The purpose of the proposed rule amendment is to revise specific area regulations on wildlife management areas (WMAs) in the North Central Region and adjust how some season dates are described to better conform to calendar ....

 

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 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 how some season dates are described to better conform to calendar year changes, and revise specific area regulations on wildlife management areas (WMAs) in the North Central Region as follows:

Andrews WMA – eliminate the zone tag requirement for the wild hog-still season.

Bayard WMA – establish a 15-day small game season (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only); allow the use of any dog to hunt small game (quail, rabbit, squirrel, and migratory game birds) during small game season; prohibit the use of vehicles during small game season; and allow the use of horses in Areas 2, 3 and 4 during small game season.

Camp Blanding WMA – clarify that the wild hog-dog season hunts begin 1.5 hours after sunset on the first day of each hunt and end 1.5 hours before sunrise the last day of each hunt; clarify that wild hog may be taken only at night with the aid of a light, dogs, and a firearm; and clarify that hunting of wild hog by display or use of a light from a moving vehicle, boat or animal is prohibited.

Cypress Creek WMA – allow nighttime raccoon hunting during small game season and summer months ((opening the third Thursday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only)) by individuals who possess a special use permit from the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD); and remove the unintended allowance to hunt with dogs with a shoulder height of 15 inches or less.

Devil’s Hammock WMA – allow nighttime raccoon hunting during summer months ((opening the third Thursday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only)) by individuals who possess a special use permit from the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD).

Flying Eagle WMA – allow veterans or active-duty members of the Armed Forces (including members of the National Guard and Reserves) to take waterfowl during the Veteran’s and Military Waterfowl Days.

Grove Park WMA – allow any dog to hunt small game (quail, rabbit, squirrel, and migratory birds) during small game season.

Hatchet Creek WMA – allow veterans or active-duty members of the Armed Forces (including members of the National Guard and Reserves) to take waterfowl during the Veteran’s and Military Waterfowl Days; and prohibit the use of vehicles during the Veteran’s and Military Waterfowl Days.

Holton Creek WMA – prohibit the use of horses the day before each mobility-impaired season hunt; and allow the take of non-protected birds.

Homosassa WMA – allow nighttime raccoon hunting during the last 23 days of small game season by individuals who possess a special use permit from the Florida Forest Service.

Jennings Forest WMA – correct a previous rule change processing error to return to the wild hog-still season to a 3-day hunt.

Little River WMA – allow nighttime raccoon hunting during summer months ((opening the third Thursday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only)) by individuals who possess a special use permit from the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD); and expand the quail hunting opportunity during small game season from 16 to 27 days by allowing quail hunting for three 9-day periods (one period each in November, December, and January, respectively).

Lochloosa WMA – allow persons possessing a valid Grove Park Wildlife Management Area Recreational Use Permit to drive all-terrain vehicles on Fish Camp Road to access Grove Park Wildlife Management Area.

Log Landing WMA – allow nighttime raccoon hunting during small game season and summer months ((opening the third Friday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only)) by individuals who possess a special use permit from the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD).

Lower Econfina River WMA – allow nighttime raccoon hunting during summer months ((opening the third Thursday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only)) by individuals who possess a special use permit from the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD).

Mallory Swamp WMA – allow nighttime raccoon hunting during summer months ((opening the third Thursday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only)) by individuals who possess a special use permit from the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD).

Middle Aucilla WMA – allow nighttime raccoon hunting during summer months ((opening the third Thursday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only)) by individuals who possess a special use permit from the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD).

Osceola WMA – allow dogs under physical restraint in the still hunt area year-round; and change the 10-day deer-dog training season schedule from a Sunday through Tuesday to Saturday through Monday (shift one day earlier) and prohibit deer-dog training in the Big Gum Swamp Wilderness during deer-dog training season.

Steinhatchee Springs WMA – allow nighttime raccoon hunting during summer months ((opening the third Thursday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only)) by individuals who possess a special use permit from the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD).

Thomas Creek WMA, Kings Road Unit – remove the unintended allowance to hunt with dogs with a shoulder height of 15 inches or less.

Troy Springs WMA – allow the use of dogs to take squirrel, rabbit, and quail during small game season; and establish quail hunting for 18 days during small game season by allowing quail hunting for three 6-day periods (one period each in November, December, and January, respectively).

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 March 2-3, 2022, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., each day.

PLACE: TBA

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: Paul Scharine, Public Hunting Areas Program Coordinator, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 620 South Meridian Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1600, [phone].

 

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 – Opening 39 days prior the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 5 days later and closing 2 days thereafter September 28-30 and October 5-7, only in the still hunt and archery-only areas; and opening 25 days prior the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 5 days later and closing 2 days thereafter October 12-14, 19-21, and reopening 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 – Opening 25 days prior the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 5 days later and closing 2 days thereafter October 12-14 and 19-21, only in the still hunt areas.

9. through 10. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 15. No change.

16. During the wild hog-dog season, hunts will begin 1.5 hours after sunset the first day of the hunt and end 1.5 hours before sunrise the day following the last day of the hunt; and hunting is allowed only from 1.5 hours after sunset until 1.5 hours before sunrise.

17. During the wild hog-dog season, wild hog may be taken only during the night by the aid of a light with dogs and a firearm. The hunting of wild hog under this provision by display or use of a light from a moving vehicle, boat or animal is prohibited.

(2) Cypress Creek Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. No change.

2. 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 March 19-27.

3. Archery – Opening 42 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 15 days thereafter September 25 through October 10.

4. through 6. No change.

7. Raccoon – Opening the third Thursday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only).

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. Hunting with dogs, other than 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 and hunting as specified in paragraph 68A-24.002(2)(b), F.A.C. is allowed during raccoon and small game seasons. The take of wild hog with dogs is prohibited.

2. through 5. No change.

(3) No change.

(4) Lochloosa Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. General gun – Opening the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 13 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 15 days thereafter, and reopening 1 day later and closing 27 days later November 6-19, November 20 through December 5 and December 6 through January 2.

2. through 3. No change.

4. Archery – Opening 42 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 25 through October 24.

5. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 8 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 29-31.

6. through 8. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. No change.

2. Vehicles may be operated only on named or numbered roads. Tracked vehicles, all-terrain vehicles and unlicensed vehicles are prohibited, except that persons possessing a valid Grove Park Wildlife Management Area recreational user permit may drive all-terrain vehicles on Fish Camp Road to access Grove Park Wildlife Management Area. Non-motorized bicycles are allowed, but may be ridden only on named or numbered roads and designated trails.

3. through 7. No change.

(5) Osceola Wildlife Management Area.

(a) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. The dog hunt area is within the area created by traversing south on Forest Service Road 237 from its intersection with the north boundary of the Osceola National Forest; southeast on Forest Service Road 263; south on Forest Service Road 234; east and north on County Road 250; west on Forest Service Road 200, north and east on Forest Road 4 to Forest Road 26; north on Forest Road 26 to Forest Road 3; east on Forest Road 3 to Eddy Grade; northwesterly on Eddy Grade to State Road 2; northwest on State Road 2; southwest on Forest Service Road 295; west on Forest Service Road 296F; south on Forest Service Road 296C; east and south on Forest Service Road 296E; south on Forest Service Road 295; south on Forest Service Road 297 to the boundary of the Osceola National Forest; then due west to the northwest corner of Section 23, Township 1 South, Range 19 East; then south along the east side of Section 27, Township 1 South, Range 19 East to the southeast corner of Section 27, Township 1 South, Range 19 East; then west to the SW corner of the SE 1/4 of the SW 1/4 Section 29, Township 1 North, Range 19 East; then north along the west boundary of the East 1/2 of the West 1/2 Section 29, Township 1 North, Range 19 East to the south boundary of Section 20, Township 1 North, Range 19 East; then west along the north boundary of Section 30, Township 1 North, Range 19 East to the Baker County/Columbia County line; then south along the County Line to Forest Road 36; south to Forest Road 46; south on Forest Road 39; west on Forest Road 42 until it becomes Forest Service Road 212; south on Forest Service Road 212; west on Forest Service Road 272; north on Forest Service Road 270 to the Forest Boundary; then west back to the beginning point of Forest Service Road 237. Except within the dog hunt areas, the possession or use of dogs, other than bird dogs or retrievers, is prohibited except as provided by paragraph 68A-15.004(7)(c) or (d), F.A.C.

2. Deer dogs may be trained beginning the day after the last day of muzzleloading gun season and closing 9 days thereafter, except in the Big Gum Swamp Wilderness and the still hunt area.

3. through 5. No change.

6. During the fox, raccoon, opossum and bobcat, deer-dog training and general gun seasons, the possession of dogs other than bird dogs and waterfowl retrievers is prohibited, except on roads adjacent to the dog hunt area, all lands within the dog hunt area and Interstate 10; State Road 2; County Roads 125, 229, 250, 250A, Eddy Grade and Baxter Grade; and Forest Roads 231, 233, 236 (east from US 441 into the dog hunt area only), 237, 262, 263 and 285. Additionally, any leashed or caged dog may be kept at the East Tower hunt camp during the general gun season.

7. through 8. renumbered 6. through 7. No change.

(6) through (11) No change.

(12) Raiford Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 42 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 15 days thereafter September 25 through October 10.

2. No change.

3. Archery and muzzleloading gun – Opening the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 8 days thereafter November 6-14, reopening Thanksgiving Day and closing through the Sunday after Thanksgiving Day, and reopening 49 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter December 25-28.

4. Wild hog-still – Opening 56 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter January 1-4.

5. No change.

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 and reopening 11 days later and closing 3 days thereafter March 19-27 and April 7-10.

7. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(13) Cedar Key Scrub Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. No change.

2. Archery – Opening 42 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 15 days thereafter September 25 through October 10.

3. through 4. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(14) Andrews 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 9 days thereafter (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only) September 24-26 and October 1-3.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 1 day prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 9 days thereafter (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only) November 5-7 and 12-14.

3. General gun – Opening 13 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter November 19-21.

4. Small game – Opening 20 days after the first day of Zone C 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 5 days later and closing 2 days thereafter, and reopening 12 days later and closing 9 days thereafter (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only) November 26-28, December 31 through January 2, January 7-9, 21-23 and 28-30.

5. No change.

6. Spring turkey – Opening 6 days after the first day of spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter and reopening 19 days later and closing 2 days thereafter March 25-27 and April 15-17.

7. through 9. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. No person shall hunt in any zone other than that to which he or she is assigned by zone tag, except during wild hog-still season. Zone tags shall not be transferred. Hunters shall keep the zone tag in their possession. Zone tags shall be returned to the check station before exiting the area. Zone tags may be reserved for the next day.

2. through 9. No change.

(15) Big Shoals Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 40 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 19 days thereafter (except Sundays) September 27 through October 2, October 4-9 and 11-16.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 8 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 9 days thereafter (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only) October 29-31 and November 5-7.

3. through 4. No change.

5. Spring turkey – Opening 5 days after the first day of spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter and reopening 19 days later and closing 2 days thereafter March 24-26 and April 14-16.

6. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(16) Twin Rivers Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 42 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 6 days thereafter and reopening 1 day later and closing 8 days thereafter September 25 through October 1 and October 2-10.

2. through 3. No change.

4. General gun – Opening 2 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 6 days thereafter and reopening 1 day later and closing 6 days thereafter November 8-14 and 15-21.

5. through 6. No change.

7. Spring turkey – Opening 6 days after the first day of spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter and reopening 19 days later and closing 2 days thereafter March 25-27 and April 15-17.

8. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(17) No change.

(18) Jennings Forest Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 42 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 3 days thereafter, and reopening 1 day later and closing 3 days thereafter September 25-28, September 29 through October 2, October 3-6 and 7-10.

2. Supervised small game – 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 8 days thereafter October 16-24, 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 – Opening 8 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 29-31.

4. Bird dog training – Opening 16 days after the firest day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 27 days thereafter November 22 through December 19 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 – Opening 2 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 3 days thereafter, and reopening 1 day later and closing 3 days thereafter November 8-11, 12-15, 16-19 and 20-23.

6. No change.

7. Small game – Opening 62 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 30 days thereafter January 7 through February 6 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only).

8. Wild hog-still – Opening 5 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.

9. through 10. No change.

11. 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 1 day later and closing 2 days thereafter, and reopening 1 day later and closing 2 days thereafter March 19-21, 22-24 and 25-27.

12. through 13. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(19) Holton Creek Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Mobility-impaired general gun – Opening 22 days prior the first day of 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, reopening 5 days thereafter and closing 2 days later, and reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter October 15-17, 29-31, November 5-7 and 19-21.

2. Mobility-impaired spring turkey – Opening 6 days after the first day of 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.

3. No change.

(b) Legal to take: Antlered deer, antlerless deer, wild hog, gobbler or bearded turkey, gray squirrel, rabbit, fish, non-protected birds, non-protected mammals, and furbearers. Taking of antlered deer not having at least one antler with three or more points or one antler with a main beam of ten inches or more in length is prohibited, except by persons less than 16 years of age. One deer and one turkey may be taken per quota permit.

(c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. No change.

2. During periods open to hunting and the day before each hunt, public access is prohibited except for individuals participating in the hunt and hikers using the Florida Trail.

3. through 10. No change.

(20) Goethe Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 42 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 22 days thereafter September 25 through October 17.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 8 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 29-31.

3. General gun (still hunt) – Opening the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 3 days later November 6-8, 9-11 and 12-15.

4. General gun (dog hunt) – Opening 13 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 3 days thereafter, and reopening 1 day later and closing 3 days thereafter November 19-21, 22-25 and 26-29.

5. Family hunt – Opening 56 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 1 days thereafter January1- 2.

6. 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 29 days thereafter January 8 through February 6.

7. Spring turkey – Opening the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 6 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 8 days thereafter, and reopening 1 day later and closing 6 days thereafter March 19-25, March 26 through April 3 and April 4-10.

8. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(21) Citrus Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. General gun – Opening 34 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter and reopening 19 days later and closing 2 days thereafter December 10-12 and December 31 through January 2.

2. Small game – Opening the day after the last day of general gun season and closing 55 days thereafter January 3 through February 27.

3. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 27 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter and reopening 12 days later and closing 2 days thereafter December 3-5 and 17-19.

4. Archery – Opening the first day of 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, and reopening 1 day later and closing 6 days thereafter November 6-14, 15-21 and 22-28.

5. No change.

6. Spring turkey – Opening 3 days after the first day of spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 11 days later and closing 3 days thereafter, and reopening 11 days later and closing 3 days thereafter March 22-25, April 5-8 and 19-22.

7. through 8. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(22) Flying Eagle 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 3 days thereafter and reopening 3 days later and closing 4 days thereafter October 2-5 and 8-12.

2. No change.

3. General gun – Opening the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter and reopening 3 days later and closing 4 days thereafter November 6-9 and 12-16.

4. Small game – Opening 13 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 5 days later and closing 2 days thereafter, and reopening 19 days later and closing 2 days thereafter November 19-21, 26-28 and December 17-19.

5. Spring turkey – Opening the first day of spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter and reopening 3 days later and closing 4 days thereafter March 19-22 and 25-29.

6. No change.

7. Duck, light goose, and coot – During the veterans and active military hunt established by Rule 68A-13.003, F.A.C.

7. renumbered 8. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(23) Potts Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Spring turkey – Opening the first day of spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter and reopening 3 days later and closing 4 days thereafter March 19-22 and 25-29.

2. Archery – Opening 30 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter and reopening 3 days later and closing 4 days thereafter October 7-10 and 13-17.

3. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 8 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 29-31.

4. Wild hog-dog – Opening 13 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter November 19-21.

5. Small game – Opening 90 days after the first day of 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, and reopening 2 days prior to the last day of gray squirrel season as established by Rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter February 4-6, 18-20 and March 4-6.

6. through 7. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(24) Homosassa Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 23 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter, reopening 11 days later and closing 3 days thereafter, and reopening 4 days later and closing 3 days thereafter October 14-17, October 28-31 and November 4-7.

2. Small game – Opening 6 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 23 days thereafter, reopening 20 days later and closing 22 days thereafter, reopening 20 days later and closing 22 days thereafter November 12 through December 5, December 25 through January 16 and February 5-27.

3. Special-opportunity spring turkey – Opening the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 6 days thereafter, reopening 8 days later and closing 6 days thereafter March 19-25 and April 2-8.

4. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. The use of dogs, other than bird dogs and dogs with a shoulder height of 15 inches or less, is prohibited, except hunting as specified in paragraph 68A-24.002(2)(b), F.A.C. is allowed during the last 23 days of small game season. Taking wild hog with dogs is prohibited.

2. through 4. No change.

5. Hunters shall enter and exit the area at designated entrances, register at the hunt headquarters, and check all game taken, except when hunting as specified in paragraph 68A-24.002(2)(b), F.A.C. during the last 23 days of small game season).

6. Public access to the area is prohibited during the period from 1.5 hours after sunset until to 1.5 hours before sunrise, except by persons in possession of a special use permit from the Florida Forest Service.

7. No change.

(25) Devil’s Hammock 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 3 days thereafter, reopening 1 day later and closing 4 days thereafter, and reopening 1 day later and closing 4 days thereafter September 18-21, 22-26 and September 27 through October 1.

2. Family hunt – Opening 28 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 9-10 and 16-17.

3. No change.

4. General gun – Opening the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter and reopening 1 day later and closing 4 days thereafter November 6-9 and 10-14.

5. Small game – Opening the day after the last day of general gun season and closing 62 days thereafter November 15 through January 16.

6. Wild hog-still – Opening the day after the last day of small game season and closing 27 days thereafter January 17 through February 13.

7. No change.

8. Spring turkey – Opening the first day of spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter and reopening 1 day later and closing 4 days thereafter March 19-22 and 23-27.

9. Raccoon – Opening the third Thursday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only).

9. through 10. renumbered 10. through 11. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 5. No change.

6. During the raccoon and small game seasons season, hunting as specified in paragraph 68A-24.002(2)(b), F.A.C. shall be allowed by persons possessing a Special Use Authorization from the Suwannee River Water Management District.

7. No change.

(26) Mallory Swamp Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. through 2. No change.

3. General gun – Opening 7 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 57 days thereafter November 13 through January 9.

4. Small game – Opening the day after the last day of general gun season and closing 41 days thereafter January 10 through February 20.

5. No change.

6. Spring turkey – Opening the first day of the spring turkey season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 15 days thereafter, reopening 6 days later and closing 15 days thereafter March 19 through April 3 and April 9-24.

7. through 8. No change.

9. Raccoon – Opening the third Thursday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only).

9. renumbered 10. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 6. No change.

7. During the raccoon and small game seasons season, hunting as specified in paragraph 68A-24-.002(2)(b), F.A.C., is allowed only by persons possessing a Special Use Authorization from the Suwannee River Water Management District.

8. through 10. No change.

(27) Middle Aucilla Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. through 7. No change.

8. Raccoon – Opening the third Thursday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only).

8. renumbered 9. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 6. No change.

7. Hunting as specified in paragraph 68A-24.002(2)(b), F.A.C., is allowed only during raccoon season and the last 30 days of the small game season by persons possessing a Special Use Authorization from the Suwannee River Water Management District.

(28) Little River Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. through 6. No change.

7. Raccoon – Opening the third Thursday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only).

7. through 8. renumbered 8. through 9. No change.

(b) Legal to take: All legal game, furbearers and fish. Antlerless deer may be taken only during the family hunt, bear may be taken only during those portions of the muzzleloading gun season that coincide with the open season established for the North BMU in Rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C., and quail may be taken only during the periods described as follows: opening the first day of small game season and concluding 8 days thereafter, reopening 20 days later and concluding 8 days thereafter, and reopening 20 days later and concluding 8 days thereafter first 16 days of the small game season. Taking of antlered deer not having at least one antler with three or more points or one antler with a main beam of ten inches or more in length is prohibited, except by persons less than 16 years of age. During the family hunt, one antlered and one antlerless deer may be taken per quota permit. During the spring turkey season, one gobbler or bearded turkey may be taken per person, but no more than two per quota permit.

(c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 3. No change.

4. Taking wildlife with dogs is prohibited, except during the small game season and hunting as specified in paragraph 68A-24.002(2)(b), F.A.C. is allowed during raccoon and small game seasons. During the small game season, any dog may be used to take small game and dogs may be used as provided by paragraph 68A-24.002(2)(b), F.A.C.

5. through 6. No change.

7. During the small game and raccoon seasons, hunting as specified in paragraph 68A-24.002(2)(b), F.A.C., is allowed by persons possessing a Special Use Authorization from the Suwannee River Water Management District.

(29) Troy Springs Wildlife Management Area.

(a) No change.

(b) Legal to take: Wild hog, rabbit, gray squirrel, quail, and fish. Taking any other animal is prohibited. Quail may be taken only during the periods described as follows: opening 9 days after the first day of small game season and concluding 5 days thereafter, reopening 23 days later and concluding 5 days thereafter, and reopening 23 days later and concluding 5 days thereafter.

(c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 2. No change.

3. Hunting with dogs is prohibited, except dogs may be used to hunt squirrel, rabbits, and quail during small game season.

4. through 7. No change.

(30) Bayard Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. through 4. No change.

5. Small game – Opening 41 days after the first day of the Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 30 days thereafter (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only).

5. through 8. renumbered 6. through 9. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

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

2. Vehicles may be operated only on named or numbered roads, except during small game season when vehicles are prohibited on the area except at designated parking areas.

3. through 4. No change.

5. Public access is allowed year-round, except during quota hunts in Areas 2, 3, and 4 when only individuals authorized to participate in a hunt may access Areas 2, 3 and 4 and during the youth turkey hunt when one non-hunting guest per quota permit may also access Areas 2, 3 and 4.

6. Horses are allowed throughout the year in Area 1 but only during small game season and non-hunting periods in Areas 2, 3 and 4.

7. No change.

8. Motor vehicle access is prohibited during small game season and periods closed to hunting, but Vehicular access is allowed during archery, muzzleloading gun, general gun, wild hog-still, and spring turkey seasons and on all hunt days plus the weekend and the day before each archery, muzzleloading gun, general gun, and wild hog-still hunt all hunts except spring turkey season when it shall be allowed only on hunt days and the day before each spring turkey hunt.

9. through 10. No change.

(31) Grove Park Wildlife Management Area.

(a) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. Hunting with dogs other than bird dogs is prohibited, except any dog may be used to take small game during small game season.

2. through 8. No change.

(32) Steinhatchee Springs Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 42 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 25 through October 24.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 8 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 29-31.

3. General gun – Opening the first day of 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 18 days thereafter, and reopening 38 day later and closing 13 days thereafter November 6-14, November 15 through December 3 and January 10-23.

4. Small game – Opening the 28 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 4 through January 9.

5. Wild hog-dog – Opening the 90 days after the first day of 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, and reopening 5 days later and closing 2 days thereafter February 4-6, 18-20, 25-27 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. No change.

7. Spring 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 1 day later and closing 4 days thereafter, and reopening 1 day later and closing 13 days thereafter March 19-22, 23-27 and March 28 through April 10.

8. No change.

9. Raccoon – Opening the third Thursday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only).

9. renumbered 10. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 11. No change.

12. During the raccoon and small game seasons season, hunting as specified in paragraph 68A-24.002(2)(b), F.A.C., is allowed only by persons possessing a Special Use Authorization from the Suwannee River Water Management District.

(33) Cary 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) September 24-26, October 1-3 and 8-10.

2. through 3. No change.

4. General gun – Opening 6 days after 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) November 12-14, 19-21 and 26-28.

5. Small game – Opening 27 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 51 days thereafter December 3 through January 23 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only).

6. Wild hog-still – Opening 83 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 4 days thereafter and reopening 17 days later and closing 4 days thereafter January 28 through February 1 and February 18-22.

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 4 days later and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 5 days later and closing 2 days thereafter March 19-21, 25-27 and April 1-3.

8. through 9. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(34) No change.

(35) Lower Econfina River Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 28 days prior to the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 15 days thereafter and reopening 8 days later and closing 13 days thereafter October 9-24 and November 1-14.

2. Muzzleloading gun – Opening 8 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 29-31.

3. through 4. No change.

5. 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 March 19-27.

6. Raccoon – Opening the third Thursday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only).

6. renumbered 7. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. Hunting with dogs, other than bird dogs or dogs with a shoulder height of 15 inches or less is prohibited, except as provided by paragraph 68A-24.002(2)(b), F.A.C. during raccoon and small game seasons, and any dog may be used to take small game during the small game season.

2. through 3. No change.

4. Public access is prohibited from 1.5 hours after sunset until 1.5 hours before sunrise, except by persons possessing a Special Use Authorization from the Suwannee River Water Management District.

5. through 6. No change.

7. During the raccoon and small game seasons season, hunting as specified in paragraph 68A-24.002(2)(b), F.A.C., is allowed by persons possessing a Special Use Authorization from the Suwannee River Water Management District.

8. through 9. No change.

(36) Belmore 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) September 24-26, October 1-3 and 8-10.

2. No change.

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, and reopening 13 days later and closing 1 day thereafter.

4. General gun – Opening 5 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 3 days thereafter and reopening 10 days later and closing 4 days thereafter November 11-14 and 24-28.

5. Small game – Opening 27 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 51 days thereafter December 3 through January 23 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only).

6. through 7. No change.

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 19-21, 25-27 and April 1-3.

9. through 10. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(37) Four Creeks 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) September 24-26, October 1-3, and 8-10.

2. through 3. No change.

4. General gun – Opening 6 days after 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) November 12-14, 19-21 and 26-28.

5. Small game – Opening 27 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 51 days thereafter December 3 through January 23 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only).

6. Wild hog-still – Opening 97 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 4 days thereafter February 11-15.

7. through 8. No change.

9. 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 19-21, 25-27 and April 1-3.

10. through 11. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(38) Hatchet Creek Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. through 5. No change.

6. Duck, light goose, and coot – During the veterans and active military hunt established by Rule 68A-13.003, F.A.C.

6 through 9. renumbered 7. through 10. No change

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. Vehicles may be operated only on named or numbered roads, except during small game season and the veterans and active military hunt when vehicles are prohibited on the area except at designated parking areas.

2. through 9. No change.

(39) Log Landing Wildlife Management Area.

(a) Open season:

1. through 7. No change.

8. Raccoon – Opening the third Friday in June and closing the last Sunday in August (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only).

8. renumbered 9. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 2. No change.

3. Hunting with dogs is prohibited, except any dog may be used to take small game during the small game season and hunting as specified in paragraph 68A-24.002(2)(b), F.A.C. is allowed during raccoon and small game seasons.

4. No change.

5. Public access is prohibited from 1.5 hours after sunset until 1.5 hours before sunrise, except by persons possessing a Special Use Authorization from the Suwannee River Water Management District.

6. No change.

7. During the raccoon and small game seasons, hunting as specified in paragraph 68A-24.002(2)(b), F.A.C., is allowed by persons possessing a Special Use Authorization from the Suwannee River Water Management District.

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

(a) Open season:

1. Archery – Opening 42 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 7 days later and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 5 days later and closing 2 days thereafter September 25-27, October 4-6 and 11-13.

2. through 3. No change.

4. General gun – Opening 13 days after the first day of Zone C antlered deer season established by rule 68A-13.004, F.A.C. and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 5 days later and closing 2 days thereafter November 19-21 and 26-28.

5. 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 29 days thereafter December 18 through January 16.

6. through 7. No change.

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 7 days later and closing 2 days thereafter, reopening 5 days later and closing 2 days thereafter March 19-21, March 28-30 and April 4-6.

9. No change.

(b) through (c) No change.

(d) General regulations:

1. through 3. No change.

4. Hunting with dogs, other than bird dogs or dogs with a shoulder height of fifteen inches or less is prohibited, except any dog may be used to take small game during small game season.

5. through 8. No change.

PROPOSED EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2022.

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, 7-1-22.

 

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 16, 2021

DATE NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT PUBLISHED IN FAR: November 5, 2021