational activities

lodging, transportation, and other incidental expenses. Using the average expenditures for these categories with the maximum expected additional participation of the Refuge System yields approximately $658,500 in recreation-related expenditures (Table 2). By having ripple effects throughout the economy, these direct expenditures are only part of the economic impact of these recreational activities. Using a national impact multiplier for hunting activities (2.27) derived from the report “Hunting in America: An Economic Force for Conservation” and for fishing activities (2.40) derived from the report “Sportfishing in America” yields a total economic impact of approximately $1.55 million (2014 dollars) (Southwick Associates, Inc., 2012). Using a local impact multiplier would yield more accurate and smaller results. However, we employed the national impact multiplier due to the difficulty in developing local multipliers for each specific region.

Since we know that most of the fishing and hunting occurs within 100 miles of a participant's residence, then it is unlikely that most of this spending would be “new” money coming into a local economy; therefore, this spending would be offset with a decrease in some other sector of the local economy. The net gain to the local economies would be no more than $1.55 million, and most likely considerably less. Since 80 percent of the participants travel less than 100 miles to engage in hunting and fishing activities, their spending patterns would not add new money into the local economy and, therefore, the real impact would be on the order of about $310,000 annually.

pact would be on the order of about $310,000 annually.

Small businesses within the retail trade industry (such as hotels, gas stations, taxidermy shops, bait and tackle shops, and similar businesses) may be impacted from some increased or decreased refuge visitation. A large percentage of these retail trade establishments in the local communities around NWRs qualify as small businesses (Table 3). We expect that the incremental recreational changes will be scattered, and so we do not expect that the rule will have a significant economic effect on a substantial number of small entities in any region or nationally. As noted previously, we expect approximately $310,000 to be spent in total in the refuges' local economies. The maximum increase at most would be less than one-tenth of 1 percent for local retail trade spending (Table 3).

Table 3—Comparative Expenditures for Retail Trade Associated With Additional Refuge Visitation for 2015/2016 [Thousands, 2014 dollars] Refuge/county(ies) Retail trade in 2007 Estimated maximum addition from new activities Addition as % of total Establishments in 2012 Establ. with <10 emp in 2012 Ardoch Walsh, ND $112,752 $6.2 0.006 58 40 Bayou Cocodrie Concordia, LA 222,552 2.3 0.001 83 60 Great River Adams, IL 1,059,889 1.4 <0.001 300 202 Pike, IL 155,819 1.4 0.001 53 36 Clark, MO 101,269 1.4 0.001 35 28 Shelby, MO 56,054 1.4 0.003 35 25 Lewis, MO 67,717 1.4 0.002 30 20 Lake Alice Ramsey, ND 267,463 266.7 0.100 80 56 Merritt Island Brevard, FL 7,528,790 26.3 <0.001 1,956 1,443 Volusia, FL 6,964,692 26.3 <0.001 1,871 1,412 Minnesota Valley Carver, MN 921,566 0.4 <0.001 209 132 Dakota, MN 5,896,056 0.4 <0.001 1,132 689 Hennepin, MN 25,437,206 0.4 <0.001 4,209 2,657 Le Sueur, MN 235,446 0.4 <0.001 84 58 Scott, MN 1,335,522 0.4 <0.001 323 215 Sibley, MN 86,154 0.4 <0.001 54 39 Missisquoi Franklin, VT 622,657 12.9 0.002 197 129 Orleans, VT 370,098 12.9 0.003 147 110 Northern Tallgrass Prairie Dickinson, IA 291,367 0.5 <0.001 111 85 Kossuth, IA 223,589 0.5 <0.001 93 69 Clay, MN 719,600 0.

96,056 0.4 <0.001 1,132 689 Hennepin, MN 25,437,206 0.4 <0.001 4,209 2,657 Le Sueur, MN 235,446 0.4 <0.001 84 58 Scott, MN 1,335,522 0.4 <0.001 323 215 Sibley, MN 86,154 0.4 <0.001 54 39 Missisquoi Franklin, VT 622,657 12.9 0.002 197 129 Orleans, VT 370,098 12.9 0.003 147 110 Northern Tallgrass Prairie Dickinson, IA 291,367 0.5 <0.001 111 85 Kossuth, IA 223,589 0.5 <0.001 93 69 Clay, MN 719,600 0.5 <0.001 163 97 Kittson, MN 47,141 0.5 0.001 30 21 Murray, MN 53,206 0.5 0.001 43 34 Rock, MN 124,588 0.5 <0.001 42 31 Otter Tail, MN 804,419 0.5 <0.001 261 201 Lincoln, MN 60,635 0.5 0.001 38 29 Stevens, MN 194,164 0.5 <0.001 50 32 Patoka River Gibson, IN 505,351 22.8 0.005 122 84 Pike, IN 63,864 22.8 0.036 31 23 Prime Hook Sussex, DE 3,401,815 13 <0.001 1,107 789 Rose Lake Nelson, ND 27,841 20.8 0.075 19 15 Sacramento River Tehama, CA 839,653 2.4 <0.001 153 118 Glenn, CA 232,872 2.4 0.001 73 58 Butte, CA 2,740,982 2.4 <0.001 723 517 Colusa, CA 238,107 2.4 0.001 59 45 Saint Marks Wakulla, FL 191,471 13.0 0.007 62 49 Jefferson, FL 101,289 13.0 0.013 43 35 Taylor, FL 236,429 13.0 0.005 86 67 Silver Lake Benson, ND 22,991 46.46 0.202 9 7 Ramsey, ND 267,463 46.46 0.017 80 56 Swan Lake Bates, MO 154,620 10.3 0.007 59 47 Cedar, MO 136,878 10.3 0.008 48 34 Chariton, MO 59,162 10.3 0.017 41 32 Henry, MO 324,554 10.3 0.003 115 88 St. Claire, MO 73,925 10.3 0.014 34 21 Tualatin River Washington, OR 9,995,463 8.7 <0.001 1,594 1,002 Two Rivers Calhoun, IN 25,469 7.6 0.030 15 9 Wallkill River Sussex, NJ 1,966,557 0.2 <0.001 414 299 Orange, NY 6,541,423 0.2 <0.001 1,503 1,017 William L. Finley Benton, OR 782,306 0.2 <0.001 262 184 Linn, OR 1,323,264 0.2 <0.001 339 247 With the small change in overall spending anticipated from this proposed rule, it is unlikely that a substantial number of small entities will have more than a small impact from the spending change near the affected refuges

ussex, NJ 1,966,557 0.2 <0.001 414 299 Orange, NY 6,541,423 0.2 <0.001 1,503 1,017 William L. Finley Benton, OR 782,306 0.2 <0.001 262 184 Linn, OR 1,323,264 0.2 <0.001 339 247 With the small change in overall spending anticipated from this proposed rule, it is unlikely that a substantial number of small entities will have more than a small impact from the spending change near the affected refuges. Therefore, we certify that this proposed rule will not have a significant economic effect on a substantial number of small entities as defined under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq. ). An initial regulatory flexibility analysis is not required. Accordingly, a small entity compliance guide is not required.

Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act

The proposed rule is not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804(2), the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. We anticipate no significant employment or small business effects. This rule:

a. Would not have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more. The minimal impact would be scattered across the country and would most likely not be significant in any local area.

b. Would not cause a major increase in costs or prices for consumers; individual industries; Federal, State, or local government agencies; or geographic regions. This proposed rule would have only a slight effect on the costs of hunting opportunities for Americans. If the substitute sites are farther from the participants' residences, then an increase in travel costs would occur. The Service does not have information to quantify this change in travel cost but assumes that, since most people travel less than 100 miles to hunt, the increased travel cost would be small. We do not expect this proposed rule to affect the supply or demand for hunting opportunities in the United States and, therefore, it should not affect prices for hunting equipment and supplies, or the retailers that sell equipment.

information to quantify this change in travel cost but assumes that, since most people travel less than 100 miles to hunt, the increased travel cost would be small. We do not expect this proposed rule to affect the supply or demand for hunting opportunities in the United States and, therefore, it should not affect prices for hunting equipment and supplies, or the retailers that sell equipment.

c. Would not have significant adverse effects on competition, employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises. This proposed rule represents only a small proportion of recreational spending at NWRs. Therefore, this rule would have no measurable economic effect on the wildlife-dependent industry, which has annual sales of equipment and travel expenditures of $72 billion nationwide.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

Since this proposed rule would apply to public use of federally owned and managed refuges, it would not impose an unfunded mandate on State, local, or Tribal governments or the private sector of more than $100 million per year. The rule would not have a significant or unique effect on State, local, or Tribal governments or the private sector. A statement containing the information required by the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) is not required.

Takings (E.O. 12630)

In accordance with E.O. 12630, this proposed rule would not have significant takings implications. This rule would affect only visitors at NWRs and describe what they can do while they are on a refuge.

Federalism (E.O. 13132)

As discussed in the Regulatory Planning and Review and Unfunded Mandates Reform Act sections, above, this proposed rule would not have sufficient federalism summary impact statement implications to warrant the preparation of a federalism summary impact statement under E.O. 13132. In preparing this proposed rule, we worked with State governments.

Civil Justice Reform (E.O. 12988)

In accordance with E.O

ssed in the Regulatory Planning and Review and Unfunded Mandates Reform Act sections, above, this proposed rule would not have sufficient federalism summary impact statement implications to warrant the preparation of a federalism summary impact statement under E.O. 13132. In preparing this proposed rule, we worked with State governments.

Civil Justice Reform (E.O. 12988)

In accordance with E.O. 12988, the Office of the Solicitor has determined that this proposed rule would not unduly burden the judicial system and that it meets the requirements of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of the Order. The rule would clarify established regulations and result in better understanding of the regulations by refuge visitors.

Energy Supply, Distribution or Use (E.O. 13211)

On May 18, 2001, the President issued E.O. 13211 on regulations that significantly affect energy supply, distribution, and use. E.O. 13211 requires agencies to prepare Statements of Energy Effects when undertaking certain actions. Because this proposed rule would add a new hunt at 1 NWR, increase hunting activities at 16 other NWRs, add fishing to 4 NWRs, and increase fishing opportunities at 1 NWR, it is not a significant regulatory action under E.O. 12866, and we do not expect it to significantly affect energy supplies, distribution, and use. Therefore, this action is not a significant energy action and no Statement of Energy Effects is required.

Consultation and Coordination With Indian Tribal Governments (E.O. 13175)

In accordance with E.O. 13175, we have evaluated possible effects on federally recognized Indian tribes and have determined that there are no effects. We coordinate recreational use on NWRs with Tribal governments having adjoining or overlapping jurisdiction before we propose the regulations.

Paperwork Reduction Act

here are no effects. We coordinate recreational use on NWRs with Tribal governments having adjoining or overlapping jurisdiction before we propose the regulations.

Paperwork Reduction Act

This regulation does not contain any information collection requirements other than those already approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq. ) and assigned OMB Control Numbers 1018-0102 (expires June 30, 2017), 1018-0140 (expires May 31, 2015), and 1018-0153 (expires December 31, 2015). An 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.

Endangered Species Act Section 7 Consultation

We comply with section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ), when developing Comprehensive Conservation Plans and step-down management plans—which would include hunting and/or fishing plans—for public use of refuges, and prior to implementing any new or revised public recreation program on a refuge as identified in 50 CFR 26.32. We have completed section 7 consultation on each of the affected refuges.

National Environmental Policy Act

We analyzed this proposed rule in accordance with the criteria of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4332(C)), 43 CFR part 46, and 516 Departmental Manual (DM) 8.

A categorical exclusion from NEPA documentation applies to publication of proposed amendments to refuge-specific hunting and fishing regulations because they are technical and procedural in nature, and the environmental effects are too broad, speculative, or conjectural to lend themselves to meaningful analysis (43 CFR 46.210 and 516 DM 8). Concerning the actions that are the subject of this proposed rulemaking, we have complied with NEPA at the project level when developing each proposal

to refuge-specific hunting and fishing regulations because they are technical and procedural in nature, and the environmental effects are too broad, speculative, or conjectural to lend themselves to meaningful analysis (43 CFR 46.210 and 516 DM 8). Concerning the actions that are the subject of this proposed rulemaking, we have complied with NEPA at the project level when developing each proposal. This is consistent with the Department of the Interior instructions for compliance with NEPA where actions are covered sufficiently by an earlier environmental document (43 CFR 46.120).

Prior to the addition of a refuge to the list of areas open to hunting and fishing in 50 CFR part 32, we develop hunting and fishing plans for the affected refuges. We incorporate these proposed refuge hunting and fishing activities in the refuge Comprehensive Conservation Plan and/or other step-down management plans, pursuant to our refuge planning guidance in 602 Fish and Wildlife Service Manual (FW) 1, 3, and 4. We prepare these Comprehensive Conservation Plans and step-down plans in compliance with section 102(2)(C) of NEPA, and the Council on Environmental Quality's regulations for implementing NEPA in 40 CFR parts 1500-1508. We invite the affected public to participate in the review, development, and implementation of these plans. Copies of all plans and NEPA compliance are available from the refuges at the addresses provided below.

Available Information for Specific Refuges

Individual refuge headquarters have information about public use programs and conditions that apply to their specific programs and maps of their respective areas. To find out how to contact a specific refuge, contact the appropriate Regional office listed below:

Region 1—Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Eastside Federal Complex, Suite 1692, 911 NE. 11th Avenue, Portland, OR 97232-4181; Telephone (503) 231-6214.

Region 2—Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas

areas. To find out how to contact a specific refuge, contact the appropriate Regional office listed below:

Region 2—Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, P.O. Box 1306, 500 Gold Avenue SW., Albuquerque, NM 87103; Telephone (505) 248-6937.

Region 3—Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 5600 American Blvd. West, Suite 990, Bloomington, MN 55437-1458; Telephone (612) 713-5360.

Region 4—Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1875 Century Boulevard, Atlanta, GA 30345; Telephone (404) 679-7166.

Region 5—Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 300 Westgate Center Drive, Hadley, MA 01035-9589; Telephone (413) 253-8307.

Region 6—Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 134 Union Blvd., Lakewood, CO 80228; Telephone (303) 236-8145.

Region 7—Alaska. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1011 E. Tudor Rd., Anchorage, AK 99503; Telephone (907) 786-3545.

Region 8—California and Nevada. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S

ng. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 134 Union Blvd., Lakewood, CO 80228; Telephone (303) 236-8145.

Region 7—Alaska. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1011 E. Tudor Rd., Anchorage, AK 99503; Telephone (907) 786-3545.

Region 8—California and Nevada. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2800 Cottage Way, Room W-2606, Sacramento, CA 95825; Telephone (916) 414-6464.

Primary Author

Brian Salem, Division of Conservation Planning and Policy, National Wildlife Refuge System is the primary author of this rulemaking document.

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 32

Fishing, Hunting, Reporting, and recordkeeping requirements, Wildlife, Wildlife refuges.

Proposed Regulation Promulgation

For the reasons set forth in the preamble, we propose to amend title 50, chapter I, subchapter C of the Code of Federal Regulations as follows:

PART 32—[AMENDED]

1. The authority citation for part 32 continues to read as follows:

Authority:

5 U.S.C. 301; 16 U.S.C. 460k, 664, 668dd-668ee, and 715i.

2. Amend § 32.7 by:

a. Adding an entry for “Iowa Wetland Management District” and placing it in alphabetical order in the State of Iowa;

b. Adding an entry for “Wallkill National Wildlife Refuge” and placing it in alphabetical order in the State of New York;

c. Adding an entry for “Ardoch National Wildlife Refuge” and placing it in alphabetical order in the State of North Dakota;

d. Adding an entry for “Rose Lake National Wildlife Refuge” and placing it in alphabetical order in the State of North Dakota;

e. Adding an entry for “Silver Lake National Wildlife Refuge” and placing it in alphabetical order in the State of North Dakota; and

f. Adding an entry for “Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge” and placing it in alphabetical order in the State of Oregon.

3. Amend § 32.20 by:

ry for “Rose Lake National Wildlife Refuge” and placing it in alphabetical order in the State of North Dakota;

e. Adding an entry for “Silver Lake National Wildlife Refuge” and placing it in alphabetical order in the State of North Dakota; and

f. Adding an entry for “Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge” and placing it in alphabetical order in the State of Oregon.

3. Amend § 32.20 by:

a. Revising the introductory text of paragraph B; removing paragraph C.6; and revising paragraphs B.1, B.2, B.3, B.5, B.6, B.7, B.8, B.9, B.10, C.2, C.3, C.4, C.5, D.1, and D.2 under Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge.

b. Adding paragraphs A.16 and A.17; removing paragraph B.5; and revising paragraphs A.3, A.9, A.15, B.1, C.1 and D.1 under Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge.

The revisions and additions read as follows:

§ 32.20 Alabama.

Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge

B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel and rabbit on

1. We prohibit hunting within 100 yards (91.4 meters) of the fenced-in refuge work center area, designated hiking trails, and refuge boats ramps.

2. We prohibit leaving unattended personal property, including, but not limited to, boats or vehicles of any type, geocaches, and cameras, overnight on the refuge (see § 27.93 of this chapter). We prohibit marking trees and using flagging tape, reflective tacks, and other similar marking devices.

3. Hunters may take incidental species (coyote, beaver, nutria, and feral hog) during any hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts as defined by the State of Alabama. Persons may only use approved nontoxic shot in shotgun shells (see § 32.2(k)), .22 caliber rimfire or smaller rifles, or legal archery equipment according to State regulations. We prohibit use of magnum ammunition, including .22 caliber magnum and .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR), for hunting.

5. All persons age 15 or younger, while hunting on the refuge, must be in the presence and under direct supervision of a licensed or exempt hunter at least age 21

(see § 32.2(k)), .22 caliber rimfire or smaller rifles, or legal archery equipment according to State regulations. We prohibit use of magnum ammunition, including .22 caliber magnum and .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR), for hunting.

5. All persons age 15 or younger, while hunting on the refuge, must be in the presence and under direct supervision of a licensed or exempt hunter at least age 21. A licensed hunter supervising a youth as provided in this section must hold a valid State license for the species being hunted. One adult may supervise no more than two youth hunters.

6. The refuge is open daily from 1 hour before legal sunrise to 1 hour after legal sunset. Personal property must be removed from the refuge daily (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

7. We require all hunters to record hours hunted and all harvested game on the Upland Game Hunt Report (FWS Form 3-2362) at the conclusion of each day at one of the refuge check stations.

8. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on the refuge must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (see § 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge regulations in part 32).

9. We prohibit equestrian use, domestic livestock, and all forms of motorized off-road vehicles.

10. We allow hunting with unleashed dogs for squirrel and rabbit only.

C. Big Game Hunting. * * *

2. Deer hunters may place portable stands on the refuge for use while deer hunting only during the open deer season. All stands must be clearly labeled with the name, address, and phone number. When not in use and left on the refuge overnight, stands must be placed in a non-hunting position at ground level.

3. While climbing a tree, installing a tree stand that uses climbing aids, or hunting from a tree stand on the refuge, hunters must use a fall-arrest system (full body harness) that is manufactured to the Tree Stand Manufacturers Association's standards.

dress, and phone number. When not in use and left on the refuge overnight, stands must be placed in a non-hunting position at ground level.

4. We prohibit damaging trees, including driving or screwing any metal object into a tree or hunting from a tree in which a metal object has been driven or screwed to support a hunter (see § 32.2(i)). Other than deer stands, all personal property must be removed from the refuge each day (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

5. We prohibit hunting by aid or distribution of any feed, salt, scent attractant, or other mineral at any time (see § 32.2(h)).

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

1. We allow fishing year-round, except in the waterfowl sanctuary area as depicted within the refuge brochure. The waterfowl sanctuary is closed to fishing from November 15 through March 1.

2. Conditions B2, B4, B6, B8, B9, and C4 apply.

Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

3. All youth hunters (ages 10 through 15) must remain within sight and normal voice contact of a properly licensed hunting adult age 21 or older. Youth hunters must possess and carry verification of passing a State-approved hunter education course. One adult may supervise no more than two youth hunters.

9. We allow access to the refuge for hunting from 1 1/2 hours before legal sunrise to 1 1/2 hours after legal sunset.

15. We prohibit the use of all air-thrust boats, including airboats, aircraft, boats with secondary fans, and hovercraft.

16. We prohibit the use of personal watercraft or air-cooled propulsion engines outside of marked navigation channels.

17. We prohibit the mooring or storing of boats from 1 1/2 hours after legal sunset to 1 1/2 hours before legal sunrise.

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

5. We prohibit the use of all air-thrust boats, including airboats, aircraft, boats with secondary fans, and hovercraft.

16. We prohibit the use of personal watercraft or air-cooled propulsion engines outside of marked navigation channels.

17. We prohibit the mooring or storing of boats from 1 1/2 hours after legal sunset to 1 1/2 hours before legal sunrise.

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

1. Conditions A1, A2, A3, and A7 through A17 apply.

C. Big Game Hunting. * * *

1. Conditions A1 and A7 through A17 apply.

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

1. Conditions A15 through A17 apply.

4. Amend § 32.22 by:

a. Revising paragraphs D.4 and D.5 under Bill Williams National Wildlife Refuge.

b. Revising paragraph D.6 under Havasu National Wildlife Refuge.

The revisions read as follows:

§ 32.22 Arizona.

Bill Williams National Wildlife Refuge

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

4. The nonmotorized watercraft launch and Central Arizona Project (CAP) peninsula are day-use only areas and are open from 1/2 hour before legal sunrise to 1/2 hour after legal sunset. We allow fishing and the launching of watercraft at these and other areas 24 hours a day.

5. We prohibit the possession or consumption of open containers of alcohol or the possession of glass beverage containers in improved areas, including the nonmotorized watercraft launch and the CAP peninsula.

Havasu National Wildlife Refuge

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

6. The following apply to the improved areas within Havasu NWR. Improved areas consist of the Mesquite Bay areas, Castle Rock, the Diving Cliffs, Catfish Paradise, Five Mile Landing and North Dike.

i. We prohibit entry of all motorized watercraft in all three bays of the Mesquite Bay area as indicated by signs or regulatory buoys.

ii. Improved areas are day-use only and are open from 1/2 hour before legal sunrise to 1/2 hour after legal sunset. Fishing and the launching of watercraft are permitted at these and other areas 24 hours a day.

iii

Paradise, Five Mile Landing and North Dike.

i. We prohibit entry of all motorized watercraft in all three bays of the Mesquite Bay area as indicated by signs or regulatory buoys.

iii. We prohibit the possession or consumption of open containers of alcohol or the possession of glass beverage containers in improved areas.

5. Amend § 32.23 by:

a. Revising the introductory text of paragraphs B and C; redesignating paragraphs C.6, C.7, C.8, C.9, C.10, C.11,

b. Revising paragraph B.15 under Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

c. Revising the introductory text of paragraphs B and C; revising paragraphs A.2, A.3, A.4, A.9, A.22, B.1, B.2, B.3, B.4, B.5, B.7, C.1, C.2, C.3, C.4, C.5, C.6, C.7, C.8, and D.1; and adding paragraph A.24 under Cache River National Wildlife Refuge.

d. Revising the introductory text of paragraph C; revising paragraphs A.6, A.7, A.9, A.17, B.1, C.1, C.15, and D.1; and adding paragraphs A.21 and C.17 under Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge.

e. Revising the introductory text of paragraph C; revising paragraphs A.3, A.6, A.7, A.9, A.13, A.17, B.1, and C.1; redesignating paragraphs C.8, C.9, C.10, and C.11 as C.9, C.10, C.11, and C.12, respectively; and adding paragraphs A.23, B.6, C.8, and C.13 under Overflow National Wildlife Refuge.

f. Revising the introductory text of paragraph C; revising paragraphs A.4, A.5, A.7, A.15, A.17, B.3, C.2, C.4, C.7, C.12, C.17, and D.2; and adding paragraphs A.24, A.25, A.26, A.27, A.28, A.29, A.30, A.31, C.19, and C.20 under Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge.

C.9, C.10, C.11, and C.12, respectively; and adding paragraphs A.23, B.6, C.8, and C.13 under Overflow National Wildlife Refuge.

g. Removing paragraph D.2; redesignating paragraphs B.5, B.6, B.7, B.8, B.9, D.3, D.4, D.5, D.6, D.7, and D.8 as B.6, B.7, B.8, B.9, B.10, D.2, D.3, D.4, D.5, D.6 and D.7, respectively; revising the introductory text of paragraph D; revising paragraphs A.10, B.1, B.4, C.1, C.4, and D.1; and adding paragraphs A.12 and B.5 under Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge.

The revisions and additions read as follows:

§ 32.23 Arkansas.

Bald Knob National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

2. We prohibit migratory game bird hunting in the Farm Unit during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt.

3. With the exception of hunting for woodcock, we prohibit migratory game bird hunting after 12 p.m. (noon) during the regular State waterfowl hunting season.

4. We allow hunting for woodcock daily throughout the State seasons.

6. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot shells for hunting while in the field (see § 32.2(k)) in quantities of 25 or fewer. The possession limit includes shells located in/on vehicles and other personal equipment. The field possession limit for shells does not apply to goose hunting during the State Conservation Order.

10. Boats with the owner's name and address permanently displayed or displaying valid registration may be left on the refuge from March 1 through October 31. We prohibit the use of boats from 12 a.m. (midnight) to 4 a.m. during duck season.

16. Any hunter born after 1968 must carry a valid hunter education card. An adult at least age 21 must supervise hunters under age 16 and remain within sight and normal voice contact with the youth

s permanently displayed or displaying valid registration may be left on the refuge from March 1 through October 31. We prohibit the use of boats from 12 a.m. (midnight) to 4 a.m. during duck season.

16. Any hunter born after 1968 must carry a valid hunter education card. An adult at least age 21 must supervise hunters under age 16 and remain within sight and normal voice contact with the youth. Hunters under age 16 do not need to have a hunter education card if they are under the direct supervision (within arm's reach) of an adult (at least age 21) holder of a valid hunting license. An adult may supervise up to two youths for migratory bird and upland game hunting but may supervise only one youth for big game hunting. We will honor home State hunter education cards.

22. We prohibit the possession or use of alcoholic beverages while hunting (see § 32.2(j)) and open alcohol containers on refuge roads, all-terrain vehicles (ATV) trails, boat ramps, observation platforms, and parking areas.

B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, rabbit, quail, raccoon, opossum, beaver, muskrat, nutria, armadillo, and coyote on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following special conditions:

1. Conditions A1, A6, A11 through A13, and A17 through A23 apply.

3. We allow squirrel hunting September 1 through February 28 on the Mingo Creek Unit and on the Farm Unit, except for season closure on the Farm Unit during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow dogs.

4. We allow rabbit hunting in accordance with the State season on the Mingo Creek Unit and on the Farm Unit, except for season closure on the Farm Unit during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow dogs.

8. Hunters may take beaver, muskrat, nutria, armadillo, and coyote during any refuge hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts, subject to State seasons.

C. Big Game Hunting

llow dogs.

4. We allow rabbit hunting in accordance with the State season on the Mingo Creek Unit and on the Farm Unit, except for season closure on the Farm Unit during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow dogs.

8. Hunters may take beaver, muskrat, nutria, armadillo, and coyote during any refuge hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts, subject to State seasons.

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of deer, feral hog, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. Conditions A1, A6, A11 through A13, A17 through A23, and B8 through B12 apply.

6. You may take feral hog during the refuge muzzleloader or Quota Gun Deer Hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts.

9. Immediately record the zone 002 on your hunting license and check all harvested game according to State regulations.

18. We close waterfowl sanctuaries to all entry and hunting from November 15 to February 28, except for Quota Gun Deer Hunt permit holders who may hunt in the sanctuary when the season overlaps with these dates.

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

1. Conditions A11, A19 through A23, B11, and C18 apply.

Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

15. We prohibit the possession or use of alcoholic beverages while hunting (see § 32.2(j)) or open alcohol containers on refuge roads, all-terrain vehicles (ATV) trails, boat ramps, parking areas, fishing piers, observation decks, and photo blinds.

Cache River National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

2. We prohibit migratory game bird hunting in the Farm Unit during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt.

3. With the exception of hunting for woodcock, we prohibit migratory game bird hunting after 12 p.m. (noon) during the regular State waterfowl hunting season.

4. We allow hunting for woodcock daily throughout the State seasons.

ver National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

2. We prohibit migratory game bird hunting in the Farm Unit during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt.

3. With the exception of hunting for woodcock, we prohibit migratory game bird hunting after 12 p.m. (noon) during the regular State waterfowl hunting season.

4. We allow hunting for woodcock daily throughout the State seasons.

9. Boats with the owner's name and address permanently displayed or displaying valid registration may be left on the refuge from March 1 through October 31. We prohibit boats on the

22. We prohibit the possession or use of alcoholic beverages while hunting (see § 32.2(j)) or open alcohol containers on refuge roads, all-terrain vehicles (ATV) trails, boat ramps, observation platforms, and parking areas.

24. We prohibit vehicles and ATVs to be left unattended overnight.

1. Conditions A1, A6, A10 through A12, and A16 through A24 apply.

2. We allow squirrel hunting September 1 through February 28 except for refuge-wide season closure during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow dogs.

3. Rabbit season corresponds with the State season except for refuge-wide season closure during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow dogs.

4. Quail season corresponds with the State season except for refuge-wide season closure during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We allow dogs.

5. We allow hunting of raccoon and opossum with dogs. We require dogs for hunting of raccoon/opossum at night. We provide annual season dates in the refuge hunting brochure/permit. We prohibit field trials and organized training events.

7. You may take beaver, muskrat, nutria, armadillo, and coyote during any refuge hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts.

C. Big Game Hunting

7. You may take beaver, muskrat, nutria, armadillo, and coyote during any refuge hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts.

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of deer, feral hog, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. Conditions A1, A6, A10 through A12, A16 through A24, B6 through B9, B11, and B12 apply.

2. Archery/crossbow hunting season for deer begins on the opening day of the State season and continues throughout the State season except for refuge-wide season closure during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We provide annual season dates and bag limits in the refuge hunting brochure/permit.

3. Muzzleloader hunting season for deer will begin in October and will continue for a period of up to 9 days with annual season dates and bag limits provided on the hunt brochure/permit.

4. Modern gun deer hunting will begin in November and continue for a period of up to 11 days with annual season dates and bag limits provided in the refuge hunt brochure/permit.

5. You may take feral hog during refuge muzzleloader or Quota Gun Deer Hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts.

6. The fall archery/crossbow hunting season for turkey will begin on the opening day of the State season and continue throughout the State season on refuge lands that are located within the State fall archery/crossbow turkey zone except for refuge-wide season closure during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We do not open for fall gun hunting for turkeys.

7. The spring gun hunt for turkey will begin on the opening day of the State season and continue throughout the State season on all refuge lands located south of Interstate 40

ut the State season on refuge lands that are located within the State fall archery/crossbow turkey zone except for refuge-wide season closure during the Quota Gun Deer Hunt. We do not open for fall gun hunting for turkeys.

7. The spring gun hunt for turkey will begin on the opening day of the State season and continue throughout the State season on all refuge lands located south of Interstate 40. The remainder of the refuge is closed with the exception of those refuge lands included in the combined Black Swamp Wildlife Management Area/Cache River National Wildlife Refuge quota permit hunts administered by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

8. Immediately record the zone 095 on your hunting license and check all harvested game according to State regulations.

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

1. Conditions A10, A18, A20, A22 through A24, and B11 apply.

Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

6. No person will use the services of a guide, guide service, outfitter, club, organization, or other person who provides equipment, services, or assistance on Refuge System lands for compensation (see § 27.97 of this chapter).

7. Hunters must possess and carry a signed Refuge Public Use Regulations Brochure/Access Permit (signed brochure) while hunting.

9. We prohibit marking trails with tape, ribbon, paint, or any other substance or material.

17. You may take beaver, nutria, and coyote during any daytime refuge hunt with weapons and ammunition allowed for that hunt. There is no bag limit. You may not transport or possess live hog.

21. We prohibit leaving any boat on the refuge.

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

1. Conditions A4 through A18, A20, and A21 apply.

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, feral hog, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. Conditions A6 through A11, A13 through A18, A20, and A21 apply.

e prohibit leaving any boat on the refuge.

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

1. Conditions A4 through A18, A20, and A21 apply.

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, feral hog, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. Conditions A6 through A11, A13 through A18, A20, and A21 apply.

15. We prohibit leaving any tree stand, ground blind, or game camera on the refuge without the owner's name and address clearly written in a conspicuous location.

17. We allow the taking of feral hogs on the refuge only during the Muzzleloader and Modern Gun Quota Permit Deer Hunts and with weapons and ammunition allowed for that hunt. There is no bag limit. You may not transport or possess live hog.

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

1. Conditions A6, A8, A9, A13, A16, A18, and A21 apply.

Overflow National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

3. We allow only portable blinds. Hunters must remove portable blinds, boats, and decoys from the hunt area by 1:30 p.m. each day (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

7. You must possess and carry a Refuge Public Use Regulations Brochure/Access Permit (signed brochure) while hunting.

9. We prohibit marking trails with tape, ribbon, paint, or any other substance or material.

13. We allow only all‐terrain vehicles/utility‐type vehicles (ATVs/UTVs) for hunting activities. We restrict ATVs/UTVs to designated times and designated trails (see § 27.31 of this chapter) marked with signs and paint. We identify those trails and the dates that they are open for use in the refuge hunt brochure. We limit ATVs/UTVs to those having an engine displacement

nce or material.

17. You may take beaver, nutria, and coyote during any daytime refuge hunt with weapons and ammunition legal for that hunt. There is no bag limit. We prohibit transportation or possession of live hog.

23. We prohibit leaving any boat on the refuge.

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

1. Conditions A4 through A17, A19, and A23 apply.

6. Overflow National Wildlife Refuge is a day-use area only, except while raccoon and opossum hunting.

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, feral hog, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. Conditions A5 through A11, A13 through A17, A19, and A23 apply.

8. The refuge will conduct no more than one quota permit youth spring turkey gun hunt. Specific hunt dates and application procedures will be available at the refuge office in January. We restrict hunt participants on these hunts to those selected for a quota permit, except that one nonhunting adult age 21 or older and possessing a valid hunting license must accompany a youth hunter.

13. We allow the taking of feral hogs on the refuge only during the Muzzleloader Hunt and with weapons and ammunition allowed for that hunt. There is no bag limit. You may not transport or possess live hogs.

Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

4. No person will use the services of a guide, guide service, outfitter, club, organization, or other person who provides equipment, services, or assistance on Refuge System lands for compensation (see § 27.97 of this chapter).

owed for that hunt. There is no bag limit. You may not transport or possess live hogs.

Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

5. You must possess and carry a Refuge Public Use Regulations Brochure/Access Permit (signed brochure) while hunting.

7. We prohibit marking trails with tape, ribbon, paint, or any other substance or material (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

15. You may take beaver, nutria, and coyote during any daytime refuge hunt with weapons and ammunition allowed for that hunt. We prohibit the use of dogs to take these species. There is no bag limit. You may not transport or possess live hog.

17. We allow the use of retriever dogs during the refuge waterfowl season.

24. We prohibit camping on the refuge while hunting off of the refuge.

25. We prohibit fires outside of campgrounds.

26. We prohibit taking or possessing turtles or mollusks (see § 27.51 of this chapter).

27. We prohibit possession or use of fireworks.

28. We prohibit geocaching.

29. We prohibit searching for or removing any object of antiquity including arrowheads, pottery, or other artifacts.

30. We prohibit firearms, including State-permitted concealed carry handguns, in all refuge buildings.

31. We prohibit horses and mules off the open all-terrain vehicle (ATV)/utility‐type vehicles (UTV) trails and main gravel roads.

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

3. Conditions A4 through A16, A18, and A24 through A31 apply.

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, feral hog, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

2. Conditions A4 through A9, A11 through A16, A18, and A24 through A31 apply.

main gravel roads.

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

3. Conditions A4 through A16, A18, and A24 through A31 apply.

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, feral hog, and turkey on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

2. Conditions A4 through A9, A11 through A16, A18, and A24 through A31 apply.

4. We allow muzzleloader deer hunting for the first 5 days of the early State muzzleloader season for this deer management zone. The bag limit for the refuge muzzleloader hunt is two deer, with no more than one buck.

7. The quota Gun Deer Hunt bag limit is two deer, with no more than one buck (one buck and one doe). Exception: Youth hunters participating in the refuge youth deer hunt and hunters participating in the refuge mobility-impaired hunt may harvest the legal State bag limit without antler restrictions.

12. You may use only portable deer stands erected no sooner than 2 days before the opening of the State deer season, and you must remove them no later than January 31 each year (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

17. We prohibit conducting or participating in deer drives.

19. We prohibit hunting from an area where a shooting lane has been cut.

20. We allow the taking of feral hogs on the refuge only during the Muzzleloader and Modern Gun Quota Permit Deer Hunts and with weapons and ammunition allowed for that hunt. There is no bag limit. You may not transport or possess live hogs.

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

2. Conditions A4 through A16 and A18 through A31 apply.

Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

10. We prohibit the possession or use of alcoholic beverages while hunting (see § 32.2(j)) and open alcohol containers on refuge roads, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trails, boat ramps, parking areas, fishing piers, observation decks, and photo blinds.

12. Roundpond and Pigmon Units are closed to all migratory bird hunting.

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

12. Roundpond and Pigmon Units are closed to all migratory bird hunting.

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

1. Conditions A1 through A12 apply.

4. You may take nutria, beaver, and coyote during any refuge hunt with those weapons legal during those hunts, subject to State seasons.

5. You may take feral hog only during the refuge Quota Gun Deer Hunt.

C. Big Game Hunting. * * *

1. Conditions A1 through A12, B4, B5, and B7 through B10 apply.

4. Immediately record the deer zone 640 on the hunter's license and check deer according to State regulations.

D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. Conditions A3, A5, A9 through A11, B7, and B8 apply. We allow fishing from March 1 through October 31 from 1/2 hour before legal sunrise to 1/2 hour after legal sunset.

6. Amend § 32.24 by:

a. Revising paragraph A, revising the introductory text of paragraph C, and revising paragraphs C.2 and D under Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

b. Revising paragraphs A and B under Colusa National Wildlife Refuge.

c. Revising paragraphs A, B.1, and B.2 under Delevan National Wildlife Refuge.

d. Revising paragraphs A and B under Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge.

e. Revising paragraphs A, B.1, and B.2. under Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge.

f. Revising paragraphs A, B.2, C, D.1, and D.2 under Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge.

g. Revising paragraphs A and B under Sutter National Wildlife Refuge.

h. Revising paragraphs A and B under Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

The revisions read as follows:

§ 32.24 California.

Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting

nto National Wildlife Refuge.

f. Revising paragraphs A, B.2, C, D.1, and D.2 under Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge.

g. Revising paragraphs A and B under Sutter National Wildlife Refuge.

h. Revising paragraphs A and B under Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

The revisions read as follows:

§ 32.24 California.

Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of geese, ducks, coots, moorhens, and snipe on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State laws and regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. We allow waterfowl hunting on designated areas of the refuge 7 days per week during the State regulated season.

2. You may hunt from the shoreline only.

3. No boats of any kind may be used while conducting waterfowl hunting activities.

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of pronghorn antelope only on the controlled “U” Unit of the refuge in accordance with State laws and regulations and subject to the following conditions:

2. We allow access to the unit only through the designated entrance on Clear Lake Road (also known as County Road 136), 4 miles east of the southwest refuge identification sign.

D. Sport Fishing. [Reserved]

Colusa National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck, coot, moorhen, and snipe on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. You must obtain a State of California Department of Fish and Wildlife entry permit from the check station prior to entering the hunt area.

2. You must return the State of California Department of Fish and Wildlife entry permit and leave the refuge no later than 1 1/2 hours after legal sunset unless participating in overnight stay in accordance with A13.

3. Youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult (18 years old or older) at all times while hunting.

4. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. We prohibit bicycles and other conveyances

rn the State of California Department of Fish and Wildlife entry permit and leave the refuge no later than 1 1/2 hours after legal sunset unless participating in overnight stay in accordance with A13.

3. Youth hunters must be accompanied by an adult (18 years old or older) at all times while hunting.

4. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. We prohibit bicycles and other conveyances. Mobility-impaired hunters should consult with the refuge manager for allowed conveyances.

5. You may enter or exit only at designated locations.

6. Vehicles may stop only at designated parking areas. We prohibit the dropping of passengers or equipment, or stopping between designated parking areas.

7. The firearms used for hunting must remain unloaded until you are in designated free-roam areas or assigned pond/blind areas.

8. Hunters may use shotguns only. No shotguns larger than 12 gauge (see § 20.21(a) of this chapter).

9. You may not possess more than 25 shotgun shells while in the field.

10. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field (see § 32.2(k)). You may not possess shot size larger than BB, except steel “T” (0.20 (0.5 centimeter) diameter).

11. We prohibit snipe hunting in the assigned pond areas.

12. No person may build or maintain fires, except in portable gas stoves in designated parking/overnight stay areas.

13. We only allow overnight stays in vehicles, motor homes, and trailers at the check station parking areas on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays (closed on Federal holidays).

14. You must restrain dogs on a leash within all designated parking areas and vehicle access roads.

B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant only in the free-roam areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. We prohibit pheasant hunting in the assigned pond area except during a special 1-day-only pheasant hunt on the first Monday after the opening of the State pheasant hunting season.

king areas and vehicle access roads.

B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant only in the free-roam areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. We prohibit pheasant hunting in the assigned pond area except during a special 1-day-only pheasant hunt on the first Monday after the opening of the State pheasant hunting season.

2. Conditions A1 through A14 apply.

Delevan National Wildlife Refuge

1. You must obtain a State of California Department of Fish and Wildlife entry permit from the check station prior to entering the hunt area.

3. Junior hunters must be accompanied by an adult (18 years old or older) at all times while hunting.

4. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. We prohibit bicycles and other conveyances. Mobility-impaired hunters should consult with the refuge manager for allowed conveyances.

5. You may enter or exit only at designated locations.

6. Vehicles may stop only at designated parking areas. We prohibit the dropping of passengers or equipment, or stopping between designated parking areas.

7. The firearms used for hunting must remain unloaded until you are in designated free-roam areas or assigned pond/blind areas.

8. Hunters may use shotguns only. No shotguns larger than 12 gauge.

9. Hunters may possess no more than 25 shotgun shells while in the field.

10. Hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field (see § 32.2(k)). You may not possess shot size larger than BB, except steel “T” (0.20 inch (0.5 centimeter) diameter).

designated free-roam areas or assigned pond/blind areas.

8. Hunters may use shotguns only. No shotguns larger than 12 gauge.

9. Hunters may possess no more than 25 shotgun shells while in the field.

10. Hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field (see § 32.2(k)). You may not possess shot size larger than BB, except steel “T” (0.20 inch (0.5 centimeter) diameter).

11. We restrict hunters assigned to the spaced blind area to within 100 feet (30.5 meters) of their assigned hunt site except for retrieving downed birds, placing decoys, or traveling to and from the area.

12. We prohibit snipe hunting in the assigned pond areas.

13. No person may build or maintain fires, except in portable gas stoves in designated parking/overnight stay areas.

14. We only allow overnight stays in vehicles, motor homes, and trailers at the check station parking areas on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays (closed on Federal holidays).

15. You must restrain dogs on a leash within all designated parking areas and vehicle access roads.

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

1. We prohibit pheasant hunting in the assigned pond/spaced blind area except during a special 1-day-only pheasant hunt on the first Monday after the opening of the State pheasant hunting season.

2. Conditions A4 through A15 apply.

Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

1. In the controlled waterfowl hunting area, we require a Refuge Recreation Pass (passholder name/expiration date) for all hunters age 16 or older. An adult with a valid Recreation Pass (passholder name/expiration date) must accompany hunters younger than age 16 who are hunting in the controlled area.

2. We require advance reservations for the first 2 days of the hunting season. Reservations are obtained through the Waterfowl Lottery each year.

e a Refuge Recreation Pass (passholder name/expiration date) for all hunters age 16 or older. An adult with a valid Recreation Pass (passholder name/expiration date) must accompany hunters younger than age 16 who are hunting in the controlled area.

2. We require advance reservations for the first 2 days of the hunting season. Reservations are obtained through the Waterfowl Lottery each year.

3. Entry hours begin 1 1/2 hours prior to State regulated shoot time unless otherwise posted.

4. Shooting hours end at 1:00 p.m. on all California portions of the refuge with the following exceptions:

a. The refuge manager may designate up to 6 afternoon special youth, ladies, or disabled hunter waterfowl hunts per season; and

b. The refuge manager may designate up to 3 days per week of afternoon waterfowl hunting for the general public after December 1.

5. The firearms used for hunting must be unloaded while in posted retrieving zones and while on hunter access routes open to motor vehicles.

6. You may not set decoys in retrieving zones.

7. We prohibit air-thrust and inboard waterthrust boats.

8. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field (see § 32.2(k)).

9. You may use only nonmotorized boats and boats with electric motors on designated motorless units from the start of the hunting season through November 30. You may use motorized boats on designated motorless units from December 1 through the end of hunting season.

10. Pit style hunting blinds located in the Stearns units and unit 9D are first-come, first-served basis. We require you to hunt within a 200-foot (61-meter) radius of the blind.

B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State laws and regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field (see § 32.2(k)).

Stearns units and unit 9D are first-come, first-served basis. We require you to hunt within a 200-foot (61-meter) radius of the blind.

B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State laws and regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field (see § 32.2(k)).

2. We require you to wear an outer garment above the waist that is at least 50 percent blaze orange and visible from both front and back. Outer garments may consist of hat or cap, vest, jacket, shirt or coat.

3. The firearms used for hunting must be unloaded while in posted retrieving zones and while on hunter access routes open to motor vehicles.

Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge

1. You must obtain a State of California Department of Fish and Wildlife entry permit from the check station prior to entering the hunt area.

2. You must return the State of California Department of Fish and Wildlife entry permit and vacate refuge no later than 1 1/2 hours after legal sunset unless participating in overnight stay in accordance with A14.

3. Junior hunters must be accompanied by an adult (18 years old or older) at all times while hunting.

4. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. We prohibit bicycles and other conveyances. Mobility-impaired hunters should consult with the refuge manager for allowed conveyances.

5. You may enter or exit only at designated locations.

6. Vehicles may stop only at designated parking areas. We prohibit the dropping of passengers or equipment, or stopping between designated parking areas.

7. The firearms used for hunting must remain unloaded until you are in designated free-roam areas or assigned pond/blind areas.

8. Hunters may use shotguns only

r allowed conveyances.

5. You may enter or exit only at designated locations.

6. Vehicles may stop only at designated parking areas. We prohibit the dropping of passengers or equipment, or stopping between designated parking areas.

7. The firearms used for hunting must remain unloaded until you are in designated free-roam areas or assigned pond/blind areas.

8. Hunters may use shotguns only. No shotguns larger than 12 gauge.

9. Hunters may possess no more than 25 shotgun shells while in the field.

10. Hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field (see § 32.2(k)). You may not possess shot size larger than BB, except steel “T” (0.20 inch (0.5 centimeter) diameter).

12. We prohibit snipe hunting in the assigned pond areas.

13. No person may build or maintain fires, except in portable gas stoves in designated parking/overnight stay areas.

14. We only allow overnight stays in vehicles, motor homes, and trailers at the check station parking areas on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays (closed on Federal holidays).

15. You must restrain dogs on a leash within all designated parking areas and vehicle access roads.

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

1. We prohibit pheasant hunting in the assigned pond/spaced blind area except during a special 1-day-only pheasant hunt on the first Monday after the opening of the State pheasant hunting season.

2. Conditions A4 through A15 apply.

Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck, coot, moorhen, and snipe on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:

1. Access to the hunt area on all units open to public hunting is by boat only, except on designated units, which are accessible by foot traffic or boat

Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck, coot, moorhen, and snipe on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:

1. Access to the hunt area on all units open to public hunting is by boat only, except on designated units, which are accessible by foot traffic or boat. We prohibit bicycles or other conveyances. Mobility-impaired hunters should consult with the refuge manager for allowed conveyances. Waterfowl hunting is not allowed on the Mooney and Codora Units.

2. On the Codora Unit, hunting is not allowed except for junior hunters (16 years old or younger) on weekends only. Junior hunters must possess a valid junior hunting license and be accompanied by a nonhunting adult (18 years or older).

3. We prohibit possession of alcohol.

4. We allow only shotgun hunting.

5. The firearms used for hunting must be unloaded (see § 27.42(b) of this chapter) while transporting them between parking areas and hunting areas. “Unloaded” means that no ammunition is in the chamber or magazine of the firearm.

6. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field (see § 32.2(k)).

7. We prohibit hunting within 50 feet (15.2 meters) of any boundary adjacent to private property.

8. We prohibit hunting within 150 yards (137.2 meters) of any occupied dwelling, house, residence, or other building or any barn or other outbuilding used in connection therewith.

9. We prohibit fires on the refuge, except we allow portable gas stoves on gravel bars (see § 27.95(a) of this chapter).

10. We open the refuge for day-use access from 2 hours before legal sunrise until 1 1/2 hours after legal sunset. We

11. We require dogs to be kept on a leash, except for hunting dogs engaged in authorized hunting activities, and under the immediate control of a licensed hunter (see § 26.21(b) of this chapter).

12. We prohibit permanent blinds

on gravel bars (see § 27.95(a) of this chapter).

10. We open the refuge for day-use access from 2 hours before legal sunrise until 1 1/2 hours after legal sunset. We

11. We require dogs to be kept on a leash, except for hunting dogs engaged in authorized hunting activities, and under the immediate control of a licensed hunter (see § 26.21(b) of this chapter).

12. We prohibit permanent blinds. You must remove all personal property, including decoys and boats, by 1 1/2 hours after legal sunset (see §§ 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).

13. We prohibit cutting or removal of vegetation for blind construction or for making trails (see § 27.51).

14. We prohibit commercial guiding (see § 27.97 of this chapter).

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

2. Conditions A1 through A3 and A5 through A14 apply.

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of black-tailed deer and feral hogs on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. Conditions A1 through A3, A5, A7 through A14, and B1 apply.

2. You may hunt feral hogs from September 1 through March 15.

3. We prohibit dogs while hunting feral hogs.

4. We prohibit construction or use of permanent blinds, platforms, ladders, or screw-in foot pegs.

5. You must remove all personal property, including stands or hunting blinds, from the refuge by 1 1/2 hour after legal sunset (see §§ 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).

6. You may only use shotguns, firing single shotgun slugs, and archery equipment for big game hunting only. You may only possess non-lead ammunition while in the field (consistent with State Law AB711 related to Wildlife Areas ammunition restrictions).

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

1. Conditions A3 and A9 through A14 apply.

2. On Packer Lake and Drumheller North, due to primitive access, we only allow boats up to 14 feet (4.3 meters) and canoes. Electric motors only.

Sutter National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting

munition while in the field (consistent with State Law AB711 related to Wildlife Areas ammunition restrictions).

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

1. Conditions A3 and A9 through A14 apply.

2. On Packer Lake and Drumheller North, due to primitive access, we only allow boats up to 14 feet (4.3 meters) and canoes. Electric motors only.

Sutter National Wildlife Refuge

1. Visitors must obtain a State of California Department of Fish and Wildlife entry permit from the check station prior to entering the hunt area.

2. Hunters must return the State of California Department of Fish and Wildlife entry permit and vacate refuge no later than 1 1/2 hours after legal sunset unless participating in overnight stay in accordance with A13.

3. Junior hunters must be accompanied by an adult (18 years old) at all times while hunting.

4. Access to the hunt area is by foot traffic only. We prohibit bicycles and other conveyances. Mobility-impaired hunters should consult with the refuge manager for allowed conveyances.

5. You may enter or exit only at designated locations.

6. Vehicles may stop only at designated parking areas. We prohibit the dropping of passengers or equipment, or stopping between designated parking areas.

7. The firearms used for hunting must remain unloaded until you are in designated free-roam areas or assigned pond/blind areas.

8. Hunters may use shotguns only. No shotguns larger than 12 gauge.

9. Hunters may possess no more than 25 shotgun shells while in the field.

10. Hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field (see § 32.2(k)). You may not possess shot size larger than BB, except steel “T” (0.20 inch (0.5 centimeter) diameter).

11. We prohibit snipe hunting in the assigned pond areas.

8. Hunters may use shotguns only. No shotguns larger than 12 gauge.

9. Hunters may possess no more than 25 shotgun shells while in the field.

10. Hunters may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field (see § 32.2(k)). You may not possess shot size larger than BB, except steel “T” (0.20 inch (0.5 centimeter) diameter).

11. We prohibit snipe hunting in the assigned pond areas.

12. No person may build or maintain fires, except in portable gas stoves in designated parking/overnight stay areas.

13. We only allow overnight stays in vehicles, motor homes, and trailers at the check station parking areas on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays (closed on Federal holidays).

14. You must restrain dogs on a leash within all designated parking areas and vehicle access roads.

B. Upland Game Hunting. We only allow hunting of pheasant in the free-roam areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. We prohibit pheasant hunting in the assigned pond areas.

2. Conditions A1 through A14 apply.

Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge

2. We require advance reservations for the first 2 days of the hunting season. Reservations are obtained through the Waterfowl Lottery each year.

3. Entry hours begin 1 1/2 hours prior to State regulated shoot time unless otherwise posted.

4. Shooting hours end at 1:00 p.m. on all portions of the refuge with the following exceptions:

er than age 16 who are hunting in the controlled area.

2. We require advance reservations for the first 2 days of the hunting season. Reservations are obtained through the Waterfowl Lottery each year.

3. Entry hours begin 1 1/2 hours prior to State regulated shoot time unless otherwise posted.

4. Shooting hours end at 1:00 p.m. on all portions of the refuge with the following exceptions:

a. The refuge manager may designate up to six afternoon special youth, ladies, or disabled hunter waterfowl hunts per season; and

b. The refuge manager may designate up to 3 days per week of afternoon waterfowl hunting for the general public after December 1.

5. The firearms used for hunting must be unloaded when you are more than 200 feet (61 meters) from the established blind stakes. You select blind sites by lottery at the beginning of each hunt day. You may shoot only from within your assigned blind site.

6. The firearms used for hunting must be unloaded while in posted retrieving zones and while on hunter access routes open to motor vehicles.

7. We prohibit the setting of decoys in retrieving zones.

8. We prohibit air-thrust and inboard water-thrust boats.

9. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field (see § 32.2(k)).

B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State laws and regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field (see § 32.2(k)).

3. The firearms used for hunting must be unloaded while in posted retrieving zones and while on hunter access routes open to motor vehicles.

7. Amend § 32.27 by revising paragraphs A, B, and C under Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:

§ 32.27 Delaware

ze orange and visible from both front and back. Outer garments may consist of hat or cap, vest, jacket, shirt or coat.

3. The firearms used for hunting must be unloaded while in posted retrieving zones and while on hunter access routes open to motor vehicles.

7. Amend § 32.27 by revising paragraphs A, B, and C under Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:

§ 32.27 Delaware.

Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow the hunting of waterfowl, coot, mourning dove, snipe, and woodcock

1. Only hunters aged 16 years and older may apply for or obtain a lottery hunt area permit (Waterfowl Lottery Application; FWS Form 3-2355).

2. You must have in your possession a signed and current refuge hunt permit (signed brochure) and government-issued picture identification on the refuge. All permits are non-transferable. Hunting brochures containing hunting application procedures, permits, seasons, scouting times, methods of hunting, maps depicting areas open to hunting, and the terms and conditions under which we issue hunting permits are available at the refuge office and on the refuge's Web site.

3. Hunting in violation of any Delaware State law is a violation of refuge hunting regulations.

4. We prohibit cutting or damaging vegetation for any purpose. We prohibit the use of natural vegetation for camouflaging a blind (see § 27.51 of this chapter).

5. Hunting blinds, stands, steps and equipment must be portable, and you must remove them at the end of each day.

6. We prohibit practice or target shooting.

7. We prohibit all public entry in designated safety zones.

8. You may not be on the refuge any earlier than 2 hours before the legal morning shooting time.

blic entry in designated safety zones.

8. You may not be on the refuge any earlier than 2 hours before the legal morning shooting time.

9. We require all boaters to operate their craft and possess all safety equipment in accordance with Delaware State and U.S. Coast Guard regulations during refuge hunts (see § 27.32 of this chapter). The maximum horsepower (HP) allowed for boat motors is 30 HP. The Slaughter Canal and Headquarters' Canal are slow, no-wake zones. Designated launching sites must be used to launch boats. We prohibit the use of air-thrust and inboard water-thrust boats on all waters within the refuge boundaries.

10. We allow only three individuals per blind site in the lottery hunting areas.

11. We prohibit motor vehicles off of designated routes and parking areas.

12. We allow the use of dogs to assist in hunting and retrieval of harvested game in accordance with State law. We prohibit dog training (see § 27.91 of this chapter).

13. Only nonambulatory hunters may hunt in the Island Farm Unit, where we have provided nonambulatory hunt blinds to accommodate hunters with this need. All disabled hunters must obtain an Interagency Access Pass to receive a hunting permit for the disabled hunting areas. We require wheelchair hunters to have an assistant in the disabled hunting areas and to hunt from a government-provided blind.

14. We allow up to two individuals assisting a disabled hunter to hunt waterfowl with the disabled hunter.

15. Waterfowl hunters must stop hunting at 3 p.m. and leave the refuge by 4 p.m. on hunting days except when snow goose hunting during a snow goose conservation order.

16. We allow the use and possession of only nontoxic shot for hunting (see § 32.2(k)).

B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow the hunting of rabbit, quail, pheasant, and red fox on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. We prohibit the hunting of squirrel.

pt when snow goose hunting during a snow goose conservation order.

16. We allow the use and possession of only nontoxic shot for hunting (see § 32.2(k)).

B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow the hunting of rabbit, quail, pheasant, and red fox on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. We prohibit the hunting of squirrel.

2. We allow red fox hunting only while concurrently hunting deer in areas open to deer hunting. We prohibit hunting by chase. We prohibit hunting with rimfire or centerfire rifles.

3. We allow the use and possession of only nontoxic shot for hunting (see § 32.2(k)), except that while hunting red fox concurrently with deer we allow the use of shot approved for deer hunting in accordance with State and refuge regulations.

4. Hunters must leave the hunting area 1/2 hour after the legal evening shooting time.

5. Conditions A2 through A13 apply.

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow the hunting of white-tailed deer and turkey on designated areas of the refuge during designated seasons in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. Only hunters aged 16 years and older may apply for or obtain a lottery hunt area permit (Quota Deer Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2354; Big/Upland Game Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2356).

2. We prohibit access by boat from Slaughter Creek on Cods Road.

3. We prohibit the driving or pushing of deer by any means.

4. All deer hunters must be out of the hunting areas 1 1/2 hours after the legal evening shooting time. All turkey hunters must be out of the hunting areas one hour after the legal closing time for turkey hunting.

5. We prohibit the use or possession of buckshot while hunting. Only slugs may be used for hunting deer.

6. We prohibit assistants for wheelchair hunters from hunting in the disabled hunting area.

7. Any time the State hunting regulations require that hunters display hunter orange, the material must be solid-colored

the hunting areas one hour after the legal closing time for turkey hunting.

5. We prohibit the use or possession of buckshot while hunting. Only slugs may be used for hunting deer.

6. We prohibit assistants for wheelchair hunters from hunting in the disabled hunting area.

7. Any time the State hunting regulations require that hunters display hunter orange, the material must be solid-colored. We prohibit the use of hunter-orange camouflage materials to meet State minimum hunter orange requirements.

8. We allow the use and possession of only nontoxic shot for hunting turkey (see § 32.2(k)).

9. Conditions A2 through A12, and A14 apply.

8. Amend § 32.28 by:

a. Removing paragraphs C.12 and D.9; redesignating paragraphs C.4, C.5, C.6, C.7, C.8, C.9, C.10, C.11, D.6, D.7, and D.8 as C.5, C.6, C.7, C.8, C.9, C.10, C.11, C.12, D.8, D.9, and D.10, respectively; adding paragraphs C.4, C.13, C.14, C.15, D.6, D.7, and D.11; revising newly redesignated paragraphs C.9 and C.10, and paragraph D.3 under Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge.

b. Revising the entry for Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge.

c. Revising paragraph D under Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge.

d. Removing paragraph D.7; redesignating paragraphs D.4, D.5, and D.6 as D.5, D.6, and D.7, respectively; adding a new paragraph D.4; and revising paragraphs D.3 and newly designated D.7 under Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge.

e. Revising paragraphs D.10, D.11, D.13, D.16, and D.18 under J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

f. Revising paragraphs A.1, A.2, A.4, A.13, B.2, B.3, B.4, and C, and removing paragraph D.4 under Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge.

g. Redesignating paragraphs D.13, D.14, D.15, D.16, and D.17 as D.14, D.15, D.16, D.17, and D.18, respectively, and adding a new paragraph D.13 under Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

h. Revising paragraph D under Pinellas National Wildlife Refuge.

i. Revising paragraphs C.2 and C.8 under St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge

g paragraph D.4 under Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge.

g. Redesignating paragraphs D.13, D.14, D.15, D.16, and D.17 as D.14, D.15, D.16, D.17, and D.18, respectively, and adding a new paragraph D.13 under Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

h. Revising paragraph D under Pinellas National Wildlife Refuge.

i. Revising paragraphs C.2 and C.8 under St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge.

The additions and revisions read as follows:

§ 32.28 Florida.

Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge

C. Big Game Hunting. * * *

4. We prohibit the taking of any other plants or wildlife (see § 27.21 of this chapter).

9. You may take alligators using hand-held snares, harpoons, gigs, snatch hooks, artificial lures, manually

10. Hunters must complete a Big Game Harvest Report (FWS Form 3‐2359) and place it in an entrance fee canister each day prior to exiting the refuge. A Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Alligator Harvest Report Form (FWC Form 1001AT, supplied with your FWC permit) must be completed by the permit holder within 24 hours of taking each alligator and prior to the transfer to a permitted alligator processing facility. A copy of the FWC Alligator Harvest Report Form must accompany the alligator carcass until processing. An online version of the form can be found at MyFWC.com/alligator.

13. We allow only one vessel per hunting group or party.

14. Conditions A14 through A18 apply.

15. For emergencies or to report violations, contact law enforcement personnel at 1‐800‐307‐5789. Law enforcement officers may be monitoring VHF Channel 16.

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

3. We allow fishing south of a line of latitude of 26.27.130 and in the rim canal in the rest of the refuge. We prohibit fishing in those areas posted as closed to fishing or to the public.

6. We allow commercial guiding by Special Use Permit only (Commercial Activities—Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3‐1383‐C)

ent officers may be monitoring VHF Channel 16.

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

3. We allow fishing south of a line of latitude of 26.27.130 and in the rim canal in the rest of the refuge. We prohibit fishing in those areas posted as closed to fishing or to the public.

6. We allow commercial guiding by Special Use Permit only (Commercial Activities—Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3‐1383‐C). Contact the Refuge Office at 561‐735‐6029 for more information.

7. We allow 12 fishing tournaments a year by Special Use Permit only (General Activities—Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3‐1383‐G). Contact the Refuge Office at 561‐735‐6029 for more information.

11. For emergencies or to report violations, contact law enforcement personnel at 1‐800‐307‐5789. Law enforcement officers may be monitoring VHF Channel 16.

Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow migratory game bird hunting in those areas designated as open to hunting in accordance with applicable Federal and State laws, and subject to the following conditions:

1. In Citrus County:

i. You may take only ducks and coots.

ii. We allow waterfowl hunting on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays during those seasons established by the State of Florida; however, we may close or alter hunts in cases of emergency situations.

iii. State bag limits apply.

iv. We allow the use of dogs in accordance with State regulations to retrieve taken waterfowl.

v. We allow airboats only on the designated airboat route with a refuge Special Use Permit (General Activities Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3‐1383‐G) issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. We prohibit the use of airboats on vegetation. Airboats must be in compliance with State and county regulations (§ 27.32 of this chapter).

vi. We require hunters to possess and carry a signed, no-cost refuge hunting permit (signed brochure).

vii

with a refuge Special Use Permit (General Activities Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3‐1383‐G) issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. We prohibit the use of airboats on vegetation. Airboats must be in compliance with State and county regulations (§ 27.32 of this chapter).

vi. We require hunters to possess and carry a signed, no-cost refuge hunting permit (signed brochure).

vii. In addition to State hunter education requirements, an adult (parent or guardian) age 21 or older must supervise and remain within sight and normal voice contact of any youth hunter age 15 or younger. An adult may supervise no more than two (2) youths.

viii. We prohibit hunting within 100 yards (91.4 meters) of any residence or on navigable waterways of Chassahowitzka River, Seven Cabbage Cut-off, and Mason Creek.

ix. We allow temporary blinds and decoys, but require all blinds and decoys to be removed from the refuge daily.

x. We prohibit the use of bait, salt, oil, or ingestible attractant. We prohibit taking or attempting to take any game animal with the aid of live decoys, recorded game calls or sounds, set guns, artificial light, net, trap, snare, drug, or poison (see §§ 20.21 of this chapter and § 32.2(h)).

xi. We prohibit taking or herding of wildlife from any vessel that is under power, until power and movement have ceased (§ 20.21(e) of this chapter).

xii. We prohibit target practice.

xiii. You may use only steel or approved nontoxic shot for hunting migratory game birds (see § 32.2(k)). We prohibit possession of lead or other toxic shot (§ 20.21(j) of this chapter).

xiv. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on the refuge must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (see § 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge regulations in part 32).

xv. We prohibit the marking of trees, using flagging tape, reflective tacks, and other similar marking devices; and the cutting/trimming of trees

orting, or carrying firearms on the refuge must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (see § 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge regulations in part 32).

xv. We prohibit the marking of trees, using flagging tape, reflective tacks, and other similar marking devices; and the cutting/trimming of trees. We prohibit driving or screwing any metal object into a tree or hunting from a tree in which a metal object has been driven or screwed to support a hunter (see 32.2(i)).

xvi. We prohibit commercial activities, including guiding or participating in a guided hunts (§ 27.97 of this chapter).

xvii. We prohibit fires.

xviii. We prohibit the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs)/tracked motorized vehicles.

2. In Hernando County:

i. All hunters in Hernando County must comply with the Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area regulations, including quota hunt requirements, in addition to refuge rules.

ii. Conditions A.1.iii, A.1.iv, A.1.vi, A.1.vii, and A.1.ix through A.1.xviii apply.

iii. We allow hunting of rails, common moorhen, mourning dove, white winged dove, snipe, and woodcock during seasons established by the Commission for these species and listed in the Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area regulations. We allow hunting of geese, duck, and coot on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays; however, hunts may be closed or altered in cases of emergency situations by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

iv. You may use airboats on all navigable waterways within Hernando County with a refuge Special Use Permit (General Activities Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3‐1383‐G) issued the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. We prohibit the use of airboats on vegetation. Airboats must be in compliance with State and county regulations.

v. We prohibit hunting within 100 yards (91.4 meters) of any residence.

B. Upland Game Hunting.

1. [Reserved]

thin Hernando County with a refuge Special Use Permit (General Activities Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3‐1383‐G) issued the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. We prohibit the use of airboats on vegetation. Airboats must be in compliance with State and county regulations.

v. We prohibit hunting within 100 yards (91.4 meters) of any residence.

B. Upland Game Hunting.

1. [Reserved]

2. In Hernando County, we allow hunting of quail, squirrel, and rabbit in accordance with Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area regulations, and subject to the following conditions:

i. Conditions A.1.iii, A.1.v through A.1.xii, and A.1.xiv through A.1.xviii, A.2.i, A.2.iv, and A.2.v apply.

ii. We prohibit the use of traps or snares to take game.

iii. You must report harvested game at the State Wildlife Management Area Check Station.

iv. We prohibit hunting of raccoon, bobcat, and otter.

v. You may take feral hog, opossum, armadillo, beaver, coyote, skunk, and nutria as incidental species with the equipment legal for use during the season.

C. Big Game Hunting.

1. [Reserved]

2. In Hernando County, we allow hunting of whitetail deer and turkey, in accordance with Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area regulations, and subject to the following conditions:

i. Conditions B.2.i through B.2.iii and B.2.v apply.

ii. We prohibit the use of dogs to take big game and feral hogs.

D. Sport Fishing.

1. In Citrus County, we allow sport fishing on the refuge year-round in areas designated as open in the refuge hunting and fishing brochure, in compliance with State fishing regulations and license requirements, and subject to the following conditions:

i. Conditions A.1.v, A.1.xiv, A.1.xv, A.1.xvii, and A.1 xviii apply.

ii. We allow fishing 24 hours per day, year-round, except in areas posted closed.

iii. All fish must remain in a whole condition while being transported from the refuge.

iv. We prohibit harvesting and possession of horseshoe crabs, turtles, and snakes.

v. We prohibit the taking of frogs

ject to the following conditions:

i. Conditions A.1.v, A.1.xiv, A.1.xv, A.1.xvii, and A.1 xviii apply.

ii. We allow fishing 24 hours per day, year-round, except in areas posted closed.

iii. All fish must remain in a whole condition while being transported from the refuge.

iv. We prohibit harvesting and possession of horseshoe crabs, turtles, and snakes.

v. We prohibit the taking of frogs.

vi. We permit commercial activities, including guiding, with a Special Use Permit (Commercial Activities Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3‐1383‐C). You must apply for the permit.

2. In Hernando County, we allow sport fishing on the refuge year-round in areas designated as open in the refuge hunting and fishing brochure, in compliance with State fishing regulations and license requirements, and subject to the following conditions: Conditions D.1.i through D.1.vi apply.

Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge

D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on the refuge year-round in areas designated as open and in accordance with State fishing regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. We allow fishing from designated refuge beaches during open hours.

2. Anglers may only use two poles per angler and must attend both poles at all times.

Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

3. We prohibit the disturbance or taking of sea turtles, their eggs, and their nests. We prohibit the taking of any wildlife, plants, and cultural artifacts (see § 27.21 of this chapter).

4. We prohibit camping, fires, pets, and the use of metal detectors.

7. We prohibit motorized vehicles of any type on the beach, fire roads, undesignated routes, and areas posted as closed (see § 27.31 of this chapter).

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

10. We allow you to launch canoes and kayaks anywhere on the right (north) side of Wildlife Drive. We prohibit launching motorized vessels over 14 feet (4.2 meters) in length from Wildlife Drive

ed vehicles of any type on the beach, fire roads, undesignated routes, and areas posted as closed (see § 27.31 of this chapter).

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

10. We allow you to launch canoes and kayaks anywhere on the right (north) side of Wildlife Drive. We prohibit launching motorized vessels over 14 feet (4.2 meters) in length from Wildlife Drive. We allow launching of motorized vessels only 14 feet (4.2 meters) or less in length from designated site #2.

11. We allow public access to Wildlife Drive and Indigo Trail, except on Fridays, when we close Wildlife Drive to all public access. See hours posted at the front gate or on the refuge Web site ( http://www.fws.gov/dingdarling/ ), or call 239-472-1100.

13. We prohibit all public entry into the impoundments on the left (south) side of Wildlife Drive.

16. We prohibit the use of cast nets from the left (south) side of Wildlife Drive or any structure affixed to Wildlife Drive.

18. We prohibit the use of bows and spears from Wildlife Drive or any trail or structure affixed to Wildlife Drive.

Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

1. We require all hunters, ages 16 or older, to purchase and possess a general refuge hunting permit (name/address/phone number) and a State of Florida Hunting License to hunt during all refuge hunts, unless otherwise exempt. You can purchase a hunting permit (name/address.phone number) through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission licensing Web site, county tax office, or another outlet that sells State licenses. We do not require youth hunters age 15 and younger to possess a general refuge hunt permit (name/address/phone number). We do not require State Wildlife Management Area stamps. Unless otherwise exempt, we require hunters to have appropriate archery, muzzleloader, deer, and turkey stamps/permits. Unless exempt, we require waterfowl hunters to have appropriate State and Federal waterfowl stamps.

We do not require youth hunters age 15 and younger to possess a general refuge hunt permit (name/address/phone number). We do not require State Wildlife Management Area stamps. Unless otherwise exempt, we require hunters to have appropriate archery, muzzleloader, deer, and turkey stamps/permits. Unless exempt, we require waterfowl hunters to have appropriate State and Federal waterfowl stamps.

2. We designate open and closed refuge hunting areas on the map in the refuge hunt brochure, which the hunter must possess and carry. The refuge can designate temporary closed hunting areas at the management's discretion for refuge management activities (prescribed burns, forestry, habitat restoration, wildlife management).

4. We prohibit the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility‐type vehicles (UTVs) (see § 27.31(f) of this chapter).

13. We prohibit flagging, reflective markers, paint, litter, or pins for marking in any manner on refuge property, with the exception of the following: clothes type pins or clips with reflective or colored markings can be used for the temporary marking of vegetation in order to identify a route of travel to or from a tree stand. You must remove these pins at the end of deer season (see §§ 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter). Each clothes type pin or clip must contain both the name and hunting license number of the hunter.

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

2. We will print dates for the refuge upland game (small game) and raccoon/opossum hunting seasons in the annual refuge hunt brochure. Contact the refuge office for specific dates.

3. You may use only .17, .22, and .22 magnum caliber rimfire rifle firearms (see § 27.42 of this chapter), bows, or shotguns with nontoxic shot no larger than #4 birdshot, or muzzleloader or.40 caliber or less when hunting (see § 32.2(k)).

4. We allow night hunting in accordance with State regulations for raccoon and opossum during nighttime hours from legal sunset until legal sunrise.

C. Big Game Hunting

se only .17, .22, and .22 magnum caliber rimfire rifle firearms (see § 27.42 of this chapter), bows, or shotguns with nontoxic shot no larger than #4 birdshot, or muzzleloader or.40 caliber or less when hunting (see § 32.2(k)).

4. We allow night hunting in accordance with State regulations for raccoon and opossum during nighttime hours from legal sunset until legal sunrise.

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of big game on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State

1. Conditions A1 through A18 apply.

2. During the refuge archery season, hunters may only use archery equipment in accordance with State archery regulations.

3. During the refuge muzzleloader season, hunters may only use muzzleloading firearms (see § 27.42 of this chapter) in accordance with State muzzleloader regulations.

4. We prohibit driving or screwing any metal object into a tree or hunting from a tree in which a metal object has been driven or screwed to support a hunter (see § 32.2(i)).

5. Temporary tree stands may be left on the refuge starting one week before archery season and must be removed by the last day of hog season. All tree stands left on the refuge within the hunt season must display the hunters name and hunting license number legibly written on or attached to the stand. We may confiscate and dispose of tree stands not in compliance (see §§ 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter). You may use tree stands during small game season, but you must remove them by the last day of this season (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

6. All hunters (including all persons accompanying hunters) must wear a minimum of 500 square inches (3,250 square centimeters) of fluorescent orange visible above the waistline while hunting during all refuge deer gun hunts.

7. We prohibit the use of organized drives for taking or attempting to take game.

8. We will publish the dates of the refuge general gun season in the annual refuge hunt brochure. Contact the refuge office for specific dates

ters) must wear a minimum of 500 square inches (3,250 square centimeters) of fluorescent orange visible above the waistline while hunting during all refuge deer gun hunts.

7. We prohibit the use of organized drives for taking or attempting to take game.

8. We will publish the dates of the refuge general gun season in the annual refuge hunt brochure. Contact the refuge office for specific dates. Consult the Florida State Zone C for current State regulations.

9. The family hunt follows the refuge general gun season. We will print dates in the annual refuge hunt brochure. Contact the refuge office for specific dates.

10. The refuge will provide an annual feral (wild) hog hunt. We will print dates in the annual refuge hunt brochure. Contact the refuge office for specific dates.

11. During the youth turkey hunt, an adult age 18 or older must accompany the youth, age 15 and younger, but only the youth hunter may hunt.

12. We allow hunting of deer (except spotted fawns), feral hog (no size or bag limit), gray squirrel, rabbit, armadillo, opossum, raccoon, beaver, and coyote during the archery season.

13. We prohibit harvesting antlered deer not having one (1) antler with two (2) or more points, except persons younger than age 16 may harvest any antlered deer with one (1) antler 5 inches (12.7 centimeters) or more in length. You may take feral hog (no bag or size limit) during the archery, muzzleloader, and general-gun season.

14. Hunters may take feral hog (no size or bag limit), and a maximum of two deer per day, during the family hunt, except only one deer may be antlerless for each day of the family hunts.

15. Hunters may take only feral hog (no size or bag limit) during the feral (wild) hog hunt.

16. Hunters must fill out a bag report card and check all game harvested during all deer and hog hunts.

17. Hunters may take only bearded turkeys and only during the State Zone C youth turkey hunts and spring turkey season.

except only one deer may be antlerless for each day of the family hunts.

15. Hunters may take only feral hog (no size or bag limit) during the feral (wild) hog hunt.

16. Hunters must fill out a bag report card and check all game harvested during all deer and hog hunts.

17. Hunters may take only bearded turkeys and only during the State Zone C youth turkey hunts and spring turkey season.

18. Shooting hours for spring turkey begin 1/2 hour before legal sunrise and end at 1 p.m.

19. We only allow shotguns with shot no larger than size 2 common shot or bows and arrows for spring turkey hunting.

20. We prohibit crossbows except with a State-issued disabled crossbow permit. You may not use a crossbow during muzzleloader season.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

13. We prohibit fish cleaning on refuge property.

Pinellas National Wildlife Refuge

D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing in refuge-managed waters year-round in areas designated as open, in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. We allow fishing only from vessels in the waters surrounding Tarpon Key.

2. We close refuge lands to all public use.

3. We prohibit the disturbance of any nesting birds, wildlife, or vegetation.

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge

C. Big Game Hunting. * * *

2. Conditions B2 and B4 through B11 apply.

8. The bag limit for white-tailed deer is two deer per scheduled hunt period. We allow hunters to harvest two antlerless deer per scheduled hunt period. We define antlerless deer per State regulations ( i.e., un-antlered deer or antlered deer with both antlers less than 5 inches (12.7 centimeters) in length). Otherwise, hunters may harvest one antlerless deer and one antlered deer per hunt. Hunters must ensure that antlered deer have at least 3 points, of 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) or more in length on one antler.

9. Amend § 32.29 by:

a. Adding paragraphs D.5 and D.6 under Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

or antlered deer with both antlers less than 5 inches (12.7 centimeters) in length). Otherwise, hunters may harvest one antlerless deer and one antlered deer per hunt. Hunters must ensure that antlered deer have at least 3 points, of 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) or more in length on one antler.

9. Amend § 32.29 by:

a. Adding paragraphs D.5 and D.6 under Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

b. Revising the introductory text of paragraphs C and D; revising paragraphs C.1, C.10, C.11, C.16, and D.1; removing paragraphs D.2, D.3, and D.4; redesignating paragraph D.5 as D.2; and adding paragraphs C.20, C.21, and D.3 under Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge.

c. Revising the introductory text of paragraph A; revising paragraphs A.2, A.6, A.8, A.9, A.13, A.19, A.24, A.28, B.1, B.2, C.1, D.1, D.4, D.5, and D.6; and adding paragraphs A.30, A.31, A.32, A.33, A.34, A.35, A.36, A.37, A.38, A.39, B.4, B.5, C.6, C.7, D.7, and D.8 under Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge.

d. Revising the introductory text of paragraphs C and D; revising paragraphs C.1, C.5, C.6, C.7, C.10, C.12, C.14, and D.3; and adding paragraphs C.20 and D.5 under Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge.

e. Removing paragraph B.3; revising paragraphs C.1, C.2, C.3.ii, D.1, D.4, and D.5; and adding paragraph D.6 under Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge.

f. Revising paragraphs B.2, B.3, B.4, B.7, B.10, C.1, C.3, C.4, C.6, C.7, C.13, D.1, D.3, D.4, D.5, D.8, and D.10 and adding paragraphs B.12, B.13, B.14, B.15, B.16, B.17, B.18, B.19, B.20, B.21, B.22, B.23, B.24, B.25, D.11, and D.12 under Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge.

ng paragraphs C.1, C.2, C.3.ii, D.1, D.4, and D.5; and adding paragraph D.6 under Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge.

g. Removing paragraph C.6; revising the introductory text of paragraphs A, B, C, and D; redesignating paragraphs A.2, A.3, A.4, C.1, C.2, C.3, C.4, and C.5 as paragraphs A.3, A.4, A.5, C.2, C.3, C.4, C.5, and C.6, respectively; revising newly redesignated paragraphs A.4 and C.2; revising paragraphs A.1, B.1, B.2, B.6, C.8, D.2, and D.4; and adding paragraphs A.2, A.6, C.1, and D.7 under Savannah National Wildlife Refuge.

h. Revising the introductory text of paragraphs C and D; revising paragraphs C.1, C.8, C.9, and C.18; and adding paragraphs C.21, C.22, D.3, and D.4 under Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge.

i. Revising paragraph D under Wolf Island National Wildlife Refuge.

The revisions and additions read as follows:

§ 32.29 Georgia.

Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

5. We permit commercial fishing only by Special Use Permit (Commercial Activities Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3-1383-C) issued by the refuge manager.

6. We permit fishing tournaments by Special Use Permit (General Activities Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3-1383-G) issued by the refuge manager (fees may apply).

Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and feral hog on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. We require a refuge hunt permit (name/address/phone number) for all hunters age 16 and older, which must be signed and carried at all times when hunting. We charge a fee for all hunt permits.

Refuge

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and feral hog on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. We require a refuge hunt permit (name/address/phone number) for all hunters age 16 and older, which must be signed and carried at all times when hunting. We charge a fee for all hunt permits.

10. We prohibit the use of organized drives for taking or attempting to take game.

11. Hunters may take five deer (no more than two antlered), and we will issue State bonus tags for two of these. There is no bag limit on feral hog.

16. We close the refuge to the nonhunting public on all hunt days.

20. We prohibit hunters from bringing firewood to the refuge.

21. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (see § 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge regulations in part 32).

D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. We allow saltwater fishing year-round in the estuarine waters adjacent to the refuge.

3. We require a Georgia fishing license and Saltwater Information Program (SIP) permit.

Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of waterfowl on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

2. We require you to possess and carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed brochure) and an additional refuge quota hunt permit for the quota hunts while hunting. You may obtain this permit and an application for the quota hunt from the refuge office.

6. We allow only nontoxic shot for hunting with the use of a shotgun in designated areas (see § 32.2(k)).

to the following conditions:

6. We allow only nontoxic shot for hunting with the use of a shotgun in designated areas (see § 32.2(k)).

8. We allow access to the hunt area from 2 hours before legal sunrise until 2 hours after legal sunset.

9. We allow the use of hunting dogs for retrieving downed waterfowl during waterfowl hunts.

13. We prohibit entry into the designated hunt area by nonhunters during all quota deer‐gun and waterfowl hunts.

19. Youth hunters age 15 and younger must remain within sight and normal voice contact of an adult age 21 or older possessing a valid hunting license.

24. We prohibit all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on the refuge except by wheelchair-bound hunters with a refuge Special Use Permit (General Activities—Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3-1383-G).

28. We prohibit leaving vehicles, boats, trailers, or decoys on the refuge overnight (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

30. We prohibit the possession or use of any suppressors or silencers on any firearm.

31. We prohibit the possession or use of any trail or game camera or leaving any other electronic device on the refuge.

32. We prohibit the possession or use of any night vision or thermal imaging equipment.

33. We prohibit the possession or use of any electronic calls.

34. We prohibit the training of dogs or release of birds.

35. We prohibit falconry.

36. We prohibit bicycles on foot travel roads or off road. We restrict bicycles to roads designated open to vehicles.

37. We prohibit audio equipment such as radios, other noise-making devices, or generators.

38. We prohibit horses or mules.

39. We prohibit construction of or hunting from permanent blinds for waterfowl

t the training of dogs or release of birds.

35. We prohibit falconry.

36. We prohibit bicycles on foot travel roads or off road. We restrict bicycles to roads designated open to vehicles.

37. We prohibit audio equipment such as radios, other noise-making devices, or generators.

38. We prohibit horses or mules.

39. We prohibit construction of or hunting from permanent blinds for waterfowl. You may only place temporary blinds, blind material, and/or decoys on the day of the hunt, and you must remove them by 1:00 p.m. on that same day.

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

1. Conditions A1, A3 through A8, A10 through A12, and A14 through A38 apply.

2. We require you to possess and carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed brochure) while hunting for upland game. The hunt brochure will serve as your hunt permit. You may obtain this permit from the refuge office.

4. We allow the use of hunting dogs while hunting for squirrel, rabbit, and quail.

5. You may place tree stands and hunting blinds during upland game and big game hunts on the day prior to each upland game and big game hunt. You must remove tree stands and hunting blinds by 11:00 a.m. on the day after the hunt.

C. Big Game Hunting. * * *

1. Conditions A1 through A8, A10 through A18, A20 through A38, and B5 apply.

6. For archery hunting, we require you to possess and carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed brochure) while hunting. You may obtain this permit from the refuge office.

7. Youth hunters age 15 and younger must remain within sight and normal voice contact of an adult age 21 or older possessing a valid hunting license. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter.

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

1. We allow fishing from March 1 to October 31, except on the Ocmulgee River, which is open to fishing year‐round.

4. We allow boat launching at the Stone Creek Boat Launch. During periods of high water, we allow boats to be launched from refuge roads normally open to vehicle traffic

ing a valid hunting license. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter.

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

1. We allow fishing from March 1 to October 31, except on the Ocmulgee River, which is open to fishing year‐round.

4. We allow boat launching at the Stone Creek Boat Launch. During periods of high water, we allow boats to be launched from refuge roads normally open to vehicle traffic. We allow gasoline motors only during periods of high water as defined as a reading of 18.0 feet (5.5 meters) or higher at the Macon Gauge on the Ocmulgee River.

5. Conditions A3, A4, A11, A15, A16, A20 through A32, and A36 through A38 apply.

6. We prohibit use or possession of alcoholic beverages while fishing on the refuge.

7. We require you to possess and carry a signed refuge fishing permit (signed brochure) while fishing. You may obtain this permit from the refuge office.

8. Youth fishermen age 15 and younger must remain within sight and

Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and feral hog on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. We require a refuge hunt permit (name/address/phone number) for all hunters age 16 and older, which must be signed and carried at all times when hunting. We charge a fee for all hunt permits.

5. We prohibit hunting within 100 yards (91.4 meters) of Harris Neck Road, the refuge entrance drive, Visitor Contact Station/Office, Barbour River Landing, Barbour River Road, or Gould's Cemetery.

6. We require hunters to check-in and out each hunt day. Personal identification is required.

7. We require hunters to check all harvested game at the check station before leaving the refuge each day.

10. Hunters must enter the refuge through the main entrance gate. We prohibit entry by boat.

12. During the gun hunt, we allow only shotguns (20 gauge or larger; slugs only), muzzleloaders, and bows in accordance with State regulations.

y. Personal identification is required.

7. We require hunters to check all harvested game at the check station before leaving the refuge each day.

10. Hunters must enter the refuge through the main entrance gate. We prohibit entry by boat.

12. During the gun hunt, we allow only shotguns (20 gauge or larger; slugs only), muzzleloaders, and bows in accordance with State regulations.

14. During the gun hunt, hunters must wear an outer garment with a minimum of 500 square inches (3,250 square centimeters) of hunter-orange material above the waistline.

20. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (§ 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge regulations in part 32).

D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

3. We close the Barbour Landing (boat ramp and parking areas) to the public from 12 a.m. (midnight) to 4 a.m.

5. We require a Georgia fishing license and Saltwater Information Program (SIP) permit.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

C. Big Game Hunting. * * *

1. In the Pocket Unit:

i. We only allow archery hunting and foot traffic.

ii. You must sign in and out daily.

iii. You must remove tree stands daily (see § 27.93 of this chapter).

iv. We prohibit the use of dogs.

v. We prohibit hunting within 50 yards (45.7 meters) of any road opened for vehicular access.

vi. We prohibit possessing a cocked crossbow in a motor vehicle.

vii. We allow scouting 7 days prior to scheduled hunt.

viii. We prohibit shooting from a motor vehicle.

2. In the Suwanee Canal Unit:

i. We only allow two 1/2 -day hunts (dates will be announced) and shotguns with slugs or muzzleloaders.

bit hunting within 50 yards (45.7 meters) of any road opened for vehicular access.

vi. We prohibit possessing a cocked crossbow in a motor vehicle.

vii. We allow scouting 7 days prior to scheduled hunt.

viii. We prohibit shooting from a motor vehicle.

2. In the Suwanee Canal Unit:

i. We only allow two 1/2 -day hunts (dates will be announced) and shotguns with slugs or muzzleloaders.

ii. We require a refuge permit (Big/Upland Game Hunt Application, FWS Form 3-2356) through refuge lottery (fee will be announced).

iii. Hunters must remain on stands from 30 minutes before legal sunrise until 9 a.m.

iv. You must sign in and sign out daily.

v. You must tag your deer with special refuge tags (obtained from Refuge Office). There is a limit of two deer of either sex per day.

vi. We zone Chesser Island Hunt area to accommodate wheelchair hunters.

vii. We prohibit hunting with dogs.

viii. We allow scouting 7 days prior to scheduled hunt.

ix. We prohibit shooting from a motor vehicle.

x. We prohibit taking or possessing any wildlife except during an open season for that species.

xi. Condition C.1.iii applies.

3. * * *

ii. Conditions B.1, C.1.iii, and C.1.iv apply.

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

1. You may use only 10 horsepower motors or less on the refuge.

4. We prohibit paddleboarding, air boats, swimming, and wading.

5. All boats must be off the water by posted time.

6. In the Suwannee Canal Unit, we prohibit fishing in ponds and canals along Swamp Island Drive.

Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

2. We coordinate seasons and limits with the State and annually list them in the refuge hunt brochure.

3. You must possess and carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed brochure) while hunting. You may obtain the permit from the refuge office.

4. We require a signed refuge hunt permit (signed brochure) to hunt on the Hitchiti Experimental Forest in accordance with refuge hunting seasons and regulations.

seasons and limits with the State and annually list them in the refuge hunt brochure.

3. You must possess and carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed brochure) while hunting. You may obtain the permit from the refuge office.

4. We require a signed refuge hunt permit (signed brochure) to hunt on the Hitchiti Experimental Forest in accordance with refuge hunting seasons and regulations.

7. We allow access to the hunt area from 2 hours before legal sunrise until 2 hours after legal sunset.

10. You may use dogs on designated areas of the refuge for hunting quail, squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, and opossum in accordance with State regulations.

12. We prohibit use or possession of alcoholic beverages while hunting on the refuge (see § 32.2(j)).

13. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (§ 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge regulations in part 32).

14. We prohibit possession or use of any suppressors or silencer on any firearms.

15. We prohibit possession or use of trail or game cameras or leaving any other electronic device on the refuge.

16. We prohibit possession or use of any night vision or thermal imaging equipment.

17. We prohibit possession or use of any electronic calls.

18. We prohibit training of dogs or release of birds.

19. We prohibit falconry.

20. We prohibit bicycles on foot travel roads or off road. We restrict bicycles to gravel roads designated open to vehicles.

21. We prohibit overnight camping and/or parking.

22. We prohibit horses or mules.

23. We prohibit taking, collecting, or disturbing any artifact, property, plant, wildlife, or part thereof, other than that specifically allowed by refuge regulation (see §§ 27.61 and 27.62 of this chapter).

24. We prohibit open fires.

d. We restrict bicycles to gravel roads designated open to vehicles.

21. We prohibit overnight camping and/or parking.

22. We prohibit horses or mules.

24. We prohibit open fires.

25. Youth hunters age 15 and younger must remain within sight and normal voice contact of an adult age 21 or older possessing a valid hunting license.

C. Big Game Hunting. * * *

1. Conditions B4 through B7, B12 through B18, B20, and B22 through B24 apply.

3. We require you to possess and carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed

4. We require you to possess and carry a signed refuge hunt permit (signed brochure), pay a fee for the quota firearms hunts, and possess and carry an additional refuge quota hunt permit (name/address/phone number) for the quota hunts. You may obtain applications and information about the hunt drawing from the refuge office.

6. We prohibit entry into designated hunt areas by nonhunters during all quota deer hunts and the disabled deer hunts.

7. We prohibit overnight camping and/or parking except in the designated campground at Pippins Lake. You must have a valid, paid refuge quota hunt permit (name/address/phone number) during big game quota hunts or a signed refuge hunt permit (signed brochure) during the archery hunt to enter and use the campground.

13. We prohibit all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on the refuge except by wheelchair-bound hunters with a special use permit (General Activities—Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3-1383-G).

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

1. We allow fishing from March 15 to September 30.

3. You may keep the following numbers of fish each day: bass—5, channel catfish—5, sunfish or bream—15, and crappie—15.

4. We allow nonmotorized boats or boats with electric motors on all ponds designated as open to fishing.

l use permit (General Activities—Special Use Permit Application, FWS Form 3-1383-G).

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

1. We allow fishing from March 15 to September 30.

3. You may keep the following numbers of fish each day: bass—5, channel catfish—5, sunfish or bream—15, and crappie—15.

4. We allow nonmotorized boats or boats with electric motors on all ponds designated as open to fishing.

5. We prohibit use or possession of alcoholic beverages while fishing on the refuge.

8. We prohibit the use of fish for bait and the possession of minnows.

10. We prohibit possession or take of grass carp. You must immediately release any grass carp caught.

11. We require you to possess and carry a signed refuge fishing permit (signed brochure) while fishing. You may obtain this permit from the refuge office.

12. Youth fishermen age 15 and younger must remain within sight and normal voice contact of an adult age 21 or older possessing a valid fishing license.

Savannah National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck and coot on designated areas of the refuge north of Georgia Highway 25/South Carolina Highway 170 in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. For all hunters age 16 and older, we require a refuge hunt permit, which must be signed and carried at all times when hunting. We charge a fee for all hunt permits.

2. To participate in the youth waterfowl hunt, youth hunters must submit the Waterfowl Lottery Application (FWS Form 3-2355). We require an application fee to enter the hunt drawing.

4. We prohibit hunting within 100 yards (91.4 meters) of Georgia Highway 25/South Carolina Highway 170.

6. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (§ 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge regulations in part 32.)

B. Upland Game Hunting

thin 100 yards (91.4 meters) of Georgia Highway 25/South Carolina Highway 170.

B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. Conditions A1 and A6 apply.

2. We only allow rimfire rifles or shotguns with #2 shot or smaller for squirrel hunting.

6. Youth hunters age 15 and younger must remain within sight and normal voice contact of an adult age 21 or older, possessing a license. One adult may supervise no more than one youth hunter.

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white‐tailed deer, turkey, and feral hog on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. Conditions A1, A6, B3, B4, and B6 apply.

2. To participate in the gun hunt for wheelchair‐dependent hunters, hunters must submit the Quota Deer Hunt Application (FWS Form 3‐2354). To participate in the Youth Turkey Hunt & Learn Weekend, youth hunters must submit the Big/Upland Game Hunt Application (FWS Form 3-2356). We require an application fee to enter these hunt drawings.

8. We allow shotguns with only #2 shot or smaller and bows, in accordance with State regulations, for turkey hunting. We prohibit the use of slugs or buckshot for turkey hunting.

D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

2. Anglers may fish in Kingfisher Pond and all tidal creeks year-round.

4. Anglers may bank fish year‐round throughout the refuge, unless otherwise posted.

or turkey hunting. We prohibit the use of slugs or buckshot for turkey hunting.

D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

2. Anglers may fish in Kingfisher Pond and all tidal creeks year-round.

4. Anglers may bank fish year‐round throughout the refuge, unless otherwise posted.

7. We require a Georgia fishing license for fishing in Georgia waters; we require a South Carolina freshwater fishing license for fishing in South Carolina waters (includes refuge impoundments and bank fishing from Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive).

Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge

C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white‐tailed deer and feral hog on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. We require a refuge hunt permit, for all hunters age 16 and older, which must be signed and carried at all times when hunting. We charge a fee for all hunt permits.

8. We allow only bows and muzzleloading rifles, in accordance with State regulations, for deer and hog hunting during primitive weapons hunt.

9. We allow only shotguns (20 gauge or larger; slug only), center‐fire rifles (.22 caliber or larger), bows, and primitive weapons, in accordance with State regulations, for deer and hog hunting during the gun hunt.

18. We will close the refuge to the nonhunting public on all hunt days.

21. We prohibit hunters from bringing firewood to the refuge.

22. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (§ 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge regulations in part 32.)

D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

3. We prohibit freshwater fishing.

es must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (§ 27.42 of this chapter and specific refuge regulations in part 32.)

D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

3. We prohibit freshwater fishing.

4. We require a Georgia fishing license and Saltwater Information Program (SIP) permit.

Wolf Island National Wildlife Refuge

D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may fish in designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following conditions:

1. We allow saltwater fishing year-round in the estuarine waters adjacent to the refuge.

2. We close all beach, marsh, and upland areas to the public.

3. We require a Georgia fishing license and Saltwater Information Program (SIP) permit.

10. Amend § 32.32 by:

a. Adding paragraph B.6 under Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.

b. Adding paragraph A.6, revising paragraphs B.1 and C.1, and removing paragraph C.3 under Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge.

c. Adding paragraph A.5, and revising paragraphs B and C.1 under Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge.

d. Revising paragraphs A, B, and C under Great River National Wildlife Refuge.

e. Adding paragraph A.4; revising paragraphs B.2 and C.1; removing paragraph C.3; and redesignating paragraphs C.4, C.5, and C.6 as C.3, C.4, and C.5, respectively, under Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge.

f. Revising paragraphs A, B, and C, and adding paragraph D.6 under Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge.

g. Revising the introductory text of paragraphs A, B, and C; adding paragraphs A.3 and B.3; and revising paragraphs B.2 and C.3 under Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge.

The additions and revisions read as follows:

§ 32.32 Illinois.

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

A, B, and C, and adding paragraph D.6 under Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge.

g. Revising the introductory text of paragraphs A, B, and C; adding paragraphs A.3 and B.3; and revising paragraphs B.2 and C.3 under Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge.

The additions and revisions read as follows:

§ 32.32 Illinois.

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

6. For hunting, you may use or possess only approved nontoxic shot shells (see § 32.2(k)).

Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

6. For hunting, you may use or possess only approved nontoxic shot shells while in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see § 32.2(k)).

B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

1. Conditions A1, A2, A4, A5, and A6 apply.

C. Big Game Hunting. * * *

1. Conditions A1, A2, A4, and A5 apply. Condition A6 applies to wild turkey only.

Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

5. For hunting, you may use or possess only approved nontoxic shot shells while in the field, including shot shells used for hunting wild turkey (see § 32.2(k)).

B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow upland game hunting on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations and subject to the following condition: Conditions A4 and A5 apply.

C. Big Game Hunting. * * *

1. Condition A4 applies. Condition A5 applies to wild turkey only.

Great River National Wildlife Refuge

A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of waterfowl and coot on the Long Island Division of the refuge in accordance with St

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