Highlights of the rules adopted by Commissioners include:
Deer Either-Sex Seasons: Increased either-sex seasons on private lands in the following counties in the Western and Northwestern Zones:
Madison County will increase from a 1-day “introductory” to a 6-day “conservative” season (opening day through 1st Saturday).
Burke, Yancey, Mitchell, Avery and Caldwell counties will increase from a 6-day “conservative” to a 13-day “moderate” season (opening day through 2nd Saturday).
Polk, Rutherford and Cleveland counties will increase from a 2-week “moderate” to a 4-week season (opening day through 4th Saturday).
Wildlife Conservation Areas: Changed the dates and areas of restricted access on portions of Wildlife Conservation Areas that are posted as Waterbird Nesting Areas from April 1 through August 31, to March 1 through September 15 and prohibit open fires.
The proposals adopted were presented at three public hearings held across the state in January along with a fourth virtual hearing. During the public comment period, Dec. 1, 2022 – Jan. 30, 2023, the Wildlife Commission received input from constituents via email, an online comment portal, mail and at the virtual public hearing. Commissioners carefully reviewed each comment, prior to voting.
The rules adopted at the February Commission meeting have an anticipated effective date of June 1.