Expanded hunting and fishing opportunities in NC

North Carolina is one of 11 states set to gain expanded access to public lands for hunting, as Doug Burgum, Secretary of the US Department of the Interior, announced on May 2. The department plans to add 42 new hunting opportunities across more than 87,000 acres of federal wildlife refuges and hatcheries.

“Expanding recreational access to our public lands isn’t just about tradition — it’s about supporting rural economies and the American families who depend on them,” said Burgum in a press release. “By opening more areas to hunting and outdoor recreation, we’re helping drive tourism, create jobs, and generate revenue for local communities, all while promoting responsible stewardship of our natural resources.”

The US Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed opening 16 National Wildlife Refuge System stations and one National Fish Hatchery System station. One of these locations will be in North Carolina, at the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, where the service plans to open big game hunting for Eastern black bear on 16,225 acres. 

This proposal would increase the number of opportunities more than threefold and expand or open five times as many stations as the previous administration, highlighting a robust national commitment to outdoor recreation and conservation.

The US Fish and Wildlife Service has emphasized its commitment to ensuring that all hunting and fishing activities comply with state fish and wildlife regulations. The service works closely with state agencies to maintain regulatory consistency, including matters related to using lead ammunition and fishing tackle. Future policy updates will incorporate these considerations. 

“Hunting and fishing are traditional recreational activities deeply rooted in America’s heritage. National wildlife refuges, national fish hatcheries, and other Service lands offer hunting and fishing access that helps boost local economies and gives Americans an opportunity to unplug,” said Fish and Wildlife Service Acting Director Paul Souza, in a press release. “We are pleased to expand access and offer new opportunities that are compatible with our conservation mission and are committed to responsibly managing these areas for the benefit of future generations.”

“Expanded hunting and fishing opportunities in NC” was originally published on www.carolinajournal.com.