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The
2003-2005 Hunting Season Recommendation Process to Begin Again
George K. Tsukamoto, Staff Wildlife Biologist
The
time is fast approaching for Washington hunters to get involved
in the next three-year hunting season recommendation process.
The major hunting seasons and rules are modified on a three-year
basis with annual adjustments to permit levels and hunts
that address damage and nuisance problems. Public involvement
is an important part of the process of establishing hunting
seasons and regulations.
Based
on public comments received over the past two years there
are some issues that are sure to surface during this process.
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Resource allocation is a subject of much attention and
continued comment by Washington hunters. The three major
groups (modern firearm, muzzleloader and archery) all
seek for increased opportunity and success. Other groups
such as Advanced Hunter Education graduates, hunters with
disabilities, seniors, and youth are also vying for more
opportunities.
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Weapon and equipment restriction is an issue that has
come under increased scrutiny from various segments of
the hunting and non-hunting public. The recent debate
surrounding “Roboduck” is a current example
of differing opinions about advances in equipment technology,
the appropriateness of hunting methods, and the more serious
question about meeting the socially accepted standards
of hunter ethics and fair chase.
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Antler point restrictions increased or decreased hunter
days and permit-only opportunities are some of the strategies
used in management of elk, deer and other game species.
Some hunters are opposed to specific strategies such as
these.
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Wildlife damage related issues are a major concern to
hunters as well as agriculturists. Hunting seasons structured
to relieve damage require considerable attention by the
Department and the parties affected.
The
Department has been expanding outreach efforts in soliciting
public comment on hunting season alternatives through the
Internet and will continue conducting public meetings and
receive comments by mail. We encourage comments via e-mail,
etc. during the development of the hunting season recommendation
package. We also encourage continued public involvement
when the recommendation package is finalized and provided
to the Fish and Wildlife Commissioners for action in April
2003. The following is a preliminary schedule of key events
for the 2003-05 Hunting Season Recommendation process.
The
Three-year (2003-2005) hunting season recommendation process
timeline.
|
Event |
Who |
Date |
| Initial
Discussion |
WDFW
and Tribes
|
August/
September 2002 |
| Develop
Alternatives |
WDFW/Public |
October/November
2002 |
| Develop
Draft Alternatives |
WDFW |
December
2002 |
| Draft
Release |
Public |
Late
December 2002 |
| Public
Comment Meetings |
Public |
January,
2003 |
| Final
Recommendations |
WDFW |
February/March
2003 |
| Public
Hearing and Adoption |
Fish
and Wildlife Commission |
April
2003 |
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