[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 168 (Wednesday, August 31, 2005)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 51984-51992]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-17332]



[[Page 51983]]

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Part IV





Department of the Interior





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Fish and Wildlife Service



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50 CFR Part 20



Migratory Bird Hunting; Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations on Certain 
Federal Indian Reservations and Ceded Lands for the 2005-06 Early 
Season; Final Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 168 / Wednesday, August 31, 2005 / 
Rules and Regulations  

[[Page 51984]]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 20

RIN 1018-AT76


Migratory Bird Hunting; Migratory Bird Hunting Regulations on 
Certain Federal Indian Reservations and Ceded Lands for the 2005-06 
Early Season

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This rule prescribes special early season migratory bird 
hunting regulations for certain tribes on Federal Indian reservations, 
off-reservation trust lands, and ceded lands. This responds to tribal 
requests for U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (hereinafter Service or we) 
recognition of their authority to regulate hunting under established 
guidelines. This rule allows the establishment of season bag limits 
and, thus, harvest at levels compatible with populations and habitat 
conditions.

DATES: This rule takes effect on September 1, 2005.

ADDRESSES: You may inspect comments received on the proposed special 
hunting regulations and tribal proposals during normal business hours 
in room 4107, Arlington Square Building, 4501 N. Fairfax Drive, 
Arlington, Virginia.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ron W. Kokel, Division of Migratory 
Bird Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, (703) 358-1967.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of July 
3, 1918 (40 Stat. 755; 16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.), authorizes and directs 
the Secretary of the Department of the Interior, having due regard for 
the zones of temperature and for the distribution, abundance, economic 
value, breeding habits, and times and lines of flight of migratory game 
birds, to determine when, to what extent, and by what means such birds 
or any part, nest, or egg thereof may be taken, hunted, captured, 
killed, possessed, sold, purchased, shipped, carried, exported, or 
transported.
    In the August 5, 2005, Federal Register (70 FR 45336), we proposed 
special migratory bird hunting regulations for the 2005-06 hunting 
season for certain Indian tribes, under the guidelines described in the 
June 4, 1985, Federal Register (50 FR 23467). The guidelines respond to 
tribal requests for Service recognition of their reserved hunting 
rights, and for some tribes, recognition of their authority to regulate 
hunting by both tribal members and nonmembers on their reservations. 
The guidelines include possibilities for:
    (1) On-reservation hunting by both tribal members and nonmembers, 
with hunting by nontribal members on some reservations to take place 
within Federal frameworks but on dates different from those selected by 
the surrounding State(s);
    (2) On-reservation hunting by tribal members only, outside of usual 
Federal frameworks for season dates and length, and for daily bag and 
possession limits; and
    (3) Off-reservation hunting by tribal members on ceded lands, 
outside of usual framework dates and season length, with some added 
flexibility in daily bag and possession limits.
    In all cases, the regulations established under the guidelines must 
be consistent with the March 10-September 1 closed season mandated by 
the 1916 Migratory Bird Treaty with Canada.
    In the April 6, 2005, Federal Register (70 FR 17574), we requested 
that tribes desiring special hunting regulations in the 2005-06 hunting 
season submit a proposal including details on:
    (a) Harvest anticipated under the requested regulations;
    (b) Methods that would be employed to measure or monitor harvest 
(such as bag checks, mail questionnaires, etc.);
    (c) Steps that would be taken to limit level of harvest, where it 
could be shown that failure to limit such harvest would adversely 
impact the migratory bird resource; and
    (d) Tribal capabilities to establish and enforce migratory bird 
hunting regulations.
    No action is required if a tribe wishes to observe the hunting 
regulations established by the State(s) in which an Indian reservation 
is located. We have successfully used the guidelines since the 1985-86 
hunting season. We finalized the guidelines beginning with the 1988-89 
hunting season (August 18, 1988, Federal Register (53 FR 31612)).
    Although the proposed rule included generalized regulations for 
both early- and late-season hunting, this rulemaking addresses only the 
early-season proposals. Late-season hunting will be addressed in late-
September. As a general rule, early seasons begin during September each 
year and have a primary emphasis on such species as mourning and white-
winged dove. Late seasons begin about October 1 or later each year and 
have a primary emphasis on waterfowl.

Population Status and Harvest

    The following paragraphs provide a brief summary of information on 
the status and harvest of waterfowl excerpted from various reports. For 
more detailed information on methodologies and results, you may obtain 
complete copies of the various reports at the address indicated under 
ADDRESSES or from our Web site at http://migratorybirds.fws.gov.

Status of Ducks

    Federal, provincial, and State agencies conduct surveys each spring 
to estimate the size of breeding populations and to evaluate the 
conditions of the habitats. These surveys are conducted using fixed-
wing aircraft and helicopters and encompass principal breeding areas of 
North America, and more than 2.0 million square miles. The Traditional 
survey area comprises Alaska, Canada, and the northcentral United 
States, and includes approximately 1.3 million square miles. The 
Eastern survey area includes parts of Ontario, Quebec, Labrador, 
Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, New 
York, and Maine, an area of approximately 0.7 million square miles.
Breeding Ground Conditions
    Habitat conditions at the time of the survey in May 2005 were 
variable, with some areas improved relative to last year and others 
remaining or becoming increasingly dry. The total May pond estimate 
(Prairie and Parkland Canada and the northcentral U.S. combined) was 
5.4  0.2 million ponds. This was 37 percent greater than 
last year's estimate of 3.9  0.2 million ponds and 12 
percent higher than the long-term average of 4.8  0.1 
million ponds.
    Habitat in the surveyed portion of the U.S. prairies was in fair to 
poor condition due to a dry fall, winter, and early spring and warm 
winter temperatures. Nesting habitat was particularly poor in South 
Dakota because of below average precipitation resulting in degraded 
wetland conditions and increased tilling and grazing of wetland 
margins. Birds may have overflown the State for wetter conditions to 
the north. Water levels and upland nesting cover were relatively better 
in North Dakota and eastern Montana, and wetland conditions in these 
regions improved markedly during June following the survey, with the 
onset of well-above average precipitation. The 2005 pond estimate for 
north-central U.S. (1.5  0.1 million) was similar to last 
year's estimate.

[[Page 51985]]

    The prairies of southern Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan were 
also quite dry in early May. The U.S. and Canadian prairies received 
substantial rain in late May and during the entire month of June that 
recharged wetlands and encouraged growth of vegetation. While this rain 
improved habitat quality on the Prairies, it probably came too late to 
benefit early-nesting species or prevent overflight. This heavy rain 
likely benefited late-nesting species and improved renesting. Record 
high rains flooded the lower elevation prairie areas of central 
Manitoba during April, producing fair or poor nesting conditions for 
breeding waterfowl. In contrast, the Canadian Parklands were much 
improved compared to last year, due to several years of improving 
nesting cover and above-normal precipitation last fall and winter. 
These areas were in good-to-excellent condition at the start of the 
survey and remained so into July. Overall, the May pond estimate in 
Prairie and Parkland Canada was 3.9  0.2 million. This was 
a 56 percent increase over last year's estimate of 2.5  0.1 
million ponds and 17 percent higher than the long-term average of 3.3 
 0.3 million ponds. Portions of northern Manitoba and 
northern Saskatchewan also experienced flooding, resulting in only fair 
conditions for breeding waterfowl.
    In contrast, most of the Northwest Territories was in good 
condition due to adequate water and a timely spring break-up that made 
habitat available to early-nesting species. However, dry conditions in 
eastern parts of the Northwest Territories and northern Alberta 
resulted in low water levels in lakes and ponds and the complete drying 
of some wetlands. Therefore, habitat was also classified as fair in 
these areas.
    For the most part, habitats in Alaska were in excellent condition, 
with an early spring and good water levels, except for a few flooded 
river areas and on the North Slope, where spring was late.
    In the Eastern Survey Area (strata 51-72), habitat conditions were 
generally good due to adequate water and relatively mild spring 
temperatures. Exceptions were the coast of Maine and the Atlantic 
Provinces, where May temperatures were cool and some flooding occurred 
along the coast and major rivers. Also, below-normal precipitation left 
some habitat in fair to poor condition in southern Ontario. However, 
precipitation in southern Ontario after survey completion improved 
habitat conditions in that region.
Breeding Population Status
    In the Waterfowl Breeding Population and Habitat Survey traditional 
survey area (strata 1-18, 20-50, and 75-77), the total duck population 
estimate was 31.7  0.6 [SE] million birds, similar to last 
year's estimate of 32.2  0.6 million birds but 5 percent 
below the 1955-2004 long-term average. Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) 
abundance was 6.8  0.3 million birds, which was 9 percent 
below last year's estimate of 7.4  0.3 million birds and 10 
percent below the long-term average. Blue-winged teal (A. discors) 
abundance was 4.6  0.2 million birds, similar to last 
year's estimate of 4.1  0.2 million birds, and the long-
term average. Of the other duck species, the gadwall estimate (A. 
strepera; 2.2  0.1 million) was 16 percent below that of 
2004, while estimates of northern pintails (A. acuta; 2.6  
0.1 million; +17 percent) and northern shovelers (A. clypeata; 3.6 
 0.2 million; +28 percent) were significantly above 2004 
estimates. The estimate for northern shovelers was 67 percent above the 
long-term average for this species, as were estimates of gadwall (+30 
percent) and green-winged teal (A. crecca; 2.2  0.1 
million; +16 percent). Northern pintails remained 38 percent below 
their long-term average despite this year's increase in abundance. 
Estimates of American wigeon (A. americana; 2.2  0.1 
million; -15 percent) and scaup (Aythya affinis and A. marila combined; 
3.4  0.2; -35 percent) also were below their respective 
long-term averages; the estimate for scaup was a record low. Abundances 
of redheads (A. americana) and canvasbacks (A. valisineria) were 
similar to last year's counts and long-term averages.
    The eastern survey area was restratified, and is now composed of 
strata 51-72. Mergansers (red-breasted [Mergus serrator], common [M. 
merganser], and hooded [Lophodytes cucullatus;]; -25 percent), mallards 
(-36 percent), American black ducks (A. rubripes, -24 percent), and 
green-winged teal (-46 percent) were all below their 2004 estimates. 
Ring-necked ducks (Aythya collaris) and goldeneyes (common [Bucephala 
clangula] and Barrow's [B. islandica]) were similar to their 2004 
estimates. No species in the eastern survey area differed from their 
long-term averages.
Fall Flight Estimate
    The mid-continent mallard population is composed of mallards from 
the traditional survey area, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, and is 
7.5  0.3 million, which is 10 percent lower than the 2004 
estimate of 8.3  0.3 million. The 2005 mid-continent 
mallard fall-flight index is 9.3  0.1 million, similar to 
the 2004 estimate of 9.4  0.1 million birds. These indices 
were based on revised mid-continent mallard population models and, 
therefore, differ from those previously published.

Status of Geese and Swans

    We provide information on the population status and productivity of 
North American Canada geese (Branta canadensis), brant (B. bernicla), 
snow geese (Chen caerulescens), Ross' geese (C. rossii), emperor geese 
(C. canagica), white-fronted geese (Anser albifrons), and tundra swans 
(Cygnus columbianus). The timing of spring snowmelt in important goose 
and swan nesting areas in most of the Arctic and subarctic was near 
average, or earlier than average in 2005. Delayed nesting phenology or 
reduced nesting effort was indicated for only Alaska's North Slope and 
areas of the eastern Canadian High Arctic. Primary abundance indices in 
2005 increased from 2004 levels for 12 goose populations and decreased 
for 13 goose populations. Primary indices in 2005 increased for western 
tundra swans and decreased for eastern tundra swans. Of these 27 
populations, the Atlantic, Eastern Prairie, Mississippi Flyway Giant, 
and Aleutian Canada goose populations, and the Western Arctic/Wrangel 
Island snow goose population displayed significant positive trends 
during the most recent 10-year period. Only Short Grass Prairie 
Population Canada geese and Pacific brant displayed significant 
negative 10-year trends. The forecast for the production of geese and 
swans in North America in 2005 is generally favorable and improved from 
that of 2004.

Waterfowl Harvest and Hunter Activity

    During the 2004-05 hunting season, both duck and goose harvest 
decreased from the previous year. U.S. hunters harvested 12,312,200 
ducks in 2004-05 compared to 13,165,500 in 2003-04, and they harvested 
3,189,700 geese, compared to 3,828,200 geese taken in 2003-04. The five 
most commonly harvested duck species were mallard (4,531,600), green-
winged teal (1,373,600), gadwall (1,364,000), wood duck (1,105,500), 
and wigeon (750,600).

Comments and Issues Concerning Tribal Proposals

    For the 2005-06 migratory bird hunting season, we proposed 
regulations for 28 tribes and/or Indian groups that followed the 1985 
guidelines and were considered

[[Page 51986]]

appropriate for final rulemaking. Some of the proposals submitted by 
the tribes had both early- and late-season elements. However, as noted 
earlier, only those with early-season proposals are included in this 
final rulemaking; 19 tribes have proposals with early seasons. The 
comment period for the proposed rule, published on August 5, 2005, 
closed on August 15, 2005. Because of the necessary brief comment 
period, we will respond to any comments on the proposed rule and/or 
these regulations postmarked by August 15, but not received prior to 
final action by us, in the September late-season final rule.
    We received one comment regarding the notice of intent published on 
April 6, 2005, which announced rulemaking on regulations for migratory 
bird hunting by American Indian tribal members. The Michigan Department 
of Natural Resources commented on the establishment of tribal 
regulations on 1836 Treaty areas. Michigan believed it was premature of 
the Service to establish waterfowl regulations in areas covered by the 
1836 Treaty until such time as the issue of 1836 Treaty hunting rights 
is affirmed by a court of competent jurisdiction.
    Service Response: We have addressed this issue several times in the 
last few years. Our position is that the Federal Government does 
recognize the Treaty of 1836 as reserving to the affected tribes or 
bands hunting rights in the ceded territory. Further, the Federal 
courts have already confirmed the retention of reserved fishing rights 
in the territory ceded by the Treaty of 1836 in United States v. 
Michigan, 471 F.Supp. 192 (W.D. Mich. 1979), remanded, 623 F.2d 448 
(6th Cir. 1980), order modified, 653 F.2d 277 (6th Cir. 1981), cert. 
denied, 454 U.S. 1124 (1981). That case and cases dealing with other 
treaty cessions, such as Lac Courte Oreilles v. Wisconsin (i.e., both 
the 1837 and the 1842 Treaties), provide persuasive precedent for the 
belief that hunting as well as fishing rights were reserved by the 
tribes in the Treaty of 1836. We have not altered our position on this 
matter.

NEPA Consideration

    NEPA considerations are covered by the programmatic document, 
``Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement: Issuance of Annual 
Regulations Permitting the Sport Hunting of Migratory Birds (FSES 88-
14),'' filed with the Environmental Protection Agency on June 9, 1988. 
We published Notice of Availability in the Federal Register on June 16, 
1988 (53 FR 22582) and our Record of Decision on August 18, 1988 (53 FR 
31341).
    In addition, in a proposed rule published in the April 30, 2001, 
Federal Register (66 FR 21298), we expressed our intent to begin the 
process of developing a new EIS for the migratory bird hunting program. 
We plan to begin the public scoping process this year.

Endangered Species Act Considerations

    Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 
1531-1543; 87 Stat. 884), provides that, ``The Secretary shall review 
other programs administered by him and utilize such programs in 
furtherance of the purposes of this Act'' (and) shall ``insure that any 
action authorized, funded or carried out * * * is not likely to 
jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered species or 
threatened species or result in the destruction or adverse modification 
of [critical] habitat * * *'' Consequently, we conducted consultations 
to ensure that actions resulting from these regulations would not 
likely jeopardize the continued existence of endangered or threatened 
species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of their 
critical habitat. Findings from these consultations are included in a 
biological opinion and may have caused modification of some regulatory 
measures previously proposed. The final frameworks reflect any 
modifications. Our biological opinions resulting from this Section 7 
consultation are public documents available for public inspection in 
the Service's Division of Endangered Species and MBM, at the address 
indicated under ADDRESSES.

Executive Order 12866

    The migratory bird hunting regulations are economically significant 
and were reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under 
Executive Order 12866. As such, a cost/benefit analysis was initially 
prepared in 1981. This analysis was subsequently revised annually from 
1990-96, updated in 1998 and updated again in 2004. It is further 
discussed below under the heading Regulatory Flexibility Act. Results 
from the 2004 analysis indicate that the expected welfare benefit of 
the annual migratory bird hunting frameworks is on the order of $734 to 
$1,064 million, with a mid-point estimate of $899 million. Copies of 
the cost/benefit analysis are available upon request from the address 
indicated under ADDRESSES or from our Web site at http://www.migratorybirds.gov.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    These regulations have a significant economic impact on substantial 
numbers of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 
U.S.C. 601 et seq.). We analyzed the economic impacts of the annual 
hunting regulations on small business entities in detail as part of the 
1981 cost-benefit analysis discussed under Executive Order 12866. This 
analysis was revised annually from 1990-95. In 1995, the Service issued 
a Small Entity Flexibility Analysis (Analysis), which was subsequently 
updated in 1996, 1998, and 2004. The primary source of information 
about hunter expenditures for migratory game bird hunting is the 
National Hunting and Fishing Survey, which is conducted at 5-year 
intervals. The 2004 Analysis was based on the 2001 National Hunting and 
Fishing Survey and the U.S. Department of Commerce's County Business 
Patterns, from which it was estimated that migratory bird hunters would 
spend between $481 million and $1.2 billion at small businesses in 
2004. Copies of the Analysis are available upon request from the 
address indicated under ADDRESSES or from our Web site at  http://www.migratorybirds.gov.

Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act

    This rule is a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804(2), the Small Business 
Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. For the reasons outlined above, 
this rule has an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more. 
However, because this rule establishes hunting seasons, we do not plan 
to defer the effective date under the exemption contained in 5 U.S.C. 
808(1).

Paperwork Reduction Act

    We examined these regulations under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 
1995. The various recordkeeping and reporting requirements imposed 
under regulations established in 50 CFR part 20, subpart K, are 
utilized in the formulation of migratory game bird hunting regulations. 
Specifically, OMB has approved the information collection requirements 
of the surveys associated with the Migratory Bird Harvest Information 
Program and assigned clearance number 1018-0015 (expires 2/29/2008). 
This information is used to provide a sampling frame for voluntary 
national surveys to improve our harvest estimates for all migratory 
game birds in order to better manage these populations.
    A Federal agency may not conduct or sponsor and a person is not 
required to

[[Page 51987]]

respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently 
valid OMB control number.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    We have determined and certify, in compliance with the requirements 
of the Unfunded Mandates Reform 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 government or private entities. Therefore, this 
rule is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under the Unfunded 
Mandates Reform Act.

Civil Justice Reform--Executive Order 12988

    The Department, in promulgating this proposed rule, has determined 
that this proposed rule will not unduly burden the judicial system and 
that it meets the requirements of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of 
Executive Order 12988.

Takings Implication Assessment

    In accordance with Executive Order 12630, this proposed rule, 
authorized by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, does not have significant 
takings implications and does not affect any constitutionally protected 
property rights. This rule will not result in the physical occupancy of 
property, the physical invasion of property, or the regulatory taking 
of any property. In fact, these rules allow hunters to exercise 
otherwise unavailable privileges and, therefore, reduce restrictions on 
the use of private and public property.

Energy Effects--Executive Order 13211

    On May 18, 2001, the President issued Executive Order 13211 on 
regulations that significantly affect energy supply, distribution, and 
use. Executive Order 13211 requires agencies to prepare Statements of 
Energy Effects when undertaking certain actions. While this proposed 
rule is a significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866, it 
is not expected to adversely affect energy supplies, distribution, or 
use. Therefore, this action is not a significant energy action and no 
Statement of Energy Effects is required.

Federalism Effects

    Due to the migratory nature of certain species of birds, the 
Federal Government has been given responsibility over these species by 
the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. We annually prescribe frameworks from 
which the States make selections regarding the hunting of migratory 
birds, and we employ guidelines to establish special regulations on 
Federal Indian reservations and ceded lands. This process preserves the 
ability of the States and tribes to determine which seasons meet their 
individual needs. Any State or Indian tribe may be more restrictive 
than the Federal frameworks at any time. The frameworks are developed 
in a cooperative process with the States and the Flyway Councils. This 
process allows States to participate in the development of frameworks 
from which they will make selections, thereby having an influence on 
their own regulations. These rules do not have a substantial direct 
effect on fiscal capacity, change the roles or responsibilities of 
Federal or State governments, or intrude on State policy or 
administration. Therefore, in accordance with Executive Order 13132, 
these regulations do not have significant federalism effects and do not 
have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a 
Federalism Assessment.

Government-to-Government Relationship With Tribes

    Due to the migratory nature of certain species of birds, the 
Federal Government has been given responsibility over these species by 
the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Thus, in accordance with the President's 
memorandum of April 29, 1994, ``Government-to-Government Relations with 
Native American Tribal Governments'' (59 FR 22951), Executive Order 
13175, and 512 DM 2, we have evaluated possible effects on federally 
recognized Indian tribes and have determined that there are no effects 
on Indian trust resources. However, by virtue of the tribal proposals 
contained in this proposed rule, we have consulted with all the tribes 
affected by this rule.

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 20

    Exports, Hunting, Imports, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Transportation, Wildlife.


0
Accordingly, part 20, subchapter B, chapter I of title 50 of the Code 
of Federal Regulations is amended as follows:

PART 20--[AMENDED]

0
1. The authority citation for part 20 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 16 U.S.C. 703-712 and 16 U.S.C. 742 a-j, Pub L. 106-
108.

    Note: The following hunting regulations provided for by 50 CFR 
20.110 will not appear in the Code of Federal Regulations because of 
their seasonal nature.


0
2. Section 20.110 is revised to read as follows:


Sec.  20.110  Seasons, limits, and other regulations for certain 
Federal Indian reservations, Indian Territory, and ceded lands.

(a) Colorado River Indian Tribes, Parker, Arizona (Tribal Members and 
Nontribal Hunters)

Doves

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through September 15, 2005; then 
open November 12, through December 26, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: For the early season, daily bag 
limit is 10 mourning or 10 white-winged doves, singly, or in the 
aggregate. For the late season, the daily bag limit is 10 mourning 
doves. Possession limits are twice the daily bag limits.
    General Conditions: All persons 14 years and older must be in 
possession of a valid Colorado River Indian Reservation hunting permit 
before taking any wildlife on tribal lands. Any person transporting 
game birds off the Colorado River Indian Reservation must have a valid 
transport declaration form. Other tribal regulations apply, and may be 
obtained at the Fish and Game Office in Parker, Arizona.

(b) Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, Flathead Indian 
Reservation, Pablo, Montana (Tribal Hunters)

Tribal Members Only

Ducks (Including Mergansers)

    Season Dates: Open September 1, 2005, through March 9, 2006.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: The Tribe does not have specific 
bag and possession restrictions for Tribal members. The season on 
harlequin duck is closed.

Coots

    Season Dates: Same as ducks.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: Same as ducks.

Geese

    Season Dates: Same as ducks.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: Same as ducks.
    General Conditions: Tribal and Nontribal hunters must comply with 
all basic Federal migratory bird hunting regulations contained in 50 
CFR part 20 regarding manner of taking. In addition, shooting hours are 
sunrise to sunset, and each waterfowl hunter 16 years of age or older 
must carry on his/her person a valid Migratory Bird Hunting and 
Conservation Stamp (Duck Stamp) signed in ink across the stamp face. 
Special regulations established by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai 
Tribes also apply on the reservation.

[[Page 51988]]

(c) Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, Crow Creek Indian Reservation, Fort 
Thompson, South Dakota (Tribal Members and Nontribal Hunters)

Sandhill Cranes

    Season Dates: Open September 10, through October 16, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: Three sandhill cranes.
    Permits: Each person participating in the sandhill crane season 
must have a valid Federal sandhill crane hunting permit in his or her 
possession while hunting.

Doves

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through October 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 15 mourning doves.
    General Conditions: The possession limit is twice the daily bag 
limit. Tribal and nontribal hunters must comply with basic Federal 
migratory bird hunting regulations in 50 CFR part 20 regarding shooting 
hours and manner of taking. In addition, each waterfowl hunter 16 years 
of age or over must carry on his/her person a valid Migratory Bird 
Hunting and Conservation Stamp (Duck Stamp) signed in ink across the 
stamp face. Special regulations established by the Crow Creek Sioux 
Tribe also apply on the reservation.

(d) Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians, Cloquet, 
Minnesota (Tribal Members Only)

    All seasons in Minnesota, 1854 and 1837 Treaty Zones:

Doves

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through October 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 12 doves.

Ducks and Mergansers

    Season Dates: Open September 15, through December 1, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit for Ducks: 18 ducks, including no more than 12 
mallards (only 6 of which may be hens), 3 black ducks, 6 scaup, 4 wood 
ducks; 6 redheads, 3 pintails and 3 canvasbacks.
    Daily Bag Limit for Mergansers: 15 mergansers, including no more 
than 3 hooded mergansers.

Canada Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through December 1, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 12 geese.

Coots and Common Moorhens (Gallinule)

    Season Dates: Open September 15, through December 1, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 20 coots and common moorhens, singly or in the 
aggregate.

Sora and Virginia Rails

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through December 1, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 25 sora and Virginia rails, singly or in the 
aggregate. There is no possession limit.

Common Snipe and Woodcock

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through December 1, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: Eight snipe and three woodcock.
    General Conditions:
    1. While hunting waterfowl, a tribal member must carry on his/her 
person a valid tribal waterfowl hunting permit.
    2. Except as otherwise noted, tribal members will be required to 
comply with tribal codes that will be no less restrictive than the 
provisions of Chapter 10 of the Model Off-Reservation Code. Except as 
modified by the Service rules adopted in response to this proposal, 
these amended regulations parallel Federal requirements in 50 CFR part 
20 as to hunting methods, transportation, sale, exportation, and other 
conditions generally applicable to migratory bird hunting.
    3. Band members in each zone will comply with State regulations 
providing for closed and restricted waterfowl hunting areas.
    4. There are no possession limits on any species, unless otherwise 
noted above. For purposes of enforcing bag and possession limits, all 
migratory birds in the possession or custody of band members on ceded 
lands will be considered to have been taken on those lands unless 
tagged by a tribal or State conservation warden as having been taken 
on-reservation. All migratory birds that fall on reservation lands will 
not count as part of any off-reservation daily bag or possession limit.

(e) Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, Suttons Bay, 
Michigan (Tribal Members Only)

    All seasons in Michigan, 1836 Treaty Zone:

Ducks

    Season Dates: Open September 15, 2005, through January 15, 2006.
    Daily Bag Limit: 12 ducks, which may include no more than 2 
pintail, 2 canvasback, 3 black ducks, 1 hooded merganser, 3 wood ducks, 
3 redheads, and 6 mallards (only 3 of which may be hens).

Canada Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through November 30, and open 
January 1, 2006, through February 8, 2006.
    Daily Bag Limit: Five geese.

Other Geese (White-Fronted Geese, Snow Geese, and Brant)

    Season Dates: Open September 20, through November 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: Five geese.

Sora Rails, Common Snipe, and Woodcock

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through November 14, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: Ten rails, ten snipe, and five woodcock.

Mourning Doves

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through November 14, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: Ten mourning doves.
    General Conditions: A valid Grand Traverse Band Tribal license is 
required and must be in possession before taking any wildlife. All 
other basic regulations contained in 50 CFR part 20 are valid. Other 
tribal regulations apply, and may be obtained at the tribal office in 
Suttons Bay, Michigan.

(f) Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission, Odanah, Wisconsin 
(Tribal Members Only)

Ducks

    A. Wisconsin and Minnesota 1837 and 1842 Zones:
    Season Dates: Open September 15, through December 1, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 20 ducks, including no more than 10 mallards (only 
5 of which may be hens), 4 black ducks, 4 redheads, 4 pintails, and 2 
canvasbacks.
    B. Michigan 1836 and 1842 Treaty Zones:
    Season Dates: Open September 15, through December 1, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 10 ducks, including no more than 5 mallards (only 
2 of which may be hens), 2 black ducks, 2 redheads, 2 pintails, and 1 
canvasback.

Mergansers: All Ceded Areas

    Season Dates: Open September 15, through December 1, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: Five mergansers.

Geese: All Ceded Areas

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through December 1, 2005. In 
addition, any portion of the ceded territory that is open to State-
licensed hunters for goose hunting after December 1 shall also be open 
concurrently for tribal members.
    Daily Bag Limit: 10 geese in the aggregate.
    Other Migratory Birds: All Ceded Areas except where noted below.

A. Coots and Common Moorhens (Common Gallinules)

    Season Dates: Open September 15, through December 1, 2005.

[[Page 51989]]

    Daily Bag Limit: 20 coots and common moorhens (common gallinules), 
singly or in the aggregate.

B. Sora and Virginia Rails

    Season Dates: Open September 15, through December 1, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 25 sora and Virginia rails singly, or in the 
aggregate.
    Possession Limit: 25.

C. Common Snipe

    Season Dates: Open September 15, through December 1, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: Eight common snipe.

D. Woodcock

    Season Dates: Open September 6, through December 1, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: Five woodcock.

E. Mourning Doves: 1837 and 1842 Ceded Territories

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through October 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 15 mourning doves.
    General Conditions:
    A. All tribal members will be required to obtain a valid tribal 
waterfowl hunting permit.
    B. Except as otherwise noted, tribal members will be required to 
comply with tribal codes that will be no less restrictive than the 
model ceded territory conservation codes approved by Federal courts in 
the Lac Courte Oreilles v. State of Wisconsin (Voigt) and Mille Lacs 
Band v. State of Minnesota cases. The respective Chapters 10 of these 
model codes regulate ceded territory migratory bird hunting. They 
parallel Federal requirements as to hunting methods, transportation, 
sale, exportation, and other conditions generally applicable to 
migratory bird hunting. They also automatically incorporate by 
reference the Federal migratory bird regulations adopted in response to 
this proposal.
    C. Particular regulations of note include:
    1. Nontoxic shot will be required for all off-reservation waterfowl 
hunting by tribal members.
    2. Tribal members in each zone will comply with tribal regulations 
providing for closed and restricted waterfowl hunting areas. These 
regulations generally incorporate the same restrictions contained in 
parallel State regulations.
    3. Possession limits for each species are double the daily bag 
limit, except on the opening day of the season, when the possession 
limit equals the daily bag limit, unless otherwise noted above. 
Possession limits are applicable only to transportation and do not 
include birds that are cleaned, dressed, and at a member's primary 
residence. For purposes of enforcing bag and possession limits, all 
migratory birds in the possession and custody of tribal members on 
ceded lands will be considered to have been taken on those lands unless 
tagged by a tribal or State conservation warden as taken on reservation 
lands. All migratory birds that fall on reservation lands will not 
count as part of any off-reservation daily bag or possession limit.
    4. The baiting restrictions can be obtained at the Tribal office in 
the model ceded territory conservation codes. These codes will be 
amended to include language that parallels that in place for nontribal 
members as published by the Service in the June 3, 1999, Federal 
Register (64 FR 29804).
    5. The shell limit restrictions of the model ceded territory 
conservation codes will be removed.
    D. Michigan--Duck Blinds and Decoys.
    Tribal members hunting in Michigan will comply with tribal codes 
that contain provisions parallel to Michigan law regarding duck blinds 
and decoys.

(g) Kalispel Tribe, Kalispel Reservation, Usk, Washington (Tribal 
Members and Nontribal Hunters)

Nontribal Hunters on Reservation

Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 3, 2005, through September 18, for the 
early-season, and open October 1, through January 31, 2006, for the 
late-season. During this period, days to be hunted are specified by the 
Kalispel Tribe. Nontribal hunters should contact the Tribe for more 
detail on hunting days.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 5 Canada geese for the early 
season, and 3 light geese and 4 dark geese, for the late season. The 
daily bag limit is 2 brant and is in addition to dark goose limits for 
the late-season. The possession limit is twice the daily bag limit.

Tribal Hunters Within Kalispel Ceded Lands

Ducks

    Season Dates: Open September 1, 2005, through January 31, 2006.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 7 ducks, including no more than 2 
female mallards, 4 scaup, and 2 redheads. The seasons on canvasbacks 
and pintail are closed. The possession limit is twice the daily bag 
limit.

Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 1, 2005, through January 31, 2006.
    Daily Bag Limit: 3 light geese and 4 dark geese. The daily bag 
limit is 2 brant and is in addition to dark goose limits.
    General: Tribal members must possess a validated Migratory Bird 
Hunting and Conservation Stamp and a tribal ceded lands permit.

(h) Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, Cass Lake, Minnesota (Tribal Members 
Only)

Ducks

    Season Dates: Open September 17, through December 31, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limits: 10 ducks.

Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through December 31, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limits: 10 geese.
    General: Possession limits are twice the daily bag limits. Shooting 
hours are one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. 
Nontoxic shot is required. Use of live decoys, bait, and commercial use 
of migratory birds are prohibited. Waterfowl may not be pursued or 
taken while using motorized craft.

(i) Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, Manistee, Michigan (Tribal 
Members Only)

Ducks

    Season Dates: Open September 15, 2005, through January 20, 2006.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 12 ducks, including no more than 2 
pintail, 2 canvasback, 1 hooded merganser, 3 black ducks, 3 wood ducks, 
3 redheads, and 6 mallards (only 3 of which may be hens). The 
possession limit is twice the daily bag limit.

Canada Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through February 8, 2006.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: Five Canada geese and possession 
limit is twice the daily bag limit.

White-Fronted Geese, Snow Geese, Ross Geese, and Brant

    Season Dates: Open September 20, through November 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: Five birds and the possession 
limit is twice the daily bag limit.

Mourning Doves, Rails, Snipe, and Woodcock

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through November 14, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 10 doves, 10 rails, 10 snipe, and 
5 woodcock. The possession limit is twice the daily bag limit.
    General:

[[Page 51990]]

    A. All tribal members are required to obtain a valid tribal 
resource card and 2005-06 hunting license.
    B. Except as modified by the Service rules adopted in response to 
this proposal, these amended regulations parallel all Federal 
regulations contained in 50 CFR part 20.
    C. Particular regulations of note include:
    (1) Nontoxic shot will be required for all waterfowl hunting by 
tribal members.
    (2) Tribal members in each zone will comply with tribal regulations 
providing for closed and restricted waterfowl hunting areas. These 
regulations generally incorporate the same restrictions contained in 
parallel State regulations.
    (3) Possession limits for each species are double the daily bag 
limit, except on the opening day of the season, when the possession 
limit equals the daily bag limit, unless otherwise noted above.
    D. Tribal members hunting in Michigan will comply with tribal codes 
that contain provisions parallel to Michigan law regarding duck blinds 
and decoys.

(j) The Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, Petoskey, Michigan 
(Tribal Members Only)

Ducks

    Season Dates: Open September 15, 2005, through January 20, 2006.
    Daily Bag Limits: 12 ducks, including no more than 6 mallards (only 
3 of which may be hens), 3 black ducks, 3 redheads, 3 wood ducks, 2 
pintail, 1 hooded merganser, and 2 canvasback.

Canada Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 1, 2005, through February 8, 2006.
    Daily Bag Limit: Five geese.

White-Fronted Geese, Snow Geese, and Brant

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through November 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 10 of each species.

Sora Rails, Snipe, and Mourning Doves

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through November 14, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 10 of each species.

Woodcock

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through November 14, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: Five woodcock.
    General: Possession limits are twice the daily bag limits.

(k) Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, Port Angeles, Washington (Tribal Members 
Only)

Ducks and Mergansers

    Season Dates: Open September 15, through December 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: Seven ducks, including no more 
than two hen mallards, one pintail, one canvasback, and two redheads. 
Bag and possession limits on harlequin duck are one per season. 
Possession limit is twice the daily bag limit.

Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 15, through December 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: Four geese, and may include no 
more than three light geese. The season on Aleutian Canada geese is 
closed. The possession limit is twice the daily bag limit.

Brant

    Season Dates: Open November 1, 2005, through February 15, 2006.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: Two brant. The possession limit is 
twice the daily bag limit.

Coots

    Season Dates: Open September 15, through December 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limits: 25 coots.

Mourning Doves

    Season Dates: Open September 15, through December 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 10 and 20 doves, respectively.

Snipe

    Season Dates: Open September 15, through December 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 10 and 20 snipe, respectively.

Band-Tailed Pigeon

    Season Dates: Open September 15, through December 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 2 and 4 pigeons, respectively.
    General Conditions: All hunters authorized to hunt migratory birds 
on the reservation must obtain a tribal hunting permit from the Tribe. 
Hunters are also required to adhere to a number of special regulations 
available at the tribal office.

(l) Makah Indian Tribe, Neah Bay, Washington (Tribal Members)

Band-Tailed Pigeons

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through October 31, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: Two band-tailed pigeons.

Ducks and Coots

    Season Dates: Open September 25, 2005, through January 19, 2006.
    Daily Bag Limit: Seven ducks including no more than one redhead, 
one pintail, and one canvasback. The seasons on wood duck and harlequin 
are closed.

Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 25, 2005, through January 19, 2006.
    Daily Bag Limit: Four. The seasons on Aleutian and dusky Canada 
geese are closed.
    General: All other Federal regulations contained in 50 CFR part 20 
would apply. The following restrictions are also proposed by the Tribe:
    (1) As per Makah Ordinance 44, only shotguns may be used to hunt 
any species of waterfowl. Additionally, shotguns must not be discharged 
within 0.25 miles of an occupied area;
    (2) Hunters must be eligible, enrolled Makah tribal members and 
must carry their Indian Treaty Fishing and Hunting Identification Card 
while hunting. No tags or permits are required to hunt waterfowl;
    (3) The Cape Flattery area is open to waterfowl hunting, except in 
designated wilderness areas, or within 1 mile of Cape Flattery Trail, 
or in any area that is closed to hunting by another ordinance or 
regulation;
    (4) The use of live decoys and/or baiting to pursue any species of 
waterfowl is prohibited;
    (5) Steel or bismuth shot only for waterfowl is allowed; the use of 
lead shot is prohibited;
    (6) The use of dogs is permitted to hunt waterfowl.

(m) Navajo Indian Reservation, Window Rock, Arizona (Tribal Members and 
Nonmembers)

Band-Tailed Pigeons

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through September 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 5 and 10 pigeons, respectively.

Mourning Doves

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through September 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 10 and 20 doves, respectively.
    General Conditions: Tribal and nontribal hunters will comply with 
all basic Federal migratory bird hunting regulations in 50 CFR part 20, 
regarding shooting hours and manner of taking. In addition, each 
waterfowl hunter 16 years of age or over must carry on his/her person a 
valid Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (Duck

[[Page 51991]]

Stamp) signed in ink across the face. Special regulations established 
by the Navajo Nation also apply on the reservation.

(n) Oneida Tribe of Indians of Wisconsin, Oneida, Wisconsin (Tribal 
Members Only)

Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through November 18, and open 
November 28, through December 31, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: Three and six Canada geese, 
respectively. Hunters will be issued three tribal tags for geese in 
order to monitor goose harvest. An additional three tags will be issued 
each time birds are registered. A seasonal quota of 150 birds is 
adopted. If the quota is reached before the season concludes, the 
season will be closed at that time.

Woodcock

    Season Dates: Open September 10, through November 13, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 5 and 10 woodcock, respectively.

Dove

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through November 13, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 10 and 20 doves, respectively.
    General Conditions: Tribal member shooting hours are one-half hour 
before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. Nontribal members hunting 
on the Reservation or on lands under the jurisdiction of the Tribe must 
comply with all State of Wisconsin regulations, including season dates, 
shooting hours, and bag limits, that differ from tribal member seasons. 
Tribal members and nontribal members hunting on the Reservation or on 
lands under the jurisdiction of the Tribe will observe all basic 
Federal migratory bird hunting regulations found in 50 CFR part 20, 
with the following exceptions: tribal members are exempt from the 
purchase of the Migratory Waterfowl Hunting and Conservation Stamp 
(Duck Stamp); and shotgun capacity is not limited to three shells.

(o) Skokomish Tribe, Shelton, Washington (Tribal Members Only)

Ducks and Mergansers

    Season Dates: Open September 16, through December 31, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: Seven ducks, including no more 
than two hen mallards, one pintail, one canvasback, one harlequin, and 
two redheads. Possession limit is twice the daily bag limit.

Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 16, through December 31, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: Four geese, and may include no 
more than three light geese. The season on Aleutian Canada geese is 
closed. The possession limit is twice the daily bag limit.

Coots

    Season Dates: Open September 16, through December 31, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limits: 25 coots.

Mourning Doves

    Season Dates: Open September 16, through December 31, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 10 and 20 doves, respectively.

Snipe

    Season Dates: Open September 16, through December 31, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 8 and 16 snipe, respectively.

Band-Tailed Pigeon

    Season Dates: Open September 16, through December 31, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 2 and 4 pigeons, respectively.
    General Conditions: All hunters authorized to hunt migratory birds 
on the reservation must obtain a tribal hunting permit from the 
respective Tribe. Hunters are also required to adhere to a number of 
special regulations available at the tribal office.

(p) Squaxin Island Tribe, Squaxin Island Reservation, Shelton, 
Washington (Tribal Members Only)

Ducks

    Season Dates: Open September 1, 2005, through January 15, 2006.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: Five ducks, which may include only 
one canvasback. The season on harlequin ducks is closed. Possession 
limit is twice the daily bag limit.

Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 15, 2005, through January 15, 2006.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: Four geese, and may include no 
more than two snow geese. The season on Aleutian and cackling Canada 
geese is closed. Possession limit is twice the daily bag limit.

Brant

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through December 31, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: Two and four brant, respectively.

Coots

    Season Dates: Open September 1, 2005, through January 15, 2006.
    Daily Bag Limits: 25 coots.

Snipe

    Season Dates: Open September 15, 2005, and through January 15, 
2006.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 8 and 16 snipe, respectively.

Band-Tailed Pigeons

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through December 31, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 5 and 10 pigeons, respectively.
    General Conditions: All tribal hunters must obtain a Tribal Hunting 
Tag and Permit from the Tribe's Natural Resources Department and must 
have the permit, along with the member's treaty enrollment card, on his 
or her person while hunting. Shooting hours are one-half hour before 
sunrise to one-half hour after sunset, and steel shot is required for 
all migratory bird hunting. Other special regulations are available at 
the tribal office in Shelton, Washington.

(q) Tulalip Tribes of Washington, Tulalip Indian Reservation, 
Marysville, Washington (Tribal Members and Nontribal Hunters)

Tribal Members

Ducks (Including Coots and Mergansers)

    Season Dates: Open September 15, 2005, and through February 28, 
2006.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 8 and 16 ducks, respectively, 
except that bag and possession limits may include no more than 2 female 
mallards, 1 pintail, 4 scaup, and 2 redheads.

Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 15, 2005, and through February 28, 
2006.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 7 and 14 geese, respectively; 
except that the bag limits may not include more than 2 brant and 1 
cackling Canada goose. For those tribal members who engage in 
subsistence hunting, the Tribes set a maximum annual bag limit of 365 
ducks and 365 geese.

Snipe

    Season Dates: Open September 15, 2005, through February 28, 2006.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 8 and 16, respectively.
    General Conditions: All hunters on Tulalip Tribal lands are 
required to adhere to shooting hour regulations set at one-half hour 
before sunrise to sunset, special tribal permit requirements, and a 
number of other tribal regulations enforced by the Tribe. Nontribal 
hunters 16 years of age and

[[Page 51992]]

older, hunting pursuant to Tulalip Tribes' Ordinance No. 67, must 
possess a valid Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp 
(Duck Stamp) and a valid State of Washington Migratory Waterfowl Stamp. 
Both stamps must be validated by signing across the face of the stamp. 
Other tribal regulations apply, and may be obtained at the tribal 
office in Marysville, Washington.

(r) Upper Skagit Indian Tribe, Sedro Woolley, Washington (Tribal 
Members Only)

Mourning Dove

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through December 31, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 12 and 15 mourning doves, 
respectively.
    Tribal members must have the tribal identification and harvest 
report card on their person to hunt. Tribal members hunting on the 
Reservation will observe all basic Federal migratory bird hunting 
regulations found in 50 CFR part 20, except shooting hours would be 
one-half hour before official sunrise to one-half hour after official 
sunset.

(s) Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head, Aquinnah, Massachusetts (Tribal 
Members Only)

Canada Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 11, and through September 25, and open 
November 1, through February 28, 2006.
    Daily Bag Limits: 5 Canada geese during the first period, 3 during 
the second.

Snow Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 11, 2005, and through September 25, 
2005.
    Daily Bag Limits: 15 snow geese.
    General Conditions: Shooting hours are one-half hour before sunrise 
to sunset. Nontoxic shot is required. All basic Federal migratory bird 
hunting regulations contained in 50 CFR part 20 will be observed.

(t) White Earth Band of Ojibwe, White Earth, Minnesota (Tribal Members 
Only)

Ducks and Mergansers

    Season Dates: Open September 17, through December 18, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit for Ducks: 10 ducks, including no more than 2 
mallards and 1 canvasback.
    Daily Bag Limit for Mergansers: Five mergansers, including no more 
than two hooded mergansers.

Geese

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through September 30, 2005, and 
open October 1, through December 18, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: Eight geese through September 30 and five 
thereafter.

Coots

    Season Dates: Open September 3, through November 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 20 coots.

Sora and Virginia Rails

    Season Dates: Open September 3, through November 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 25 sora and Virginia rails, singly or in the 
aggregate.

Common Snipe and Woodcock

    Season Dates: Open September 3, through November 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 10 snipe and 10 woodcock.

Mourning Dove

    Season Dates: Open September 3, through November 30, 2005.
    Daily Bag Limit: 25 doves.
    General Conditions: Shooting hours are one-half hour before sunrise 
to one-half hour after sunset. Nontoxic shot is required.

(u) White Mountain Apache Tribe, Fort Apache Indian Reservation, 
Whiteriver, Arizona (Tribal Members and Nontribal Hunters)

Band-Tailed Pigeons (Wildlife Management Unit 10 and Areas South of Y-
70 in Wildlife Management Unit 7, Only)

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through September 15, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: Three and six pigeons, 
respectively.

Mourning Doves (Wildlife Management Unit 10 and Areas South of Y-70 in 
Wildlife Management Unit 7, Only)

    Season Dates: Open September 1, through September 15, 2005.
    Daily Bag and Possession Limits: 10 and 20 doves, respectively.
    General Conditions: All nontribal hunters hunting band-tailed 
pigeons and mourning doves on Reservation lands shall have in their 
possession a valid White Mountain Apache Daily or Yearly Small Game 
Permit. In addition to a small game permit, all nontribal hunters 
hunting band-tailed pigeons must have in their possession a White 
Mountain Special Band-tailed Pigeon Permit. Other special regulations 
established by the White Mountain Apache Tribe apply on the 
reservation. Tribal and nontribal hunters will comply with all basic 
Federal migratory bird hunting regulations in 50 CFR Part 20 regarding 
shooting hours and manner of taking.

    Dated: August 25, 2005.
Paul Hoffman,
Acting Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks.
[FR Doc. 05-17332 Filed 8-30-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-55-P