The purpose of the proposed rule amendment is to revise specific area regulations on wildlife management areas (WMAs) in the North Central 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-15.062Specific Regulations for Wildlife Management Areas - North Central Region

PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose of the proposed rule amendment is to revise specific area regulations on wildlife management areas (WMAs) in the North Central 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., adjust season dates to conform to calendar year changes, and adjust how some 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 amendments would adjust season dates to conform to calendar year changes, adjust how some 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 North Central Region as follows:

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

Belmore WMA – allow the use of any dog to hunt small game (quail, rabbit, squirrel and migratory game birds) during small game season.

Big Bend WMA, Hickory Mound Unit – allow hunting with centerfire rifles during small game season.

Big Bend WMA, Jena Unit – allow hunting with centerfire rifles during small game season; allow the use of dogs to hunt wild hog during the first 9 days of general gun season; and remove the 17-inch shoulder height requirement for dogs used to hunt deer.

Big Bend WMA, Snipe Island Unit – allow hunting with centerfire rifles during small game season.

Big Bend WMA, Spring Creek Unit – allow hunting with centerfire rifles during small game season.

Big Bend WMA, Tide Swamp Unit – allow hunting with centerfire rifles during small game season; and allow the use of any dog to hunt small game (quail, rabbit, squirrel and migratory game birds) during small game season.

Citrus WMA – establish that part of the Withlacoochee State Forest that lies south of County Road 480, north of U.S. 98 and west of the power line (1,000 acres) as part of Citrus WMA and allow hunting there only during small game season (quail, rabbit, squirrel and migratory game bird hunting only) and youth turkey and spring turkey seasons.

Devil’s Hammock WMA – allow hunting with centerfire rifles during small game season.

Grove Park WMA – allow hunting with centerfire rifles during small game season; and prohibit vehicle access on Prison Farm, Ivey and Johnson Roads by persons not in possession of a Grove Park WMA Recreational Use Permit.

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

Jennings Forest WMA – allow the use of any dog to hunt small game (quail, rabbit, squirrel and migratory game birds) during small game season.

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

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

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

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

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

PotashCorp – White Springs WMA – change the area name from PotashCorp – White Springs WMA to Nutrien – White Springs WMA

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

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

Additionally, the proposed rule amendments 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.

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, 2021, 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-15.062 Specific Regulations for Wildlife Management Areas – North Central Region.

(1) Camp Blanding Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. through 5. No change.

6. Archery – September 28-30 29 through October 1 and October 5-7 6-8, only in the still hunt and archery-only areas; and October 12-14 13-15, 19-21 20-22, and the Monday before Thanksgiving and continuing for 55 days thereafter in the archery-only area, which is within the area described by a line beginning at the intersection of County Road 225 and Woodbury Road, then southeast on County Road 225 to State Road 16, then south on State Road 16 and County Road 230 to the Camp Blanding boundary on the east side of County Road 230, then east along the Camp Blanding boundary to Duval Road, then south on Duval Road to Yerkes Road, then west on Yerkes Road to Treat Road, then north on Treat Road to Lightning Strike Road, then west and north on Lightning Strike Road to State Road 230, then west on State Road 230 to the Camp Blanding boundary, then north along the Camp Blanding boundary to State Road 16, then east on the south side of State Road 16 to Lightning Strike Road, then north on Lightning Strike Road to Bessent Road, then north on Bessent Road to the starting point. A disjunct portion of the archery-only area is south of County Road 215, east of Rifle Range Road, north of State Road 16 and west of the Camp Blanding boundary.

7. No change.

8. Muzzleloading gun – October 12-14 13-15 and 19-21 20-22, only in the still hunt areas.

9. No change.

10. Trapping – Opening December 1 and closing 64 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. through January 10, only in the still hunt areas.

(b) through (d) No change.

(2) Cypress Creek 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 – March 19-27 20-28.

3. Archery – September 25 26 through October 10 11.

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

5. No change.

6. Small game – Opening the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. November 7 and closing the last day of concurrently with the gray squirrel season established in rRule 68A-13.004, F.A.C.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 4. No change.

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

(3) Gulf Hammock Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. General gun – Opening the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 78 days later November 7 through January 24.

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

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

4. Archery – Opening 49 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 34 days thereafter September 19 through October 23.

5. Archery and muzzleloading gun – Opening 14 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 13 days thereafter October 24 through November 6.

6. Small game – Opening the day after the last day of general gun season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C January 25 through March 7.

7. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(4) Lochloosa Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. General gun – November 6-19 7-20, November 20 21 through December 5 6 and December 6 7 through January 2 3.

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

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

4. Archery – September 25 26 through October 24 25.

5. Muzzleloading gun – October 29-31 30 through November 1.

6. No change.

7. Small game – Opening the day after the last day of general gun season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C January 4 through March 7.

8. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 6. No change.

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

(5) Osceola Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. General gun – Opening 7 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 57 days thereafter November 14 through January 10.

2. Small game – Opening the day after the last day of general gun season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C January 11 through March 7.

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

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

5. Archery – Opening 42 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 22 days thereafter September 26 through October 18.

6. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 14 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 7 days thereafter October 24-31 in the still hunt area and Big Gum Swamp Wilderness only.

7. Fox, raccoon, opossum and bobcat – Opening 7 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C November 14 through March 7 in the dog hunt portion of the area.

8. through 9. No change.

10. Trapping – Opening 65 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing January 11 through March 1.

11. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. No change.

2. Deer dogs may be trained beginning the day after the last day of muzzleloading gun season and closing 9 days thereafter from November 1-10, except in the still hunt area.

3. through 7. No change.

(6) Big Bend Wildlife Management Area – Tide Swamp Unit.

(a) Open season:

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

2. Archery – Opening 42 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 29 days thereafter September 26 through October 25.

3. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 8 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter October 30 through November 1.

4. Small game – Opening 9 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C November 14 through March 7.

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

9. Trapping – Opening 65 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing January 11 through March 1.

10. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. Possession or use of dogs other than waterfowl retrievers or bird dogs is prohibited, except during small game season and as provided by paragraph 68A-15.004(7)(c) or (d), F.A.C. Hunting with dogs is prohibited during small game season, except any dog may be used to take small game.

2. through 7. No change.

(7) Big Bend Wildlife Management Area – Spring Creek Unit.

(a) Open season:

1. General gun – Opening the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 48 days thereafter November 7-15 and November 16 through January 3.

2. Archery – Opening 42 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 29 days thereafter September 26 through October 25.

3. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 8 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter October 30 through November 1.

4. Small game – Opening 9 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C November 16 through March 7.

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

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

7. Trapping – Opening 65 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing January 11 through March 1.

8. through 10. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(8) Big Bend Wildlife Management Area – Hickory Mound Unit.

(a) Open season:

1. General gun – Opening the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 6 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 41 days thereafter November 7-15, 16-22 and November 23 through January 3.

2. Small game – Opening 9 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C November 16 through March 7.

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

4. Archery – Opening 35 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 29 days thereafter October 3 through November 1.

5. through 7. No change.

8. Trapping – Opening 65 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing January 11 through March 1.

9. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(9) Big Bend Wildlife Management Area – Jena Unit.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 42 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 29 days thereafter September 26 through October 25.

2. General gun – Opening the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 48 days thereafter November 7-15 and November 16 through January 3.

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

4. Small game – Opening 9 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C November 16 through March 7.

5. through 6. No change.

7. Trapping – Opening 65 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing January 11 through March 1.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 4. No change.

5. Taking wild hog by the use of dogs is prohibited, except during the first 9 days of general gun season.

6. Dogs with a shoulder height of more than 17 inches may not be used for deer hunting.

(10) Big Bend Wildlife Management Area – Snipe Island Unit.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 42 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 29 days thereafter September 26 through October 25.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 8 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter October 30 through November 1.

3. General gun – Opening the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 13 days thereafter November 7-15 and 16-29.

4. Small game – Opening 9 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C November 16 through March 7.

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

6. Spring turkey – Opening the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 6 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 6 days thereafter March 20-28, March 29 through April 4 and April 5-11.

7. Trapping – Opening 63 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing January 9 through March 1.

8. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(11) Nutrien PotashCorp – White Springs Wildlife Management Area.

(a) through (d) No change.

(12) Raiford Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – September 25 26 through October 10 11.

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

3. Archery and muzzleloading gun – November 6-14 7-15, Thanksgiving Day through the Sunday after following Thanksgiving Day and December 25-28 26-29.

4. Wild hog-still – January 1-4 2-5.

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

6. Spring turkey – March 19-27 20-28 and April 7-10 8-11.

7. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 6. No change.

7. Public access is allowed throughout the year from 1.5 hours before sunrise until 1.5 hours after sunset for fishing and during periods open to hunting, the weekend prior to each hunting period and from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on the day before preceding and the day after following archery, muzzleloading gun, archery/muzzleloading gun and wild hog-still season hunts. Public access is allowed from 1.5 hours before sunrise until 1.5 hours after sunset on the day preceding spring turkey season hunts. Public access is prohibited at all other times. No person shall enter the area during quota hunts except those hunters possessing Raiford quota permits for the appropriate season and those hunters exempt from quota permit requirements pursuant to Rule 68A-15.005, F.A.C.

(13) Cedar Key Scrub Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

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

2. Archery – September 25 26 through October 10 11.

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

4. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(14) Andrews Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – September 24-26 25-27 and October 1-3 2-4.

2. Muzzleloading gun – November 5-7 6-8 and 12-14 13-15.

3. General gun – November 19-21 20-22.

4. Small game – November 26-28 27-29, December 31 through January 2 1-3, January 7-9 8-10, 21-23 22-24 and 28-30 29-31.

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

6. Spring turkey – March 25-27 26-28 and April 15-17 16-18.

7. Supervised deer/hog youth hunt – Opening 14 days prior to the first day of the 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.

8. Wild hog-still – Opening 12 days after the last day of spring turkey season and closing 9 days thereafter (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only) April 30 through May 2 and May 7-9.

9. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(15) Big Shoals Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – September 27 28 through October 2 3, October 4-9 5-10 and 11-16 12-17.

2. Muzzleloading gun – October 29-31 30 through November 1 and November 5-7 6-8.

3. Small game – Opening 7 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C November 14 through March 7.

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

5. Spring turkey – March 24-26 25-27 and April 14-16 15-17.

6. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 4. No change.

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

(16) Twin Rivers Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – September 25 26 through October 1 2 and October 2-10 3-11.

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

3. Family hunt – 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 November 7-8.

4. General gun – November 8-14 9-15 and 15-21 16-22.

5. No change.

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

7. Spring turkey – March 25-27 26-28 and April 15-17 16-18.

8. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 10. No change.

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

(17) No change.

(18) Jennings Forest Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – September 25-28 26-29, September 29 30 through October 2 3, October 3-6 4-7 and 7-10 8-11.

2. Supervised small game – October 16-24 17-25, east of Yellow Water Creek, and east of the North Fork Black Creek but only south of its convergence with Yellow Water Creek.

3. Muzzleloading gun – October 29-31 30 through November 1.

4. Bird dog training – November 22 23 through December 19 20 in the quail enhancement area and in the Normandy Unit only on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from October through January; except that bird dog training is prohibited during the archery season.

5. General gun – November 8-11 9-12, 12-15 13-16, 16-19 17-20 and 20-23 21-24.

6. Family hunt – 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 November 7-8.

7. Small game – January 7 8 through February 6 7, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only.

8. Wild hog-still – Opening 6 days after the last day of small game season and closing 9 days thereafter (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only), reopening 12 days after the last 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, and reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter February 12-14, 19-21, May 7-9, 21-23 and June 4-6.

9. No change.

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

11. Spring turkey – March 19-21 20-22, 22-24 23-25 and 25-27 26-28.

12. through 13. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 3. No change.

4. Taking wildlife with dogs is prohibited except that bird dogs are allowed during the bird dog training, small game and quail seasons, and waterfowl retrievers are allowed during the duck, geese and coot season and any dog may be used to take small game during the small game season. In the Normandy Unit, the use of dogs is prohibited except bird dogs are allowed during the bird dog training season and any dog may be used to take small game bird dogs and waterfowl retrievers are allowed during the small game season.

5. through 11. No change.

12. Taking wildlife with centerfire rifles is prohibited during supervised small game and small game seasons.

(19) Holton Creek Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Mobility-impaired general gun – October 15-17 16-18, October 29-31 30 through November 1, November 5-7 6-8 and 19-21 20-22.

2. Mobility-impaired spring turkey – March 25-27 26-28 and April 15-17 16-18.

3. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(20) Goethe Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – September 25 26 through October 17 18.

2. Muzzleloading gun – October 29-31 30 through November 1.

3. General gun (still hunt) – November 6-8 7-9, 9-11 10-12 and 12-15 13-16.

4. General gun (dog hunt) – November 19-21 20-22, 22-25 23-26 and 26-29 27-30.

5. Family hunt – January 1-2 2-3.

6. Small game – January 8 9 through February 6 7.

7. Spring turkey – March 19-25 20-26, March 26 27 through April 3 4 and April 4-10 5-11.

8. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 11. No change.

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

(21) Citrus Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. General gun – December 10-12 11-13 and December 31 through January 2 1-3.

2. Small game – January 3 4 through February 27 28.

3. Muzzleloading gun –December 3-5 4-6 and 17-19 18-20.

4. Archery – November 6-14 7-15, 15-21 16-22 and 22-28 23-29.

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

6. Spring turkey – March 22-25 23-26, April 5-8 6-9 and 19-22 20-23.

7. through 8. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 11. No change.

12. The Sugarmill Woods Tract is that portion of the area within Sections 28 and 33, Township 20 South, Range 18 East; and within Section 4, Township 21 South, Range 18 East. Hunting in the Sugarmill Woods Tract is prohibited except during the youth spring turkey hunt and the spring turkey and small game seasons. During the small game season in the Sugarmill Woods Tract, only small game may be taken.

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

(22) Flying Eagle Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery –October 2-5 3-6 and 8-12 9-13.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 14 days prior to the first day of the 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 – November 6-9 7-10 and 12-16 13-17.

4. Small game – November 19-21 20-22, 26-28 27-29 and December 17-19 18-20.

5. Spring turkey – March 19-22 20-23 and 25-29 26-30.

6. through 7. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(23) Potts Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Spring turkey – March 19-22 20-23 and 25-29 26-30.

2. Archery – October 7-10 8-11 and 13-17 14-18.

3. Muzzleloading gun – October 29-31 30 through November 1.

4. Wild hog-dog – November 19-21 20-22.

5. Small game – February 4-6 5-7, 18-20 19-21 and March 4-6 5-7.

6. through 7. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(24) Homosassa Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – October 14-17 15-18, October 28-31 29 through November 1 and November 4-7 5-8.

2. Small game – November 12 13 through December 5 6, December 25 26 through January 16 17 and February 5-27 6-28.

3. Special-opportunity spring turkey – March 19-25 20-26 and April 2-8 3-9.

4. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(25) Devil’s Hammock Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – September 18-21 19-22, 22-26 23-27 and September 27 28 through October 1 2.

2. Family hunt – October 9-10 10-11 and 16-17 17-18.

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

4. General gun – November 6-9 7-10 and 10-14 11-15.

5. Small game – November 15 16 through January 16 17.

6. Wild hog-still – January 17 18 through February 13 14.

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

8. Spring turkey – March 19-22 20-23 and 23-27 24-28.

9. through 10. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(26) Mallory Swamp Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 49 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by 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 the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter October 24 through November 1 (still hunt area only).

3. General gun – November 13 14 through January 9 10.

4. Small game – January 10 11 through February 20 21.

5. Wild hog-dog – Opening the day after the last day of small game season and closing the second Sunday in March February 22 through March 14, and opening the last Friday in April and closing 2 days thereafter and reopening the fourth Friday in June and closing 2 days thereafter.

6. Spring turkey – March 19 20 through April 3 4 and April 9-24 10-25.

7. No change.

8. Trapping – Opening 65 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing January 11 through March 1.

9. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(27) Middle Aucilla Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. General gun – Opening the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 26 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 30 days thereafter November 7 through December 3 and December 4 through January 3.

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

3. Small game – Opening the day after the last day of general gun season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C January 4 through March 7.

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

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

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

7. through 8. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(28) Little River Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 42 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 16 days thereafter (Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays only) September 26-28, October 3-5 and 10-12.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 14 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter October 24-46.

3. Family hunt – 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 November 7-8.

4. Small game – Opening 7 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C November 14 through March 7.

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

6. 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 March 20-22 and April 2-4.

7. through 8. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(29) Troy Springs Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Small game – Opening 7 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C November 14 through March 7, except on Sundays.

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

3. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 6. No change.

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

(30) Bayard Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 42 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 15 days thereafter, reopening 34 days later and closing 8 days thereafter September 26 through October 11 and November 14-22.

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

3. General gun – Opening Thanksgiving Day through the Sunday after following Thanksgiving Day.

4. Wild hog-still – Opening 34 days after the last day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter February 26-28.

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

6. through 8. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(31) Grove Park Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 49 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by 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 the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 13 days thereafter October 24 through November 6.

3. General gun – Opening the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 64 days thereafter November 7 through January 10.

4. Small game – Opening the day after the last day of general gun season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C January 11 through March 7.

5. No change.

6. Trapping – Opening December 1 and closing the last day of general gun season through January 10.

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

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

9. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 6. No change.

7. Non-permitted individuals may not operate any vehicle on any portion of the area, except when engaging in through travel on Prison Farm, Ivey and Johnson Roads.

8. No change.

(32) Steinhatchee Springs Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – September 25 26 through October 24 25.

2. Muzzleloading gun – October 29-31 30 through November 1.

3. General gun – November 6-14 7-15, November 15 16 through December 3 4 and January 10-23 11-24.

4. Small game – December 4 5 through January 9 10.

5. Wild hog-dog – February 4-6 5-7, 18-20 19-21, 25-27 26-28 and opening the last Friday in April and closing 2 days thereafter and reopening the fourth Friday in June and closing 2 days thereafter.

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

7. Spring turkey – March 19-22 20-23, 23-27 24-28 and March 28 29 through April 10 11.

8. through 9. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(33) Cary Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – September 24-26 25-27, October 1-3 2-4 and 8-10 9-11.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 14 days prior to 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 4 days later and closing 2 days thereafter October 24-26 and October 30 through November 1.

3. Family hunt – 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 November 7-8.

4. General gun – November 12-14 13-15, 19-21 20-22 and 26-28 27-29.

5. Small game – December 3 4 through January 23 24 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only).

6. Wild hog-still – January 28 29 through February 1 2 and February 18-22 19-23.

7. Spring turkey – March 19-21 20-22, 25-27 26-28 and April 1-3 2-4.

8. through 9. 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.

(34) Ralph E. Simmons Memorial Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. General gun – Opening 14 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter November 21-29.

2. Archery – Opening 49 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter September 19-27.

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

4. General gun for mobility-impaired – Opening 28 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season estblished by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter October 10-13.

5. Family hunt – 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 November 7-8.

6. Small game – Opening 37 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 13 days thereafter, reopening 34 days later and closing 8 days thereafter December 14-27 and January 30 through February 7.

7. No change.

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

9. through 10. 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.

(35) Lower Econfina River Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – October 9-24 10-25 and November 1-14 2-15.

2. Muzzleloading gun – October 29-31 30 through November 1.

3. Small game – Opening the day after the last day of archery season and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C November 16 through March 7.

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

5. Spring turkey – March 19-27 20-28.

6. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 8. No change.

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

(36) Belmore Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – September 24-26 25-27, October 1-3 2-4 and 8-10 9-11.

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

3. Family hunt – 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, reopening 13 days later and closing 1 day thereafter November 7-8 and 21-22.

4. General gun – November 11-14 12-15 and 24-28 25-29.

5. Small game – December 3 4 through January 23 24 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only).

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 – March 19-21 20-22, 25-27 26-28 and April 1-3 2-4.

9. through 10. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 2. No change.

3. Taking wildlife with dogs is prohibited, except with bird dogs during the small game season and waterfowl retrievers during the duck, geese and coot season, and any dog may be used to take small game during small game season.

4. through 6. No change.

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

(37) Four Creeks Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – September 24-26 25-27, October 1-3 2-4, and 8-10 9-11.

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

3. Family hunt – 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 November 7-8.

4. General gun – November 12-14 13-15, 19-21 20-22 and 26-28 27-29.

5. Small game – December 3 4 through January 23 24 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only).

6. Wild hog-still – February 11-15 12-16.

7. No change.

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

9. Spring turkey – March 19-21 20-22, 25-27 26-28 and April 1-3 2-4.

10. through 11. 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.

(38) Hatchet Creek Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 43 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 16 days thereafter (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only) September 25-27, October 2-4 and 9-11.

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

3. Family hunt – 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 November 7-8.

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 November 13-15 and 27-29.

5. Small game – Opening 42 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 29 days thereafter December 19 through January 17.

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 the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 4 days later and closing 2 days thereafter, and reopening 5 days later and closing 2 days thereafter March 20-22, 26-28 and April 2-4.

9. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 8. No change.

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

(39) Log Landing Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 49 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 29 days thereafter September 19 through October 18 and reopening the day prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season and closing 9 days thereafter November 6-15 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only).

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 14 days prior to the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter, reopening 19 days later and closing 9 days thereafter, reopening 26 days later and closing 9 days thereafter October 24 through November 1, November 20-29 and December 25 through January 3 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only).

3. Small game – Opening 27 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 16 days thereafter, reopening 19 days later and closing the last day of gray squirrel season as established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. December 4 through December 20 and January 8 through March 7 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only).

4. No change.

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

6. Spring turkey – During the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C., Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only March 20 through April 25 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only).

7. Wild hog-still – Opening 6 days after the last day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter May 1-9.

8. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(40) Thomas Creek Wildlife Management Area – Kings Road Unit.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – September 25-27 26-28, October 4-6 5-7 and 11-13 12-14.

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

3. Family hunt – 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 November 7-8.

4. General gun – November 19-21 20-22 and 26-28 27-29.

5. Small game –December 18 19 through January 16 17.

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 – March 19-21 20-22, March 28-30 29-31 and April 4-6 5-7.

9. 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.

PROPOSED EFFECTIVE DATE:  July 1, 2021

Rulemaking Authority Art. IV, Sec. 9, Fla. Const. 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, 7-1-85, 2-16-86, 5-7-86, 6-10-86, 11-27-86, 5-10-87, 5-1-88, 6-7-88, 7-1-89, 8-17-89, 7-1-90, 9-1-90, 7-1-91, 7-2-91, 7-1-92, 7-2-92, 8-23-92, 10-22-92, 7-1-93, 7-1-94, 2-9-95, 7-1-95, 7-1-96, 9-15-96, 6-1-97, 7-1-98, 7-2-98, 7-1-99, Formerly 39-15.062, Amended 12-9-99, 7-1-00, 7-1-01, 11-11-01, 6-2-02, 10-16-02, 5-25-03, 7-7-03, 9-29-03, 7-1-04, 8-1-04, 7-1-05, 8-1-05, 7-1-06, 7-2-06, 7-1-07, 7-5-07, 7-1-08, 7-1-09, 7-20-09, 7-1-10, 7-1-11, 7-1-12, 10-9-12, 7-1-13, 7-1-14, 8-26-14, 7-1-15, 7-29-15, 7-1-16, 7-1-17, 9-1-17, 7-1-18, 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