DNR Asking For Comments On Proposed Waterfowl Hunting Changes

(KNSI) – Duck and goose hunters are being asked to voice their opinion on proposed regulations.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says opinions will be accepted through April 11.

The proposed changes include increasing the Canada goose bag limit to five birds per day for the entire season.

Extending legal shooting hours to sunset for the entire season, eliminating the 4 p.m. early season closure.

Implementing a five-day early teal season (September 4 – September 8) as an experimental regulation for up to three years.

Allowing statewide over-water goose hunting during the early September season; and establishing season dates through the 2024 season for the north, central and south waterfowl hunting zones, as follows:

North zone: Keeping a 60-day season with no split. The 2021 season dates would be Saturday, September 25, to Tuesday, November 23.

Central zone: Keeping a 60-day season with a five-day split. The 2021 season dates would be Saturday, September 25, to Sunday, October 3, and Saturday, October 9, to Sunday, November 28.

South zone: Implementing a 60-day season with a five-day split rather than the 12-day split implemented the past nine years. The 2021 season dates would be Saturday, September 25, to Sunday, October 3, and Saturday, October 9, to Sunday, November 28.

The public comment period for proposed changes ends Sunday, April 11.

The DNR will consider all input received and finalize regulations and season dates in early summer.

Changes to hunting regulations may go in place as early as fall 2021.

To send your comments online, click here.

___