District 3 E.P. Tom Sawyer Park, Louisville - Kentucky Department of ...

UPDATED RESPONSES AS OF OCTOBER 30, 2011
APPEAR IN RED
RESPONSES TO TOWN HALL MEETING QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS
December 6, 2010 – January 11, 2011
Fishing Related NONE
Wildlife/ Hunting
District 3
E.P. Tom Sawyer Park, Louisville
Sand Hill Cranes – not open to hunting; protect them (1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 9)
Sand Hill Cranes – support season (3,4)
KDFWR Commission unanimously passed the proposed season at the June Commission
meeting. The USFWS approved Kentucky's hunt plan at their June meeting. Public comments
were received and a KDFWR response was prepared and the regulation was submitted to the
legislative Administrative Regulation and Review Subcommittee. This regulation received no
objection and is now scheduled for the final legislative committee, Interim Natural Resources
Committee in November 2011..
.
Crossbow more opportunity (1, 3)
Why hasn’t crossbow been expanded to encompass the entire archery season? (3)
Social pressures on crossbow (3)
Can crossbow season or regulation change to allow youth and seniors to use crossbows?(3)
In 2005 KDFWR conducted a survey to determine the public’s feelings about crossbow
hunting. The survey indicated that a majority of the state was for a concurrent crossbow
and archery season. The Fish and Wildlife Commission recommended that crossbow
season be concurrent with archery season. The recommendation was sent to the
General Assembly to be approved. Legislators serving on the Agricultural and Natural
Resources Committee recommended that KDFWR and representatives of sportmen’s
groups further discuss and try to reach a compromise. In 2006 a compromise was
reached by all parties to enact the season dates that we have now (which is much more
opportunity than the old 10-day crossbow season was).
Consider including handguns in muzzleloader season (3)

Muzzleloading handguns are included in the season. Adding any form of centerfire
weapon to the muzzleloading season not only violates the spirit of having an exclusive
season, it makes things more difficult for law enforcement.
Deer population has decreased (1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9)
Current statewide deer population trends are nearly stable to slightly decreasing. Over
the past few years deer zones in many counties have been made more restrictive to try
to boost the deer population. KDFWR deer biologists look at each county’s deer
population trend every year. Based on that population trend a county’s zone can be
changed to better manage the deer population in the county. A county’s deer zone is
determined by a combination of many things. Along with the population model, deer
vehicle collision numbers, crop damage complaints, and hunter satisfaction are all taken
into account when determining what a county’s zone should be.
Depredation tags – who gets them? How many do they get? Post who gets tags on website.
Hunters could help get rid of the problem deer. (3)
Landowner crop depredation tags are issued by KDFWR law enforcement officers and
wildlife biologists. An officer or biologist will come to the property and assess the
amount of damage. He or she will determine how many tags are needed to control the
damage issue and then issue the tags to the landowner. It is then up to the landowner
to decide who will harvest the deer. Each damage tag recipient must complete a
shooter designation form to record who will be the one harvesting the animal. All
antlers from antlered deer killed on depredation tags must be turned over to KDFWR.
Staff always encourages landowners to control deer via hunter access.
Change baiting laws during hunting season (3)
Wild turkeys are extremely susceptible to baiting or feeding and the use of those methods for
hunting purposes would undoubtedly lead to local, if not regional, overharvest in Kentucky.
Therefore, the use of bait will not be considered for the take of turkeys during the spring season
when harvest pressure is greatest. However, the KDFWR will examine the regulatory wording of
other states and evaluate the potential for including a legal distance for hunting on property where
feeding of wildlife occurs in the fall.
Change Turkey season dates (1, 3, 7)
The spring season structure in Kentucky is established to maximize harvest opportunity while
minimizing negative effects to breeding and reproductive output. Our opening day of the Saturday
closest to April 15 allows exceptional harvest opportunity, but after a significant proportion of
hens have been bred. This strategy has produced record and near-record spring harvests since its
implementation. For those desiring an earlier opening date, from 2012-2015 the spring season
will open earlier, on the second Saturday in April.
Change Muzzeloader season (2, 3, 7)
There is simply no time or place to move or expand the muzzleloader season. Deer gun
hunters have to balance hunting time in the field with small game hunters, archery
hunters, waterfowl hunters, predator hunters, and elk hunters. When season lengths
and dates are changed for one user group it affects another hunting user group.
Although it might make sense to one user group to make a date change, such changes
are negatively viewed by other user groups.

Spring Season on Turkey moving to 2 nd Saturday in April. Are we planning on doing it again?
The existing spring turkey regulation defines the opening day of turkey season as the
Saturday closest to April 15. As such, the season opener fluctuates between the second
and third Saturday of April between years. Beginning in 2012 and lasting until 2014 the
opening date for the spring turkey season in Kentucky will occur on the second Saturday
in April.
Concerns on decline of small game & seasons (rabbits, quail, grouse) (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8 ,9)
The Department shares the concern for decline of small game. The seasons continue to
be a popular debate with overlap of deer seasons and creating a single season that ends
sometime in February. KDFWR has been one of the national leaders in restoration for
bobwhite (mgt will also benefit rabbits). We also continue to move towards a more
active forest management program on WMAs and through private lands efforts that will
benefit ruffed grouse.
KDFWR is working to create a cooperative program for private land owners to support small
game management practices, which will include evaluating cost-benefit of existing tactics and
developing critical measures of success.
What is being done for small game hunting in the 3 rd District? (3)
The Sinking Creek bobwhite focal area is underway with a seasonal biologist in-place
promoting private lands management. An Environmental Quality Incentives Program
grassland focus area was also established here through the efforts of the Department
and conservation partners. Yellowbank WMA has increased activity for the
management of small game habitat in the last few years. Commonwealth Chapter of
Quail Forever has provided outstanding support for equipment on that area as well.
Quail Quota Hunt on Peabody – stop rabbit hunting the day before the quota hunt & while
they are hunting. (3)
This will be evaluated each year after the seasons. As of now the impact of rabbit hunting seems
negligible and this format allows us to provide opportunity for both groups.
1 deer a day on public land, public land hunter is being slighted. Allow same opportunities on
public land and private (3)
The 1 deer per day rule was requested by a Commissioner out of concern that some
WMAs may be over pressured if hunters were allowed to take more than 1 deer per
day.
Youth Involvement ( 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
Change youth season (2, 4, 7, 9)
In October – November when temperatures are milder (2)
2 days is not enough! Needs to be longer.(4)
No change to youth seasons is currently recommended. Current youth seasons are the best
compromise at this point.
1,000 Elk tags were too many (3)
Based on statistical models and ground counts of elk, the population is sufficient to
handle this level of harvest without decreasing the overall herd. The low natural

mortality rate and high calving rate allows us to harvest at this level and still maintain a
healthy population.
Law Enforcement Related
Get a raise and get them some help/Need a game warden in our county
Budgetary restraints make it difficult to give raises even though we all know that they
deserve them. The Division is in the process of identifying the next group of counties to
be hired for conservation officer.
Other
Upland Bird License
KDFWR has already a “Conservation Permit” provided for in regulation 301 KAR 3:022,
which at a cost of $10 annually, could be defined for use as a “birding license” or other
wildlife-watcher permit. Currently this permit remains inactive. The department is
aware that some states offer similar permits or “habitat stamps” that establish a userpay
system for more non-traditional participants in fish and wildlife related activities.
KDFWR plans to look more formally at these opportunities as part of our planned priceelasticity
study in 2011.
Decline in License Sales? Are youth and landowners counted?
In Kentucky, youth under the age of 12 are not required to purchase a hunting license;
whereas youth under the age of 16 are not required to purchase a fishing license. Also,
landowners in Kentucky, along with their “dependents” and “tenants” are not required
to purchase either hunting or fishing licenses if they hunt or fish on their specific
property. See KRS 150.170. Because each of these groups is license “exempt”, there is
no method to determine an accurate count of youth or landowners, except to say that
they are not included in the license sales data. (Note: Some youth and landowners,
even though they are not required, may still purchase hunting and fishing licenses and
therefore would be counted in the license sales data should they do so.)
Fees on Otter Creek—Discounts
The Otter Creek Outdoor Recreational Area is now open and offers a variety of outdoor activities.
There are no special discounts at this time; however, KDFWR intends to evaluate our usage and
sales data in 2012 (after our first year of operation) to determine the need for possible amendments
to our license and permit structure.
Right to Hunt—are we doing it?

Yes. KDFWR supported House Bill 1 in Kentucky’s 2011 General Assembly. It passed
both chambers and was delivered to the Secretary of State’s office on March 8, 2011,
who will ensure that the amendment be placed on the ballot for the November, 2012
general election.
Why were camp fees raised to $215? (3)
Fees were raised to cover the increasing cost of transporting children to camp as well as
to offset other increased costs associated with operating the conservation camps.
More resources to camps & scholarships? (3,7)
Fundraising efforts of the KY Fish & Wildlife Foundation have greatly increased the
resources available to the department’s conservation camps. The foundation makes
funds available for construction projects and has helped increase the number of camp
scholarships available for deserving children.
For more information on the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Foundation, refer to their website at
www.kentuckywildlife.com.
Is there a program that adults can get involved with to help get kids outdoors?
Become a volunteer hunter education instructor, volunteer with the aquatic education
program; take a child on a mentor hunt, volunteer with the Archery in the Schools
program at your local school.
Start an Explore Bowhunting program in your area. Work with the department to start a fishing
event in your county.
Expand the Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW) program. (1,3,6)
F&W has met with State Parks to discuss expanding the Becoming an Outdoors Woman
programs to parks around the state.
The department needs to target 7 th & 8 th grade kids and make conservation programs
mandatory for high school kids.
The department currently uses its resources to offer programs to 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students
instead of focusing on older students. The department's conservation programs are a good fit for
elementary schools. Children in elementary schools are easier to work with and respond better to
the department programs. Approximately 70,000 students receive conservation programs during
the school year or attend conservation camp. The department does not have the resources to
conduct additional programs for older students. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife
Resources conservation programs are voluntary and schools decide if they want the programs.
Consumptive use of wildlife, how do we get it to the table and show folks it is a renewable
resource? (3)

Harvesting wild game and fish is a sustainable, renewable, resource. The department
has highlighted the process of cleaning and preparing wild game with the Kentucky
Afield Television show and through Kentucky Afield Magazine. The television show
regularly features cooking recipes and tips with host Tim Farmer. In addition, the
department produced a popular video on deer dressing and processing.
Why was the Bowman Field Office closed? (3)
The Bowman Field office was closed in 2004. The office was closed as a result of a
mandated agency budget reduction. The office received minimal visitation and was
expensive to operate.
How do we survive declining license sales and continue expanding (3)
Ask every angler and hunter to turn 10 non-sportsmen into sportsmen. We also need to
expand our user base to include financially supportive non hunting and non-angling
activities: wildlife viewing, non motorized watercraft registration fees (canoes and
kayaks).
Decline in license sales? Are youth and landowners counted? (3)
No, however we are exploring cost effective way to encourage registration of these nonlicense
purchasing user groups.
Horses on WMAs – Horseback riding on WMAs (2, 3, 5)
Need access to additional trails (3)
Managing recreational use is a balancing act. The intended purposes of WMAs are to provide for
wildlife conservation, habitat management, hunting, and other wildlife-related recreation. Other
recreational opportunities are provided when economically and logistically possible, as long as
they do not interfere with the primary intended purpose of the property. Currently, we have
approximately 200 miles of designated horse trails on 14 WMAs in the state and one Outdoor
Recreation Area. Horseback riding is also allowed on over 500 miles of unpaved WMA roadways.
The Department has actually expanded horseback riding opportunity in the last 10 years. For
example, a cooperative agreement was recently reached with Floyd County for over 20 miles of
additional horseback riding opportunity on Dewey Lake WMA. Though not a WMA, the
Department has also provided new trail riding opportunity at Otter Creek Outdoor Recreation Area
in Meade County. Furthermore, each time the Department acquires additional WMAs, there is
usually increased opportunity in the form of unpaved roadways that may exist on the properties.
Birding License (3)
WMAs are purchased and managed with hunting and fishing license dollars and federal
matching grant funds that are by law, specifically earmarked for wildlife restoration and
management. Birdwatching is a natural by-product of wildlife restoration and
management that does not require additional revenue to support.
Against horseback riding on WMAs – WMAs were bought with sportsman’s dollars

Horseback riding lowers the quality of a hunt. (3)
Indeed, many WMAs were bought with sportsmen’s dollars. The Department also manages
numerous WMAs on lands on lands not owned by the Department, such as on U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers' property or Coal Company lands. We manage WMAs for multiple recreational uses in
addition to our primary mission. In many cases, a reasonable balance can be attained without
conflict. The Department always strives to provide quality hunting opportunities while also
managing lands for other recreational uses. For example, horseback riding is prohibited on
WMAs when firearms season is open for deer, turkey, or elk. Some WMAs have hiking trails
open to horseback riding, while others do not. On some public hunting lands that are managed
but not owned by the Department, the decision on whether horseback riding is allowed rests with
the wishes of that particular landowner. Regardless, we will continue to protect the rights and
concerns of our primary customers, the sportsmen and women of Kentucky. We own and/or
manage these lands in trust for them.
Need point person on horseback riding (3)
The Department has a point person, Mark Cramer, and other employees who work with
the Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet to help support hunting, fishing, wildlife
watching, and other types of Adventure Tourism activities, such as horseback riding,
paddlesports, hiking, and mountain biking. The Department is a member and
participates on the Kentucky Recreational Trail Authority to help support expansion of
trail opportunities in Kentucky.
What is the status of free ranging horses and cattle being moved, and then elk being poached
in retaliation? (3)
Free ranging horses and cattle on Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) are prohibited (
KRS 150.640.) The Department attempts to contact the owner to remove cattle and
horses on our land. As a last resort, the Department will remove this livestock if the
landowner cannot be located or determined. Poaching of elk in retaliation of this action
is difficult to prove, but remains against the law. The public is encouraged to report any
and all poaching (1-800-25-ALERT) for law enforcement investigation and potential
prosecution.
Wanton Waste Law should be in Kentucky. (3,4)
Kentucky does not have a wanton waste law that prohibits the “waste” of edible meat
taken from a game/fish species. Several states do have these types of laws. Federal
wanton waste laws have long been in place regarding waterfowl hunting. KDFWR can
certainly entertain discussions to determine if that is viable for Kentucky in reference to
other species. Anyone may contact the agency and request to be heard by its
commission on any applicable issue regarding wildlife laws.

Need more places to hunt (1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
Over the last four years and with the commitment of $1 million per year, KDFWR has increased,
by close to 10 thousand acres, the amount of land owned by the department and now available for
public access. Within these newly owned areas, the department has now made available nearly
4,000 acres, specifically located in and around the state’s most populous area (i.e., the Golden
Triangle of Louisville, Lexington and Northern Kentucky). Further, the department averages each
year approximately 150 thousand acres in private landowner access agreements, which makes
even more land available to the public. Aside from new hunting opportunities, KDFWR has also
developed 13 new bank access sites and more than 30 boating access sites in the last four years;
whereas the department now offers 34 new lake fishing opportunities in and around Kentucky’s
urban areas through our Fishing in Neighborhoods program.