National Wildlife Refuge System: 2026-2027 Station-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations

The Yankton Sioux Treaty Committee opposes the proposed deer hunting program at Karl E. Mundt National Wildlife Refuge, arguing that it is incompatible with the Refuge's primary purpose of providing sanctuary for bald eagles. They contend that the proposal lacks adequate environmental review, fails to account for the timing of eagle arrival, ignores the lack of a cultural resources survey, and bypasses meaningful government-to-government consultation with the Tribe.

The Oregon Natural Desert Association (ONDA) supports the proposed hunting and angling regulations for Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, provided that bighorn sheep hunting is coordinated with the state and predator control programs are phased out. They also advocate for managing angling to support fish recovery and protecting sensitive trout species in riparian habitats damaged by recent wildfires and weather events.

Colten Archambeau, the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for the Yankton Sioux Tribe of South Dakota, opposes the expansion of hunting activities on the Karl E. Mundt National Wildlife Refuge. He argues that the proposal may violate federal laws regarding cultural resource preservation, eagle protection, and environmental impact analysis, and he calls for meaningful government-to-government consultation.

Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum (representing the Department of the Interior) opposes the proposal to expand hunting on National Wildlife Refuge lands. He argues that the proposal threatens fragile ecosystems, endangers wildlife populations, and prioritizes a small minority over the millions of people who visit refuges for non-hunting recreation.

The Trumpeter Swan Society, a nonprofit scientific organization, opposes the proposed rule because it rescinds existing lead-free requirements at ten National Wildlife Refuges and opens new hunting and fishing opportunities without adequate lead exposure analysis for swans. They argue that lead from ammunition and fishing tackle poses a significant mortality risk to trumpeter and tundra swans and request that the Service maintain existing protections and require non-toxic alternatives.

The commenter expresses a strong emotional plea for the protection of wildlife and the importance of ecosystems. They do not take a specific position on the proposed action described in the document context.

The commenter argues that opening additional refuge units to hunting would increase disturbance and reduce secure resting habitat for migrating waterfowl. They contend that this would negatively impact regional hunting opportunities and harm the conservation purpose of the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge.

An individual commenter opposes the proposal to increase hunting pressure on existing properties within the National Wildlife Refuge System. They argue that such an increase could hamper the protection and nurturing of wildlife habitats, potentially harming the long-term sustainability of hunting and fishing opportunities.

The commenter argues that the proposed regulations should prioritize the refuges' primary purpose as a sanctuary for wildlife rather than for hunting and fishing. They specifically highlight the health risks posed by lead ammunition and tackle to both wildlife and humans.