South Charleston, WV -(AmmoLand.com)- The Wildlife Resources Section of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has filed legislative rule changes with the Secretary of State’s office, according to Paul R. Johansen, Chief of the Division’s Wildlife Resources Section.
The proposed rules will be open for review and written comment until 10:00 a.m. on July 22, 2015. The availability of the proposed rules will be advertised in the State Register. In addition, the proposed rules will be available for review at the Elkins office and the South Charleston office. Individuals interested in reviewing the proposed rules should contact the Wildlife Resources Section staff at these offices.
Written comments may be submitted to Paul R. Johansen, Chief, Wildlife Resources Section, 324 4th Avenue, South Charleston, WV 25303.
Elk Restoration and Management Rule
This is a new legislative rule establishing the guidelines and protocols relating to the West Virginia Division of Natural Resource’s elk management program. The rule addresses three parameters of the elk management program: development of an Elk Management Plan; management of elk outside of the elk management zone; and disease testing and monitoring protocol.
Deer Hunting Rule
Modifications to this rule include language which addresses the use of crossbows for deer hunting as well as license requirements; modifications to language regarding the permit procedures for limited antlerless deer permits and state park deer season permits; and minor technical changes relating to the electronic registration of deer.
General Hunting Rules
Revisions to this rule include modifying the language relating to the electronic registration of deer and turkey; the addition of crossbows to the weapons permitted at Green Bottom and Fox Forest Wildlife Management Areas; and the requirement of mandatory bear tooth submission by successful bear hunters.
Prohibitions when Hunting and Trapping
This rule prescribes those prohibitions in the pursuit or taking of wildlife within the boundaries of this State. One minor revision is proposed relating to the terminology associated with the game tag number as a result of the electronic license system which allows for game check to be completed by phone, internet or license agent.
Wild Boar Hunting Rule
Revisions to this rule include modifying the language relating to the electronic registration of wild boar and the addition of crossbows to the weapons permitted during the boar firearms season.
About the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources
It is the statutory mission of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) to provide and administer a long-range comprehensive program for the exploration, conservation, development, protection, enjoyment and use of the natural resources of the State of West Virginia.
For more information, please visit www.WVDNR.gov.