🦆Proposed Hunting Regulations and Economic Impact for 2025-26
Migratory Bird Hunting; Proposed 2025-26 Migratory Game Bird Hunting Regulations (Preliminary)
Summary
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service or we) proposes to establish hunting regulations for certain migratory game birds for the 2025-26 hunting season. Through an annual rulemaking process, we prescribe outside limits (which we refer to as frameworks) within which States may select hunting seasons. This proposed rule provides the regulatory schedule, describes the proposed regulatory alternatives for the 2025-26 general duck seasons, and provides preliminary proposals that vary from the 2024-25 hunting season regulations. Migratory bird hunting seasons provide opportunities for recreation and sustenance; aid Federal, State, and Tribal governments in the management of migratory game birds; and permit harvests at levels compatible with migratory game bird population status and habitat conditions.
Agencies
- Interior Department
- Fish and Wildlife Service
Business Impact
$$ - Med
The proposed hunting regulations for migratory game birds will likely impact small businesses, including restaurants, lodging, and sporting goods stores that benefit from hunting-related expenditures of an estimated $2.6 billion during the 2025-26 season. Additionally, compliance with these regulations is necessary for business owners involved in hunting and related activities.