The purpose of the proposed rule amendment is to revise specific area regulations on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in the Southwest Region, adjust specific area regulations regarding the use of centerfire rifles during ....

 

FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Freshwater Fish and Wildlife

RULE NO.:RULE TITLE:

68A-15.061Specific Regulations for Wildlife Management Areas - Southwest Region

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose of the proposed rule amendment is to revise specific area regulations on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in the Southwest Region, adjust specific area regulations regarding the use of centerfire rifles during small game season in response to proposed changes in rule 68A-15.004, F.A.C., and adjust how season dates are described to better conform to calendar year changes. The effect of the proposed rule amendment will be to enable the agency to better manage fish and wildlife resources and public use on WMAs.

SUMMARY: The proposed rule amendment would adjust how season dates are described to better conform to calendar year changes, adjust specific area regulations regarding the use of centerfire rifles during small game season in response to proposed changes in rule 68A-15.004 F.A.C., and revise specific area regulations on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in the Southwest Region as follows:

Arbuckle WMA – allow the use of any dog to take small game (quail, rabbit, squirrel and migratory game) during small game season; and remove 15-inch shoulder height restriction for dogs used for hunting.

Avon Park Air Force Range WMA – prohibit hunting equipment except from 8:00 a.m. seven days prior to the opening of archery season until 6 p.m. seven days following the close of general gun season, unless otherwise authorized by the Installation Commander or a designee.

Fred C. Babcock/Cecil M. Webb WMA - Yucca Pens Unit – allow hunting with centerfire rifles during small game season.

Everglades Headwaters WMA, Hatchineha Unit – shift small game season to open the weekend following the close of general gun season; and allow hunting with centerfire rifles during small game season.

Green Swamp WMA – allow camping at the Rock Ridge Road campground during small game season; and allow hunting with centerfire rifles during small game season.

Green Swamp WMA, West Unit – shift the special-opportunity general gun hunts two weeks earlier to open the first and third Thursdays in January and the first Thursday in February; schedule each of the three 4-day hunts Thursday through Sunday; and allow hunting with centerfire rifles during small game season.

Hickory Hammock WMA – allow the use of any dog to take small game (quail, rabbit, squirrel and migratory game) during small game season; and establish two 5-day wild hog-still hunts (one in late April and one in late May) and remove the three existing 3-day wild hog-still hunts (two in September and one in January).

Hilochee WMA – allow hunting with centerfire rifles during small game season.

Hilochee WMA - Osprey Unit – allow hunting with centerfire rifles during small game season.

KICCO WMA – remove quota requirement for wild hog-still hunts; allow the use of any dog to hunt small game (quail, rabbit, squirrel and migratory game) during small game season; and establish two 5-day wild hog-still hunts (one in late April and one in late May).

Lake Marion Creek WMA – allow the use of any dog to take small game (quail, rabbit, squirrel and migratory game) during small game season.

Orange Hammock WMA – establish open seasons and regulations for a new WMA (5,777 acres) in Sarasota County as follows: 9-day archery season (three 3-day hunts, 15 no-cost, quota permits for each hunt, no exemptions); 3-day muzzleloading gun season (15 no-cost, quota permits, no exemptions); 2-day mobility-impaired hunt (8 no-cost, quota permits, no exemptions); 6-day general gun season (two 3-day hunts, 15 no-cost, quota permits for each hunt, no exemptions); 18-day small game season (six 3-day hunts, no quota); 2-day youth turkey hunt (5 no-cost, quota permits, no exemptions); 9-day spring turkey season (three 3-day hunts, 5 no-cost, quota permits for each hunt, no exemptions); fishing and frogging allowed year-round; prohibit trapping; allow hunting of all legal game, turkey (gobbler or bearded turkeys only), fish, frogs, and furbearers; prohibit the harvest of antlered deer not having at least 1 antler with 3 or more points or a 10-inch main beam; bag limit for deer will be 1 antlered deer per quota permit except during the mobility impaired hunt when the bag limit for deer will be 1 antlered or 1 antlerless deer per permit (only mobility-impaired hunters may take antlerless deer), prohibit the harvest of antlerless deer during archery season; allow the take of antlerless deer during the mobility-impaired hunt; allow take of turkey during archery, youth turkey, and spring turkey seasons only (gobbler or bearded turkeys only); bag limit for turkey will be 1 per day during archery season and 1 per quota permit during the youth hunt and spring turkey season; allow take of wild hog during small game season and all quota hunts (except youth and spring turkey) with no bag limits or size restrictions; allow public access from 1.5 hours before sunrise to 1.5 hours after sunset year-round by foot, horseback and bicycle, except that vehicular access is only allowed on Main Grade to Parking Area 3; allow bicycle access on Main Grade and designated trails only; allow vehicle access on Main Grade south of Parking Area 3 for authorized hunters and their guests only, from 1.5 hours before sunrise to 1.5 hours after sunset one day prior to and during each archery, muzzleloading gun, mobility-impaired hunt, general gun hunt and from 4:30 a.m. until one hour after sunset during spring turkey hunts; allow hunting equipment on the area 8:00 a.m. one day before each hunt and shall be removed by the last day of each hunt; prohibit horses during periods open to hunting; allow horses only on named and numbered roads and designated trails; require mobility-impaired hunters to attend a pre-hunt orientation meeting; allow entry into and exit from the area at the designated entrances only; prohibit hunting with dogs except any dog may be used to hunt small game (gray squirrel, migratory game, quail, and rabbits) during small game season; prohibit hunting deer and wild hog with dogs; and prohibit camping.

Walk-in-the-Water WMA – allow the use of any dog to take small game (quail, rabbit, squirrel and migratory game) during small game season; and remove 15-inch shoulder height restriction for dogs used for hunting.

Additionally, the proposed rule amendment would provide non-substantive technical changes, such as grammatical corrections, language standardization, or clarification of an existing rule.

SUMMARY OF STATEMENT OF ESTIMATED REGULATORY COSTS AND LEGISLATIVE RATIFICATION:

The Agency has determined that this will not have an adverse impact on small business or likely increase directly or indirectly regulatory costs in excess of $200,000 in the aggregate within one year after the implementation of the rule. A SERC has not been prepared by the Agency.

The Agency has determined that the proposed rule is not expected to require legislative ratification based on the statement of estimated regulatory costs or if no SERC is required, the information expressly relied upon and described herein: The nature of the rule and the preliminary analysis conducted to determine whether a SERC was required

Any person who wishes to provide information regarding a statement of estimated regulatory costs, or provide a proposal for a lower cost regulatory alternative must do so in writing within 21 days of this notice.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY: Article IV, Section 9, Florida Constitution n; Section 379.2223, 375.313, Florida Statutes

LAW IMPLEMENTED: Article IV, Section 9, Florida Constitution n; Sections 379.2223, 375.313, Florida Statutes

A HEARING WILL BE HELD AT THE DATE, TIME AND PLACE SHOWN BELOW:

DATE AND TIME: During the Commission’s regular meeting February 25-26, 2020, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., each day.

PLACE: Live video conference broadcast via Adobe Connect and The Florida Channel.

Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodations to participate in this workshop/meeting is asked to advise the agency at least 5 days before the workshop/meeting by contacting: the ADA Coordinator, at [phone]. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the agency using the Florida Relay Service, 1(800)955-8771 (TDD) or 1(800)955-8770 (Voice).

THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE IS: George Warthen, Director, Division of Hunting and Game Management, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 620 South Meridian Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1600.

 

THE FULL TEXT OF THE PROPOSED RULE IS:

 

68A-15.061 Specific Regulations for Wildlife Management Areas – Southwest Region.

(1) Green Swamp Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. General gun – Opening the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 57 days thereafter December 5 through January 31.

2. Archery – Opening 36 days prior to the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 30 days thereafter October 30 through November 29, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only and Thanksgiving Day.

3. Small game – Opening the day after the last day Beginning after the close of general gun season and closing the last day of gray continuing until the close of the zonal squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004 Chapter 68A-13, F.A.C., Saturdays and Sundays only.

4. Wild hog-dog – Opening 65 days prior to the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 10 days thereafter (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only) October 1-4 and October 8-11.

5. Spring turkey – During the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C March 20 through April 25.

6. No change.

(b) No change.

(c) Camping: Allowed by permit only and only within the designated campsites at the Rock Ridge Road and 471 campgrounds. Camping is allowed at both campgrounds during archery, general gun, wild hog, small game and spring turkey seasons. Camping is allowed only at the Rock Ridge Road campground during the fishing and frogging season and only at the 471 campground during the small game season. Camping permits are non-transferable. Camping along the Green Swamp Hiking Trail (Florida Trail) is prohibited except by written permission from the Southwest Florida Water Management District. Refrigerators and freezers, unless contained in mobile campers, are prohibited. Lumber, sheet metal or other building materials is prohibited. The alteration, defacing, moving or tampering in any way with official markings of campsites is prohibited. The use or operation of electrical generators powered by an internal combustion engine is prohibited within the campgrounds from 10:00 p.m. until 4:00 a.m. A legible copy of the camping permit or the permittee’s name and permit number must be visibly affixed to camping shelters. Camping equipment must be removed by 8:00 p.m. on the last date listed on the camping permit, except for days between archery and general gun. Only tents, trailers or self-propelled camping vehicles may be used for camping.

(d) No change.

(2) Green Swamp Wildlife Management Area – West Unit.

(a) Open season:

1. Wild hog-still – Opening 57 days prior to the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter October 9-11.

2. Wild hog-dog – Opening 45 days prior to the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter October 21-23.

3. Special-opportunity archery – Opening the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 9 days later and closing 3 days thereafter December 5-8 and 17-20.

4. Special-opportunity general gun – Opening the first Thursday in January and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening the third Thursday in January and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening the first Thursday in February and closing 3 days thereafter January 21-24, and February 1-4 and 10-13.

5. Special-opportunity turkey – Opening the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 6 days later and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 2 days later and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 6 days later and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 2 days later and closing 3 days thereafter March 20-23, March 29 through April 1, April 3-6, 12-15 and 17-20.

6. Small game – Opening 76 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 9 days thereafter (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only) February 19-21 and February 26-28.

7. through 8. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(3) Fred C. Babcock/Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 7 days prior to the first day of Zone A antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 4 days thereafter September 12-16.

2. Bird dog training – Bird dogs may be trained in the bird dog training area opening the first day of Zone A antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 148 days thereafter September 19 through February 14 and bird dogs may be trained in the remainder of the area during the small game season except the field trial and Boy Scout areas.

3. General gun – Opening 49 days after the first day of Zone A antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter November 7-15.

4. Small game – Opening the day after the last day of general gun season and continuing 13 days thereafter November  16-29 and on (Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays only), reopening 3 days later and closing 46 days thereafter (open 7 days a week) December 2 through January 17.

5. Field trial quail – Opening 126 days after the first day of Zone A antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 1 day thereafter January 23-24.

6. through 7. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 18. No change.

19. Taking wildlife with centerfire rifles is prohibited during small game season.

(4) Fred C. Babcock/Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area – Yucca Pens Unit.

(a) Open season:

1. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 27 days after the first day of Zone A antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter October 16-18.

2. General gun – Opening 42 days after the first day of Zone A antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter October 31 through November 8.

3. Small game – Opening 3 days after the last day of general gun season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 60 days thereafter November 11 through January 10 on (Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays only and the Friday after Thanksgiving Day).

4. through 5. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(5) Upper Hillsborough Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Wild hog-dog – Opening 25 days prior to the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter November 10-12.

2. Archery – Opening the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter (Saturdays and Sundays only), reopening 20 days later and closing 8 days thereafter (Saturdays and Sundays only) December 5-6, 12-13, January 2-3 and 9-10.

3. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 42 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 22 days thereafter (Saturdays and Sundays only) January 16-17, 23-24, 30-31 and February 6-7.

4. Small game – Opening 6 days after the last day of muzzleloading gun season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 15 days thereafter (Saturdays and Sundays only) February 13-14, 20-21 and 27-28.

5. Spring turkey – Opening 4 days after the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 29 days thereafter (Wednesdays and Thursdays only) March 24-25, March 31 through April 1, April 7-9, 14-15 and 21-22.

6. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(6) Arbuckle Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 21 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 20 days thereafter October 17 through November 6.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 35 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter December 12-20.

3. Small game – Opening 63 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 1 day thereafter, reopening 20 days later and closing 1 day thereafter January 9-10 and 30-31.

4. Spring turkey – Opening 3 days after the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter March 23-25 and April 6-8.

5. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 2. No change.

3. The taking of wildlife with dogs is prohibited, except small game may be taken with bird dogs and, retrievers and any dog may be used to take small game during small game season and dogs with a shoulder height of 15 inches or less.

4. through 7. No change.

8.  Taking wildlife with centerfire rifles is prohibited during small game season.

(7) KICCO Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 49 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C., and closing 29 days thereafter September 19 through October 18, Saturdays and Sundays only.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 14 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C., and closing 8 days thereafter (Saturdays and Sundays only) October 24-25 and October 31 through November 1.

3. Wild hog-still – Opening 7 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 29 days thereafter November 14 through December 13, (Saturdays and Sundays only), reopening the last Wednesday of April and closing 4 days thereafter and reopening the fourth Friday of May and closing 4 days thereafter.

4. Small game – Opening 42 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 36 days thereafter December 19 through January 24.

5. Spring turkey – Opening the first day of spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 29 days thereafter March 20 through April 18, Saturdays and Sundays only.

6. Youth turkey – During the youth turkey hunt established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. March 13-14.

7. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 3. No change.

4. Hunting with dogs is prohibited except any dog retrievers, bird dogs or dogs with a shoulder height of 15 inches or less may be used during the small game season. The take of wild hog with dogs is prohibited.

5. through 6. No change.

(8) Hickory Hammock Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Wild hog-still – Opening the last Wednesday of April and closing 4 days thereafter and reopening the fourth Friday of May and closing 4 days thereafter September 18-20, 25-27 and January 15-17.

2. Archery – Opening 22 days prior to the first day of of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter October 16-18.

3. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 14 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter; reopening 2 days later and closing 2 days thereafter October 24-26 and 28-30.

4. General gun – Opening the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter November 7-9.

5. Small game – Opening 9 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 13 days thereafter, reopening 57 days later and closing the last day of gray squirrel season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. November 16-29 and January 25 through March 7.

6. General gun for mobility-impaired – Opening 35 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 1 day thereafter December 12-13.

7. No change.

8. Spring turkey – Opening 5 days after the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 19 days later and closing 2 days thereafter March 25-27 and April 15-17.

9. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. No change.

2. Hunting with dogs is prohibited except any dog retrievers, bird dogs, or dogs with a shoulder height of 15 inches or less may be used to take small game during small game season. The take of wild hog with dogs is prohibited.

3. through 5. No change.

(9) Walk-in-the-Water Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 35 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 1 day thereafter, reopening l day later and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 2 days thereafter, reopeing 1 day later and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 2 days thereafter October 3-4, 5-8, 9-11, 12-15 and 16-18.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 28 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and and closing 1 day thereafter, reopening l day later and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 2 days thereafter December 5-6, 7-10 and 11-13.

3. Wild hog-still – Opening 70 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter January 16-24.

4. Small game – Opening 91 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter, reopening 13 days later and closing the last day of gray squirrel season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. February 6-14 and February 27 through March 7.

5. Spring turkey – Opening 10 days after the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter March 30 through April 1.

6. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. The use of dogs, other than bird dogs and, retrievers or dogs with a shoulder height of 15 inches or less, is prohibited, except any dog may be used to take small game during the small game season. The take of wild hog with dogs is prohibited.

2. through 7. No change.

8.  Taking wildlife with centerfire rifles is prohibited during small game season.

(10) Hilochee Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Youth turkey hunt – During the youth turkey hunt established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. March 13-14.

2. Spring turkey – Opening 6 days after the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter March 26-28 and April 9-11.

3. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 76 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter February 19-21.

4. Wild hog-still – Opening 15 days prior to the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter November 20-22, December 4-6, and 18-20.

5. Small game – Opening 20 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 23 days thereafter December 25 through January 17.

6. Archery – Opening 69 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter February 12-14.

7. General Gun – Opening 84 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter February 27 through March 1.

8. No change.

9. Raccoon – Opening the first Thursday in August and closing 52 days thereafter August 6 through September 27 (from 1.5 hours before sunset on Thursday until 1.5 hours after sunrise on Sunday).

(b) through (d) No change.

(11) Lake Marion Creek Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 49 days prior to the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 4 days later and closing 2 days thereafter October 17-19 and 23-25.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 8 days prior to the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter November 27-29.

3. General gun – Opening 48 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter January 22-24 and February 5-7.

4. Small game – Opening 27 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 9 days thereafter (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only) January 1-3 and 8-10.

5. Wild hog-still – Opening 6 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter December 11-13 and 25-27.

6. Youth turkey hunt – During the youth turkey hunt established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C March 13-14.

7. Spring turkey – Opening the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 11 days later and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter March 20-22, April 2-4 and 16-18.

8. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 3. No change.

4. Hunting with dogs other than bird dogs and retrievers is prohibited, except any dog may be used to take small game that during small game season dogs with a shoulder height of 15 inches or less may be used. The take of wild hog with dogs is prohibited.

5. Taking wildlife with centerfire rifles is prohibited during small game season.

(12) Avon Park Air Force Range Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 49 days prior the the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established in rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 29 days thereafter September 19 through October 18 in areas and during days specified by the Installation Commander or a designee.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 14 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established in rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C and closing 13 days thereafter October 24 through November 6 in areas and during days specified by the Installation Commander or a designee.

3. General gun – Opening the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established in rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 78 days thereafter November 7 through January 24 in areas and during days specified by the Installation Commander or a designee.

4. Small game – Opening 7 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing the last day of gray squirrel season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. November 14 through March 7 in areas and during days specified by the Installation Commander or a designee.

5. Youth turkey hunt – During the youth turkey hunt established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C March 13-14 in areas and during days specified by the Installation Commander or a designee.

6. Spring turkey – During the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C March 20 through April 25 in areas and during days specified by the Installation Commander or a designee.

7. Antlerless deer – Opening the Saturday prior to Thanksgiving Day and closing 6 days thereafter November 21-27 in areas and during days specified by the Installation Commander or a designee.

8. through 10. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 15. No change.

16.Hunting equipment is prohibited except from 8:00 a.m. 7 days prior to the first day of archery season until 6:00 p.m. 7 days after the last day of general gun season, or as authorized by the Installation Commander or a designee.

(13) Croom Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 14 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter October 24-26.

2. General gun – Opening the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 22 days thereafter November 7-29.

3. Small game – Opening the day after the last day of general gun season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. November 30 through March 7.

4. Spring turkey – Opening 3 days after the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter March 23-25, April 6-8 and 20-22.

5. Fox, raccoon and bobcat – Opening 40 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing the second Sunday of March December 17 through March 13. Hunting is allowed from 5:00 p.m. Thursday to sunrise Sunday with dogs only. Taking wildlife with guns is prohibited during this season.

6. through 7. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 7. No change.

8.  Taking wildlife with centerfire rifles is prohibited during small game season.

(14) Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 49 days prior to the the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established in rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 29 days thereafter September 19 through October 18.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 14 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter October 24-26.

3. General gun – Opening the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 57 days thereafter November 7 through January 3.

4. Wild hog-dog – Opening 12 days after the last day of general gun season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 9 days thereafter (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only) January 15-17 and 22-24.

5. through 6. No change.

7. Youth turkey hunt – During the youth turkey hunt established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C March 13-14.

8. Spring turkey – Opening 6 days after the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter March 26-28, April 9-11 and 23-25.

9. Raccoon – Opening 89 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 24 days thereafter, reopening the first Thursday in May and closing 24 days thereafter February 4-28, May 5-29 (from 1.5 hours before sunset on Thursday until 1.5 hours after sunrise on Sunday).

(b) through (e) No change.

(15) Hilochee Wildlife Management Area – Osprey Unit.

(a) Open season:

1. Family hunt – Opening 22 days prior to the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C., and closing 2 days thereafter November 13-15.

2. Wild hog-still – Opening 8 days prior to the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C., and closing 2 days thereafter November 27-29.

3. Wild hog-dog – Opening 6 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C., and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 26 days later and closing 2 days thereafter December 11-13 and January 8-10.

4. Small game – Opening 37 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C., and closing 20 days thereafter January 11-31.

5. Archery – Opening 69 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C., and closing 2 days thereafter February 12-14.

6. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 76 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C., and closing 2 days thereafter February 19-21.

7. Youth turkey hunt – During the youth turkey hunt established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C March 13-14.

8. Spring turkey – Opening 27 days after the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C., and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 5 days later and closing 2 days thereafter April 16-18 and 23-25.

9. General gun – Opening 84 days after the first day of the Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C., and closing 2 days thereafter February 27 through March 1.

10. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(16) Weekiwachee Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 21 days prior the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C., and closing 5 days thereafter, reopening 23 days later and closing 5 days thereafter, reopening 23 days later and closing 5 days thereafter, reopening 30 days later and closing 5 days thereafter, reopening 23 days later and closing 5 days thereafter October 17-22, November 14-19, December 12-17, January 16-21 and February 13-18.

2. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(17) Lower Hillsborough Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Family hunt – Opening 6 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 33 days later and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter December 11-13, January 15-17, 29-31 and February 12-14.

2. Youth turkey hunt – Opening 6 days after the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter March 26-28 and April 9-11.

3. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(18) No change.

(19) Everglades Headwaters Wildlife Management Area – Hatchineha Unit. 

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 49 days prior to the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 6 days thereafter, reopening 15 days later and closing 8 days thereafter October 17-23 and November 7-15.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 8 days prior to the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter November 27-29.

3. Family hunt – Opening 20 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter December 25-27.

4. General gun – Opening 48 days after the first day of Zone B antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 4 days later and closing 3 days thereafter January 22-24 and 28-31.

5. Small game – Opening 6 days after the last day of general gun season and closing 25 days thereafter January 30 through February 25.

6. Youth turkey hunt – During the youth turkey hunt established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C March 13-14.

7. Spring turkey – Opening 5 days after the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 3 days later and closing 4 days thereafter March 25-28 and March 31 through April 4.

8. through 9. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(20) Orange Hammock Wildlife Management Area. 

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 43 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 16 days thereafter (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only).

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 8 days prior the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter.

3. Mobility-impaired general gun – Opening the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C and closing 1 day thereafter.

4. General gun – Opening 6 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday only).

5. Small game – Opening 12 days after the last day of general gun season season and closing 37 days thereafter (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only).

6. Youth turkey hunt – During the youth turkey hunt established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C.

7. Spring turkey – Opening 6 days after the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 16 days thereafter (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only).

8. Fishing and Frogging – Allowed year-round.

9. Trapping – Prohibited.

(b) Legal to take: All legal game, wild hog, turkey (gobbler or bearded turkeys only), fish, frogs, and furbearers. Taking of antlered deer not having at least 1 antler with 3 or more points or 1 antler with a main beam of 10 inches or more in length is prohibited, except by persons less than 16 years of age. During the archery, muzzleloading gun, and general gun seasons, the bag limit for deer shall be 1 antlered deer per quota permit. During the mobility-impaired hunt the bag limit for deer shall be 1 antlered deer or 1 antlerless deer per quota permit. Only mobility-impaired hunters may take antlerless deer during the mobility-impaired season.  The taking of antlerless deer is prohibited during archery season. During the archery season, 1 gobbler or bearded turkey may be taken per quota permit per day. During the youth turkey hunt and spring turkey season, 1 gobbler or bearded turkey may be taken per quota permit.

(c) Camping: Prohibited.

(d) General regulations:

1. The use of tracked vehicles, airboats, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), swamp buggies, recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs) or unlicensed and unregistered motorcycles is prohibited, except ATVs and ROVs may be used by certified mobility-impaired hunters during the mobility-impaired hunt.

2. Public access is allowed only from 1.5 hours before sunrise to 1.5 hours after sunset. Public access other than by foot, horseback, or bicycle is prohibited, except vehicle access is allowed only on that portion of the Main Grade between the designated entrance and Parking Area 3, and as specified in #3 below.

3. Only persons participating in a quota hunt (and one additional non-hunting guest per quota permit during the mobility-impaired hunt and the youth turkey hunt) may operate vehicles on Main Grade south of Parking Area 3 from 1.5 hours before sunrise to 1.5 hours after sunset one day prior to and during each archery, muzzleloading gun, mobitlity-impaired hunt, general gun hunt; and from 4:30 a.m. until one hour after sunset during spring turkey hunts.

4. Entry into or exit from the area at locations other than at designated entrances is prohibited.

5. Use of bicycles is prohibited except on Main Grade and designated trails.

6. Horses are prohibited during periods when the area is open to hunting. At all other times, horses are allowed on named or numbered roads and on designated trails only.

7. Hunting with dogs is prohibited except any dog may be used to take small game during the small game season.

8.  Tree stands, deer stands, ground blinds, and shooting platforms shall not be taken onto the WMA until after 8:00 a.m. one day prior to each hunt and shall be removed from the area by 1.5 hours after sunset the last day of each hunt. 

9. Fires are prohibited.

10. During the mobility-impaired general gun hunt, all mobility-impaired hunters are required to attend a pre-hunt orientation meeting.

 

PROPOSED EFFECTIVE DATE:  July 1, 2021

Rulemaking Authority Art. IV, Sec. 9, Fla. Const., 379.2223, 375.313 FS. Law Implemented Art. IV, Sec. 9, Fla. Const., 379.2223, 375.313 FS. History–New 6-21-82, Amended 7-1-83, 11-17-83, 7-5-84, 10-1-84, 7-1-85, 9-19-85, 5-7-86, 5-10-87, 6-8-87, 10-8-87, 5-1-88, 7-1-89, 7-1-90, 7-1-91, 7-2-91, 7-1-92, 8-23-92, 7-1-93, 7-1-94, 7-1-95, 7-1-96, 9-15-96, 6-1-97, 8-7-97, 7-1-98, 10-20-98, 12-28-98, 7-1-99, Formerly 39-15.061, Amended 12-9-99, 3-30-00, 7-1-00, 7-1-01, 5-13-02, 5-25-03, 7-1-04, 7-1-05, 7-1-06, 7-1-07, 7-1-08, 7-1-09, 7-1-10, 7-1-11, 7-1-12, 7-1-13, 7-1-14, 7-1-15, 7-1-16, 7-1-17, 9-14-17, 7-1-18, 8-9-18, 7-1-19, 7-1-20, 7-1-21.

BE ADVISED THAT THESE PROPOSED RULES MAY BE FILED FOR ADOPTION AS SOON AS POSSIBLE FOLLOWING THE COMMISSION MEETING AT WHICH THEY ARE CONSIDERED IF THE RULES ARE NOT CHANGED.  IF CHANGED, THE RULES MAY BE FILED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AFTER PUBLICATION OF A NOTICE OF CHANGE IN THE F.A.R.

 

NAME OF PERSON ORIGINATING PROPOSED RULE: George Warthen, Director, Division of Hunting and Game Management, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 620 South Meridian Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1600.

NAME OF AGENCY HEAD WHO APPROVED THE PROPOSED RULE: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

DATE PROPOSED RULE APPROVED BY AGENCY HEAD: December 17, 2020

DATE NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT PUBLISHED IN FAR: October 19, 2020