[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 170 (Thursday, September 3, 2009)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 45674-45701]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-21027]



[[Page 45673]]

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Part II





Department of the Interior





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Fish and Wildlife Service



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50 CFR Part 32



2008-2009 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations--
Modifications; Final Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 170 / Thursday, September 3, 2009 / 
Rules and Regulations

[[Page 45674]]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 32

[Docket No. FWS-R9-NSR-2008-0042]
[93270-1265-0000-4A]
RIN 1018-AV80


2008-2009 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations--
Modifications

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Fish and Wildlife Service implements pertinent refuge-
specific regulations and amends other existing refuge-specific 
regulations that pertain to migratory game bird hunting, upland game 
hunting, big game hunting, and sport fishing for the 2008-2009 season.

DATES: This rule is effective September 3, 2009.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Leslie A. Marler, (703) 358-2397; Fax 
(703) 358-2248.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The National Wildlife Refuge System 
Administration Act of 1966 closes national wildlife refuges 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 (Refuge System or our/we) 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.
    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:
    <bullet> Ensure compatibility with refuge purpose(s);
    <bullet> Properly manage the fish and wildlife resource(s);
    <bullet> Protect other refuge values;
    <bullet> Ensure refuge visitor safety; and
    <bullet> 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. 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 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 also standardize and clarify the language of 
existing regulations.

Plain Language Mandate

    In this rule we made some of the revisions to the individual refuge 
units to comply with a Presidential mandate to use plain language in 
regulations; as such, these particular revisions do not modify the 
substance of the previous regulations. These types of changes include 
using ``you'' to refer to the reader and ``we'' to refer to the Refuge 
System, using the word ``allow'' instead of ``permit'' when we do not 
require the use of a permit for an activity, and using active voice 
(i.e., ``We restrict entry into the refuge'' vs. ``Entry into the 
refuge is restricted''.)

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, are similar to those 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. 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 
Congress and the Service established the areas. The Recreation Act 
requires that any recreational use of refuge lands be compatible with 
the primary purpose(s) for which we established the refuge and not 
inconsistent with other previously authorized operations.
    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

[[Page 45675]]

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.

Response to Comments Received

    In the January 13, 2009, Federal Register (74 FR 1838), we 
published a proposed rulemaking identifying changes pertaining to 
migratory game bird hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting and 
sport fishing to existing refuge-specific language on certain refuges 
for the 2008-2009 season. We received five comments on the proposed 
rule during a 30-day comment period.
    Comment 1: The commenter believes that rules regarding outdoor 
sports (hunting and fishing) should not be governed at the Federal 
level, but should continue to be created, monitored, and reviewed by 
the individual States thus saving taxpayer resources.
    Response 1: As discussed earlier in the preamble (see Statutory 
Authority), these are Federal lands and both the Administration and 
Recreation Acts mandate that we govern the administration and public 
use of these refuges. Furthermore, the U.S. Supreme Court has approved 
of the Federal government's responsibilities to manage wildlife. The 
Federal government has the ability to regulate wildlife under the 
Property Clause (Kleppe v. New Mexico, 426 U.S. 529 (1976)); under the 
treaty-making power (Missouri v. Holland, 252 U.S. 416 (1920); and the 
commerce clause of the U.S. Constitution (Andrus v. Allard, 444 U.S. 51 
(1979)). Nevertheless, the Service has and will continue to work in 
cooperation with individual States in creating rules to manage 
wildlife.
    Comment 2: Two commenters raised concerns over whether the Service 
has jurisdiction over Hookton Slough and White Slough (associated with 
Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge in California). They believe that 
these are State-owned navigable waterways, and as such, are held in 
public trust by the State for the benefit of the public. They believe 
that the State would, therefore, regulate the use of those navigable 
waterways, including for purposes of hunting, through individual lease 
agreements. They believe that the Service does not have any specific 
lease agreement with the State to regulate hunting on those two 
sloughs. The commenter states that California currently allows hunting 
7 days a week on Hookton Slough.
    Response 2: The Service (Region 8) is currently in the process of 
developing their comprehensive conservation plan for the Humboldt Bay 
and Castle Rock National Wildlife Refuge Complex. We have been and will 
continue to address this jurisdictional issue through the comprehensive 
conservation planning (CCP) process. The CCP process provides all 
interested members of the public opportunity to comment through public 
scoping meetings and public comment periods. CCPs describe the desired 
future conditions of a refuge or planning unit and provide long-range 
guidance and management direction to achieve the purposes of the 
refuge; help fulfill the mission of the Refuge System; maintain and, 
where appropriate, restore the ecological integrity of each refuge and 
the Refuge System; help achieve the goals of the National Wilderness 
Preservation System; and meet other mandates. The Service recently 
completed public scoping/meeting activities for the CCP and plan to 
complete the CCP by the summer of 2009. In the meantime, we are 
removing condition A10 from the final rule and renumbering the 
remaining conditions A11 and A12 as A10 and A11 respectively.
    Comment 3: The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries wrote 
to say that they had recently changed their State regulations to allow 
the use of crossbows as legal archery equipment and are now using the 
term primitive firearms instead of muzzleloaders. Additionally, the 
State requests that we change our regulations to drop the requirement 
for archery certification prior to participation in archery hunts for 
consistency among Louisiana refuges. The State also requests that we 
consider providing additional hunting opportunities that are consistent 
with State regulations (fur trapping and alligator harvest on all 
Louisiana refuges). They recommend that we modify all affected 
Louisiana refuges accordingly.
    Response 3: We agree in part. The Service ensures that any request 
to modify our regulations is consistent with its management 
responsibility. Generally the Refuge System's practice is whenever 
possible to allow hunting in accordance with State regulations so long 
as these regulations continue to conserve the refuge's natural 
resources and ensure visitor safety. Having determined that some of the 
State's regulations are compatible with the Service's management 
responsibilities, we will make the following changes to nine of the 
Louisiana refuges proposed in the January 13, 2009, regulations (Bayou 
Cocodrie, Black Bayou Lake, Cameron Prairie, Cat Island, Catahoula, 
Grand Cote, Lacassine, Lake Ophelia, and Tensas National Wildlife 
Refuges): Remove the prohibition on crossbows; change the word 
``muzzleloader'' to ``primitive firearms''; and drop the archery 
certification requirement in our regulations. Two of the proposed 
refuges (Big Branch Marsh and Sabine) did not reference these issues/
conditions in their refuge-specific regulations but operate in 
accordance with State regulations in any event. We cannot modify 
conditions on the other Louisiana refuges not proposed in the January 
13, 2009, rule. We will, however, in future rulemakings consider 
modifying the other affected Louisiana refuges reflecting these recent 
State regulation changes.
    Regarding the State's request that we ``consider'' additional 
opportunities for trapping and alligator harvest, the Service 
considered this request but does not plan to change our regulations on 
these issues at this time. The Refuge System considers trapping to be a 
management activity and, as such, it would not be considered as a 
recreational opportunity covered by 50 CFR part 32. As discussed 
earlier in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section, our general policy is 
to adopt regulations identical to State hunting and sport fishing 
regulations. However, in some cases, 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.
    Comment 4: A commenter questioned the prohibition of crossbows for 
hunting on refuge lands being inconsistent with State of Georgia 
regulations and the majority of States. The commenter feels that the 
prohibition discriminates against disabled, elderly, and youth hunters 
unable to hunt with a bow; and that the Refuge System is understaffed 
to enforce this prohibition. The State of Georgia refuges in question 
are Harris Neck, Savannah, and Wassaw National Wildlife Refuges.
    Response 4: We are making no changes to the regulations at this 
time. However, we are considering the use of crossbows at Savannah, 
Wassaw, and

[[Page 45676]]

Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuges through our comprehensive 
conservation plans (CCPs), scheduled for completion in 2011. Through 
the CCP process, the Service will provide an opportunity for all 
interested members of the public to comment. Even if the Service 
decides to allow the use of crossbows here in a manner consistent with 
the State's regulations, we reserve the right, as discussed in response 
<greek-i>3 and in the Statutory Authority section, to supplement State 
regulations with more restrictive Federal regulations to ensure that we 
meet our management responsibilities.

Effective Date

    This rule is effective upon publication in the Federal Register. We 
have determined that any further delay in implementing these refuge-
specific hunting and sport fishing regulations would not be in the 
public interest, in that a delay would hinder the effective planning 
and administration of the hunting and fishing programs. We provided a 
30-day public comment period for the January 13, 2009, proposed rule. 
An additional delay would jeopardize holding the hunting and/or fishing 
programs this year or shorten their duration and thereby lessen the 
management effectiveness of this regulation. This rule does not impact 
the public generally in terms of requiring lead time for compliance. 
Rather it relieves restrictions in that it allows activities on refuges 
that we would otherwise prohibit. Therefore, we find good cause under 5 
U.S.C. 553(d)(3) to make this rule effective upon date of publication.

Amendments to Existing Regulations

    This document codifies in the Code of Federal Regulations the 
Service's hunting and/or sport fishing regulations that are applicable 
at Refuge System units previously opened to hunting and/or sport 
fishing. We are doing 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 will usually find them reiterated in 
literature distributed by each refuge or posted on signs.
    We have cross-referenced a number of existing regulations in 50 CFR 
parts 26, 27, 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. Furthermore, this 
redundancy helps ensure continued conservation of wildlife and 
protection of the environment with respect to regulations limiting the 
amount and type of ammunition permitted.
    We are revising 50 CFR 32.8, ``Areas closed to hunting,'' by 
removing the entry dated October 2, 1958, under the States of Iowa, 
Minnesota, and Wisconsin which was mooted by 2007 regulations discussed 
below. On October 24, 2006, we published a comprehensive conservation 
plan describing habitat and waterfowl use changes in those closed areas 
and outlined needed location and boundary changes. We further published 
a final regulation on September 7, 2007 (72 FR 51534), amending hunting 
and fishing regulations for the Upper Mississippi River National 
Wildlife and Fish Refuge in the States of Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, 
and Wisconsin, which included changes to the system of closed areas, 
thus making the 1958 entries moot. A copy of the refuge comprehensive 
conservation plan can be found at www.fws.gov/midwest/planning/uppermiss.
    We have removed conditions pertaining to different types of and 
allowed use of weaponry and requirements to unload all firearms when 
traveling to and from the hunting area that is redundant with part 
27.42. On May 22, 2009, President Obama signed the Credit Cardholders' 
Bill of Rights Act of 2009 (H.R. 627) containing an amendment that 
would allow firearms in parks and refuges, which is to take effect in 
February, 2010. Accordingly, because these regulations will be 
permanent, we have not included provisions on weapons which are 
inconsistent with this new legislation in this final regulation. Until 
those provisions are effective, the general regulations found at 50 CFR 
27.42 continue to apply.

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/ost/fish/.

Regulatory Planning and Review

    The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has determined that this 
rule is not significant under Executive Order 12866 (E.O. 12866). OMB 
bases its determination on the following four criteria:
    (a) Whether the rule will have an annual effect of $100 million or 
more on the economy or adversely affect an economic sector, 
productivity, jobs, the environment, or other units of the government.
    (b) Whether the rule will create inconsistencies with other Federal 
agencies' actions.
    (c) Whether the rule will materially affect entitlements, grants, 
use fees, loan programs, or the rights and obligations of their 
recipients.
    (d) Whether the rule raises novel legal or policy issues.

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 rule does not increase the number of recreation types allowed 
on the System nor does it establish new hunting or fishing programs on 
national wildlife refuges. Instead, this rule makes administrative 
changes, provides clarification, and makes minor changes to 
recreational opportunities on a number of national wildlife refuges. As 
a result, visitor use for wildlife-dependent recreation on national 
wildlife refuges may change. The changes are likely to minimally impact 
visitor activity on these national wildlife refuges. We do not expect 
an impact to overall visitor use days due to changes on individual 
refuges such as the use of safety belts in tree stands or reporting 
accidents involving property damage or personal injury. There may be 
minor decreases in visitor use due to modifications such as individual 
refuges

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prohibiting the use of permanent structures, prohibiting marking of 
trees, or prohibiting hunting with bait. We would expect only a minor 
change, if any, in visitor use. If visitor use does decrease 
marginally, we would expect these visitors to go to a substitute site 
for the activity and not necessarily result in an overall decrease in 
participation rates for the activity.
    Small businesses within the retail trade industry (such as hotels, 
gas stations, taxidermy shops, bait and tackle shops, etc.) may be 
impacted from some decreased refuge visitation. A large percentage of 
these retail trade establishments in the local communities around 
national wildlife refuges qualify as small businesses. 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.
    With the small change in overall spending anticipated from this 
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 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/final Regulatory Flexibility Analysis is not required. 
Accordingly, a Small Entity Compliance Guide is not required.

Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act

    The 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 rule would have only a slight 
effect on the costs of hunting and fishing 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 and fish, the 
increased travel cost would be small. We do not expect this rule to 
affect the supply or demand for fishing and hunting opportunities in 
the United States and, therefore, it should not affect prices for 
fishing and 0hunting 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 
United States-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based 
enterprises. This rule represents only a small proportion of 
recreational spending at national wildlife refuges. 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 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 rule would not have significant 
takings implications. This regulation would affect only visitors at 
national wildlife refuges 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 rule would not have sufficient 
Federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a Federalism 
Assessment under E.O. 13132. In preparing this 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 the 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 regulation 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 rule would make only minor 
changes to refuges open to hunting and fishing, it is not a significant 
regulatory action under E.O. 12866 and is not expected to significantly 
affect energy supplies, distribution, and use. Therefore, this action 
is a 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 national wildlife 
refuges 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 under the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 
et seq.) (OMB Control Number is 1018-0102 and 1018-0140). See 50 CFR 
25.23 for information concerning that approval. 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 ESA when developing Comprehensive 
Conservation Plans (CCPs) 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.

National Environmental Policy Act

    We analyzed this rule in accordance with the criteria of the 
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4332(C)) 
and 516 Departmental Manual (DM) 6, Appendix 1. This rule does not 
constitute a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality 
of the human environment. An

[[Page 45678]]

environmental impact statement/assessment is not required.
    A categorical exclusion from NEPA documentation applies to 
publication of proposed amendments to refuge-specific hunting and 
fishing regulations since it is technical and procedural in nature, and 
the environmental effects are too broad, speculative, or conjectural to 
lend themselves to meaningful analysis (516 DM 2, Appendix 1.10). 
Concerning the actions that are the subject of this rulemaking, NEPA 
has been complied with at the project level where each proposal was 
developed. This is consistent with the Department of the Interior 
instructions for compliance with NEPA where actions are covered 
sufficiently by an earlier environmental document (516 DM 3.2A).
    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 CCPs 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 
CCPs 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 retain information regarding public 
use programs and conditions that apply to their specific programs and 
maps of their respective areas. If the specific refuge you are 
interested in is not mentioned below, then contact the appropriate 
Regional offices 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 N.E. 11th Avenue, Portland, 
Oregon 97232-4181; Telephone (503) 231-6214.
    Region 2--Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Regional Chief, 
National Wildlife Refuge System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Box 
1306, 500 Gold Avenue, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87103; Telephone (505) 
248-7419.
    Region 3--Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, 
Ohio, and Wisconsin. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, 
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1 Federal Drive, Federal Building, Fort 
Snelling, Twin Cities, Minnesota 55111; Telephone (612) 713-5401.
    Region 4--Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, 
Mississippi, North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, Puerto Rico, 
and the Virgin Islands. Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge 
System, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1875 Century Boulevard, 
Atlanta, Georgia 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, Massachusetts 01035-9589; 
Telephone (413) 253-8306.
    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, 
Colorado 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, Alaska 
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, California 95825; Telephone (916) 414-6464.

Primary Author

    Leslie A. Marler, Management Analyst, 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.

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

PART 32--[AMENDED]

0
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.

0
2. Amend Sec. 32.8, ``Areas closed to hunting.'', by removing the 
entries dated ``October 2, 1958,'' under the States of Iowa, Minnesota, 
and Wisconsin.
0
3. Amend Sec. 32.20 Alabama by:
0
a. Adding paragraphs B.6. and B.7., removing paragraph C.3., 
redesignating paragraphs C.4. through C.7. as paragraphs C.3. through 
C.6., revising newly redesignated paragraph C.6, and adding paragraphs 
C.7. and C.8. of Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Adding paragraph B.11., revising paragraph C.1., removing paragraphs 
C.4., C.6., and C.7., and redesignating paragraph C.5. as paragraph 
C.4. of Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Revising paragraph A.3., adding paragraph B.6., and revising 
paragraph C.6. of Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
d. Revising paragraphs A., B.1., and C.1. and adding paragraph C.4. of 
Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.20  Alabama.

* * * * *

Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    6. All 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. Youth hunters must have passed a State-approved 
hunter education course. One adult may supervise no more than two 
youths.
    7. We prohibit marking trees and the use of flagging tape, 
reflective tacks, and other similar marking devices (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    6. Conditions B2, B3, and B8 apply.
    7. All 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. Youth hunters must have passed a State-approved 
hunter education course. One adult may supervise no more than one 
youth.
    8. We prohibit participation in organized drives.
* * * * *

Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    11. We prohibit the use of mules, horses, and ATVs on all refuge 
hunts.
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions B1 through B8 and B11 apply.
* * * * *

[[Page 45679]]

Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    3. We allow goose and duck hunting by permit only in the Kennedy 
and Bradley Units on selected days until 12 p.m. (noon) during State 
waterfowl seasons. We close all other areas within the refuge to 
waterfowl hunting.
* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    6. You may possess only approved nontoxic shotshells while in the 
field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    6. We prohibit damaging trees or hunting from a tree that contains 
an inserted metal object (see Sec. 32.2(i)). Hunters must remove tree 
stands from the refuge each day (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
* * * * *

Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of woodcock on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
    1. You must possess and carry a signed refuge hunt permit while 
hunting.
    2. We prohibit marking trees and the use of flagging tape, 
reflective tacks, and other similar marking devices (see Sec. 27.61 of 
this chapter).
    3. All 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. Youth hunters must have passed a State-approved 
hunter education course. One adult may supervise no more than two 
youths.
    4. We prohibit the use of horses, mules, and ATVs on all refuge 
hunts.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A1 through A5 apply.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A1 through A3 and A5 apply.
* * * * *
    4. All youth hunters age 15 and younger must remain within sight 
and normal voice contact of an adult age 21 or older, possessing a 
valid State hunting license. Youth hunters must have passed a State-
approved hunter education course. One adult may supervise no more than 
one youth.
    5. We require tree stand users to use a safety belt or harness.
* * * * *

0
4. Amend Sec. 32.22 Arizona by revising paragraph A.1., adding 
paragraphs A.8 through A.11., revising paragraphs B.1., C.1., and C.2., 
and adding paragraph D.5. of Bill Williams River National Wildlife 
Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.22  Arizona.

* * * * *

Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
    1. We allow only shotguns for hunting. We limit all shotguns to a 
maximum three-shell capacity, unless it is plugged with a one-piece 
filler, incapable of removal without disassembling the gun, so its 
total capacity does not exceed three shells (see Sec. 20.21(b) of this 
chapter).
* * * * *
    8. Anyone for hire to assist or guide a hunter or angler must first 
obtain, possess, and carry a valid Special Use Permit issued by the 
refuge manager.
    9. We prohibit the construction or use of any pits, permanent 
blinds, or other structures (see Sec. 27.92 of this chapter).
    10. Hunters must remove all personal items from the refuge at the 
end of each day's activity, i.e., boats, equipment, cameras, temporary 
blinds, stands, etc. (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
    11. Hunters must report accidents involving property damage or 
personal injury to the refuge manager or authorized Service personnel 
(see Sec. 25.72 of this chapter).
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A1 through A11 apply.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A3 and A5 through A11 apply.
    2. We only allow hunting on the refuge in those areas south of the 
Bill Williams River Road and east of Arizona State Rt. 95 plus the 
south half of Section 35, T.11N, R 17W as posted. Exceptions: Arizona 
Wildlife Management Areas 16A and 44A.
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    5. Conditions A3 and A7 through A11 apply.
* * * * *

0
5. Revising Sec. 32.23 Arkansas by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs B.3. and B.4. of Bald Knob National Wildlife 
Refuge;
0
b. Revising paragraphs B.2. and B.3. of Cache River National Wildlife 
Refuge;
0
c. Revising paragraphs A.1. and A.11., and adding paragraphs A.22. 
through A.25. of Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge;
0
d. Revising paragraphs A.1. and A.11. and adding paragraphs A.21. 
through A.24. of Overflow National Wildlife Refuge;
0
e. Revising paragraphs A.1., A.3., A.7., A.10., A.12., A.14., A.16., 
and A.17., adding paragraphs A.20. through A.24., revising paragraphs 
B.2., B.3., B.5., C.2., C.4., C.8., C.12., C.15., adding paragraphs 
C.17. and C.18., and revising paragraph D.2. of Pond Creek National 
Wildlife Refuge; and
0
f. Revising paragraphs A.8. through A.10., A.14., adding paragraph 
A.17., and revising paragraphs B.8., C.2. through C.4., C.8., C.17., 
C.22., removing paragraph D.8., redesignating paragraphs D.9. through 
D.11. as paragraphs D.8. through D.10., and revising newly redesignated 
paragraphs D.8. and D.10. of White River National Wildlife Refuge to 
read as follows:


Sec.  32.23  Arkansas.

* * * * *

Bald Knob National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    3. We allow fall squirrel 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 Gun Deer Hunt. We prohibit dogs, 
except for the period of December 15 through February 28. We do not 
open for the spring squirrel season.
    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 Gun Deer Hunt. We prohibit dogs, except for 
the period of December 15 through February 28.
* * * * *

Cache River National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. Fall squirrel season corresponds with the State season on all 
refuge hunt units except for refugewide season closure during the Gun 
Deer Hunt. We prohibit dogs, except for the period of December 15 
through February 28. We do not open for the spring squirrel season.
    3. Rabbit season corresponds with the State season on all refuge 
hunt units except for refugewide season closure during the Gun Deer 
Hunt. We prohibit dogs, except for the period of December 15 through 
February 28.
* * * * *

Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

[[Page 45680]]

    1. We allow hunting of duck, goose, and coot during the State duck 
season except during scheduled quota refuge Gun Deer Hunts. We allow 
hunting of woodcock during the State season. Dates for quota deer hunts 
are typically in November, and we publish them annually in the refuge 
hunt brochure. We are open for the September teal season.
* * * * *
    11. 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 a 
holder of a valid hunting license at least age 21.
* * * * *
    22. We prohibit hunting with the aid of bait, salt, or any 
ingestible attractant (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
    23. We prohibit hunting from a tree in which a metal object has 
been driven to support a hunter (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
    24. If you harvest a deer or turkey on the refuge, you must 
immediately record the zone 220 on your deer/turkey tag as the zone of 
kill.
    25. We prohibit the taking of wildlife or plants (including cutting 
trees or brush) other than specified in the hunt brochure (see 
Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
* * * * *

Overflow National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
    1. We allow hunting of duck, goose, and coot during the State duck 
season. We allow hunting of woodcock during the State season. The 
September teal season is closed.
* * * * *
    11. 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 a 
holder of a valid hunting license who is at least age 21.
* * * * *
    21. We prohibit hunting with the aid of bait, salt, or any 
ingestible attractant (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
    22. We prohibit hunting from a tree in which a metal object has 
been driven to support a hunter (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
    23. If you harvest a deer or turkey on the refuge, you must 
immediately record the zone 490 on your deer/turkey tag as the zone of 
kill.
    24. We prohibit the taking of wildlife or plants (including cutting 
trees or brush) other than specified in this brochure (see Sec. 27.51 
of this chapter).
* * * * *

Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
    1. We allow hunting of migratory game birds during the State duck 
seasons, except we close during scheduled quota refuge Gun Deer Hunts. 
Dates for quota deer hunts are typically in November, and we publish 
them annually in the refuge hunt brochure. We are open for the 
September teal season.
* * * * *
    3. We only allow portable blinds. Hunters must remove from the hunt 
area each day all duck hunting equipment, including blinds, decoys, and 
boats (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
* * * * *
    7. We prohibit marking trails with material other than 
biodegradable paper, flagging, or reflective tape/tacks.
* * * * *
    10. 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 a 
holder of a valid hunting license who is at least age 21. An adult age 
21 or older must supervise youth hunters under age 16 who have a valid 
Hunter Education Card, and youth hunters must remain in sight and 
normal voice contact with the adult. One adult may supervise no more 
than two youth hunters for any hunting season.
* * * * *
    12. We prohibit hunting within 150 feet (45 m) of roads and trails 
(see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter) open to motor vehicle use (including 
ATV and designated hiking trails).
* * * * *
    14. We allow only camping at designated primitive campground sites 
identified in the refuge hunt brochure. We restrict camping to the 
individuals involved in refuge wildlife-dependent activities. Campers 
may stay no more than 14 days during any consecutive 30-day period in a 
campground and must occupy the camps daily. We prohibit all 
disturbances, including use of generators, after 10 p.m. We allow no 
more than three portable stands per person.
* * * * *
    16. We prohibit blocking of gates, boat ramps, or roadways (see 
Sec. 27.31(h) of this chapter).
    17. We allow the use of retriever dogs during State waterfowl 
seasons.
* * * * *
    20. We prohibit possession, placement, or hunting over bait, salt, 
or any other ingestible attractant (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
    21. We prohibit the use of an artificial light to locate wildlife 
(exception: raccoon/opossum hunting with dogs).
    22. We prohibit taking of wildlife or plants (including cutting 
trees or brush) other than what we allow in the refuge brochure (see 
Sec. 27.51 of this chapter).
    23. We prohibit placement of metal objects (screw, nail, spike, 
etc.) into a tree to support a hunter or hunting from a tree with such 
metal objects placed (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
    24. We prohibit possessing, using, or leaving any tree stand, game 
camera, or boat on the refuge without the owner's name and address 
affixed in a conspicuous manner.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. We do not open for spring squirrel season and summer/fall 
raccoon season.
    3. Conditions A4 through A16 and A19 through A24 apply.
* * * * *
    5. We allow use of dogs for squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, and opossum 
hunting during the State raccoon/opossum hunting season. At other times 
you must keep dogs and other pets on a leash or confined (see 
Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. Conditions A4 through A16 and A19 through A24 apply.
* * * * *
    4. We allow muzzleloader deer hunting during the October State 
muzzleloader season for this deer management zone. The bag limit is one 
buck and one doe. Hunters must take and check-in a doe before taking a 
buck.
* * * * *
    8. You must check all deer taken during the quota gun deer and 
muzzleloader hunts at the refuge deer check station on the same day of 
kill. You must keep carcasses of deer taken intact (you may remove 
entrails) until checked.
* * * * *
    12. The refuge will conduct one 2-day, youth-only (age 15 and 
younger at the beginning of the spring turkey season) quota spring 
turkey hunt and one 3-day quota spring turkey hunt (typically in 
April). Specific hunt dates and application procedures will be 
available in January. We restrict hunt participants on these hunts to 
those drawn for a quota permit, except that during the youth hunt, a 
nonhunting adult age 21 or older must accompany the youth hunter. The 
limit is one bearded turkey.
* * * * *
    15. One adult may supervise no more than one youth during big game 
hunts.
* * * * *
    17. We prohibit deer drives.

[[Page 45681]]

    18. We prohibit all public use, except fishing and access for 
fishing, during quota hunts.

D. Sport Fishing. * * *

* * * * *
    2. Conditions A4 through A16 and A18 through A24 apply.
* * * * *

White River National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    8. Waterfowl hunters may enter and access the refuge no earlier 
than 4 a.m.
    9. The following refuge users (age 16 or older) must sign and 
possess and carry a refuge general user permit: hunters, anglers, 
campers, and ATV users.
    10. We prohibit boating December 1 through January 31 in the South 
Unit Waterfowl Hunt Area, except from 4 a.m. to 1 p.m. on designated 
hunt days.
* * * * *
    14. We prohibit waterfowl hunting on Kansas Lake Area (indicated in 
user permit).
* * * * *
    17. We allow the use of ATVs only on yellow-marked trails 
throughout the refuge, unless marked otherwise. We prohibit the use of 
ATVs after December 15 each year in designated South Unit areas (see 
user permit for areas).
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    8. We allow spring squirrel hunting on the North Unit with the 
concurrent State spring season dates.
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. Archery deer and turkey seasons on the North Unit will begin 
with the concurrent State archery season and end January 31. (Kansas 
Lake Area Closed after November 30)
    3. Archery deer and turkey seasons on the South Unit will begin 
with the concurrent State archery season and end December 31.
    4. The user permit dictates the modern gun quota deer season dates 
each year for the North and South Units. We require a quota permit. You 
may take one deer of either sex.
* * * * *
    8. We allow muzzleloader hunting on the North Unit for 4 
consecutive days following the 3-day muzzleloader quota hunt. We allow 
take of only one buck.
* * * * *
    17. We prohibit distribution of bait or hunting with the aid of 
bait, salt, or ingestible attractant (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
* * * * *
    22. We prohibit leaving a hunt stand after February 7 (one week 
after the end of the season).
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    8. We allow commercial fishing on all refuge waters from 12:00 p.m. 
(noon) September 30 through 12:00 p.m. (noon) November 30. However, 
when the White River exceeds 23.5 feet (7 m) at the St. Charles, 
Arkansas gauge or 146 msl (mean sea level) at the tailwater gauge at 
Lock and Dam <greek-i>1 on the Arkansas Post Canal, we allow commercial 
fishing on all refuge waters from 12:00 p.m. (noon) March 1 through 
12:00 p.m. (noon) September 30.
* * * * *
    10. Anglers must reset trotlines when receding water levels expose 
them. Anglers must display their name and address on a tag on each 
line.

0
6. Amend Sec. 32.24 California by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A.1., A.6. through A.8., removing paragraph 
A.10., and redesignating paragraphs A.11. and A.12. as paragraphs A.10. 
and A.11. of Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
b. Revising paragraphs A.6., A9., A.11., B.2., C.1., C.3., and D.2. of 
Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.24  California.

* * * * *

Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
    1. We require adults age 18 or older to accompany youth hunters 
under age 16. No more than three youth hunters may accompany one adult 
hunter.
* * * * *
    6. We require hunters to keep dogs inside vehicles, or on a leash, 
except when using them for authorized hunting purposes (see 
Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
    7. On the Salmon Creek Unit, we allow hunting on Tuesdays and 
Saturdays (except Federal holidays), and hunters must possess and carry 
a valid daily refuge permit. We issue refuge permits prior to each hunt 
by random drawing conducted at the check station 1\1/2\; hours before 
legal shooting time. Shooting time ends at 3 p.m. Hunters drawn for a 
blind must completely fill out a Refuge Hunt Permit, which includes a 
``Record of Harvest'' section. Each hunter must possess and carry the 
Refuge Hunt Permit/Record of Harvest document while on the refuge and 
turn in a complete Record of Harvest at the check station before 
leaving the hunt area.
    8. On the Salmon Creek Unit, you may possess only approved nontoxic 
shotshells (see Sec. 32.2(k)) in quantities of 25 or less per hunter, 
per day.
* * * * *

Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    6. Access to the hunt area on all units open to public hunting is 
by boat only, except on Sul Norte Unit, Drumheller, and Drumheller 
North, 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.
* * * * *
    9. We open the refuge for day-use access from 1\1/2\ hours before 
legal sunrise until 1\1/2\ hours after legal sunset. We allow access 
during other hours on gravel bars only (see condition A8).
* * * * *
    11. We prohibit permanent blinds. You must remove all personal 
property, including decoys and boats, by 1\1/2\ hours after legal 
sunset (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. Conditions A3 through A12 apply.
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A4 through A12, and B1 apply.
* * * * *
    3. You must remove all personal property, including stands, from 
the refuge by 1\1/2\ hours after legal sunset (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 
27.94 of this chapter).
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    2. On Packer Lake, due to primitive access, we allow only boats up 
to 14 feet (4.2 m) and canoes. We allow electric motors only.
* * * * *

0
7. Amend Sec. 32.27 Delaware by revising Prime Hook National Wildlife 
Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.27  Delaware.

* * * * *

Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of waterfowl, 
coot, mourning dove, snipe, and woodcock on designated areas of the 
refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following 
conditions:
    1. We require daily permits and fees. The permits are 
nontransferable.

[[Page 45682]]

Consult with the refuge manager for details on permit conditions.
    2. For all refuge hunts, a hunting or nonhunting adult age 18 or 
older must accompany a permitted juvenile age 17 or under.
    3. Hunters may take waterfowl and coot on the Waterfowl Hunting 
Area only as designated on brochures available from the refuge manager.
    4. The refuge is open to hunting of waterfowl and coot on Mondays, 
Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays throughout the State waterfowl 
hunting seasons from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise until 3 p.m. 
Consult the refuge manager for dates when we close to hunting or have 
limited hunts.
    5. Access to the Waterfowl Hunting Area is by boat only and hunters 
must use designated launching sites to launch their boats.
    6. We prohibit the use of air-thrust and inboard water-thrust boats 
on all waters within the refuge boundaries. We allow a maximum 
horsepower of 30 HP.
    7. We allow waterfowl hunting from designated blind sites only. We 
allow a maximum of three people per blind.
    8. Hunters may take mourning dove, snipe, and woodcock only on the 
upland game hunting areas as shown on brochures available from the 
refuge manager.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant, rabbit, and 
quail on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State 
regulations subject to the following conditions:
    1. Conditions A1 and A2 apply.
    2. Hunters may take pheasant, rabbit, and quail only on designated 
upland game hunting areas as shown on brochures available from the 
refuge manager.
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
    1. Conditions A1 and A2 apply.
    2. Hunters may take white-tailed deer only on designated deer 
hunting areas as shown on brochures available from the refuge manager.
    3. Deer hunting during firearms seasons must be from designated 
stands only, unless actively tracking or retrieving wounded deer. We 
allow hunters to hunt from portable stands during archery hunts in all 
designated areas and during firearms hunts in the Slaughter Canal Area 
only. Tree stands must be portable, temporary in design, and completely 
removed at the end of each day. The Service is not responsible for any 
stands left overnight.
    4. All persons in firearms hunting areas must display a minimum of 
400 total square inches (2,600 cm\2\) of solid-blaze-orange material on 
their head, chest, and back. Blaze-orange camouflage is not acceptable. 
This includes hunters who are archery hunting on the refuge during days 
that coincide with State firearms hunt dates for deer.
    5. Hunters may use or possess slugs only during designated shotgun 
seasons.
    6. Each permitted hunter has a season limit of only one antlered 
deer on the refuge.
    D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing and crabbing on designated areas 
of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the 
following conditions:
    1. We allow fishing and launching of boats on designated areas as 
shown on brochures available from the refuge manager.
    2. The refuge is open from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise to \1/2\ 
hour after legal sunset. All boats must be off the water at legal 
sunset.
    3. Anglers using boats on Turkle and Fleetwood Ponds may propel 
them manually or with electric motors only.
    4. We prohibit the use of air-thrust and inboard water-thrust boats 
on all waters within the refuge boundaries. We allow a maximum of 30HP 
on Prime Hook Creek.

0
8. Amend Sec. 32.28 Florida by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A.2., A.3., A.5., A.6., and A.13. of Arthur R. 
Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Revising paragraph D.5. of Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Revising paragraph B.2. and removing B.4. of Lower Suwannee National 
Wildlife Refuge;
0
d. Adding paragraph A.14. of Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge;
0
e. Adding paragraph A.5. and revising paragraphs D.5. and D.7. of St. 
Marks National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
f. Revising paragraphs C.2., C.9., and C.19.iii. of St. Vincent 
National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.28  Florida.

* * * * *

Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. We allow hunting in the interior of the refuge south of latitude 
line 26.27.130 and north of mile markers 12 and 14. We prohibit hunting 
from canals or levees and those areas posted as closed.
    3. Consult the refuge manager for current waterfowl season dates 
and times.
* * * * *
    5. We allow hunting on the refuge from \1/2\ hour before legal 
sunrise to 1 p.m. Hunters may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m. 
and must be off the refuge by 3 p.m.
    6. Hunters may enter and leave the refuge at the Headquarters Area 
(Boynton Beach), the Hillsboro Area (Boca Raton), and the 20 Mile Bend 
Area (West Palm Beach).
* * * * *
    13. We only allow boats equipped with outboards or electric motors 
and nonmotorized boats. We prohibit airboats, hovercraft, and personal 
watercraft (Go Devils, Jet Skis, jet boats, and Wave Runners). All 
boats operating within the hunt area must fly a 12 inch by 12 inch (30 
cm x 30 cm) orange flag, 10 feet (3 m) above the vessel's waterline.
* * * * *

Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    5. We allow only two poles per angler, and anglers must attend 
those poles at all times in conjunction with the Martin County, 
Florida, two-pole ordinance.
* * * * *

Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. The refuge upland game hunting season opens on the Monday after 
the refuge limited hog hunt closes and ends on February 28.
* * * * *

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    14. Hunters may not use or possess more than 25 shells per day.
* * * * *

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    5. We prohibit migratory game bird hunting in the Executive Closure 
area on the refuge.
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *

[[Page 45683]]

    5. We allow use of hand-launched boats on impoundments on the St. 
Marks Unit from March 15 through October 15 each year. We prohibit 
launching of boats from trailers in the impoundments in the St. Marks 
Unit.
* * * * *
    7. We prohibit use of cast nets and traps to take fish from any 
lake, pond, or impoundment on the refuge.
* * * * *

St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. We restrict hunting to three hunt periods: Sambar deer, raccoon, 
and feral hog - November 17-19; and white-tailed deer, raccoon, and 
feral hog - December 15-17 and January 5-7. Hunters may check-in and 
set up camp sites and stands on November 16, December 14, and January 
4. Hunters must leave the island and remove all equipment by 4 p.m. on 
the last day of the hunt.
* * * * *
    9. You may retrieve game from the closed areas only if accompanied 
by a refuge staff member.
* * * * *
    * *
    iii. Primitive weapons hunt - one white-tailed deer buck having one 
or more forked antlers at least 5 inches (12.5 cm) in length visible 
above the hairline with points greater than 1 inch (12.5 cm) in length; 
we issue a limited number of either-sex permits. If you have an either-
sex permit, the bag limit is one deer that may be antlerless or a buck 
with legal antler configuration. There is no limit on feral hog or 
raccoon.
* * * * *

0
9. Amend Sec. 32.29 Georgia by:
0
a. Removing paragraph C.5. and redesignating paragraphs C.6. through 
C.19. as paragraphs C.5. through C.18. of Blackbeard Island National 
Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Revising paragraph C.2., removing paragraph C.3., redesignating 
paragraphs C.4. through C.22. as paragraphs C.3. through C.21., 
revising newly redesignated paragraph C. 18., and adding paragraph 
C.22. of Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Revising paragraphs C.9. and C.12. of Harris Neck National Wildlife 
Refuge;
0
d. Revising paragraph D.4. of Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge;
0
e. Revising paragraphs A.1., C.3., C.5., C.10., and adding paragraph 
C.11. of Savannah National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
f. Revising paragraphs C.8. and C.9. of Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge 
to read as follows:


Sec.  32.29  Georgia.

* * * * *

Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. We require you to possess and carry a signed refuge hunt permit 
while hunting. You may obtain this permit from the refuge office.
* * * * *
    18. We prohibit ATVs on the refuge except by disabled hunters with 
a refuge Special Use Permit.
* * * * *
    22. Firearm hunting for feral hogs follows State of Georgia deer 
firearms restrictions except we prohibit possession or use of buckshot.
* * * * *

Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    9. During the archery hunt, we only allow bows. We prohibit 
crossbows (see Sec. 27.43 of this chapter).
* * * * *
    12. During the gun hunt, we only allow shotguns with slugs 20 gauge 
or larger and bows. We prohibit crossbows (see Sec. 27.43 of this 
chapter).
* * * * *

Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    4. We allow nonmotorized boats on all ponds designated as open to 
fishing. We allow boats with electric motors only in Pond 2A and 
Allison Lake.
* * * * *

Savannah National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
    1. You must possess and carry a signed refuge permit at all times 
while hunting on the refuge. We require a fee only for the quota youth 
waterfowl hunt on the Solomon Tract.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    3. We only allow bows for deer and hog hunting during the archery 
hunt. We prohibit crossbows (see Sec. 27.43 of this chapter).
* * * * *
    5. We only allow shotguns with slugs, muzzleloaders, and bows for 
deer and hog hunting throughout the designated hunt area during the 
November gun hunt and the March hog hunt.
* * * * *
    10. We only allow shotguns with <greek-i>2 shot or smaller and bows 
for turkey hunting in accordance with State regulations. We prohibit 
possession or use of slugs or buckshot during turkey hunts. We prohibit 
crossbows (see Sec. 27.43 of this chapter).
    11. You must remove hunt stands daily (see Sec. 27.93 of this 
chapter).
* * * * *

Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    8. We only allow bows and muzzleloading rifles during the primitive 
weapons hunt. We prohibit crossbows (see Sec. 27.43 of this chapter).
    9. We only allow shotguns of 20-gauge or larger (slugs only), 
centerfire rifles of .22 caliber or larger, bows, and primitive weapons 
during the gun hunt. We prohibit crossbows (see Sec. 27.43 of this 
chapter).
* * * * *

0
10. Amend Sec. 32.31 Idaho by:
0
a. Revising paragraph A.2. of Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Removing paragraph A.3., redesignating paragraph A.4. as paragraph 
A.3., and removing paragraph B.2. of Camas National Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Revising the introductory text of paragraph A., and revising 
paragraphs A.1., A.2., A.4., A.5., B., C., and D. of Kootenai National 
Wildlife Refuge; and
0
d. Revising the introductory text of paragraph D., revising paragraph 
D.3., and removing paragraph D.4. of Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge 
to read as follows:


Sec.  32.31  Idaho.

* * * * *

Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. We allow nonmotorized and motorized boats after September 20 
within the designated refuge hunting areas.
* * * * *

Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck, 
and coot on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State 
regulations subject to the following conditions:
    1. We allow hunting only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and 
Sundays.

[[Page 45684]]

    2. You may possess only approved nontoxic shotshells (see 
Sec. 32.2(k)) in quantities of 25 or less per day.
* * * * *
    4. On waterfowl hunt days, we allow public entry onto the refuge 
from 3:00 a.m. until 1 hour after legal sunset.
    5. We prohibit overnight vehicle parking on the refuge.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of forest grouse on that 
portion of the refuge which lies west of Westside Road and west of 
Lion's Den Road in accordance with State regulations subject to the 
following condition: You may possess only approved nontoxic shotshells 
(see Sec. 32.2(k)) while in the field.
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of deer, elk, black bear, 
moose, and mountain lion on that portion of the refuge which lies west 
of Westside Road and west of Lion's Den Road in accordance with State 
regulations.
    D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on Myrtle Creek in 
accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
    1. We allow bank fishing only.
    2. We prohibit fishing from boats, float tubes, or other personal 
flotation devices.

Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing on designated areas of the 
refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following 
conditions:
* * * * *
    3. We allow bank and float-tube fishing year-round, throughout all 
of Lake Walcott.

0
11. Amend Sec. 32.35 Kansas by revising paragraph A.9., adding 
paragraphs A.11. and A.12., revising the introductory text of paragraph 
B., revising paragraphs B.2. and B.5., adding paragraph B.6., revising 
paragraphs C.2., C.7., and C.9., adding paragraph C.10., and revising 
paragraphs D.4., D.7. and D.9. of Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge to 
read as follows:


Sec.  32.35  Kansas.

* * * * *

Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    9. We prohibit the use of ATVs (all-terrain vehicle), OHVs (off-
highway vehicle), NHVs (nonhighway vehicle), or snowmobiles on the 
refuge (see Sec. 27.31(f) of this chapter).
* * * * *
    11. We prohibit overnight camping on the refuge.
    12. We prohibit open fires on the refuge.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of pheasant, quail, 
prairie chicken, fox squirrel, cottontail rabbit, and turkey on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
    2. In addition to pheasant, we allow hunting of fox squirrel and 
cottontail rabbit only during pheasant season.
* * * * *
    5. We prohibit retrieval of turkey from an area closed to turkey 
hunting.
    6. Conditions A8 through A12 apply.
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. You must obtain a refuge-issued permit to hunt deer on the 
refuge. You must sign and carry the permit in the field while hunting.
* * * * *
    7. We prohibit retrieving deer from an area closed to deer hunting.
* * * * *
    9. We prohibit the use of nails, wires, screws, or bolts to attach 
a stand to a tree or hunting from a tree into which a metal object has 
been driven (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
    10. Conditions A8 through A12 apply.
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    4. We allow motorless boats in the Solomon Arm of Kirwin Reservoir 
from August 1 through September 30.
* * * * *
    7. We prohibit fishing tournaments on the refuge.
* * * * *
    9. Conditions A8 through A12 apply.
* * * * *

0
12. Amend Sec. 32.36 Kentucky by revising paragraphs A.2., A.6., A.15., 
A.17., A.17.v., and adding paragraph D.2. of Clarks River National 
Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.36  Kentucky.

* * * * *

Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. We prohibit the use of motorized off-road vehicles (e.g., ATVs) 
and any unlicensed vehicles on the refuge (see Sec. 27.31(f) of this 
chapter).
* * * * *
    6. To retrieve or track game from a posted closed area of the 
refuge, the hunter must first receive authorization from the refuge 
manager at 270-527-5770 or the law enforcement officer at 270-702-2836.
* * * * *
    15. Waterfowl hunters must remove decoys, blinds, boats, and all 
other equipment (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) and be out of the 
field daily by 2 p.m.
* * * * *
    17. We only allow waterfowl hunting on the Sharpe-Elva Water 
Management Units on specified Saturdays and Sundays during the State 
waterfowl season. We only allow hunting by individuals in possession of 
a refuge draw permit and their guests. State regulations and the 
following conditions apply:
* * * * *
    v. We prohibit watercraft on the Sharpe-Elva Water Management 
Units, except for drawn permit holders to access their blinds and 
retrieve downed birds as needed.
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    2. The following apply to the Environmental Education and 
Recreation Area (EERA).
    i. The EERA is a day-use area only.
    ii. We only allow one rod and reel or pole and line for fishing per 
person.
    iii. We prohibit the use of any type of watercraft.
    iv. We prohibit the introduction or stocking of any species (see 
Sec. 27.52 of this chapter).
    v. We prohibit the use of live fish for bait.
    vi. We close designated portions of the EERA to all entry from 
November 1 to March 15.
    vii. We allow the taking of largemouth bass, channel catfish, and 
bluegill in accordance with posted limits.
* * * * *

0
13. Amend Sec. 32.37 Louisiana by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A.6., A.9., A.10., removing paragraph A.14., 
redesignating paragraphs A.15. and A.16. as paragraphs A.14. and A.15., 
revising newly redesignated paragraph A.14., revising paragraphs B.1., 
B.2., B.5., and C.1., removing paragraph C.4., redesignating paragraphs 
C.5. through C.13. as paragraphs C.4. through C.12., revising newly 
redesignated paragraphs C.5., C.8., and C.11., and adding paragraph 
D.6. of Bayou Cocodrie National Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Revising paragraphs A.10, B.2., B.3., and C.8. of Big Branch Marsh 
National Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Revising paragraph B.4., the introductory text of paragraph C., 
revising paragraph C.1., removing paragraphs C.2. and C.5., and

[[Page 45685]]

redesignating paragraphs C.3. through C.8. as paragraphs C.2. through 
C.6. of Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge;
0
d. Revising paragraph A.1., revising paragraphs C.1., C.2., and D.11., 
and adding paragraph D.18. of Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge;
0
e. Revising paragraphs A.1., A.2., A.3., A.8., A.19., A.26., A.28., 
B.1., B.2., C.1., C.3., adding paragraphs C.11. and C.12., and revising 
paragraph D.2. of Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge;
0
f. Revising paragraphs A.4., A.6., A.10., A.13., A.15., adding 
paragraphs A.18., A.19., revising paragraph B.1., removing paragraph 
B.5., redesignating paragraphs B.6. through B.11. as paragraphs B.5. 
through B.10., revising newly redesignated paragraphs B.5., B.7. and 
B.8., revising paragraphs C.1. and C.2., removing paragraph C.9., and 
redesignating paragraphs C.10. through C.13. as paragraphs C.9., 
through C.12., and revising paragraphs D.1. and D.8. of Catahoula 
National Wildlife Refuge;
0
g. Revising paragraphs A.2., A.4., A.11., removing paragraph A. 21., 
redesignating paragraphs A.22. and A.23, as paragraphs A.21. and A.22., 
revising newly redesignated paragraph A.22., removing paragraphs A.24., 
A.25., and A.27. and redesignating paragraph A.26. as paragraph A.23., 
paragraph A.28. as paragraph A.24., and paragraph A.29. as paragraph 
A.25., and adding paragraphs A.26. and A.27., revising paragraphs B.1. 
and B.2., removing paragraph B.3., redesignating paragraphs B.4. 
through B.8. as paragraphs B.3. through B.7., revising newly 
redesignated paragraph B.6., adding paragraph B.8., revising paragraphs 
C.1., C.2., and C.3., removing paragraphs C.5. through C.8., revising 
paragraphs D.1., D.2., D.6., D.13., removing paragraph D.14., and 
redesignating paragraph D.15. as paragraph D.14. of Grand Cote National 
Wildlife Refuge;
0
h. Revising paragraphs A.3. and A.10., removing paragraphs C.4. and 
C.10., and redesignating paragraphs C.5. through C.11. as paragraphs 
C.4. through C.9. of Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge;
0
i. Revising paragraphs A.2., A.4., A.10., A.13., A.15., adding 
paragraphs A.25. and A.26., revising paragraphs B.1., B.2., B.6., 
adding paragraph B.8., revising paragraphs C., D.1., and D.9. of Lake 
Ophelia National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
j. Revising paragraphs A.2. and D.6. through D.9., and adding paragraph 
D.10. of Sabine National Wildlife Refuge;
0
k. Revising paragraphs A.3., A.6., A.9., A.11., A.12., B.2., B.3., 
B.7., the introductory text of paragraph C., C.1. through C.9., and 
C.11. through C.22., and D.4. of Tensas River National Wildlife Refuge 
to read as follows:


Sec.  32.37  Louisiana.

* * * * *

Bayou Cocodrie National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    6. Any hunter under age 17 must possess and carry proof of 
completion of an approved Hunter Safety Course and be accompanied by an 
adult age 21 or older. Each adult may supervise (within sight of and in 
normal voice contact with) only one youth for all youth hunts except 
migratory birds. One adult may supervise no more than two youths while 
hunting migratory game birds.
* * * * *
    9. Coyote, beaver, feral hog, and raccoon are incidental take 
species and, as such, you may take them during any open hunting season 
only with the weapon allowed for that season if you are a hunter having 
the required licenses and permits. There is no bag limit on coyote, 
feral hog, and beaver. State regulations apply on other incidental 
species.
    10. Each hunter is responsible for reporting harvest information on 
a hunter information report card located at the self-clearing check 
station.
* * * * *
    14. Special access ATV trails are available for mobility-impaired 
hunters and hunters age 60 and older with proper State permits. Hunters 
with mobility impairments must possess and carry a valid Disabled 
Hunter Permit/Card from the State to use special access ATV trails. 
Hunters must equip their ATVs with a red flag at least 6 inches (15 cm) 
wide and 12 inches (30 cm) long on a pole or staff extending at least 
36 inches (90 cm) above the level of the seat. State requirements for 
``Mobility-Impaired'' classification apply.
* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
    1. We allow squirrel and rabbit hunting during the State season 
except during the open youth hunt for deer, the youth lottery hunt, the 
primitive firearms hunt, and the lottery deer hunt.
    2. Conditions A1, A3, and A7 through A15 apply.
* * * * *
    5. Refuge users may enter the refuge no earlier than 4 a.m. and 
must exit the refuge by 2 hours after legal sunset except that raccoon 
and opossum hunters during the month of February may use the refuge at 
night.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A1, A3, A7 through A15, and B5 apply.
* * * * *
    5. We prohibit hunters leaving stands on the refuge until the 
opening day of archery season, and they must remove them by the end of 
the last day of the archery season. Hunters must clearly mark stands 
used on the refuge with the name and address of the owner of the stand. 
Hunters must remove portable stands from trees daily and must place 
free-standing stands in a nonhunting position daily (see 
Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter).
* * * * *
    8. We allow deer hunting with primitive firearms subject to State 
regulations. Specific open dates will appear in the annual Refuge 
Hunting and Fishing Regulations Brochure.
* * * * *
    11. We prohibit baiting or hunting over bait and the possession of 
bait or any nonnaturally occurring attractant on the refuge (see 
Sec. 32.2(h)).
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    6. The refuge boat ramp is open from 4 a.m. until 2 hours after 
legal sunset.
* * * * *

Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    10. We prohibit hunting within 150 feet (45 m) of any road open to 
vehicle travel, residence, or Boy Scout Road. We prohibit hunting in 
refuge-designated closed areas, which are posted on the refuge and 
identified in the refuge hunt permits (see Sec. 27.31 of this chapter).
* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. You may only use dogs for squirrel and rabbit after the close of 
the State archery deer season.
    3. We only allow dogs to locate, point, and retrieve when hunting 
for quail.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    8. Conditions A5 through A8, and A10 through A13 apply, except in 
condition A7, one adult may supervise only one youth while hunting big 
game.
* * * * *

[[Page 45686]]

Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    4. We allow the use of dogs to hunt squirrel and rabbit during that 
part of the State season that occurs in January and February.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow archery hunting of white-tailed deer 
on designated areas of the refuge during the State season in accordance 
with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
    1. Conditions A1, A2, A4, A6, A10, A11, and B7 apply.
* * * * *

Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
    1. The waterfowl hunt consists of a youth (age 17 and younger) 
limited permit hunt only. We provide hunt dates and application 
requirements to the public through the media early each fall. We notify 
successful applicants prior to the applicable hunt season. The 
permitted youth must be present in the blind for his/her guest to hunt.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A2 (for big game hunt, one adult may supervise no 
more than one youth hunter), A3, A4, A7, and A8 apply.
    2. We prohibit entrance to the hunting area earlier than 4 a.m. 
Hunters must leave no later than 1 hour after legal sunset.
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    11. Allowed cast net size is in accordance with State regulations.
* * * * *
    18. We allow cast netting for bait on both the East Cove Unit and 
the Gibbstown Unit in accordance with State regulations when the unit 
is open for public fishing only.

Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
    1. Hunters or anglers age 17 or older must possess and carry a 
valid, signed refuge Public Use Permit certifying that they understand 
and will comply with all regulations.
    2. All users must obtain a daily use reporting card and place it in 
plain view on the dashboard of their vehicle so that the personal 
information is readable. Users must return cards to the refuge kiosk 
upon departure from the refuge.
    3. Hunters may enter the refuge 2 hours before legal sunrise and 
must exit the refuge no later than 2 hours after legal sunset. We 
prohibit entering or remaining on the refuge before or after hours.
* * * * *
    8. Hunters must report all harvested game on the back of the daily 
use reporting card prior to leaving the refuge.
* * * * *
    19. Waterfowl hunters must remove boats, blinds, and decoys by 1 
p.m. daily.
* * * * *
    26. We prohibit possession of alcohol (see Sec. 32.2(j)).
* * * * *
    28. We prohibit all commercial activities (including, but not 
limited to, guiding).
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A1 through A3, A5 through A9, A11 through A17, A19, 
A21, A22, and A26 through A28 apply.
    2. We allow the use of .22 caliber long rifles and shotguns to hunt 
upland game.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A1 through A3, A5 through A9, A11 through A17, A19, 
A21, A22, and A26 through A28 apply.
* * * * *
    3. There will be two or three lottery gun hunts (primitive 
firearms/rifle) in November and December (see refuge brochure for 
details). We will set hunt dates in July, and we will accept 
applications from August 1 through August 31. Applicants may apply for 
more than one hunt. There is a $5 application fee per person for each 
hunt application and a $15 fee per person per permit for each 
successful applicant. We will notify successful applicants by September 
5.
* * * * *
    11. We allow ``still hunting'' only. We prohibit man drives or use 
of dogs.
    12. We prohibit use or possession of climbing spurs.
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    2. Conditions A1 through A3, A8, A9 (on the open portions of Wood 
Duck ATV trail for wildlife-dependent activities throughout the year), 
A13 through A16, A19, A21 through A23, and A26 through A28 apply.
* * * * *

Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    4. We allow use of ATVs on designated trails (see Sec. 27.31 of 
this chapter) subject to refuge-specific dates and terms (see refuge 
hunting brochure for details). We prohibit the use of an ATV on 
graveled roads designated for motor vehicle traffic unless otherwise 
posted. We only allow ATVs for wildlife-dependent activities. We define 
an ATV as an off-road vehicle (not legal for highway use) with factory 
specifications not to exceed the following: weight 750 pounds (337.5 
kg), length 85 inches (212.5 cm), and width 48 inches (120 cm). We 
restrict ATV tires to those no larger than 25 x 12 with a maximum 1 
inch (2.5 cm) lug height and a maximum allowable tire pressure of 7 psi 
as indicated on the tire by the manufacturer.
* * * * *
    6. We prohibit all migratory game bird hunting during deer-gun and 
primitive firearms hunts.
* * * * *
    10. Youth hunters under age 18 must successfully complete a State-
approved hunter education course. While hunting, each youth must 
possess and carry a card or certificate of completion. Each youth 
hunter must remain within sight and normal voice contact of an adult 
age 21 or older. Each adult must possess and carry a refuge permit and 
may supervise no more than two youth hunters.
* * * * *
    13. We prohibit any person or group to act as a hunting or fishing 
guide, outfitter, or in any other capacity that any other individual(s) 
pays or promises to pay directly or indirectly for services rendered to 
any other person or persons hunting or fishing on the refuge, 
regardless of whether such payment is for guiding, outfitting, lodging, 
or club membership.
* * * * *
    15. We only allow dogs to locate, point, and retrieve when hunting 
for migratory game birds. We only allow dogs after the last refuge deer 
primitive firearms hunt, except when we allow them for waterfowl 
hunting throughout the entire refuge waterfowl season.
* * * * *
    18. We prohibit vehicles having wheels with a wheel-tire 
combination having a radius of 17 inches (42.5 cm) or more from the 
center of the hub (measured horizontal to ground).
    19. Refuge hunting seasons apply to all navigable waterways that 
are wholly within the refuge boundaries.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *

[[Page 45687]]

    1. Conditions A1, A4, A7 through A11, A13, A14, and A16 through A19 
apply.
* * * * *
    5. We prohibit squirrel, rabbit, and raccoon hunting during deer-
gun and primitive firearms hunts.
* * * * *
    7. At the Headquarters Unit, we close upland and big game hunting 
during high water conditions with an elevation of 42 feet (12.6 m) or 
above as measured at the Corps of Engineers center of the lake gauge on 
Catahoula Lake. At the Bushley Bayou Unit, we close upland and big game 
hunting during high water conditions with an elevation of 44 feet (13.2 
m) or above as measured at the Corps of Engineers center of the lake 
gauge on Catahoula Lake.
    8. On the Bushley Bayou Unit, we allow the use of dogs to hunt 
squirrel, rabbit, and raccoon only after the last refuge deer-primitive 
firearms hunt. We allow no more than two dogs per hunting party for 
squirrel hunting. Hunters may use only beagles that do not exceed 15 
inches (37.5 cm) at front shoulders for rabbit hunting.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A1, A4, A7 through A9, A11, A13, A14, A16 through 
A19, B4 through B7, and B10 apply.
    2. At the Bushley Bayou Unit, we allow deer-archery hunting during 
the State archery season, except when closed during deer-gun and deer-
primitive firearms hunts. We allow either-sex, deer primitive firearms 
hunting during the first segment of the State season for Area 1, 
weekdays only (Monday through Friday) and the third weekend after 
Thanksgiving Day. We allow either-sex, deer-gun hunting for the Friday, 
Saturday, and Sunday immediately following Thanksgiving Day and for the 
second weekend following Thanksgiving Day.
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
    1. Conditions A4, A7, A9, A13, A14, A16, A17, and B6 apply.
* * * * *
    8. We prohibit bank fishing on Bushley Creek and fishing in Black 
Lake, Dempsey Lake, Long Lake, Rhinehart Lake, and Round Lake during 
deer-gun and primitive firearms hunts. We prohibit fishing in Black 
Lake, Dempsey Lake, Long Lake, Rhinehart Lake, and Round Lake during 
waterfowl hunts.
* * * * *

Grand Cote National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. Hunters must check-in and check out subject to refuge-specific 
terms (see refuge hunting brochure for details).
* * * * *
    4. Youth hunters under age 18 must successfully complete a State-
approved hunter education course. While hunting, each youth must 
possess and carry a card or certificate of completion. Each youth 
hunter must remain within sight and normal voice contact of an adult 
age 21 or older. Each adult may supervise no more than two youth 
hunters during waterfowl hunts.
* * * * *
    11. We prohibit hunting within 150 feet (45 m) of any public road, 
refuge road, trail or ATV trail, building, residence, or designated 
public facility.
* * * * *
    22. The refuge will hold lotteries to hunt waterfowl from blinds on 
designated sections of the refuge during the regular State waterfowl 
season subject to refuge-specific dates, terms, and selection process 
(see refuge hunting brochure for details). Youth ages 10 to 17 and 
their adult co-applicant supervisors are given preference in these 
lottery hunts. Once selected in the lottery, the youth co-applicant 
must be present on the day of the hunt for the permit to be valid. In 
the event that we receive no youth applications for a given hunting 
date, we will fill blinds with adult applicants for that date. All 
hunts are subject to water availability.
* * * * *
    26. Hunting is subject to closure due to high water conditions.
    27. We prohibit any person or group to act as a hunting guide, 
outfitter, or in any other capacity that any other individual(s) pays 
or promises to pay directly or indirectly for services rendered to any 
other person or persons hunting on the refuge, regardless of whether 
such payment is for guiding, outfitting, lodging, or club membership.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A1 through A11, and A13 through A16, A20, and A24 
through A28 apply.
    2. We allow rabbit hunting during the State season.
* * * * *
    6. We allow the use of .22 caliber or less rimfire rifles or 
shotguns to hunt upland game.
* * * * *
    8. We require hunters participating in special dog seasons for 
rabbit to wear a minimum of an unbroken, hunter-orange cap. All other 
hunters and archers (while on the ground), except waterfowl hunters, 
also must wear an unbroken, hunter-orange cap during the special dog 
seasons for rabbit.
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A1 through A11, and A13 through A16, A20, A24 through 
A28, B6, and B7 apply.
    2. We allow archery hunting in designated units subject to refuge-
specific dates and harvest restrictions (see refuge hunting brochure 
for details).
    3. We allow only portable deer stands (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 
27.94 of this chapter). Deer stands must have the owner's name, 
address, and phone number clearly printed on the stand. Hunters may 
erect stands 2 days before hunting season; however, they must place 
stands in a nonhunting position at the conclusion of each hunt and 
remove them on the last day of the State archery deer season.
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
    1. Conditions A1, A5, A6, A10, A11, A13 through A15, A19, A20, and 
A26 apply.
    2. We only allow bank fishing in Coulee Des Grues along Little 
California Road.
* * * * *
    6. We allow recreational crawfishing subject to refuge-specific 
dates and terms (see refuge hunting brochure for details).
* * * * *
    13. We prohibit the harvest of frog, turtle, snake, or mollusk (see 
Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
* * * * *

Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    3. We allow hunting Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays 
of the State teal and duck seasons (western zone). We close the refuge 
to hunting during the ``goose only'' waterfowl season. State daily and 
season harvest limits apply.
* * * * *
    10. Limited permit waterfowl hunting consists of youth (age 17 and 
younger) and senior (age 55 and older) lottery hunts. We provide hunt 
dates and application information to the public through the media early 
each fall. We notify successful applicants prior to the applicable hunt 
season. The permitted youth and/or senior must be present in the blind 
for his/her guest to hunt. We

[[Page 45688]]

allow only successful applicants and their guests within Unit B.
* * * * *

Lake Ophelia National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. Hunters must check-in and check out subject to refuge-specific 
terms (see refuge hunting brochure for details).
* * * * *
    4. Youth hunters under age 18 must successfully complete a State-
approved hunter education course. While hunting, each youth must 
possess and carry a card or certificate of completion. Each youth 
hunter must remain within sight and normal voice contact of an adult 
age 21 or older. Each adult may supervise no more than two youth 
hunters during waterfowl hunts.
* * * * *
    10. We prohibit hunting or shooting within 150 feet (45 m) of any 
public road, refuge road, ATV trail, hiking trail, building, residence, 
designated public facility, or active oil well site, production 
facility, or equipment.
* * * * *
    13. We prohibit all other hunting during refuge lottery primitive 
firearms deer hunts.
* * * * *
    15. We allow motors up to 25 hp in Possum Bayou (north of Boat 
Ramp), Palmetto Bayou, Duck Lake, Westcut Lake, Pt. Basse, and Nicholas 
Lake.
* * * * *
    25. We prohibit vehicles having wheels with a wheel-tire 
combination having a radius of 17 inches (42.5 cm) or more from the 
center of the hub (measured horizontal to ground).
    26. We prohibit any person or group to act as a hunting guide, 
outfitter, or in any other capacity that any other individual(s) pays 
or promises to pay directly or indirectly for services rendered to any 
other person or persons hunting on the refuge, regardless of whether 
such payment is for guiding, outfitting, lodging or club membership.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A1 through A16, A19, and A22 through A26 apply.
    2. We allow squirrel and rabbit hunting in Hunt Unit 2B subject to 
refuge-specific dates and terms (see refuge hunting brochure for 
details).
* * * * *
    6. We allow the use of .22 caliber or less rimfire rifles or 
shotguns to hunt upland game.
* * * * *
    8. We require hunters participating in special dog seasons for 
rabbit and squirrel to wear a minimum of an unbroken hunter-orange cap. 
All other hunters and archers (while on the ground), except waterfowl 
hunters, also must wear an unbroken hunter-orange cap during the 
special dog seasons for rabbit and squirrel.
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and 
turkey on designated areas of the refuge as shown on the refuge hunting 
brochure map in accordance with State regulations subject to the 
following conditions:
    1. Conditions A1 through A3, A5 through A16, A19, A22 through A26, 
B7, and B8 apply.
    2. We only allow portable deer stands (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 
27.94 of this chapter). We require hunters to permanently attach their 
name, address, and phone number to the deer stand. Hunters may erect 
stands 2 days before hunting season; however, they must place stands in 
a nonhunting position at the conclusion of each hunt and remove them on 
the last day of the State archery deer season.
    3. We allow archery hunting in Units 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B subject to 
refuge-specific date and harvest restrictions (see refuge hunting 
brochure for dates).
    4. We allow youth to hunt deer in the closed area during the 
lottery youth deer season. These gun hunts are subject to the refuge-
specific dates, terms, and selection process (see refuge hunting 
brochure for details). Youth selected in prior years' hunts may not 
apply.
    5. We prohibit the use of organized drives for taking or attempting 
to take game or using pursuit dogs.
    6. We allow archery equipment only during designated seasons.
    7. We prohibit the use of dogs to trail wounded deer.
    8. We allow electric-powered or nonmotorized boats in Lake Ophelia 
from November 1 through December 15 (see refuge hunting brochure for 
details).
    9. You may kill one deer of either sex per day during the refuge 
archery season. Deer killed on the refuge count towards the State bag 
limit.
    10. We require a minimum of 400 square inches (2,600 cm\2\) of 
unbroken hunter orange as the outermost layer of clothing on the chest 
and back, and in addition we require a hat or cap of unbroken hunter 
orange during all deer lottery youth gun hunts and quota primitive 
firearms hunts. Deer hunters hunting from concealed ground blinds must 
display above or around their blinds a minimum of 400 square inches of 
hunter orange which is visible from 360\o\.
    11. Youth hunters under age 18 must successfully complete a State-
approved hunter education course. While hunting, each youth must 
possess and carry a card or certificate of completion. Each youth 
hunter must remain within sight and normal voice contact of an adult 
age 21 or older. Each adult may supervise only one youth hunter during 
big game hunts.
    12. There will be lottery deer primitive firearm hunts subject to 
refuge-specific dates, terms, and selection process (see refuge hunting 
brochure for details). Applicants may not apply for more than one hunt. 
There is a $5 nonrefundable application fee per person for each hunt 
application.
    13. We prohibit driving or screwing nails, spikes, or other metal 
objects into trees or hunting from any tree in which such an object has 
been driven (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
    14. We only allow turkey hunting during the first 14 days of the 
State season until 12 p.m. (noon).
    15. We allow the use and possession of lead shot for turkey hunting 
(see Sec. 32.2(k)).
    16. We prohibit the possession of saws, saw blades, or machetes.
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
    1. Conditions A1, A5 through A9, A19 (see Sec. 27.93 of this 
chapter), and A22 through A25 apply.
* * * * *
    9. We prohibit the harvest of frog, turtle, snake, or mollusk (see 
Sec. 27.21 of this chapter).
* * * * *

Sabine National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. We allow waterfowl hunting only on Wednesdays, Thursdays, 
Saturdays, and Sundays during the State teal season and during the 
regular State waterfowl season for the west zone.
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    6. Conditions A7, A9, A13 (fishing guide), and A15 apply.
    7. We allow anglers to enter the refuge by boat from 1 hour before 
legal sunrise to 1 hour after legal sunset in order to access fishing 
areas. We prohibit fishing activities, however, before legal sunrise 
and after legal sunset.
    8. Crabbing: We allow recreational crabbing in designated areas of 
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
    i. You must take crabs only with cotton hand lines or drop nets up 
to 24 inches (60 cm) outside diameter. We prohibit use of floats on 
crab lines.

[[Page 45689]]

    ii. You must remove all hand lines, drop nets, and bait (see 
Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) from the refuge upon leaving.
    iii. We allow a daily limit on crabs of 5 dozen (60) per vehicle or 
boat.
    9. Cast Netting: We allow cast netting in designated areas of the 
refuge only during the Louisiana Inland Shrimp Season subject to the 
following conditions:
    i. We allow cast netting only from 12 p.m. (noon) to legal sunset.
    ii. We only allow recreational cast netting for shrimp. You must 
immediately return all fish, crabs, or other incidental take (by catch) 
to the water before continuing to cast net.
    iii. We allow a daily shrimp limit of 5 gallons (19 L) of heads-on 
shrimp per day, per vehicle, or per boat.
    iv. Shrimp must remain in your actual custody while on the refuge.
    v. You may cast net only from the bank and wharves at Hog Island 
Gully and Blue Crab Public Use Areas and 1A-1B Public Use Areas or at 
sites along Hwy. 27 that provide developed safe access and that we do 
not post and sign as closed areas.
    vi. We prohibit cast netting at or around the Northline and West 
Cove Public Use Area or on or around any boat launch.
    vii. You may cast net from a boat throughout the refuge except 
where posted and signed as closed.
    viii. We prohibit reserving a place or saving a space for yourself 
or others by any means to include placing unattended equipment in 
designated cast-netting areas.
    ix. We prohibit swimming and/or wading in the refuge canals or 
wading in the canals and waterways.
    10. We prohibit the taking of turtle (see Sec. 27.21 of this 
chapter).

Tensas River National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    3. We allow refuge hunters to enter the refuge no earlier than 4 
a.m., and they must leave no later than 2 hours after legal sunset 
unless they are participating in the refuge raccoon hunt.
* * * * *
    6. We prohibit permanent or pit blinds on the refuge. You must 
remove all blind materials and decoys following each day's hunt.
* * * * *
    9. We prohibit baiting or the possession of bait while on the 
refuge at any time (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
* * * * *
    11. While visiting the refuge, we prohibit: spotlighting (see 
Sec. 27.73 of this chapter), littering (see Sec. 27.94 of this 
chapter), fires (see Sec. 27.95(a) of this chapter), trapping, man-
drives for game, possession of alcoholic beverages in hunting areas 
(see Sec. Sec. 32.2(j) and 27.81 of this chapter), possession of open 
alcoholic beverage containers, flagging, engineers tape, paint, 
unleashed pets (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter), and parking/
blocking trail and gate entrances (see Sec. 27.31(h) of this chapter). 
We also prohibit hunting or shooting within 150 feet (45 m) of a 
designated public road, maintained road, trail, fire breaks, dwellings, 
and above-ground oil and gas production facilities. We define a 
maintained road or trail as one which has been mowed, disked, or 
plowed.
    12. We require a Tensas River National Wildlife Refuge Access 
Permit for all migratory bird hunts. You may find the permit on the 
front of the Public Use Regulations brochure.
* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. We allow squirrel and rabbit hunting with and without dogs. We 
will allow hunting without dogs from the beginning of the State season 
and typically ending the day before the refuge deer primitive firearms 
hunt. We do not require you to wear hunter orange during the squirrel 
and rabbit hunt without dogs. Squirrel and rabbit hunting with or 
without dogs will begin the day after the refuge deer primitive 
firearms hunt and will end the last day of the refuge squirrel season, 
which typically ends on February 15.
    3. We close squirrel and rabbit hunting during the following gun 
hunts for deer: refugewide youth hunt, primitive firearms hunt, and 
modern firearms hunt.
* * * * *
    7. We require all upland game hunters to report their game 
immediately after each hunt at the check station nearest to the point 
of take.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and 
turkey on designated areas of refuges in accordance with State 
regulations subject to the following conditions:
    1. Deer archery season will begin the first Saturday in November 
and will conclude on the last day of the State archery season 
(typically January 31). We prohibit archery hunting during the 
following refuge-wide deer hunts: youth gun hunt and modern firearms 
hunts. We prohibit possession of pods, drug-tipped arrows, or other 
chemical substances.
    2. The deer primitive firearms season will last 3 days and occur on 
a Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday in January. We will allow in-line 
primitive firearms and magnified scopes.
    3. We will conduct two 2-day quota, modern-firearms hunts for deer 
typically in the month of December. Hunt dates and permit application 
procedures will be available at refuge headquarters in July. We 
restrict hunters using a primitive firearm during this hunt to areas 
where we allow modern firearms.
    4. We will conduct guided quota youth deer hunts and guided quota 
deer hunts for the physically challenged in the Greenlea Bend area 
typically in December and January. Hunt dates and permit application 
procedures will be available at the refuge headquarters in July.
    5. We will conduct a refuge-wide youth deer hunt during the 
Statewide youth hunt weekend typically in November. Hunt dates will be 
available at refuge headquarters in July. Each participating youth must 
be ages 8 to 15, must possess proof of completion of an approved Hunter 
Safety Course, and must be accompanied at all times by an adult age 21 
or older. Each hunting adult can supervise only one youth.
    6. Hunters may take only one deer (one buck or one doe) per day 
during refuge deer hunts except during guided youth and physically 
challenged hunts where the limit will be one antlerless and one 
antlered deer per day.
    7. We allow turkey hunting the first 16 days of the State turkey 
season. We will conduct a youth turkey hunt the Saturday and Sunday 
before the regular State turkey season. Hunters may harvest two bearded 
turkeys per season. We allow the use and possession of lead shot while 
turkey hunting on the refuge. We allow use of nonmotorized bicycles on 
designated all-terrain vehicle trails. Although you may hunt turkey 
without displaying a solid-hunter-orange cap or vest during your turkey 
hunt, we do recommend its use.
    8. We allow refuge hunters to enter the refuge no earlier than 4 
a.m., and they must depart no later than 2 hours after legal sunset 
unless they are participating in the refuge raccoon hunt.
    9. In areas posted ``Area Closed,'' we prohibit big game hunting at 
any time. We close ``Closed Areas'' (designated on the Public Use 
Regulations brochure map) to all hunts. We prohibit shooting into or 
across any closed area with a gun or archery equipment.
* * * * *
    11. We allow primitive firearms hunters to discharge their 
primitive firearms at the end of each hunt safely into the ground at 
least 150 feet (135 m)

[[Page 45690]]

from any designated public road, maintained road, trail, fire break, 
dwelling, or above-ground oil and gas production facility. We define a 
maintained road or trail as one that has been mowed, disked, or plowed, 
or one that is free of trees.
    12. We allow all-terrain vehicle travel on designated trails for 
access typically from September 15 to the last day of the refuge 
squirrel season. Designated trails are open from 4 a.m. to no later 
than 2 hours after legal sunset unless otherwise specified. We define 
an ATV as an off-road vehicle (not legal for highway use) with factory 
specifications not to exceed the following: weight 750 pounds (338 kg), 
length 85 inches (213 cm), and width 48 inches (120 cm). We restrict 
ATV tires to those no larger than 25x12 with a 1-inch (2.5-cm) lug 
height and maximum allowable tire pressure of 7psi. We require an 
affixed refuge all-terrain vehicle permit that hunters may obtain from 
the refuge headquarters typically in July. Hunters using the refuge 
physically challenged all-terrain trails must possess the State's 
Physically Challenged Program Hunter Permit. Additional physically 
challenged access information will be available at the refuge 
headquarters.
    13. We allow nonmotorized boats, electric motors, and boats with 
motors 10 horsepower or less in refuge lakes, streams, and bayous. We 
require that boat passengers wear personal flotation devices when using 
a boat to access the refuge. Hunters must equip all motorized boats 
with navigation lights and utilize them according to State regulations. 
We prohibit storage of boats on the refuge. Hunters must remove them 
daily.
    14. We prohibit deer hunters leaving deer stands unattended before 
the opening day of the refuge archery season. They must remove stands 
by the end of the last day of the refuge archery season. Hunters must 
clearly mark stands left unattended on the refuge with the name and 
address of the stand owner. Hunters must remove portable stands from 
trees daily and place freestanding stands in a nonhunting position when 
unattended.
    15. We require deer hunters using primitive firearms or modern 
firearms to display a solid- hunter-orange cap on their head and a 
solid-hunter-orange vest over their outermost garment covering their 
chest and back. Hunters must display the solid-hunter-orange items the 
entire time while in the field.
    16. We require primitive firearms and modern firearms hunters using 
ground blinds to display outside of the blind 400 square inches (2,600 
cm\2\) of hunter orange, which is visible from all sides of the blind. 
Hunters must wear orange vests and hats as their outermost garments 
while inside the blind.
    17. We require all deer and turkey hunters to report their game 
immediately after each hunt at the check station nearest to the point 
of take.
    18. We prohibit baiting or the possession of bait while on the 
refuge at any time (see Sec. 32.2(h)). We prohibit possession of 
chemical baits or attractants used as bait.
    19. We prohibit any hunter to use climbing spikes or hunt from a 
tree that contains screw-in steps, nails, screw-in umbrellas, or any 
metal objects that could damage trees or to possess any such items (see 
Sec. 32.2(i)).
    20. While visiting the refuge, we prohibit: spotlighting (see 
Sec. 27.73 of this chapter), littering (see Sec. 27.94 of this 
chapter), fires (see Sec. 27.95 of this chapter), trapping, man-drives 
for game, possession of alcoholic beverages in hunting areas, 
possession of open alcoholic beverages (see Sec. Sec. 32.2(j) and 27.81 
of this chapter), flagging, engineer's tape, paint, unleashed pets (see 
Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter), parking/blocking trail and gate 
entrances (see Sec. 27.31(h) of this chapter). We also prohibit hunting 
within 150 feet (45 m) of a designated public road, maintained road, 
trail, fire break, dwelling, and above-ground oil and gas production 
facility. We define a maintained road or trail as one that has been 
mowed, disked, or plowed.
    21. We require a Tensas River National Wildlife Refuge Access 
Permit for all big game hunts. Hunters may find the permit on the front 
of the Public Use Regulations brochure.
    22. We prohibit field dressing of game within 150 feet (45 m) of 
parking areas, maintained roads, and trails.
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    4. We allow anglers to operate nonmotorized boats, electric motors, 
and boats with motors 10 horsepower or less in refuge lakes, streams, 
and bayous. We require that boat passengers wear personal flotation 
devices when using a boat under power to access the refuge. Anglers 
must equip all motorized boats with navigation lights and use them 
according to State regulations. We prohibit boat storage on the refuge, 
and anglers must remove boats daily.
* * * * *

0
14. Amend Sec. 32.39 Maryland by revising Patuxent Research Refuge to 
read as follows:


Sec.  32.39  Maryland.

* * * * *

Patuxent Research Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck, 
and dove on the North Tract in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
    1. We require a hunting permit. We issue permits through our 
Cooperating Association Meade Natural Heritage Association (MNHA) at 
the refuge Hunting Control Station (HCS). MNHA charges a fee for each 
permit. Contact refuge headquarters for more information.
    2. We publish the Refuge Hunting Regulations, which includes the 
daily and yearly bag limits and hunting dates, in late summer. We 
provide you with a copy of the regulations with your fee permit, and we 
require you to know the specific hunt seasons and regulations.
    3. We require hunters, age 17 or younger, to have a parent or 
guardian cosign to receive a hunting permit.
    4. We require hunters, age 17 or younger, to be accompanied in the 
field by an adult possessing a refuge hunting permit, age 21 or older.
    5. You must check-in and out at the HCS and exchange your hunting 
permit for a daily hunting pass and a vehicle pass every time you enter 
or exit the refuge. This includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and other 
breaks if you leave your designated hunting area.
    6. You must use designated and maintained roads for vehicular 
traffic.
    7. You must park within the selected area specified and not block 
traffic or gates (see Sec. 27.31(h) of this chapter).
    8. We restrict you to the selected area and activity until you 
check out at the HCS.
    9. We prohibit hunting on or across any road (paved, gravel, 
opened, and/or closed), within 50 yards (45 m) of a road (paved, 
gravel, dirt, opened and/or closed), within 150 yards (135 m) of any 
building or shed, and within 25 yards (22.5 m) from any designated ``No 
Hunting'' or ``Safety Zone'' areas, except:
    i. You may hunt from the road, 50 yards (135 m) beyond the gate at 
Blue Heron Pond;
    ii. You may hunt from the road, 50 yards (135 m) beyond the 
barricade at Wood Duck Pond;
    iii. You may hunt from any refuge permanent photo/hunt blind.
    iv. You may hunt from the roadside, at designated areas, if you 
possess a Maryland State ``Hunt from a Vehicle Permit.''
    10. You must wear, in a visible manner and at all times, a minimum 
of 400 square inches (2,600 cm\2\) of solid-colored, fluorescent hunter 
orange on

[[Page 45691]]

your head, chest, and back except when noted otherwise. Your solid-
colored, fluorescent hunter orange must be visible 360\o\ while 
carrying-in and carrying-out equipment (e.g., portable blinds). ``Jump 
shooters'' must wear at least a solid-colored, fluorescent hunter-
orange hat or cap while hunting. If you stop and stand, you may remove 
it.
    11. We allow the taking of only Canada goose during the early and 
late resident Canada goose seasons.
    12. We prohibit hunting of goose, duck, and dove during the early 
deer muzzleloader seasons that occur in October and all deer firearms 
seasons including the Junior Deer Hunt.
    13. We require waterfowl hunters to use retrieving dogs while 
hunting duck and goose within 50 yards (45 m) of the following 
impounded waters: Bailey Bridge Marsh, Blue Heron Pond, Lake Allen, New 
Marsh, and Wood Duck Pond.
    14. We require dogs to be under the immediate control of their 
owner at all times (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter). Law enforcement 
officers may seize or dispatch dogs running loose or unattended (see 
Sec. 28.43 of this chapter).
    B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of turkey, gray squirrel, 
eastern cottontail rabbit, and woodchuck on the North Tract and turkey 
on the Central Tract in accordance with State regulations subject to 
the following conditions:
    1. Conditions A1 through A10 apply.
    2. Hunters may only possess approved nontoxic shot while in the 
field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
    3. We prohibit hunting of upland game during the deer muzzleloader 
and firearms seasons, including the Junior Deer Hunt.
    4. You must wear, in a visible manner and at all times, a minimum 
of 400 square inches (2,600 cm\2\) of solid-colored, fluorescent hunter 
orange on your head, chest, and back. Spring turkey hunters are exempt 
from wearing the hunter orange.
    5. We allow the use of a bow and arrow for turkey hunting.
    6. We require turkey hunters to use <greek-i>4, <greek-i>5, or 
<greek-i>6 nontoxic shot or vertical bows.
    7. We select turkey hunters by a computerized lottery for youth, 
disabled, mobility impaired, and general public hunts. We require 
documentation for disabled and mobility-impaired hunters.
    8. We require turkey hunters to show proof they have attended a 
turkey clinic sponsored by the National Turkey Federation.
    9. We require turkey hunters to pattern their weapons prior to 
hunting. Contact refuge headquarters for more information.
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on the 
North, Central, and South Tracts in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
    1. Conditions A1 through A10 apply.
    2. Prior to issuing a hunting permit, we require you to pass a 
yearly proficiency test with each weapon used.
    3. We only allow the use of a shotgun, muzzleloader, or bow and 
arrow according to Refuge Hunting Regulations.
    i. We require muzzleloaders to be .40 caliber or larger with not 
less than 60 grains of black powder or a black powder equivalent.
    ii. We prohibit the discharging of weapons after legal shooting 
hours, including the unloading of muzzleloaders.
    4. We require (when transporting or storing) longbows and recurve 
bows to be unstrung; and compound and crossbows must be locked in such 
a way to render them inoperable and/or cased, with no arrows nocked.
    5. We prohibit possession or use of buckshot.
    6. You must wear, in a visible manner and at all times, a minimum 
of 400 square inches (2,600 cm\2\) of solid-colored, fluorescent hunter 
orange on your head, chest, and back except when noted otherwise. Your 
solid-colored, fluorescent hunter orange must be visible 360 degrees 
while carrying-in and carrying-out equipment (e.g., portable tree 
stands). Bow hunters must follow this requirement when walking from 
their vehicle to their hunting location and while tracking. We do not 
require bow hunters to wear the solid-colored, fluorescent hunter 
orange when positioned to hunt except during the North Tract Junior 
Deer Hunt and the late deer Muzzleloader Season when they must wear it 
at all times.
    7. All bucks harvested must have a 15-inch (37.5-cm) minimum 
outside antler spread.
    8. All deer harvested will have a jaw extracted at the HCS before 
leaving the refuge.
    9. We allow the use of portable tree stands equipped with a full-
body safety harness. You must wear the full-body safety harness while 
in the tree stand. The stand must be at least 10 feet (3 m) off the 
ground. You must remove tree stands from the refuge. You must use tree 
stands when hunting South and Central Tracts. We will make limited 
accommodations for disabled hunters for Central Tract lottery hunts.
    10. We prohibit the use of dogs to hunt or track wounded deer.
    11. If you wish to track wounded deer, beyond 1\1/2\ hours after 
legal sunset, you must gain consent from a refuge law enforcement 
officer. We prohibit tracking 2\1/2\ hours after legal sunset. You must 
make a reasonable effort to retrieve the wounded deer. This may include 
next-day tracking except Sundays and Federal holidays.
    12. We prohibit deer drives or anyone taking part in any deer 
drive. We define a ``deer drive'' as an organized or planned effort to 
pursue, drive, chase or otherwise frighten or cause deer to move in the 
direction of any person or persons who are part of the organized or 
planned hunt and known to be waiting for the deer. We also prohibit 
organized deer drives without a standing hunter.
    13. North Tract: We allow shotgun, muzzleloader, and bow hunting in 
accordance with the following regulations: Conditions C1 through C13 
apply.
    14. Central Tract:
    i. Headquarters/MR Lottery Hunt: We only allow shotgun and bow 
hunting in accordance with the following regulations:
    a. Conditions C1, C2, and C4 through C13 apply.
    b. We select Central Tract shotgun and bow hunters by a 
computerized lottery. We will assign you a specific hunting location.
    ii. Schafer Farm Hunt: We only allow bow hunting in accordance with 
the following regulations: Conditions C1, C2, and C4 through C13 apply.
    15. South Tract: We allow shotgun, muzzleloader, and bow hunting in 
accordance with the following regulations:
    i. Conditions C1 through C13 apply.
    ii. You must access South Tract hunting areas A, B, and C off 
Springfield Road through the Old Beltsville Airport; and South Tract 
hunting area D from MD Rt. 197 through Gate <greek-i>4. You must park 
in designated parking areas.
    iii. We prohibit driving or parking along the entrance and exit 
roads, to and from the National Wildlife Visitor Center, and parking in 
the visitor center parking lot when checked in to hunt any area.
    D. Sport Fishing. We allow sport fishing in accordance with 
Maryland State hook and line fishing regulations subject to the 
following conditions:
    1. We require all anglers, age 16 and older, to obtain a free 
refuge fishing permit as well as a Maryland State fishing license, 
which must be carried with them at all times while fishing. Organized 
groups may request a group permit. The group leader must carry a copy 
of the permit and stay with the group at all times while fishing.

[[Page 45692]]

    2. We publish the Refuge Fishing Regulations, which includes the 
daily and yearly creel limits and fishing dates, in early January. We 
provide a copy of the regulations with your free refuge fishing permit, 
and we require you to know the specific fishing regulations.
    3. Anglers must carry a copy of the refuge fishing permit and their 
Maryland State fishing license in the field.
    4. Anglers must display a copy of the refuge fishing permit in the 
vehicle windshield.
    5. We require anglers, age 17 or younger, to have a parent or 
guardian cosign to receive a fishing permit.
    6. We require anglers, age 17 or younger, to be accompanied in the 
field by an adult possessing a fishing permit, age 21 or older, and 
they must maintain visual contact with each other within a 50-yard (45-
m) distance.
    7. We prohibit the use or possession of lead sinkers.
    8. We prohibit the use or possession of alcoholic beverages (see 
Sec. 27.81 of this chapter and Sec. 32.2(j)).
    9. Anglers may take three youths, age 15 or younger, to fish under 
their permit and in their presence and control.
    10. We allow the use of earthworms as the only source of live bait. 
We prohibit bloodworms, fish, or other animals or parts of animals to 
be used as bait.
    11. We prohibit harvesting bait on the refuge.
    12. Anglers must attend all fishing lines.
    13. Anglers may take the following species: chain pickerel, 
catfish, golden shiner, eel, and sunfish (includes bluegill, black 
crappie, warmouth, and pumpkinseed). Maryland State daily harvest 
limits apply unless otherwise noted.
    14. We require all bluegill taken to be 6 inches (15 cm) or larger.
    15. We allow take of one chain pickerel per day.
    16. Anglers must release all bass that are caught.
    17. We prohibit fishing from all bridges except the downstream side 
of Bailey Bridge.
    18. North Tract: We allow sport fishing in accordance with the 
following regulations:
    i. Conditions D1 through D17 apply.
    ii. We allow sport fishing at Lake Allen, Blue Heron Pond, Rieve's 
Pond, New Marsh, Cattail Pond, Bailey Bridge (downstream side) and 
Little Patuxent River (downstream only from Bailey's Bridge).
    iii. We require a free North Tract refuge access permit that 
anglers must carry and possess at all times and must return to the 
North Tract Visitor Contact Station (VCS) at the end of each visit. If 
you are age 17 or younger, you must have a parent or guardian 
countersign to receive an access permit.
    iv. Anglers may fish year-round at Lake Allen, Blue Heron Pond, 
Rieve's Pond, New Marsh, Cattail Pond, Bailey Bridge (downstream side) 
and the Little Patuxent River (downstream only from Bailey Bridge) 
except Monday through Saturday from September 1 through January 31 
during the hunting season. We also reserve the right to close Lake 
Allen at any time.
    v. We allow wading, for fishing purposes only, downstream from 
Bailey Bridge on the Little Patuxent River. We prohibit wading in all 
other bodies of water.
    vi. We prohibit the use of any type of watercraft.08SER2
    19. South Tract: We allow sport fishing in accordance with the 
following regulations:
    i. Conditions D1 through D16 apply.
    ii. Anglers must park their vehicles in the parking lot located 
behind Refuge Gate <greek-i>8 off MD Rt. 197. Anglers may not access 
Cash Lake from the National Wildlife Visitor Center (NWVC).
    iii. We allow sport fishing at the pier and designated shorelines 
at Cash Lake. See Refuge Fishing Regulations for areas opened to 
fishing. We post other areas with ``No fishing beyond this point'' 
signs.
    iv. Anglers may fish from mid-June until mid-October, as posted.
    v. We allow fishing between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. 
June through August and between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. 
September and October.
    vi. Anglers may use watercraft for fishing in accordance with the 
Maryland State boating laws subject to the additional following 
conditions:
    a. You may use car-top boats 14 feet (4.2 m) or less, and canoes.
    b. You may only use electric motors, 4 HP or less.
    c. We prohibit sailboats, kayaks, and inflatable boats.
    d. Maryland State law requires personal flotation devices (PFDs).
    vii. We prohibit boat trailers except by individuals possessing a 
refuge handicapped permit.

0
15. Amend Sec. 32.43 Mississippi by:
0
a. Adding paragraph A.12., revising paragraphs B.1. and C.1., and 
adding paragraph C.6. of Grand Bay National Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Revising paragraph A.15. of Hillside National Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Revising paragraphs A.15. and C.5., removing paragraph C.18., and 
revising paragraph D.9. of Morgan Brake National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
d. Revising paragraphs A.17. and D.6. of Panther Swamp National 
Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.43  Mississippi.

* * * * *

Grand Bay National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    12. We prohibit the use of airboats, mudboats, motorized pirogues, 
and air-cooled propulsion engines on the refuge.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A4 through A7 and A10 through A12 apply.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A4 through A7 and A9 through A12 apply.
* * * * *
    6. We prohibit the use of dogs to hunt deer and feral hog.
* * * * *

Hillside National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    15. We allow ATVs only on designated trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this 
chapter) (see refuge brochure map).
* * * * *

Morgan Brake National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    15. We allow ATVs only on designated trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this 
chapter) (see refuge brochure map).
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    5. Conditions A5 through A7, A14, A15, and B6 apply.
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    9. Condition A14 applies.
* * * * *

Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    17. We allow ATVs, beginning on the third Saturday in September 
through February 28, only on designated trails (see Sec. 27.31 of this 
chapter) (see refuge brochure map).
* * * * *

[[Page 45693]]

    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    6. We allow ATVs for fishing access on designated gravel roads when 
we close such roads to vehicular traffic.
* * * * *

0
16. Amend Sec. 32.45 Montana by revising paragraphs A.1., A.10., adding 
paragraphs A.17. and A.18., and revising paragraph C.2. of Lee Metcalf 
National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.45  Montana.

* * * * *

Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
    1. Hunting Access: Hunters must enter and exit the hunt area 
through the access parking lot. Hunters must park at this access point 
and at the numbered parking space corresponding to a blind. Hunters 
must walk to the blind along mowed trails designated in the hunting 
leaflet. We open the access parking lot at 3:30 a.m. to hunters who 
intend to immediately hunt on the refuge. We prohibit wildlife 
observation, scouting, and loitering at the access point.
* * * * *
    10. You must conduct all hunting from within the hunting blind.
* * * * *
    17. Hunting blinds require the use of a minimum of six decoys with 
the exception of blinds <greek-i>1, 2, 7, 14, and 15.
    18. We will allow the use of a removable personal blind within the 
immediate mowed area around field blind <greek-i>13.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. We will allow archery hunting in the Waterfowl Hunt Area in 
September except during the youth waterfowl hunt weekend. We will allow 
archery hunting on Mondays and Thursdays in the Waterfowl Hunting Area 
during waterfowl hunting season.
* * * * *

0
17. Amend Sec. 32.47 Nevada by:
0
a. Removing Stillwater Wildlife Management Area; and
0
b. Revising paragraph A.5. and adding paragraphs B.3. and B.4. of 
Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.47  Nevada.

* * * * *

Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    5. We prohibit boating outside of the waterfowl and youth waterfowl 
hunting season except in Willow Lake where we allow nonmotorized 
boating all year.
* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    3. We prohibit the use or possession of lead shot (see 
Sec. 32.2(k)).
    4. We prohibit hunting after legal sunset.
* * * * *

0
18. Amend Sec. 32.48 New Hampshire by revising the introductory text of 
paragraph A. and revising paragraph A.5. of Silvio O. Conte National 
Fish and Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.48  New Hampshire.

* * * * *

Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, 
common snipe, and American woodcock on the Pondicherry Division of the 
refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the following 
conditions:
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    5. Conditions A4 and A5 apply.
* * * * *

0
19. Amend Sec. 32.49 New Jersey by revising the introductory text of 
paragraph C., revising paragraphs C.1. and C.2., and removing 
paragraphs C.3. through C.5. of Supawna Meadows National Wildlife 
Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.49  New Jersey.

* * * * *

Supawna Meadows National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
    1. We allow only bow hunting on the refuge.
    2. We require a State permit for the appropriate State Deer 
Management Zone.
* * * * *

0
20. Amend Sec. 32.50 New Mexico by revising paragraphs A.1., A.4., and 
A.5., adding paragraphs A.6. and A.7., and revising paragraphs B.2., 
B.3., C.1., and C.2. of Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge to read as 
follows:


Sec.  32.50  New Mexico.

* * * * *

Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
    1. On the North Tract (including Salt Creek Wilderness Area and the 
portion of the refuge located north of U.S. Highway 70) all hunting 
must be in accordance with State seasons and regulations. On the Middle 
Tract (the portion of the refuge located between U.S. Highway 70 and 
U.S. Highway 380), we restrict hunting to goose, duck, sandhill crane, 
and American coot (no dove):
    i. In the designated public hunting area;
    ii. In the southern portion of the Tract that never approaches 
closer than 100 yards (90 m) to the public auto tour route;
    iii. In the southern portion of the Tract only, we limit hunting to 
Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays during the period when the State 
seasons for that area are open simultaneously for most of these 
species;
    iv. All hunting must cease at 1 p.m. (local time) on each hunt day; 
and
    v. On the South Tract (the portion of the refuge located south of 
U.S. Highway 380), we allow hunting only during Special hunts (youth 
hunters age 17 and younger and/or physically impaired) as per State 
seasons and regulations.
* * * * *
    4. Hunters must directly attend all personal property at all times 
(see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
    5. We allow unleashed hunting/retrieving dogs on the refuge when 
hunters are legally present in areas where we allow hunters, only if 
the dogs are under the immediate control of hunters at all times (see 
Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter), and only to pursue species legally in 
season at that time.
    6. We prohibit hunters and their dogs from entering closed areas 
for retrieval of game.
    7. We do not require refuge or other special hunt permits other 
than those required by the State (e.g., sandhill crane permits).
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. Conditions A2 and A4 through A7 apply.
    3. We prohibit the use of archery equipment at any time on the 
refuge except when hunting deer and hogs.
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    1. We restrict all hunting to the North Tract (including Salt Creek 
Wilderness Area and the portion of the refuge located north of U.S. 
highway 70) in accordance with State seasons and

[[Page 45694]]

regulations with the specification that we only allow the take of feral 
hog (no bag limit) while legally hunting deer and only with the weapon 
legal for taking deer on that day.
    2. Conditions A4 and A7 apply.
* * * * *

0
21. Amend Sec. 32.51 New York by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A., C., and D. of Montezuma National Wildlife 
Refuge; and
0
b. Revising paragraph C. of Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge to read 
as follows:


Sec.  32.51  New York.

* * * * *

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow waterfowl hunting on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
    1. We require daily refuge permits and reservations. You must 
possess and carry refuge permits while in the field and present them 
upon request to any law enforcement officer.
    2. We allow hunting only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays 
during the established refuge season set within the State western zone 
season.
    3. Except for opening day, we take telephone reservations from 8:30 
a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays for the next 
hunt day.
    4. We take opening day reservations between 8:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. 
on a day set by the refuge manager or designee at least 1 week before 
the season opener.
    5. The reservation telephone number is 315-568-4136.
    6. All telephone reservations are on a first-come, first-served 
basis.
    7. If you have a reservation for Tschache Pool, you may bring one 
companion; we will determine party limits for other areas annually.
    8. You may request the parking area of your choice when making 
reservations.
    9. Parking signs and blinds should not be moved except by refuge 
personnel.
    10. All hunters with reservations and their hunting companions must 
check-in at the Route 89 Hunter Creek Station area at least 1 hour 
before legal shooting time or forfeit their reservation.
    11. Hunters must set up in their chosen hunting spot before legal 
shooting time.
    12. Forfeited reservations become available on a first-come, first-
served basis to standby hunters at the Route 89 Hunter Check Station.
    13. We require a fee of $10 per reservation. If you have a Golden 
Age or Access Passport, the fee is $5 per reservation.
    14. In Tschache Pool, hunters must use motorless boats to hunt, and 
we limit hunters to one boat per reservation.
    15. In Tschache Pool, you must not shoot from the dike or within 50 
feet (15 m) of the dike or road, or from within 500 feet (150 m) of the 
observation tower. We do not limit hunting to specific blind sites.
    16. We will announce selection procedures for hunting sites on 
other areas annually.
    17. You may possess a maximum of 15 nontoxic shot shells while in 
the field (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
    18. You must stop hunting at 12 p.m. (noon), and you must check out 
by 1 p.m.
    19. We require proof of successful completion of the New York State 
Waterfowl Identification Course, the Montezuma Nonresident Waterfowl 
Identification Course, or a suitable nonresident State Waterfowl 
Identification Course to hunt the refuge; all hunters must show proof 
each time they hunt.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
    1. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer only on designated areas 
of the refuge using archery, firearms (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter), 
or muzzleloaders during established refuge seasons set within the 
general State white-tailed deer season.
    2. We prohibit hunting on Sunday.
    3. You must possess, carry, and present upon request to any law 
enforcement officer a valid daily hunt permit card. We will also 
require you to return the daily hunt permit card at the end of hunting 
or at the end of the day.
    4. Daily hunt permits are available at the Route 89 Hunter Check 
Station on a first-come, first-served basis, issued by refuge personnel 
or available on a self-service basis; hunters must come to the Route 89 
Hunter Check Station to obtain a permit each day they hunt.
    5. We issue a maximum of 300 archery and 150 firearms hunt permit 
cards each day on a first-come, first-served basis.
    6. Hunters must fill out Part A of the daily hunt permit card at 
check-in and leave it with refuge personnel or deposit it in the Part A 
box at the Route 89 Hunter Check Station.
    7. Hunters must carry Part B of the daily hunt permit card while 
hunting the refuge.
    8. Hunters must complete Part B and deposit it in the Part B box at 
the Route 89 Hunter Check Station by the end of the hunt day.
    9. Successful hunters must bring their deer to the Route 89 Hunter 
Check Station on days designated by the refuge manager.
    10. Firearms hunters must wear in a visible manner on the head, 
chest, and back a minimum of 400 square inches (2,600 cm\2\) of solid, 
blaze orange.
    11. We only allow shotguns, muzzleloaders, and bows during the 
firearms season (see Sec. 27.42 of this chapter); successful harvest 
with a bow during firearms season requires use of a firearms season 
tag.
    12. You must disassemble, lock, or case all bows after legal sunset 
and before legal sunrise.
    13. We prohibit advance scouting of the refuge prior to hunting 
season.
    14. We prohibit boats and canoes on refuge pools and hunting on the 
open-water portions of the refuge pools.
    15. We prohibit ATVs (see Sec. 27.31(f) of this chapter).
    16. Hunters may only use portable tree stands and must remove them 
(see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter) from the refuge each day.
    17. We prohibit screw-in tree steps, nails, and any object used to 
puncture the bark of a tree; we do allow climbing tree stands that grip 
the tree (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
    18. We allow firearms hunters to be on the refuge during the period 
that begins 1 hour before legal sunrise and ends 1 hour after legal 
sunset.
    19. We allow archery hunters to be on the refuge during the period 
that begins 1 hour before legal sunrise (except for opening day) and 
ends 1 hour after legal sunset.
    20. On opening day of both archery and firearms seasons, we allow 
hunters on the refuge during the period that begins 2 hours before 
legal sunrise and ends 1 hour after legal sunset.
    21. We prohibit parking along the Wildlife Drive unless otherwise 
posted by refuge personnel.
    D. Sport Fishing. Anglers may access the New York State Barge Canal 
System Waters at only two sites on the refuge: The Seneca River Fishing 
Access Site and the May's Point Fishing Area. You may either bank fish 
or boat fish in accordance with State regulations.
* * * * *

Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer within 
designated areas of the refuge in

[[Page 45695]]

accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
    1. We allow archery and shotgun hunting of white-tailed deer within 
portions of the refuge during specific days between October 1 and 
January 31.
    2. We require refuge permits. We limit the number of deer hunters 
permitted to hunt on the refuge. We will issue permits by random 
selection.
    3. You must take the specified number of antlerless deer as noted 
in the refuge hunting regulations before taking an antlered deer.
    4. You must have all applicable and valid hunting licenses, 
permits, stamps, and a photographic identification in your possession 
while hunting on the refuge.
    5. You must limit driving to designated access roads and park only 
in designated areas. We prohibit use of motorized vehicles on the 
refuge to retrieve white-tailed deer.
    6. You must display refuge parking permits face up on the vehicle 
dashboard while hunting.
    7. We allow hunters to enter the refuge 1 hour before legal hunting 
hours, and they must leave the refuge no later than 1 hour after legal 
hunting hours.
    8. We prohibit the use of dogs to hunt or pursue game. We prohibit 
driving deer by any means.
    9. We prohibit shooting directly into the 500-foot (150-m) ``No 
Hunt Buffer.''
    10. We prohibit the killing or crippling of any deer without the 
hunter making reasonable effort to retrieve the deer and retain it in 
his or her custody.
    11. If assigned to Unit 5, hunters must hunt from portable tree 
stands and must direct aim away from public roads and private 
dwellings.
    12. We allow only shotgun shells loaded with slugs during the 
firearms season.
    13. Hunters must wear a minimum of 400 square inches (2,600 cm\2\) 
of solid-orange clothing, visible on head, chest, and back during the 
firearms season. Camouflage orange does not qualify because it is not 
solid.
    14. We prohibit construction or use of any type of structure while 
hunting. We prohibit driving nails, spikes, screws, or other metal 
objects into any tree or hunting from any tree into which a nail, 
spike, screw, or other object has been driven (see Sec. 32.2(i)).
    15. We allow use of temporary or portable tree stands while hunting 
deer. You must clearly print your name and address on the stand. You 
must remove all stands or any blinds at the end of each hunt session 
(see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter).
    16. You must report all serious accidents and injuries to refuge 
personnel as soon as possible and before leaving the refuge.
    17. Failure to comply with Federal, State, or refuge regulations 
may lead to dismissal from the refuge and elimination of participation 
in future hunts.
    18. Hunters must abide by all rules and regulations listed on the 
hunting permit.
    19. We prohibit the use of any bait, salt, or enticement (see 
Sec. 32.2(h)).
    20. A nonhunting adult possessing a valid New York State hunting 
license must accompany junior hunters (ages 14 and 15).
    21. We prohibit the marking of any tree, trail, or other refuge 
feature with flagging, paint, reflective material, or any other 
substance.
    22. You must use a safety harness and belt while hunting from a 
tree stand.
    23. We allow scouting of hunting areas on the refuge only during 
designated times and days. We allow only permitted hunters to scout. We 
prohibit the use of dogs during scouting.
    24. We prohibit the use of electronic calls during any hunting 
season.
    25. We prohibit the trimming or cutting of branches larger than the 
diameter of a quarter.
* * * * *

0
22. Amend Sec. 32.53 North Dakota by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs B. and C. of Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge; 
and
0
b. Revising paragraph D.3. and adding paragraph D.14. of Upper Souris 
National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.53  North Dakota.

* * * * *

Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of sharp-tailed grouse and 
grey partridge on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with 
State regulations subject to the following conditions:
    1. We prohibit hunting on the portion of the refuge south of 
Highway 50 during the State gun season.
    2. We allow hunting only on the portion of the refuge north of 
Highway 50 beginning the day following the close of the State deer gun 
season through the end of the State season.
    3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while in the field 
(see Sec. 32.2(k)).
    4. We prohibit the use of horses during all hunting seasons.
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of deer on designated areas 
of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the 
following conditions:
    1. The refuge gun, muzzleloader, and bow deer hunting seasons open 
and close according to State regulations.
    2. We prohibit entry to the refuge before 12 p.m. (noon) on the 
first day of the archery, gun, or muzzleloader deer hunting season.
    3. We will allow only preseason scouting in public use areas and 
hiking trails.
    4. We allow only portable tree stands. You must remove all tree 
stands at the end of each day (see Sec. Sec. 27.93 and 27.94 of this 
chapter).
    5. Hunters may enter the refuge only on foot.
    6. Condition B4 applies.
* * * * *

Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    3. We prohibit the use of bow, spear, or underwater spearing 
equipment to take fish during open-water periods.
* * * * *
    14. We allow dark-house spear fishing from December 1 through the 
last day of February of each fishing year in conjunction with North 
Dakota Game and Fish Department regulations.
* * * * *

0
23. Amend Sec. 32.55 Oklahoma by revising paragraph A.1., adding 
paragraph A.9., revising paragraph B.1., and adding paragraph C.4. of 
Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.55  Oklahoma.

* * * * *

Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
    1. We require an annual refuge permit for all hunting. The hunter 
must possess and carry the signed permit while hunting. We require 
hunters to abide by all terms and conditions listed on the permit (see 
Sec. 26.43 of this chapter).
* * * * *
    9. We prohibit hunters from using refuge boat ramps to access 
hunting areas outside the refuge boundary on days when we close the 
refuge for hunting certain species or for any species not hunted on the 
refuge.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A1 and A7 through A9 apply.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    4. Condition A9 applies.
* * * * *

[[Page 45696]]


0
24. Amend Sec. 32.60 South Carolina by:
0
a. Revising Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Revising Santee National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
c. Revising paragraphs C.3., C.5, and C.6. of Savannah National 
Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.60  South Carolina.

* * * * *

Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of marsh hen/rail 
only on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State 
regulations subject to the following conditions:
    1. We require each hunter to carry at all times while hunting a 
signed, current refuge hunt permit and a government-issued picture ID. 
The hunt permit is invalid until signed by the hunter.
    2. We prohibit hunting on Sundays.
    3. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot while hunting on the 
refuge (see Sec. 32.2(k)).
    4. We prohibit discharge of weapons for any purpose other than to 
take or attempt to take legal game during the established hunting 
season.
    5. Each hunter under age 16 must remain within sight and normal 
voice contact of an adult age 21 or older. Youth hunters must have 
successfully completed a State-approved hunter education course.
    6. We allow use of retrieving dogs only while hunting in designated 
hunting areas for marsh hen/rail. Otherwise we prohibit dogs on the 
refuge.
    7. We prohibit taking or attempting to take any wildlife from an 
area unless that area is officially opened for hunting/fishing.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of raccoon on designated 
areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the 
following conditions:
    1. Conditions A1, A2, A4, A5, and A7 apply.
    2. We allow hunting only on days designated annually by the refuge 
within the State season.
    3. Hunters must enter and exit through the designated camping area 
to access any hunting areas on the refuge.
    4. We prohibit crossbows, muzzleloaders, shotguns, rifles, pistols, 
and any other firearms or illegal means designated by the State to take 
while-tailed deer during the designated refuge archery hunt.
    5. The refuge designates daily limits for raccoon.
    6. For all raccoons harvested, hunters must check-in the raccoon 
tail at the refuge check station.
    7. We prohibit hunting within 100 feet (30 m) of the Walking Trail 
(interpretive foot trail) and Beach Road.
    8. Each archery hunter must check-in at the camping site on Bulls 
Island before setting up camp or before starting to hunt. We require 
each hunter to record his or her name and address in the available 
register.
    9. Hunters may camp in the designated camping areas on Bulls Island 
during the archery white-tailed deer hunts from 9 a.m. on the day 
preceding the hunt until 12 p.m. (noon) on the day following the hunt.
    10. We restrict hunters to the camping area from 7 p.m. until 4:30 
a.m.
    11. We prohibit camping on the refuge except for designated archery 
hunters on Bulls Island and individuals obtaining a special use permit 
from the refuge manager.
    12. We prohibit fires except designated campfires in designated 
areas during the archery hunt (see Sec. 27.95(a) of this chapter).
    13. Except for boat motors being operated in salt water, we 
prohibit motorized equipment on the refuge islands or in refuge 
inholdings.
    14. We prohibit private boats in the refuge boat basins at Garris 
Landing and Bulls Island. We clearly mark these areas with Closed Area 
signs.
    15. We prohibit overnight parking at Garris Landing except for 
archery hunters during the designated refuge archery white-tailed deer 
season and individuals obtaining a special use permit from the refuge 
manager.
    16. Hunters must hunt from a tree stand or the ground. We prohibit 
stalking, driving, corralling, or any other cooperative form of 
hunting.
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow the hunting of white-tailed deer on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
    1. Conditions A1, A2, A4, A5, A7, B2 through B4, and B7 through B16 
apply.
    2. The refuge designates daily limits for white-tailed deer.
    3. Hunters much check all white-tailed deer at the refuge check 
station prior to removal from Bulls Island.
    D. Sport Fishing. We allow the possession, taking, and 
transportation of: fish, crabs, shellfish, shrimp, and other saltwater 
species on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State 
regulations subject to the following conditions:
    1. Conditions A7 and B10 through B14 apply.
    2. We prohibit fishing inside the refuge boat basins at Garris 
Landing and Bulls Island.
    3. We prohibit cast nets on the pier at Garris Landing.
    4. We prohibit fishing, crabbing, shell fishing, and the taking of 
other saltwater species on Bulls Island ponds and managed wetlands 
(Jacks Creek, Lower and Upper Summerhouse Ponds).
    5. We close Marsh Island, White Banks, and Sandy Point to public 
entry from February 15 through September 15 to protect nesting birds. 
This closed area extends from the low mean water mark to the highest 
elevation on these islands.
    6. We prohibit entering into any area ``Closed to Public Entry'' 
due to turtle/bird nesting areas.
    7. All refuge islands are ``Closed to Public Entry'' or occupancy 
from 1 hour after legal sunset to 1 hour before legal sunrise, except 
during a scheduled refuge big game hunt.
    8. We prohibit anglers or visitors taking, possessing, or 
transporting more than one 3-quart plastic bag of sea shells per person 
per day from the refuge.
    9. We prohibit anglers or visitors taking, possessing, or 
transporting any sea shells containing living organisms from the 
refuge, except those shellfish allowed by the State according to a 
recreational or commercial saltwater fishing license and permit.
    10. We prohibit the taking of sea shells from the refuge for 
commercial purposes or monetary gain.
    11. We prohibit the commercial transport of passengers to any 
refuge island for any purpose without a Special Use Permit from the 
refuge manager.
    12. We prohibit feeding or harassing porpoises in any manner.
    13. We prohibit mooring or anchoring of boats more than 72 hours 
within the refuge boundary.
* * * * *

Santee National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of mourning dove 
on designated areas of the Cuddo Unit of the refuge in accordance with 
State regulations subject to the following conditions:
    1. All hunters must possess and carry a signed refuge hunting 
permit and a government-issued picture ID. The hunt permit is invalid 
until signed by the hunter.
    2. We require all hunters to sign in and out at the check station 
located at the Cuddo entrance gate and report all game taken.
    3. We prohibit discharge of weapons (see Sec. 27.42 of this 
chapter) within, into, or across a ``No Hunting Zone'' or ``Closed 
Area.'' We prohibit entering or crossing a ``No Hunting Zone'' or 
``Closed Area'' to access areas open to hunting. We require consent 
from refuge personnel to enter a ``No Hunting Zone'' or ``Closed Area'' 
for the purpose of

[[Page 45697]]

tracking and/or retrieving legally taken game animals.
    4. Each youth hunter (age 16 or younger) must remain within sight 
and normal voice contact and under the direct supervision of an adult 
age 21 or older with a valid license and applicable permit. Each adult 
may supervise no more than two youth hunters. Each youth hunter must 
possess and carry evidence of successful completion of a State-approved 
hunter education course.
    5. Legal shooting hours for designated refuge dove hunts are in 
accordance with State law and the times the refuge is open for general 
public access.
    6. We allow scouting for dove 1 week prior to the designated refuge 
hunting season. Anyone scouting may be on the refuge only during the 
times the refuge is open for general public access.
    7. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot (see Sec. 32.2(k) 
while in the field if hunting with a shotgun or muzzleloader using shot 
as a delivery device to take mourning doves.
    8. Hunters must possess shotguns with shot no larger than No. 5.
    9. We allow use of dogs for the retrieving of mourning doves while 
hunting. The dog must wear a collar displaying the owner's name, 
address, and phone number.
    10. We prohibit discharge of weapons for any purpose other than to 
take or attempt to take legal game animals during established hunting 
seasons.
    11. We prohibit entering any area posted as ``Closed'' or ``No 
Hunting Zone.'' We prohibit hunting any species not listed in the 
introductory paragraphs A, B, or C on any unit.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of raccoon and opossum on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
    1. Conditions A1 through A4, A10, and A11 apply.
    2. We allow hunting only on areas, days, and times designated 
annually by the refuge within the State season.
    3. We require dogs for hunting raccoon and opossum. All dogs must 
wear a collar displaying the owner's name, address, and phone number.
    4. You may possess only approved nontoxic shot (see Sec. 32.2(k)) 
while in the field if hunting with a shotgun using shot as a delivery 
device to take game.
    5. We prohibit crossbows.
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
    1. Conditions A1 through A4, A10, and A11 apply.
    2. We allow hunting for white-tailed deer only as described in the 
refuge hunt brochure.
    D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on the refuge in accordance with 
State regulations subject to the following conditions:
    1. We allow fishing year-round, 24 hours a day, except in areas 
posted as ``Closed Areas'' or in areas seasonally closed for migratory 
bird management in Cantey Bay, Black Bottom, Savannah Branch, and 
refuge ponds and impoundments.
    2. We allow fishing only in Cantey Bay, Black Bottom, Savannah 
Branch, and refuge ponds and impoundments from March 1 through October 
31.
    3. We prohibit fishing or boating within 100 feet (30 m) of any 
nesting birds or bird rookeries within the refuge boundaries.
    4. We allow fishing on the inland ponds only during the times the 
refuge units are open for general public access or as posted.
    5. You must possess and carry a signed refuge fishing permit at all 
times while fishing on the refuge.
    6. We prohibit the use of air-thrust boats, hovercraft, airboats, 
and personal watercraft.

Savannah National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    3. We authorize bows only for deer/hog hunting during the archery 
hunt. We prohibit crossbows (see Sec. 27.43 of this chapter).
* * * * *
    5. You may take five deer, no more than three antlerless and two 
antlered. There is no bag limit on feral hogs.
    6. You must remove hunt stands daily (see Sec. 27.93 of this 
chapter).
* * * * *

0
25. Amend Sec. 32.62 Tennessee by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs A.1., B.1., removing paragraph B.2. and 
redesignating paragraphs B.3. through B.9. as paragraphs B.2. through 
B.8., and revising paragraph D.1. of Cross Creeks National Wildlife 
Refuge; and
0
b. Revising paragraph A.1., adding paragraph A.12., and revising 
paragraphs B.1., C.2., and D.4. of Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge 
to read as follows:


Sec.  32.62  Tennessee.

* * * * *

Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
    1. The refuge is open daily from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise to 
\1/2\ hour after legal sunset, with the exception of legal hunting and/
or fishing activities.
* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Conditions A1 and A2 apply.
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
    1. We allow fishing on refuge pools and reservoirs from March 16 
through November 14 from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise to \1/2\ hour 
after legal sunset.
* * * * *

Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
    1. The refuge is open daily from \1/2\ hour before legal sunrise to 
\1/2\ hour after legal sunset, with the exception of legal hunting/
fishing activities.
* * * * *
    12. We restrict the Duck River Bottoms unit to a quota goose hunt 
only. You may only participate in the quota hunt with a special quota 
permit issued through random drawing. Information for permit 
application is available at the refuge headquarters.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Condition A1 applies.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. You may only participate in the refuge quota deer hunts with a 
special quota permit issued through random drawing. Information for 
permit applications is available at the refuge headquarters. You must 
possess and carry a valid refuge permit while hunting on the refuge.
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    4. We allow fishing on interior refuge impoundments from \1/2\ hour 
before legal sunrise to \1/2\ hour after legal sunset.
* * * * *

0
26. Amend Sec. 32.63 Texas by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs C.6. and C.7. of Aransas National Wildlife 
Refuge;
0
b. Revising the introductory text of paragraph A., revising paragraphs 
A.1., A.4., and A.6., revising the introductory text of paragraph B., 
revising paragraphs B.1., B.6., and B.8., and adding paragraphs B.9. 
and B.10. of Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Redesignating paragraphs A.1. through A.5. as paragraphs A.2. 
through A.6. and adding a new paragraph A.1. of Brazoria National 
Wildlife Refuge; and
0
d. Revising paragraph A.3. of San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge to 
read as follows:

[[Page 45698]]

Sec.  32.63  Texas.

* * * * *

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    6. We allow archery hunting within the deer season for the county 
on specified days listed in the refuge hunt brochure.
    7. We allow firearm hunting within the deer season for the county 
on specified days listed in the refuge hunt brochure.
* * * * *

Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of mourning, 
white-wing, rock, and Eurasian-collared doves on designated areas of 
the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the 
following conditions:
    1. We allow hunting on the refuge during limited periods of the 
State-designated hunting season. We publish these dates in the annual 
refuge hunting brochure.
* * * * *
    4. We require all hunters to obtain and possess a refuge permit and 
pay a hunt fee.
* * * * *
    6. All hunters must be age 12 or older. An adult age 21 or older 
must supervise hunters ages 12-17 (inclusive).
* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of turkey on designated 
areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations subject to the 
following conditions:
    1. Conditions A1, A3, A4, A7, and A8 apply.
* * * * *
    6. We annually establish bag limits for turkey and publish these 
bag limits in the annual hunt brochure.
* * * * *
    8. We require that hunters check-in all harvested game at the 
refuge check station on the day of the hunt.
    9. We allow use of portable hunting stands. They may be set up 
during scouting week, but must be removed when a hunter's permit 
expires (see Sec. 27.93 of this chapter). We prohibit hunters from 
driving nails, spikes, or other objects into trees or hunting from 
stands secured with objects driven into trees (see Sec. 27.61 of this 
chapter).
    10. We prohibit hunting within 50 yards (45 m) of adjoining private 
property lines or from a road open to vehicular traffic and/or within 
200 yards (180 m) of a building.
* * * * *

Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
    1. We require permits and payment of fees for the Otter Slough 
Permit Waterfowl Hunt. Hunters must abide by all terms and conditions 
set forth by the permit.
* * * * *

San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    3. We require permits and payment of fees for the Sargent Permit 
Waterfowl Hunt and Light Goose Conservation Order Season Permit Hunt 
Area. Hunters must abide by all terms and conditions set by the 
permits.
* * * * *

0
27. Amend Sec. 32.66 Virginia by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs C. and D.1., D.5., D.6., D.7.iv., and D.7.v. of 
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge;
0
b. Revising paragraph C.1.i. of Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge;
0
c. Revising the introductory text of paragraph C., paragraphs C.1. 
through C.5., and C.8. through C.11. of Great Dismal Swamp National 
Wildlife Refuge;
0
d. Revising paragraph C. of James River National Wildlife Refuge;
0
e. Revising paragraph A. of Plum Tree Island National Wildlife Refuge;
0
f. Revising paragraph C. of Presquile National Wildlife Refuge; and
0
g. Revising paragraph C. and D. of Rappahannock River Valley National 
Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.66  Virginia.

* * * * *

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and 
feral hogs on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State 
regulations subject to the following conditions:
    1. The State determines hunting seasons annually, usually beginning 
October 1 and ending in early January. We conduct the deer and hog hunt 
on the barrier spit of the refuge for a minimum of 7 days in October. 
We will close the refuge for all other public uses on those days.
    2. Hunters must present their Hunter Safety Education Certification 
and required licenses at check-in.
    3. Hunters must register on each hunt day. We will issue a Special 
Use Hunting Permit, which hunters must sign and carry on their person 
while hunting.
    4. The hunt lottery system (run through a contractor) may be 
accessed through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Virginia Department 
of Conservation & Recreation, and The Virginia Game and Inland 
Fisheries website. Selected hunters will receive a ``Successful Hunter 
Selection Packet'' from the contractor by mail.
    5. All selected and standby applicants must enter the refuge 
between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. on each hunt day. We may issue standby 
hunters permits to fill vacant slots by lottery. All hunters must check 
out at the Check Station no later than 6 p.m.
    6. Hunters must sign in and out on each hunt day.
    7. We prohibit use of dogs.
    8. We prohibit possession of alcoholic beverages (see 
Sec. 32.2(j)).
    9. You must be at least age 18 to hunt without an accompanying, 
qualified adult. Youths between ages 12 and 18 may hunt only when 
accompanied by a licensed hunter who is age 21 or older.
    10. Each hunter must visibly wear a minimum of 400 square inches 
(2,600 cm\2\) of solid-colored, blaze-orange material on his or her 
head, chest, and back. This is the equivalent of a hat and vest for 
each hunter.
    11. Hunting Zone 5 is for use by nonambulatory hunters. A 
nonambulatory hunter is someone who can provide medical documentation 
from a doctor that he or she is unable to walk.
    12. We allow scouting one week prior to the first day of the refuge 
hunt. Hunters may enter the hunt zones by foot or bicycle only. Scouts 
must wear 400 square inches (2,600 cm\2\) of visible blaze orange. We 
require hunters to sign in and out on each day of scouting.
    13. Hunters may go to Hunt Zone 1 (Long Island) only by hand-
launched watercraft (canoe, punt, rowboat, etc.) from the canoe launch 
at refuge headquarters. Your boat must meet Coast Guard safety 
requirements. We prohibit use of boats on trailers.
    14. A Safety Zone runs from the Check Station to north of the 
headquarters parking lot. We prohibit hunting or discharging of 
firearms within the Safety Zone. We prohibit retrieval of crippled game 
from a ``No Hunting Area'' or ``Safety Zone'' without the consent of 
the refuge employee on duty at the Check Station.
    15. We prohibit use of tree stands.
    16. We prohibit use of the ``Hacking Tower'' in Hunt Zone 4.
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *

[[Page 45699]]

    1. We close all areas within the hunting zones, as well as the 
oceanfront, to fishing, crabbing, and clamming during the annual refuge 
white-tailed deer and feral hog hunt.
* * * * *
    5. Anglers may access the refuge for sport fishing, crabbing, and 
clamming from the refuge headquarters parking lot only by foot, 
bicycle, and nontrailered boats.
    6. Anglers may surf fish, crab, and clam south of the refuge's 
beach access ramp.
    7. * * *
    iv. Anglers must catch and release smallmouth bass, largemouth 
bass, and pickerel. The daily creel limit for D Pool for other species 
is a maximum combination of any 10 fish.
    v. Parking for nonambulatory visitors is available adjacent to the 
dock at D Pool. All other visitors must hike in or bicycle in.

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    1. General hunt information:
    i. You must possess and carry a refuge permit. Hunting brochures 
containing hunting application procedures, seasons, bag limits, methods 
of hunting, maps depicting areas open to hunting, and the terms and 
conditions under which we issue hunting permits are available from the 
refuge administration office.
* * * * *

Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer and bear 
on designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
    1. You must possess and carry a refuge permit and compass.
    2. We allow shotguns, 20 gauge or larger, loaded with buckshot or 
rifled slugs, and bows and arrows, and crossbows. For the bear hunt in 
Virginia, we allow only shotguns, 20 gauge or larger, with slugs.
    3. We prohibit dogs.
    4. You must wear 400 square inches (2,600 cm\2\) of solid-colored, 
hunter-orange clothing or material in a visible manner during firearms 
big game season.
    5. You must sign in and out each time you enter and leave the 
refuge.
* * * * *
    8. We prohibit shooting from, onto, or across refuge roads, 
including roads closed to vehicles.
    9. You must check-in all harvested bears at the refuge official 
check station.
    10. We prohibit baiting or hunting over bait (see Sec. 32.2(h)).
    11. We prohibit possession of alcoholic beverages (see 
Sec. 32.2(j)).
* * * * *

James River National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
    1. We require firearm hunters to purchase a refuge hunt permit at 
the Refuge Hunter Check Station on the morning of each hunt on a first-
come, first-served basis. The permit must be in the possession of the 
hunter while on refuge property.
    2. We require archery hunters to purchase a refuge hunt permit by 
mail, by the designated application deadline. Archery hunters must 
contact the Charles City Office at (804) 829-9020 to apply for a 
permit. You must possess the permit while on refuge property.
    3. You must follow all conditions of the hunting permit.
    4. We allow the use of shotguns (20-gauge or larger, loaded with 
buckshot only), muzzleloaders, archery, and crossbows on designated 
refuge hunt days.
    5. We allow the take of two deer of either sex per day.
    6. We prohibit dogs.
    7. We allow only portable tree stands that hunters must remove at 
the end of each hunt day.
    8. During firearm seasons, hunters must wear in a visible manner on 
head, chest, and back a minimum of 400 square inches (2,600 cm\2\) of 
solid-colored, hunter-orange clothing or material.
    9. During archery-only season, hunters must wear in a visible 
manner a solid-colored, hunter-orange hat or cap while moving to and 
from their stand.
    10. We require that firearm hunters remain within 25 feet (7.5 m) 
of their assigned stand unless tracking or retrieving a wounded deer.
    11. Hunters may retrieve wounded deer from closed areas with prior 
consent from a refuge employee.
    12. We prohibit the discharge of firearm or archery equipment 
across or within refuge roads, including roads closed to vehicles.
    13. You must be at least age 18 to hunt without an accompanying, 
qualified adult. Youth hunters between ages 12 and 17 may hunt only 
when accompanied by an adult age 21 or older who must also possess and 
carry a valid hunting license. The minimum age for hunters is 12.
* * * * *

Plum Tree Island National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of waterfowl, 
gallinule, and coot on designated areas of the refuge in accordance 
with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
    1. You must possess and carry a signed Special Use Hunting Permit 
while hunting migratory game birds on the refuge. We open only the Cow 
Island area of the refuge to migratory game bird hunting. We close all 
other areas of the refuge to all public entry. You may obtain permit 
application information by contacting the Charles City Office at (804) 
829-9020.
    2. We will determine hunting locations, dates, and times by 
lottery. We will designate them on hunting permits.
    3. We prohibit jump-shooting by foot or boat. We allow hunting from 
a blind only as determined by hunting permit.
    4. You must follow all conditions of your hunt permit.
    5. We prohibit any activity that disturbs the bottom, including 
landing boats, anchoring, driving posts, etc., within the refuge 
boundary and within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-designated Danger 
Zone around Plum Tree Island.
* * * * *

Presquile National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
    1. We require you to purchase a refuge hunt permit. You may obtain 
permit information by contacting the Charles City Office at (804) 829-
9020. You must possess the permit while on refuge property.
    2. You must follow all conditions of the hunting permit.
    3. We allow the use of shotguns (20-gauge or larger, loaded with 
buckshot or rifled slugs).
    4. We allow the take of two deer of either sex per day.
    5. We prohibit dogs.
    6. We allow only portable tree stands that hunters must remove at 
the end of each hunt day.
    7. We require hunters to wear in a conspicuous manner on head, 
chest, and back a minimum of 400 square inches (2,600 cm\2\) of solid-
colored, hunter-orange clothing or material.

[[Page 45700]]

    8. You must be at least age 18 to hunt without an accompanying, 
qualified adult. Youth hunters between ages 12 and 17 may hunt only 
when accompanied by an adult age 21 or older who must also possess and 
carry a valid hunting license. The minimum age for hunters is 12.
* * * * *

Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with State regulations 
subject to the following conditions:
    1. We require hunters to purchase a refuge hunt permit. You may 
obtain permit application information by contacting Refuge Headquarters 
at (804) 333-1470. You must possess the permit while on refuge 
property.
    2. You must follow all conditions of the hunting permit.
    3. We allow shotgun, muzzleloader, and archery hunting on 
designated refuge hunt days.
    4. We allow the take of two deer per day. We will determine the sex 
of the deer on the hunting permit.
    5. We prohibit dogs.
    6. We allow only portable tree stands that hunters must remove at 
the end of each hunt day.
    7. We require firearm hunters to wear in a conspicuous manner on 
head, chest, and back a minimum of 400 square inches (2,600 cm\2\) of 
solid-colored, hunter-orange clothing or material.
    8. During archery-only season, hunters must wear in a visible 
manner a solid-colored, hunter-orange hat or cap while moving to and 
from their stand.
    9. We prohibit the discharge of firearm or archery equipment across 
or within refuge roads, including roads closed to vehicles.
    10. Hunters may retrieve wounded deer from closed areas only with 
prior consent from a refuge employee.
    11. You must be at least age 18 to hunt without an accompanying, 
qualified adult. Youth hunters between ages 12 and 17 may hunt only 
when accompanied by an adult age 21 or older who must also possess and 
carry a valid hunting license. The minimum age for hunters is 12.
    D. Sport Fishing. We allow fishing on designated areas of Wilna 
Pond in Richmond County in accordance with State regulations subject to 
the following conditions:
    1. We allow fishing access from legal sunrise to legal sunset.
    2. We allow fishing from the Wilna Pond pier, banks of the dam, and 
watercraft. We prohibit fishing from the aluminum catwalk.
    3. All Virginia boating laws apply on Wilna Pond, including 
personal flotation device (PFD) requirements and State motor boat 
registration for vessels under power.
    4. During the period when we open the Wilna Tract for deer hunting, 
we will close it to all other uses, including fishing.
    5. We prohibit fishing by any means other than by use of one or 
more attended poles with hook and line attached.
    6. We prohibit the use of lead sinkers.
    7. We require catch and release fishing only for largemouth bass. 
You may take other finfish species in accordance with State 
regulations.
    8. We prohibit the take of any reptile, amphibian, or invertebrate 
species for use as bait or for any other purpose.
    9. We prohibit the use of live minnows as bait.
    10. We prohibit the use of boats propelled by gasoline motors, 
sail, or mechanically operated paddle wheel. We allow only car-top 
boats, and we prohibit trailers.
    11. We will give prescheduled environmental education field trips 
priority over other uses, including sport fishing, on the Wilna Pond 
pier at all times.
* * * * *

0
28. Amend Sec. 32.67 Washington by adding paragraphs A.3. through A.16. 
of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.67  Washington.

* * * * *

Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    3. We prohibit hunting of dusky Canada goose. The State defines 
dusky Canada goose as a dark goose, as determined by a Munsell color 
chart 10 YR, 5 or less, with a culmen length of 40 to 50 millimeters 
(1.6 to 2 inches). Hunting of dusky goose will result in invalidation 
of the refuge hunting permit and loss of refuge hunting privileges for 
the remainder of the waterfowl hunting season.
    4. We allow hunting on designated portions of the River ``S'' Unit 
on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, excluding Federal holidays, 
during the regular State waterfowl hunting season.
    5. Prior to entering the hunt area, you must pay a recreation user 
fee, obtain a blind assignment, and obtain a check-out card. You must 
carry the check-out card while hunting as proof of user fee payment.
    6. We allow access to the refuge check station 2 hours before legal 
shooting time. We require hunters to depart the refuge no later than 1 
hour after legal shooting time.
    7. We allow entry to the hunt area during hunt days for the purpose 
of hunting only. We prohibit entry to the hunt area for scouting, 
sight-seeing, or other purposes.
    8. We allow hunting only from designated permanent blinds. We 
prohibit all hunting outside the designated blinds, including hunting 
from temporary blinds or jump shooting.
    9. We allow a maximum of three persons per hunting blind.
    10. We prohibit additional hunters to join a hunt party after the 
party has checked in.
    11. You may possess only approved nontoxic shotshells (see 
Sec. 32.2(k)) in quantities of 25 or less per day.
    12. Hunters must leash all dogs except when hunting at the 
designated blind (see Sec. 26.21(b) of this chapter).
    13. Hunters must complete an accurate check-out card and submit it 
to the check station before leaving the refuge.
    14. We require all hunters switching blinds to first report to the 
refuge check station, complete a check-out card for the blind being 
vacated, and obtain a new check-out card for the new blind.
    15. We reserve Blind 1A for exclusive use by hunters with permanent 
disabilities who possess a valid State Disabled Hunter Permit and who 
qualify under WAC 232-12-282. Blind 1A may also be occupied by 
nonhunters who are assisting the disabled hunters.
    16. We allow vehicles only on designated routes of travel and 
require hunters to park in designated parking areas (see Sec. 27.31 of 
this chapter). We prohibit off-road vehicle travel, and all use of ATVs 
(see Sec. 27.31(f) of this chapter).
* * * * *

0
29. Amend Sec. 32.68 West Virginia by revising paragraph A.1., revising 
the introductory text of paragraph C. and adding paragraph D.4. of Ohio 
River Islands National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec.  32.68  West Virginia.

* * * * *

Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge

    A. Migratory Game Bird Hunting. * * *

[[Page 45701]]

    1. We require each hunter to possess and carry a refuge hunting 
permit, State hunting license, and valid driver's license (or other 
photo identification card) at all times when hunting on the refuge. The 
refuge hunting permit is free, and you may obtain it at the refuge 
headquarters.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. We allow archery hunting of white-tailed deer 
on designated areas of the refuge (Pennsylvania: Phillis Island, 
Georgetown Island; West Virginia: Paden Island, Captina Island, Captina 
Mainland, Fish Creek Island, Williamson Island, Witten Towhead, Wells 
Island, Mill Creek Island, Grandview Island, Grape/Bat Island, zoned 
area of Middle Island, Broadback Island, Buckley Island, Buckley 
Mainland, Muskingum Island, Neal Island, Buffington Island, Letart 
Island; and Kentucky: Manchester 1 Island, Manchester 2 Island) in 
accordance with State regulations subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    4. We prohibit trotlines (setlines) and turtle lines.

    Dated: August 20, 2009.
Will Shafroth
Acting Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks
[FR Doc. E9-21027 Filed 9-2- 09; 8:45 am]
4310-55-S