Early Goose Changes...Get your voice heard

[Scott M]

From DNR News:

DNR invites public input about hunting changes (March 6, 2009)

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites the public to comment on a proposal that would simplify regulations for hunting Canada geese during the early fall season in the metro and southeast parts of the state.

Over-the-counter turkey license sales and a special Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) deer hunt will also be discussed at the meetings.

The DNR is hosting three public meetings:

* Thursday, March 12, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the DNR headquarters, 500 Lafayette Rd., St. Paul.

* Thursday, March 19, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the People’s Cooperative, 3935 Hwy. 14 E., Rochester.

* Thursday, March 26, from 7-9 p.m. at DNR Regional Headquarters, 261 Minnesota Highway 15 South, New Ulm.

* A fourth meeting is being planned for northeastern Minnesota.

The DNR is proposing to merge the metro and southeast early Canada goose zones into the statewide zone, making season dates and lengths, bag limits and other regulations consistent throughout most of the state. In addition to simplifying regulations, the change is expected to provide more hunting opportunities and increase harvest of Canada geese.

The change would eliminate the prohibition against hunting Canada geese within 100 feet of open water during the September season in the metro and southeast areas.

People who cannot attend the meetings are urged to complete a questionnaire online.

Written comments also may be mailed to: Season Comments, DNR Section of Wildlife, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155-4007.

Online Questionnaire, available after Mar. 12