[Federal Register Volume 62, Number 139 (Monday, July 21, 1997)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 38959-38969]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 97-18515]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Parts 25 and 32

RIN 1018-AE18


1997-98 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Fishing Regulations

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: The Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) proposes to add 
additional national wildlife refuges (refuges) to the list of areas 
open for hunting and/or sport fishing, along with pertinent refuge-
specific regulations for such activities; and amend certain regulations 
on other refuges that pertain to migratory game bird hunting, upland 
game hunting, big game hunting and sport fishing for the 1997-98 
seasons. Refuge hunting and fishing programs are reviewed annually to 
determine whether additional refuges should be added or whether 
individual refuge regulations governing existing programs should be 
modified, deleted or have additions made to them. Changing 
environmental conditions, State and Federal regulations, and other 
factors affecting wildlife populations and habitat may warrant 
modifications ensuring continued compatibility of hunting and fishing 
with the purposes for which individual refuges, and the Refuge System 
were established.
    The Service has determined uses in this proposed rule are 
compatible with the purposes for which these refuges were established. 
The Service further determined that this proposed action is in 
accordance with the provisions of all applicable laws, is consistent 
with principles of sound fish and wildlife management, helps implement 
Executive Orders 12996 (Management and Public Use of the National 
Wildlife Refuge System) and 12962 (Recreational Fisheries) and is 
otherwise in the public interest by providing additional recreational 
opportunities at national wildlife refuges. Sufficient funds will be 
available within the refuge budgets to operate the hunting and sport 
fishing programs as proposed.

DATES: Comments may be submitted on or before August 20, 1997.

ADDRESSES: Assistant Director--Refuges and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and 
Wildlife Service, 1849 C Street, NW, MS 670 ARLSQ, Washington, DC 
20240.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Stephen R. Vehrs, at the above 
address; Telephone (703) 358-2397; Fax (703) 358-1826.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: National wildlife refuges generally are 
closed to hunting and sport fishing until opened by rulemaking. The 
Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) may open refuge areas to hunting 
and/or fishing upon a determination that such uses are compatible with 
the purpose(s) for which the refuge was established. The action also 
must be in accordance with provisions of all laws applicable to the 
areas, must be consistent with the principles of sound fish and 
wildlife management, and otherwise must be in the public interest.
    50 CFR parts 25 and 32 contain administrative provisions and other 
provisions governing hunting and fishing on national wildlife refuges. 
Hunting and fishing are regulated on refuges to:
    1. Ensure compatibility with refuge and Refuge System purposes;
    2. Properly manage the fish and wildlife resource;
    3. Protect other refuge values; and
    4. Ensure refuge user safety.
    On many refuges, the Service policy of adopting State hunting and 
fishing regulations is adequate in meeting these objectives. On other 
refuges, it is necessary to supplement State regulations with more 
restrictive Federal regulations to ensure that the Service meets its 
management responsibilities, as outlined under the section entitled 
``Statutory Authority.'' Refuge-specific hunting and fishing 
regulations are issued when a wildlife refuge is opened to either 
migratory game bird hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting or 
sport fishing. These regulations list the wildlife species that may be 
hunted or are subject to sport fishing, seasons, bag limits, methods of 
hunting or fishing, descriptions of open areas, and other provisions as 
appropriate. Previously issued refuge-specific regulations for hunting 
and fishing are contained in 50 CFR part 32. Many of the amendments to 
these sections are promulgated to standardize and clarify the existing 
language of these regulations.
    With the passage of Public Law 102-402, the Rocky Mountain Arsenal 
National Wildlife Refuge Act of 1992 (Act), the Service will establish 
a refuge over what was previously a Department of Defense (Army) 
military installation, but only following toxic substances cleanup.
    Public Law 102-402 specifies that the Service shall manage the area 
as if it were a unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System during 
cleanup activities on the Rocky Mountain Arsenal (Arsenal). The Service 
proposes this amendment to the regulations to establish regulatory 
authority for these lands, prior to establishment as a refuge and 
inclusion in the National Wildlife Refuge System, in accordance with 
Public Law 102-402. These regulations will provide appropriate 
authority and jurisdiction to conduct necessary management actions, 
including law enforcement, at the Arsenal.

Request for Comments

    Department of the Interior policy is, whenever practicable, to 
afford the public a meaningful opportunity to participate in the 
rulemaking process. A 30-day comment period is specified in order to 
facilitate public input. Consideration was given to providing a 60-day 
comment period, however, the Service determined that an additional 30-
day delay in processing these refuge-specific hunting and fishing 
regulations would hinder the effective planning and administration of 
hunting and fishing programs. Specifically, a delay of an additional 30 
days would jeopardize holding the hunting or fishing programs this 
year, or shorten their duration and thereby lessen the management 
effectiveness of this regulation. Many of these rules also relieve 
restrictions and allow the public to participate in recreational 
activities on a number of refuges. In addition, good cause exists in 
that, in order to continue to provide for previously authorized hunting 
opportunities while at the same time provide for adequate resource 
protection, the Service must be timely in providing modifications to 
certain hunting programs on some refuges. Accordingly, good cause 
exists to limit the comment period to 30 days (5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3)).
    Interested persons may submit written comments concerning this 
proposed rule to the person listed above under the heading ADDRESSES. 
All substantive comments will be reviewed and considered.

[[Page 38960]]

Statutory Authority

    The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act (NWRSAA) of 
1966, as amended (16 U.S.C. 668dd), and the Refuge Recreation Act of 
1962 (16 U.S.C. 460k) govern the administration and public use of 
national wildlife refuges. Specifically, Section 4(d)(1)(A) of the 
NWRSAA authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to permit the use of 
any area within the Refuge System for any purpose, including but not 
limited to, hunting, fishing and public recreation, accommodations and 
access, when he determines that such uses are compatible with the major 
purpose(s) for which the area was established.
    The Refuge Recreation Act (RRA) authorizes the Secretary to 
administer areas within the Refuge System for public recreation as an 
appropriate incidental or secondary use only to the extent that it is 
practicable and not inconsistent with the primary purpose(s) for which 
the areas were established. The NWRSAA and the RRA also authorize the 
Secretary to issue regulations to carry out the purposes of the Acts 
and regulate uses.
    Hunting and sport fishing plans are developed for each existing 
refuge prior to opening it to hunting or fishing. In many cases, 
refuge-specific regulations are developed to ensure the compatibility 
of the programs with the purposes for which the refuge was established. 
Initial compliance with the NWRSAA and the RRA has been ensured for 
hunting and sport fishing on newly acquired refuges through an interim 
determination of compatibility made at the time of acquisition. This 
has ensured that the determinations required by these acts have been 
made prior to the addition of refuges to the lists of areas open to 
hunting and fishing in 50 CFR part 32. Continued compliance is ensured 
by the development of long-term hunting and sport fishing plans and by 
annual review of hunting and sport fishing programs and regulations.
    In preparation for these openings, the following documents are 
included in the refuge's ``openings package'' for Regional review and 
approval from the Washington Office: an interim hunting and fishing 
management plan; an environmental action memorandum and categorical 
exclusion certification; a Section 7 determination pursuant to the 
Endangered Species Act, that these openings will have no effect, or are 
not likely to have an adverse effect, on listed species or critical 
habitats; a letter of concurrence from the affected State; interim 
compatibility determination; and refuge-specific regulations to 
administer the hunting and/or fishing programs. Upon review of these 
documents, the Service, acting for the Secretary, has determined that 
the opening of these National Wildlife Refuges to hunting and fishing 
is compatible with the principles of sound fish and wildlife management 
and otherwise will be in the public interest.
    The following refuges propose new hunting and/or fishing openings: 
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, Colorado; Ten Thousand 
Islands National Wildlife Refuge, Florida; Black Bayou Lake National 
Wildlife Refuge, Louisiana; Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, 
Nebraska; and Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, Texas. The 
remaining regulations represent revisions to existing refuge specific 
regulations.
    In accordance with the NWRSAA and the RRA, the Service has 
determined that these openings are compatible and consistent with the 
primary purposes for which the refuge was established. The Service also 
has determined that funds are available to administer the program.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    These regulations have been examined under the Paperwork Reduction 
Act of 1995 and have been found to contain no information collection 
requirements.

Economic Effect

    Service review has revealed that this rulemaking will increase 
hunter and fishermen visitation to the surrounding area of the refuges 
before, during or after the recreational uses, compared to the refuge 
being closed to these recreational uses.
    These refuges generally are located away from large metropolitan 
areas. Businesses in the area of the refuges consist primarily of small 
family-owned stores, restaurants, gas stations and other small 
commercial enterprises. In addition, there are several small, 
commercial recreational fishing and hunting camps and marinas in the 
general areas. This proposed rule would have a positive effect on such 
entities; however, the amount of revenue generated is not large.
    Many area residents enjoy a rural lifestyle that includes frequent 
recreational use of the abundant natural resources of the area. A high 
percentage of the households enjoy hunting, fishing, and boating in 
area wetlands, rivers and lakes. Refuge lands generally were not 
available for general public use prior to government acquisition; 
however, they were fished and hunted upon by friends and relatives of 
the landowners, and some were under commercial hunting and fishing 
leases. Many nearby residents also participate in other forms of non-
consumptive outdoor recreation, such as biking, hiking, camping, 
birdwatching, canoeing, and other outdoor sports.
    Economic impacts of refuge fishing and hunting programs on local 
communities are calculated from average expenditures in the ``1995 
National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated 
Recreation''. In 1995, 42 million U.S. residents 16 years old and older 
hunted and/or fished. More specifically, 37 million fished and 14.5 
million hunted. Those who both fished and hunted account for the 9.5 
million overage. Nationwide expenditures by sportsmen totaled $42 
billion. Trip-related expenditures for food, lodging, and 
transportation were $16 billion or 37 percent of all fishing and 
hunting expenditures; equipment expenditures amounted to $19 billion, 
or 46 percent of the total; other expenditures such as those for 
magazines, membership dues, contributions, land leasing, ownership, 
licenses, stamps, tags, and permits accounted for $6.9 billion, or 16 
percent of all expenditures. Overall, anglers spent an average of $41 
per day. For each day of hunting, migratory bird hunters spent an 
average of $33, upland game hunters an average of $20, and big game 
hunters averaged spending $40.
    At these 72 National Wildlife Refuges included in this proposed 
regulation, 776,000 fishermen are estimated to spend $31.8 million 
annually in pursuit of their sport, while approximately 380,000 hunters 
will spend $12.5 million annually hunting on the refuges. While many of 
these fishermen and hunters already make such expenditures prior to the 
refuge opening, some of these additional expenditures directly are due 
to the land now being open to the general public.
    This rulemaking will have a small but positive impact on local 
economies by increasing visitation and expenditures in the surrounding 
area of the refuges. The Service has determined that this rulemaking 
would not have a significant effect on a substantial number of small 
entities in the area, such as businesses, organizations and 
governmental jurisdictions, under the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 
1980 (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.). This rulemaking was not subject to Office 
of Management and Budget review under Executive Order 12866.

Unfunded Mandates

    The Service has determined and certifies pursuant to the Unfunded

[[Page 38961]]

Mandates Act, 2 U.S.C. 1502 et seq., that this rulemaking will not 
impose a cost of $100 million or more in any given year on local or 
State governments or private entities.

Civil Justice Reform

    The Department has determined that these proposed regulations meet 
the applicable standards provided in Sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of 
Executive Order 12988.

Environmental Considerations

    Compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 
(NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4332(C)) is ensured when hunting and sport fishing 
plans are developed, and the determinations required by NEPA are made 
prior to the addition of refuges to the lists of areas open to hunting 
and fishing in 50 CFR part 32. The changes in hunting and fishing 
herein proposed were reviewed with regard to Section 7 of the 
Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543) and found to 
either have no affect on or are not likely to adversely affect listed 
species or critical habitat. The amendment of refuge-specific hunting 
and fishing regulations are subject to a categorical exclusion from the 
NEPA process if they do not significantly alter the existing use of a 
particular national wildlife refuge. The Service exclusion found at 516 
DM 6, App. 1.4 B(5) is employed here as these amendments are considered 
``[m]inor changes in the amounts or types of public use on FWS or 
State-managed lands, in accordance with regulations, management plans, 
and procedures.'' These refuge-specific hunting and fishing regulations 
simply qualify or otherwise define a hunting or fishing activity, for 
purposes of resource management. These documents are on file in the 
offices of the Service and may be viewed by contacting the primary 
author noted below. Information regarding hunting and fishing permits 
and the conditions that apply to individual refuge hunts, sport fishing 
activities, and maps of the respective areas are retained at refuge 
headquarters and can be obtained from the regional offices of the U.S. 
Fish and Wildlife Service at the addresses listed below:
    Region 1--California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, and 
Washington. Assistant Regional Director--Refuges and Wildlife, U.S. 
Fish and Wildlife Service, Eastside Federal Complex, Suite 1692, 911 
N.E. 11th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97232-4181; Telephone (503) 231-
6214.
    Region 2--Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. Assistant 
Regional Director--Refuges and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife 
Service, Box 1306, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87103; Telephone (505) 766-
1829.
    Region 3--Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, 
Ohio and Wisconsin. Assistant Regional Director--Refuges and Wildlife, 
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Federal Building, Fort Snelling, Twin 
Cities, Minnesota 55111; Telephone (612) 725-3507.
    Region 4--Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, 
Mississippi, North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, Puerto Rico and 
the Virgin Islands. Assistant Regional Director--Refuges and Wildlife, 
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1875 Century Boulevard, Room 324, 
Atlanta, Georgia 30345; Telephone (404) 679-7152.
    Region 5--Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, 
Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, 
Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia. 
Assistant Regional Director--Refuges and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and 
Wildlife Service, 300 Westgate Center Drive, Hadley, Massachusetts 
01035-9589; Telephone (413) 253-8550.
    Region 6--Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South 
Dakota, Utah and Wyoming. Assistant Regional Director--Refuges and 
Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Box 25486, Denver Federal 
Center, Denver, Colorado 80225; Telephone (303) 236-8145.
    Region 7--Alaska. Assistant Regional Director--Refuges and 
Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1011 E. Tudor Rd., Anchorage, 
Alaska 99503; Telephone (907) 786-3545.
    Primary Author: Stephen R. Vehrs, Division of Refuges, U.S. Fish 
and Wildlife Service, Washington, DC 20240, is the primary author of 
this rulemaking document.

List of Subjects

50 CFR Part 25

    Administrative practice and procedure, Concessions, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Safety, Wildlife refuges.

50 CFR Part 32

    Fishing, Hunting, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, 
Wildlife, Wildlife refuges.

    For the reasons set forth in the preamble, the Service proposes to 
amend Title 50, Chapter I, subchapter C of the Code of Federal 
Regulations as follows:

PART 25--[AMENDED]

    1. The authority citation for part 25 is revised to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 16 U.S.C. 460k, 664, 668dd, and 715i, 
3901 et seq.; and Pub. L. 102-402, 106 Stat. 1961.

    2. Section 25.11 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read as 
follows:


Sec. 25.11  Purpose of regulations.

    (a) The regulations in this subchapter govern general 
administration of units of the National Wildlife Refuge System, public 
notice of changes in U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service policy regarding 
Refuge System units, issuance of permits required on Refuge System 
units and other administrative aspects involving the management of 
various units of the National Wildlife Refuge System. The regulations 
in this subchapter apply to areas of land and water held by the United 
States in fee title and to property interests in such land and water in 
less than fee, including but not limited to easements. For areas held 
in less than fee, the regulations in this subchapter apply only to the 
extent that the property interest held by the United States may be 
affected. The regulations in this subchapter also shall apply to and 
govern those areas of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal over which management 
responsibility has been transferred to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife 
Service pursuant to the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Act of 1992 (Pub. L. 
102-402, 106 Stat. 1961), prior to their establishment as a refuge and 
inclusion in the National Wildlife Refuge System.
* * * * *

PART 32--[AMENDED]

    3. The authority citation for part 32 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 16 U.S.C. 460k, 664, 668dd, and 715i.


Sec. 32.7  [Amended]

    4. Section 32.7 is amended by removing the listing of ``Kesterson 
National Wildlife Refuge'' from the State of California; by adding the 
alphabetical listings of ``Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife 
Refuge'' to the State of Colorado, ``Ten Thousand Islands National 
Wildlife Refuge'' to the State of Florida, ``Black Bayou Lake National 
Wildlife Refuge'' to the State of Louisiana, ``Fort Niobrara National 
Wildlife Refuge'' to the State of Nebraska, ``Balcones Canyonlands 
National Wildlife Refuge'' to the State of Texas, ``Leopold Wetland 
Management District'' to the State of Wisconsin; and by revising the 
listing of ``Wauby

[[Page 38962]]

National Wildlife Refuge'' under the State of South Dakota to read 
``Waubay National Wildlife Refuge''.
    5. Section 32.20 Alabama is amended by revising paragraphs B. and 
D. of Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.20  Alabama.

* * * * *

EUFAULA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt rabbit and squirrel on 
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition: 
Permits are required.
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may fish, frog and trap turtles on 
designated areas of the refuge subject to State fishing regulations 
and the following conditions:
    1. Fishing, frogging and turtle trapping open year-round in all 
waters contiguous with the Walter F. George Reservoir. Bank fishing 
permitted during daylight hours only.
    2. Fishing, including bow fishing, permitted in impounded refuge 
waters from March 1 through October 31, during daylight hours.
    3. Creel, possession, and size limit for Walter F. George Reservoir 
apply to all impounded refuge waters.
* * * * *
    6. Section 32.22 Arizona is amended by revising paragraphs A.4., 
A.6., A.9. and A.13., by removing paragraph B.3., redesignating 
paragraphs B.4., B.5. and B.6. as paragraphs B.3., B.4., B.5. 
respectively, and revising them, by revising paragraph D.1. and 
removing paragraph D.2. of Cibola National Wildlife Refuge to read as 
follows:


Sec. 32.22  Arizona.

* * * * *

CIBOLA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
    4. Hunters must pay a hunt fee in a portion of the refuge. 
Consult refuge hunting leaflet for location.
* * * * *
    6. Hunting in a portion of farm unit 2 closes at 12 p.m. each 
day. Consult refuge hunting leaflet for location.
* * * * *
    9. Waterfowl hunting requires the use of decoys on farm unit 2. 
Daily removal of decoys from the refuge required.
* * * * *
    13. The Hart Mine Marsh Area opens to hunting only between 10 
a.m. and 3 p.m. daily, during goose season.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    3. Hunters may hunt cottontail rabbit from September 1 through 
the last day of the respective State's quail season.
    4. During the Arizona waterfowl season, hunters may not hunt 
quail and rabbit in Farm Unit 2 until 12 p.m. each day.
    5. Hunters may not hunt within 50 yards of any road or levee.
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
    1. Fishermen may fish and frog in Cibola Lake only from March 15 
through Labor Day.
* * * * *
    7. Section 32.23 Arkansas is amended by adding paragraph D.3. of 
Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.23  Arkansas.

* * * * *

HOLLA BEND NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    3. Fishermen may bowfish only from August 1 through August 31 
subject to State bowfishing regulations. Only bowfishing equipment 
permitted. Fishermen may not use broad heads, field points, or metal 
arrows.
* * * * *
    8. Section 32.24 California is amended by removing Kesterson 
National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraphs A.1., A.2., A.3., 
A.4., and by adding paragraphs A.6., A.7. and A.8. of San Luis National 
Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.24  California.

* * * * *

SAN LUIS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
    1. Hunters may use only portable blinds and temporary blinds 
constructed of natural materials in the free-roam hunting area.
    2. Hunters must remove all portable blinds, decoys, and other 
personal equipment from the refuge following each day's hunt.
    3. Hunters may snipe hunt only within the free-roam portion of 
the San Luis unit's waterfowl hunting area. Snipe hunters may only 
possess and use nontoxic shot.
    4. In areas where the refuge limits hunter numbers through a 
daily permit process, hunters may not possess more than 25 shells 
while in the field.
* * * * *
    6. Hunters may not transport loaded firearms. This includes 
walking or bicycling between parking areas and spaced blind areas, 
or while traveling in a boat under power.
    7. Refuge restricts hunters, in the spaced blind area, to their 
original assigned blind except when they are placing decoys, 
traveling to and from the parking area, retrieving downed birds, or 
when shooting to retrieve crippled birds.
    8. Access to Salt Slough Unit free-roam hunting area is by boat 
only with a maximum speed limit of 5 mph. Prohibited boats include 
air-thrust and/or inboard water-thrust types.
* * * * *
    9. Section 32.25 Colorado is amended by removing and reserving 
the text of paragraph D. of Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge; by 
revising paragraph D of Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge; by 
revising paragraphs A., B., C., and D. of Browns Park National 
Wildlife Refuge; by adding the alphabetical listing of Rocky 
Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.25  Colorado.

* * * * *

ALAMOSA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. [Reserved]

ARAPAHO NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may fish in designated areas of the 
refuge subject to the following conditions:
    1. Fishermen may not fish between June 1 and July 31 each year.
    2. Fishermen may fish only during daylight hours.

BROWNS PARK NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt geese, 
ducks, coots, and mourning doves only in designated areas of the 
refuge.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt cottontail rabbits only 
in designated areas of the refuge.
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt mule deer and elk only in 
designated areas of the refuge.
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may fish only in designated areas of 
the refuge.
* * * * *

ROCK MOUNTAIN ARSENAL NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. [Reserved]
    B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
    C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may fish only in designated areas of 
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
    1. Refuge fishing permit required.
    2. Fishing permitted only from sunrise to sunset from April 15 
through October 15 annually.
    3. Catch and release only fishing.
    4. Additional refuge regulations listed in refuge fishing 
regulations leaflet and fishing permits.

    10. Section 32.28 Florida is amended by revising the introductory 
text of paragraph D. and adding paragraph D.3.of Cedar Keys National 
Wildlife; by revising paragraph D. of J.N. ``Ding'' Darling National 
Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraph D. of Lower Suwannee National 
Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraph A. of St. Marks National 
Wildlife Refuge; and by adding the alphabetical listing of Ten Thousand 
Islands National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.28  Florida.

* * * * *

[[Page 38963]]

CEDAR KEYS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may fish in salt water year round in 
accordance with State regulations subject to the following 
condition:
* * * * *
    3. A 300 foot buffer zone beginning at mean high tide line and 
extending into the waters around Seahorse Key closed to all public 
entry from March 1 through June 30.
* * * * *

J. N. ``DING'' DARLING NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may fish and crab on designated 
areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
    1. Fishing permitted in refuge waters except in areas designated 
as ``closed to public entry,'' and the Mangrove Head Pond, Tower 
Pond, and Tarpon Bay Slough at the Bailey Tract.
    2. Crabbing permitted in refuge waters except in areas 
designated as ``closed to public entry.''
    3. Fishermen may not take horseshoe crabs, stone crabs, or 
spider crabs.
    4. Fishermen may not take blue crabs for commercial purposes.
    5. Sport fishermen may take blue crabs along the Wildlife Drive 
only with the use of dip nets. Fishermen may not use lines, traps, 
or bait on or within 150 feet of the Wildlife Drive.
    6. Fishermen may use baited lines and traps within refuge waters 
if such devises are continuously attended/monitored and removed at 
the end of each day. Attended/monitored means that all devices used 
in the capture of blue crabs must be within the immediate view of 
the sport crabber.
    7. Daily limit of blue crabs is 20 per person of which no more 
that 10 shall be females.
* * * * *

LOWER SUWANNEE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may fish in accordance with State 
regulations subject to the following conditions:
    1. Fishermen may take game and nongame fish only with pole and 
line or rod and reel.
    2. Fishermen may not take turtles and frogs.
    3. Fishermen may not use boats in refuge ponds. Boats may not be 
left on the refuge overnight.
* * * * *

ST. MARKS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt ducks and 
coots in designated areas of the refuge subject to the following 
condition: Permits required.
* * * * *

TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt ducks and 
coots in designated areas of the refuge subject to the following 
condition: Permits required.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
    C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
    D. Sport Fishing. [Reserved]

    11. Section 32.29 Georgia is amended by revising paragraph D.1. of 
Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraphs D.1. 
and D.3. of Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge; and by revising 
paragraph C. of Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.29  Georgia.

* * * * *

BLACKBEARD ISLAND NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
    1. Fishermen may fish in freshwater year-round from sunrise to 
sunset, except during managed deer hunts.
* * * * *

HARRIS NECK NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
    1. Fishermen may fish in freshwater year-round from sunrise to 
sunset, except during managed deer hunts.
* * * * *
    3. Fishermen may use the Barbour River public boat ramp as 
public access year-round from 4:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.(midnight), 
daily. However, fishermen may not use the Barbour River public boat 
ramp as access from 12:00 p.m.(midnight) to 4:00 a.m., daily.
* * * * *

PIEDMONT NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer and 
turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following 
condition: Permits required.
* * * * *
    12. Section 32.30 Hawaii is amended by revising paragraph C. of 
Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.30  Hawaii.

* * * * *

HAKALAU FOREST NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt feral pigs and feral 
cattle on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following 
condition:
    1. Hunters must have reservations or permits to access the 
refuge from Keanakolu Road.
* * * * *
    13. Section 32.32 Illinois is amended by revising paragraphs A. and 
B., by revising the introductory text of paragraph C., by revising 
paragraph C. 3, by adding paragraph C.5., by revising the introductory 
text of paragraph D. and paragraphs D.1., D.2., D.3., D.4. and D.5. of 
Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraphs A.1., 
A.2., A.3. and the introductory text of paragraph B. of Cypress Creek 
National Wildlife Refuge; by adding paragraphs A.1., A.2., C.1., and 
D.4. of Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.32  Illinois.

* * * * *

CRAB ORCHARD NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    A. Hunting of Migratory Birds. Hunters may hunt waterfowl on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with posted regulations 
and subject to the following conditions.
    1. Hunters may hunt waterfowl, by daily permit drawing, on the 
controlled areas of Grassy Point, Carterville, and Greenbriar land 
areas, plus Orchard, Sawmill, Turkey, and Grassy islands, from one-
half hour before sunrise to posted closing times each day during the 
goose season. Hunters may hunt waterfowl in these areas, including 
the lake shoreline, only from existing refuge blinds during the 
goose season.
    2. Waterfowl hunters outside the controlled goose hunting areas 
may use only portable or temporary blinds. Blinds must be a minimum 
of 200 yards apart and removed or dismantled at the end of each 
day's hunt.
    3. Goose hunters outside the controlled goose hunting area on 
Crab Orchard Lake must hunt from a blind that is on shore or 
anchored a minimum of 200 yards away from any shoreline.
    4. Hunters may possess and use only nontoxic shot while hunting 
migratory game bird species.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt upland game on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with posted regulations 
and subject to the following conditions:
    1. Upland game hunting prohibited in the controlled goose 
hunting areas during the goose hunting season, except furbearer 
hunting permitted from sunset to sunrise.
    2. Hunters may not use rifles or handguns with ammunition larger 
than .22 caliber rim fire, except they may use black powder firearms 
up to and including .40 caliber.
    3. Hunters may possess and use only nontoxic shot while hunting 
all permitted species except wild turkey. Hunters may possess and 
use lead shot for hunting wild turkey.
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer on 
designated areas of the refuge in accordance with posted regulations 
and subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
    3. Hunters may not hunt deer in the controlled goose hunting 
areas during the goose hunting season.
* * * * *
    5. Permitted hunters may use center fire ammunition for handgun 
deer hunting during the handgun deer season.
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may fish on designated areas of the 
refuge in accordance

[[Page 38964]]

with posted regulations and subject to the following conditions:
    1. Crab Orchard Lake--west of Wolf Creek Road--Fishermen may 
fish from boats all year. Fishermen must remove trot-lines/jugs from 
sunrise until sunset from Memorial Day through Labor Day; east of 
Wolf Creek Road--fishermen may fish from boats March 15 through 
September 30. Fishermen may fish all year at the Wolf Creek and 
Route 148 causeway areas. Fishermen must check and remove fish from 
all jugs and trot lines daily. It is illegal to use stakes to anchor 
any trot-lines; they must be tagged with angler's name and address. 
Fishermen may use all noncommercial fishing methods except they may 
not use underwater breathing apparatus. Fishermen may not use jugs 
or trot-lines with any flotation device that has previously 
contained any petroleum-based materials or toxic substances. 
Fishermen must attach a buoyed device that is visible on the water's 
surface to all trot-lines.
    2. A-41, Bluegill, Blue Heron, Managers, Honkers, and Visitors 
Ponds: Fishermen may fish only from sunrise to sunset March 15 
through September 30. Fishermen may not use boats or flotation 
devices.
    3. Fishermen may not submerge any pole or similar object to take 
or locate any fish.
    4. Organizers of all fishing events must possess a refuge-issued 
permit.
    5. Fishermen may not fish within 250 yards of an occupied 
waterfowl hunting blind.
* * * * *

CYPRESS CREEK NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds.* * *
    1. Site specific regulations apply to dove hunting on sunflower 
fields.
    2. Duck hunters may not hunt on the Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve.
    3. Only goose hunters allowed in Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve 
following the closure of the regular duck hunting season. Special 
site regulations apply.
* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt bob-white quail, 
rabbit, squirrel, raccoon, opossum, coyote, red fox, grey fox and 
turkey (spring) on designated areas of the refuge subject to the 
following conditions:
* * * * *

EMIQUON NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds.* * *
    1. Only temporary structures or blinds constructed of native 
materials are permitted.
    2. Hunters must remove boats, decoys, and portable blinds at the 
end of each day's hunt.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Hunters must remove hunting stands at the end of each day's 
hunt.
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    4. Fishermen may not sportfish in areas open to hunting during 
hunting seasons.
* * * * *
    14. Section 32.35 Kansas is amended by removing paragraph C.2., and 
by revising paragraph D. of Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge; by 
revising paragraph D., of Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge; and by 
revising paragraph D. Of Quivira National Wildlife Refuge to read as 
follows:.
* * * * *


Sec. 32.35  Kansas.

* * * * *

FLINT HILLS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may sportfish on designated portions 
of the refuge subject to State regulations and any refuge specific 
regulations as listed in the refuge brochure.

KIRWIN NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may sportfish on designated areas of 
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
    1. Fishermen may fish in accordance with the Kirwin National 
Wildlife Refuge Visitor's Map and Guide.
    2. Fishermen may not use motorized vehicles on the ice.

QUIVIRA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may sportfish on designated portions 
of the refuge subject to State regulations and any refuge specific 
regulations as listed in the refuge brochure.

    15. Section 32.37 Louisiana is amended by adding the alphabetical 
listing of Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge; by revising 
paragraph D.3., of Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge; by revising 
paragraphs A., B., and C. of D'Arbonne National Wildlife Refuge; and by 
revising paragraphs A., B., and C. of Upper Ouachita National Wildlife 
Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.37  Louisiana.

* * * * *

BLACK BAYOU LAKE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. [Reserved]
    B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
    C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may fish on designated areas of the 
refuge subject to the following conditions:
    1. Fishermen may fish from sunrise to sunset.
    2. Fishermen may not leave boats or other personal equipment on 
the refuge overnight. Fishermen may launch boats only at designated 
sites. Fishermen may not use boat motors greater that 50 horsepower.
    3. Fishermen may not use trotlines, limb lines, yo-yos, traps or 
nets.
    4. Fishermen may not take frogs, turtles and mollusks.
* * * * *

CATAHOULA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    3. Cowpen Bayou and the HWY 28 borrow pits open to fishing all 
year.
* * * * *

D'ARBONNE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt ducks, 
coots, and woodcock on designated areas of the refuge subject to the 
following condition: Permits required.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt quail, squirrel, 
rabbit, raccoon and opossum on designated areas of the refuge 
subject to the following condition: Permits required.
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer on 
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition: 
Permits required.
* * * * *

UPPER OUACHITA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt ducks, 
coots, and woodcock on designated areas of the refuge subject to the 
following condition: Permits required.
* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt quail, squirrel, 
rabbit, raccoon and opossum on designated areas of the refuge 
subject to the following condition: Permits required.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer on 
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition: 
Permits required.
* * * * *
    16. Section 32.42 Minnesota is amended by revising paragraphs A., 
B., and adding paragraph C.4. of Minnesota Valley National Wildlife 
Refuge; by revising paragraphs A., B., C., and D. of Morris Wetland 
Management District; by removing paragraph C.3. and redesignating 
paragraphs C.4. and C.5. as paragraphs C.3. and C.4., respectively, of 
Rydell National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.42  Minnesota.

* * * * *

MINNESOTA VALLEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt geese, 
ducks, and coots on designated areas of the refuge. Permits are 
required for special hunts.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt upland game, except for 
furbearers and crows, on designated areas of the refuge consistent 
with state regulations, subject to the following conditions:
    1. Hunters may only use shotguns and bows and arrows in 
designated areas.
    2. Hunters may only use or possess non-toxic shot.
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *

[[Page 38965]]

    4. Hunters may not use or possess single shot projectiles 
(shotgun slugs, or bullets) on the Soberg Waterfowl Production Area.
* * * * *

MORRIS WETLAND MANAGEMENT DISTRICT

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunting of migratory game 
birds is permitted throughout the district subject to the following 
condition:
    1. Hunters may not hunt on designated portions of the Edwards-
Long Lake Waterfowl Production Area in Stevens County.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Upland game hunting is permitted 
throughout the district subject to the following condition:
    1. Hunters may not hunt on designated portions of the Edwards-
Long Lake Waterfowl Production Area in Stevens County.
    C. Big Game Hunting. Big game hunting is permitted throughout 
the district subject to the following condition:
    1. Hunters may not hunt on designated portions of the Edwards-
Long Lake Waterfowl Production Area in Stevens County.
    D. Sport Fishing. Sport fishing is permitted throughout the 
district subject to the following condition:
    1. Fishermen may not fish on designated portions of the Edwards-
Long Lake Waterfowl Production Area in Stevens County.
* * * * *

RYDELL NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    3. Hunters may not construct or use permanent blinds, permanent 
platforms, or permanent ladders. Hunters may use portable stands, 
but must remove them from the refuge at the end of each day's hunt.
    4. Hunters who harvest deer in the Special Permit Area must take 
their deer to the refuge check station.
* * * * *
    17. Section 32.43 Mississippi is amended by revising paragraphs A., 
B., C., and D., of Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge; by revising 
paragraph A. of St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge; by 
revising paragraphs A., B., and C. of Tallahatchie National Wildlife 
Refuge; and by revising paragraph A. of Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge 
to read as follows:


Sec. 32.43  Mississippi.

* * * * *

NOXUBEE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt waterfowl, 
coots, and woodcock on designated areas of the refuge subject to the 
following condition: Permits required.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt quail, squirrel, 
rabbit, beaver, raccoon and opossum on designated areas of the 
refuge subject to the following condition: Permits required.
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer and 
turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following 
condition: Permits required.
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may fish on designated areas of the 
refuge subject to the following condition: Permits required.
* * * * *

ST. CATHERINE CREEK NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt ducks, 
geese and coots on designated areas of the refuge subject to the 
following condition: Permits required.
* * * * *

TALLAHATCHIE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt mourning 
doves, migratory waterfowl, coots, snipe and woodcock on designated 
areas of the refuge subject to the following condition: Permits 
required.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt quail, squirrel, 
rabbit, beaver, raccoon and opossum on designated areas of the 
refuge subject to the following condition: Permits required.
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt deer and turkey on 
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition: 
Permits required.
* * * * *

YAZOO NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt mourning 
doves and waterfowl on designated areas of the refuge subject to the 
following condition: Permits required.
* * * * *
    18. Section 32.45 Montana is amended by revising paragraphs A., B., 
and D., of Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge; by revising 
paragraph B. of Hailstone National Wildlife Refuge; by removing and 
reserving the text of paragraphs A., B., and C. of Halfbreed Lake 
National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraph C. of Lake Mason 
National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraph D. of Swan River 
National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraph B. of UL Bend National 
Wildlife Refuge; and by revising paragraph D. of War Horse National 
Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.45  Montana.

* * * * *

CHARLES M. RUSSELL NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Refuge open to hunting of 
migratory game birds in accordance with state law.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunting of upland game birds, turkey and 
coyote is permitted on designated areas of the refuge subject to the 
following condition:
    1. Coyote hunting allowed from the first day of antelope rifle 
season through March 1 annually.
* * * * *
    D. Sport fishing. Refuge open to sport fishing in accordance 
with state law, and as specifically designated in refuge 
publications.
* * * * *

HAILSTONE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt upland game birds on 
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
    1. Hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only 
nontoxic shot.
* * * * *

HALFBREED LAKE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. [Reserved]
    B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
    C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
* * * * *

LAKE MASON NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. Refuge open to big game hunting in 
accordance with state law.
* * * * *

SWAN RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. Refuge open to sport fishing in accordance 
with state law, and as specifically designated in refuge 
publications.

UL BEND NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Refuge is open to upland game hunting in 
accordance with state laws, regulations and the following condition:
    1. Coyote hunting allowed from the first day of antelope rifle 
season through March 1 annually.
* * * * *

WAR HORSE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *

D. Sport Fishing. Refuge open to sport fishing in accordance with state 
law, and as specifically designated in refuge publications.

    19. Section 32.46 Nebraska is amended by revising paragraph C. of 
Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge; by adding alphabetically Fort 
Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraph D. of 
Valentine National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.46  Nebraska.

* * * * *

[[Page 38966]]

CRESCENT LAKE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer and mule 
deer on designated areas of the refuge pursuant to State law.
* * * * *

FORT NIOBRARA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. [Reserved]
    B. Upland Game Hunting. [Reserved]
    C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may fish on designated portions of 
the refuge subject to state regulations and any specific regulations 
as listed in refuge publications.

VALENTINE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may fish on designated portions of 
the refuge subject to state regulations and any specific regulations 
as listed in refuge publications.

    20. Section 32.47 Nevada is amended by revising paragraphs D.1., 
D.2., and removing paragraph D.3., of Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge 
to read as follows:
* * * * *


Sec. 32.47  Nevada.

* * * * *

SHELDON NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
    1. Fishermen may only bank fish, fish by wading, use 
nonmotorized boats, float tubes and similar floatation devices in 
Big Springs Reservoir, Dufurrena Ponds, and Catnip Reservoir. 
Fishermen may not fish from motorized boats.
    2. Only individuals 12 years of age or under, or 65 years of age 
or older, or individuals who are disabled are permitted to fish in 
McGee Pond.
* * * * *
    21. Section 32.49 New Jersey is amended by revising paragraphs A., 
C., and D. of Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge to read as 
follows:


Sec. 32.49  New Jersey.

* * * * *

WALLKILL RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt migratory 
game birds on designated areas of the refuge subject to the 
following conditions:
    1. Hunters must sign and be in possession of refuge hunting 
permits at all times while hunting on the refuge.
    2. Refuge hunting regulations, as listed in the hunting leaflet 
for Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge, will be in effect.
    3. Shotgun hunters may use or possess only nontoxic shot while 
hunting migratory game birds.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer and wild 
turkeys on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following 
conditions:
    1. Hunters must sign and be in possession of refuge hunting 
permits at all times while hunting on the refuge.
    2. Refuge hunting regulations, as listed in the hunting leaflet 
for Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge, will be in effect.
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may sportfish on designated areas of 
the refuge subject to the following conditions:
    1. Fishermen may fish from canoes or cartop boats on the 
Wallkill River.
    2. Anglers must park in designated parking areas if accessing 
the Wallkill River through refuge land.
    3. Fishermen may not take frogs and/or turtles.
    4. Fishermen may not fish at night.

    22. Section 32.55 Oklahoma is amended by revising paragraph B. of 
Deep Fork National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraphs A., B., and 
C. of Little River National Wildlife Refuge; by removing paragraph B.3. 
of Optima National Wildlife Refuge; by revising the introductory text 
of paragraph B., by adding paragraph B.4., by removing paragraphs C.3. 
and C.4., and redesignating paragraph C.5. as paragraph C.3. of 
Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge; by removing paragraph B.2., by 
revising paragraph D.1. of Washita National Wildlife Refuge; and by 
revising paragraph D.4. of Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge 
to read as follows:


Sec. 32.55  Oklahoma.

* * * * *

DEEP FORK NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt rabbits and squirrels 
on portions of the refuge in accordance with state hunting 
regulations subject to the following exceptions and conditions:
    1. Hunters may hunt squirrels on portions of Deep Fork National 
Wildlife Refuge during the state season except it is closed during 
the first half of archery deer season.
    2. Hunters may hunt rabbits on portions of Deep Fork National 
Wildlife Refuge during the state season except it is closed from the 
beginning of the archery deer season until after rifle deer season.
    3. Hunters may only use shotguns with non-toxic shot.
    4. The refuge leaflet designates all hunting and parking areas.
* * * * *

LITTLE RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt waterfowl 
(ducks) in Units 2 and 4 of the refuge subject to the following 
conditions:
    1. The season will open not earlier than November 15 and close 
not later than December 20 each year.
    2. Prohibited off-road vehicle use.
    3. Hunters may not build permanent blinds.
    4. Hunters may hunt only from one-half hour before sunrise until 
noon each day.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt squirrel, rabbit, 
turkey and raccoon on designated areas of the refuge subject to the 
following conditions:
    1. Turkey hunters must obtain permits and pay fees.
    2. Prohibited off-road vehicle use.
    3. Hunters may hunt raccoons only from October 1 through 
December 20 annually.
    4. Shotgun hunters may not possess or use lead shot.
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt deer on designated 
portions of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
    1. Hunters must obtain permits and pay fees.
    2. Prohibited off-road vehicle use.
* * * * *

TISHOMINGO NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt quail, squirrel, turkey 
and rabbits on the Tishomingo Wildlife Management Unit of the refuge 
subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
    4. Turkey hunters may only hunt during the statewide spring 
shotgun season and during the fall archery season.
* * * * *

WASHITA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
    1. Fishermen may fish and frog only from March 15 through 
October 14 on the Washita River and Foss Reservoir. Fishermen may 
bank fish from the Lakeview Recreation Area to the Pitts Creek 
Recreation Area all year.
* * * * *

WICHITA MOUNTAINS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
* * * * *
    4. Fishermen may only catch largemouth and smallmouth bass 
between 13-16 inches in length, but there is no size limit on 
spotted bass, with a daily creel limit of 6 (aggregate) at Lake 
Elmer Thomas.
* * * * *
    23. Section 32.56 Oregon is amended by adding paragraph A.6. of 
Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraphs A.2., 
B.1., B.2., B.3., and D.1. of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge; by 
adding paragraph A.7. of McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge; by 
adding paragraph A.6 and revising paragraph C of Umatilla National 
Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.56  Oregon.

* * * * *

[[Page 38967]]

COLD SPRINGS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
    6. Snipe hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only 
nontoxic shot.
* * * * *

MALHEUR NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
    2. Hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only 
nontoxic shot.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Hunters may hunt pheasant, quail, partridge, and rabbit from 
the third Saturday in November to the end of the pheasant season in 
designated areas of the Blitzen Valley east of Highway 205, and on 
designated areas open to waterfowl hunting.
    2. Hunters may hunt all upland game species during authorized 
State seasons on the refuge area west of Highway 205 and south of 
Foster Flat Road.
    3. Hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only 
nontoxic shot when hunting on designated areas east of Highway 205.
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. * * *
    1. Fishermen may fish year-round in the Blitzen River, East 
Canal, and Mud Creek upstream from and including Bridge Creek. 
Fishermen may fish in Krumbo Reservoir during the State season from 
the fourth Saturday in April to the end of October.
* * * * *

McKAY CREEK NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
    7. Snipe hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only 
nontoxic shot.
* * * * *

UMATILLA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
    6. Snipe hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only 
nontoxic shot.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt deer on designated areas 
of the refuge subject to the following condition:
    1. Hunting by permit only.
* * * * *
    24. Section 32.57 Pennsylvania is amended by adding paragraph A.3., 
by revising the introductory text of paragraph B., by revising 
paragraphs B.3. and B.5., and by revising paragraphs C.1., C.2., and 
C.3. of Erie National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.57  Pennsylvania.

* * * * *

ERIE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
    3. No dog training.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt grouse, squirrel, 
rabbit, woodchuck, pheasant, quail, raccoon, fox, skunk, opossum and 
coyote on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following 
conditions:
* * * * *
    3. Upland game hunters must wear on head, chest and back, a 
minimum of 400 square inches of blaze orange material.
* * * * *
    5. Dog trainers must obtain permits.
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Hunters may hunt only from March 1 through August 31 except 
for spring turkey season.
    2. Hunters must remove blinds, platforms, scaffolds, and/or tree 
stands from the refuge daily.
    3. All deer hunters must wear on head, chest and back, a minimum 
of 400 square inches of blaze orange material during antlered, 
anterless and muzzleloader seasons.
* * * * *
    25. Section 32.61 South Dakota is amended by revising paragraph D. 
of Waubay National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.61  South Dakota.

* * * * *

WAUBAY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. Sport fishermen may fish on the refuge in 
accordance with state law, and as specifically designated in refuge 
publications.

    26. Section 32.62 Tennessee is amended by revising paragraphs A., 
and D.2., and adding paragraph D.3. of Chickasaw National Wildlife 
Refuge; by revising paragraphs A. and D. of Lower Hatchie National 
Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.62  Tennessee.

* * * * *

CHICKASAW NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt ducks, 
coots, mourning doves, woodcock, and snipe on designated areas of 
the refuge subject to the following condition: Permits required.
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing.* * *
* * * * *
    2. Fishermen may fish only from sunrise to sunset.
    3. Fishermen may not frog or turtle on the refuge.
* * * * *

LOWER HATCHIE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt ducks, 
coots, mourning doves, woodcock, and snipe on designated areas of 
the refuge subject to the following condition: Permits required.
* * * * *
    1D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may fish on designated areas of the 
refuge and Sunk Lake Public Use Natural Area subject to the 
following conditions:
    1. Only with pole and line or rod and reel.
    2. Only from sunrise to sunset.
    3. Fishermen may not frog or turtle.
    4. Fishermen may not fish in the sanctuary areas or Sunk Lake 
Public Use Natural Area from November 15 through March 15 annually.
* * * * *
    27. Section 32.63 Texas is amended by revising paragraphs A.1., 
A.2., A.4., removing paragraph A.6 and redesignating paragraph A.7. as 
paragraph A.6. of Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge; by adding 
alphabetically the listing of Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife 
Refuge; by revising paragraphs B.2., B.3, and C. of Hagerman National 
Wildlife Refuge; by revising paragraphs A.1., A.2., A.6. and adding 
paragraph A.7. of McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge; and by revising 
paragraphs A.1., A.2., A.5., and adding paragraph A.6. of Texas Point 
National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.63  Texas.

* * * * *

ANAHUAC NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
    1. Permits and payment of a fee required to hunt on portions of 
the refuge.
    2. Hunters may hunt only on designated days of the week during 
the general waterfowl hunting season. Hunters may hunt on designated 
areas during all days of the September teal season. Notice of 
hunting days and maps depicting areas open to hunting are issued 
annually in the refuge hunting brochure.
* * * * *
    4. Hunters must use and be in possession of federally-approved 
non-toxic shot only.
* * * * *

BALCONES CANYONLANDS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. [Reserved]
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt turkey on designated 
areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
    1. Hunting will take place in December and/or January.
    2. Hunters must check in and out of a hunt area.
    3. Hunters may use only bows and arrows or shotguns and rifles.
    4. Hunters shall be at least 12 years of age. Hunters between 
the ages of 12 and 17 (inclusive) must hunt under the supervision of 
an adult 21 years of age or older.
    5. Bag limit must be in accordance with annual state 
regulations.
    6. Hunters must visibly wear 400 square inches of hunter orange 
above the waist. Wearing a hunter orange hat or cap mandatory.

[[Page 38968]]

    7. Hunters must obtain a refuge permit and pay a hunt fee.
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer and 
feral hogs on designated areas of the refuge subject to the 
following conditions:
    1. Hunting will take place in December and/or January.
    2. Hunters must check in and out of a hunt area.
    3. Hunters may use only bows and arrows, or shotguns and rifles.
    4. Hunters shall be at least 12 years of age. Hunters between 
the ages of 12 and 17 (inclusive) must hunt under the supervision of 
an adult 21 years of age or older.
    5. Bag limit must be in accordance with annual state 
regulations.
    6. Hunters must visibly wear 400 square inches of hunter orange 
above the waist. Wearing a hunter orange hat or cap mandatory.
    7. Hunters must obtain a refuge permit and pay a hunt fee.
    D. Sport Fishing. [Reserved]
* * * * *

HAGERMAN NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    2. Only shotguns permitted.
    3. No shot larger than No. 4 shot may be brought onto the area.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt white-tailed deer and 
feral hogs on designated areas of the refuge subject to the 
following conditions:
    1. Hunters may archery hunt as listed in the refuge hunt 
information sheet. Hunters must obtain a refuge permit and pay a 
hunt fee.
    2. Firearms hunting utilizing shotguns, 20 gauge or larger, 
loaded with rifled slug, permitted during a special youth hunt as 
listed in the refuge hunt information sheet. Permits required.
* * * * *

MCFADDIN NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds.* * *
    1. Hunters must obtain a refuge permit and pay a hunt fee to 
hunt on portions of the refuge.
    2. Hunters may hunt only on designated days of the week during 
the general waterfowl hunting season. Hunters may hunt on designated 
areas during all days of the September teal season. Notice of 
hunting days and maps depicting areas open to hunting issued 
annually in the refuge hunting brochure.
* * * * *
    6. Hunters must use and be in possession of federally-approved 
non-toxic shot only.
    7. Hunters may use only airboats in accordance with guidelines 
issued in the refuge hunting brochure.
* * * * *

TEXAS POINT NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds.* * *
    1. Hunters may hunt only on designated days of the week during 
the general waterfowl hunting season and the September teal season. 
Notice of hunting days and maps depicting areas open to hunting 
issued annually in the refuge hunting brochure.
    2. Hunting permitted until noon.
* * * * *
    5. Hunters must use and be in possession of federally-approved 
non-toxic shot only.
    6. Hunters may use only airboats in accordance with guidelines 
issued in the refuge hunting brochure.
* * * * *
    28. Section 32.64 Utah is amended by revising paragraph D. of 
Ouray National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.64  Utah.

* * * * *

OURAY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. The refuge is open to sport fishing in 
accordance with state law, and as specifically designated in refuge 
publications.

    29. Section 32.66 Virginia is amended by revising paragraph C.6. 
and adding paragraph C.7. of Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife 
Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.66  Virginia.

* * * * *

GREAT DISMAL SWAMP NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. * * *
* * * * *
    6. Hunters may not possess a loaded firearm (ammunition in the 
chamber, magazine, or clip), or loaded bow on or within 50 feet of a 
refuge road, including roads closed to vehicles.
    7. Hunters may not shoot onto or across a refuge road, including 
roads closed to vehicles.
* * * * *
    30. Section 32.67 Washington is amended by revising paragraphs 
A.1., A.3. A.4., A.5., A.6. and removing paragraph A.7. of McNary 
National Wildlife Refuge; and by adding paragraph A.5., and revising 
paragraph B.1. of Toppenish National Wildlife Refuge; by adding 
paragraph A.6., by removing and reserving the text of paragraph C. of 
Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.67  Washington.

* * * * *

MCNARY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
    1. Hunting is by permit only on the McNary Division.
* * * * *
    3. Snipe hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only 
nontoxic shot.
    4. Hunters may not possess more than 25 shells while in the 
field.
    5. On the first Saturday in December, only youth aged 10-17 and 
an accompanying adult aged 18 or over may hunt.
    6. The furthest downstream island (Columbia River mile 341-343) 
in the Hanford Islands Division closed to hunting.
* * * * *

TOPPENISH NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
    5. Snipe hunters will possess and use, while in the field, only 
nontoxic shot.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. * * *
    1. Hunters may not hunt upland game birds until noon of each 
hunt day.
* * * * *

UMATILLA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. * * *
* * * * *
    6. Snipe hunters shall possess and use, while in the field, only 
nontoxic shot.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. [Reserved]
* * * * *
    31. Section 32.69 Wisconsin is amended by adding the 
alphabetical listing of Leopold Wetland Management District to read 
as follows:


Sec. 32.69  Wisconsin.

* * * * *

LEOPOLD WETLAND MANAGEMENT DISTRICT

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt migratory 
game birds throughout the District except that hunters may not hunt 
on designated portions of the Blue-wing Waterfowl Production Area in 
Ozaukee County or the Wilcox Waterfowl Production Area in Waushara 
County.
    B. Upland Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt upland game throughout 
the district except that hunters may not hunt on designated portions 
of the Blue-wing Waterfowl Production Area in Ozaukee County or the 
Wilcox Waterfowl Production Area in Waushara County.
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt big game throughout the 
District except that hunters may not hunt on designated portions of 
the Blue-wing Waterfowl Production Area in Ozaukee County or the 
Wilcox Waterfowl Production Area in Waushara County.
    D. Sport Fishing. [Reserved]
* * * * *
    32. Section 32.70 Wyoming is amended by revising the introductory 
text of paragraph C. and revising paragraph D. of National Elk Refuge; 
and by revising paragraphs A., C., and D. of Seedskadee National 
Wildlife Refuge to read as follows:


Sec. 32.70  Wyoming.

* * * * *

NATIONAL ELK REFUGE

* * * * *

[[Page 38969]]

    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt elk and bison on 
designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
* * * * *
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may sport fish on the refuge in 
accordance with State law, as specifically designated in refuge 
publications.
* * * * *

SEEDSKADEE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

    A. Hunting of Migratory Game Birds. Hunters may hunt migratory 
game birds only on designated areas of the refuge.
* * * * *
    C. Big Game Hunting. Hunters may hunt pronghorn antelope, mule 
deer and moose only on designated areas of the refuge.
    D. Sport Fishing. Fishermen may sport fish on the refuge only in 
accordance with State law, and as specifically designated in refuge 
publications.

    Dated: July 9, 1997.
Donald J. Barry,
Acting Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks.
[FR Doc. 97-18515 Filed 7-18-97; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-55-P