250-RICR-60-00-9. Hunting and Trapping Regulations (version Periodic Refile, 12/31/2001 to 08/15/2002)

HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT FISH AND WILDLIFE HUNTING REGULATIONS for the 2001-2002 SEASON June 28, 2001 AUTHORITY: These regulations are adopted pursuant to Sections 20-1-4; 20-1-12; 20-1-13; in accordance with Chapter 42–17.1, 42-17.6, 32-2-4, and 42-35, Administrative Procedures, of the Rhode Island General Laws of 1956, as amended. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT FISH AND WILDLIFE R.I. Hunting Regulations for the 2001 - 2002 Season TABLE OF CONTENTS Rule 1 PURPOSE ....................................................................................................iii Rule 2 AUTHORITY.................................................................................................iii Rule 3 APPLICATION..............................................................................................iii Rule 4 SEVERABILITY............................................................................................iii Rule 5 SUPERSEDED RULES AND REGULATIONS.......................................iii Rule 6 DEFINITIONS............................................................................................... iv Rule 7 REGULATIONS Part I DEER – General Deer Hunting ............................................1 Part II DEER - Muzzle-loading Deer Season.................................2 Part III DEER - Shotgun Deer Season.............................................4 Part IV DEER - Archery Deer Season..............................................6 Part V DEER - Special Deer Season...............................................8 Prudence and Patience Island Paraplegic Hunter........................................................11 Part VI DEER - Block Island: Archery & Shotgun.........................12 Part VII DEER - Cooperative Deer Hunting Program....................14 Part VIII Migratory Game Birds..........................................................15 Part IX Upland Game........................................................................17 Part X Wild Turkey............................................................................19 Part XI Furbearers .............................................................................22 Part XII Reptiles and Amphibians.....................................................25 Part XIII Management Areas..............................................................26 Part XIV General ..................................................................................29 Rule 8 EFFECTIVE DATE .....................................................................................31 ii HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT FISH AND WILDLIFE R.I. Hunting Regulations for the 2001 - 2002 Season RULE 1 PURPOSE The purpose of these rules and regulations is to establish hunting seasons, the setting of possession and bag limits, and regulation of the manner of hunting. RULE 2 AUTHORITY These rules and regulations are promulgated pursuant to Chapter 42-17.1, Department of Environmental Management, and Sections 20-1-4; 20-1-12; 20- 1-13; 20-15-3; in accordance with Chapter 32-2-4, and 42-35, Administrative Procedures, of the Rhode Island General Laws of 1956, as amended. RULE 3 APPLICATION The terms and provisions of these rules and regulations shall be liberally construed to permit the Department to effectuate the purposes of state law, goals, and policies. RULE 4 SEVERABILITY If any provision of these Rules and Regulations, or application thereof to any person or circumstances, is held invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the validity of the remainder of the Rules and Regulations shall not be affected thereby. RULE 5 SUPERSEDED RULES AND REGULATIONS On the effective date of these Rules and Regulations, all previous Rules and Regulations, and any policies regarding the administration and enforcement of RIGL Sections 20-1-4, 20-1-12, 20-1-13, 20-1-15, and in accordance with Chapter 42-35 Administrative Procedures Act shall be superseded. However, any enforcement action taken by, or application submitted to, the Department prior to the effective date of these Rules and Regulations shall be governed by the Rules and Regulations in effect at the time the enforcement action was taken, or application filed. iii HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) RULE 6 DEFINITIONS For the purposes of these regulations, the following terms shall have the following meanings: a. "antlerless deer" deer having no antlers or antlers less than three (3) inches in length. b. "daylight fluorescent orange" the color orange having a dominant wave length between 595 and 606 nanometers, an excitation purity not less than 85 percent, and a lumination factor not less than 40 percent. c. "driving deer" to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or cause a deer to move in a direction toward a person or persons known to be waiting for a deer. d. "paraplegic" an individual afflicted with paralysis of the lower half of the body with involvement of both legs. e. "bearded turkey" a male turkey which carries a visible beard (a tuft of stiff filament-like feathers projecting outward and downward from the center of the chest) and exhibits other typical physical characteristics of a male turkey including, but not limited to, bright red, white, and blue head coloration, visible spurs, and black iridescent body coloration. f. " 'conibear-type' trap" "conibear" model traps and similar body-gripping traps and devices, whether or not enclosed in or comprising part of a box, tube, or other enclosing device. g. "box trap" any trigger operated devise intended to restrain an animal by confinement in box or cage. h. "jacklighting" the use (by an individual or in conjunction with others) of an artificial light at any time to illuminate, jack light, locate, attempt to locate, or show up wild birds or mammals or any other vertebrates when that person or persons have in their actual possession, in the passenger compartment of their vehicle, or in the storage area of a trunk or van, unless locked in a case, a crossbow, long bow (straight limb, reflex, recurve, and compound bow) rifle, gun, or pistol, except in accordance with these rules and regulations. RULE 7 REGULATIONS As follows: iv HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) PART I DEER - GENERAL DEER HUNTING REGULATIONS 1.1 All deer must be tagged in a conspicuous manner, by the hunter killing same, immediately after taking, with the tag portion of the deer permit for the specific season, i.e., shotgun, archery, muzzleloader and/or paraplegic/double amputee hunter. This tag must be separated from the permit with the appropriate month, day, and time of kill or other information completed as required, and signed by the hunter. The tag must remain attached to the deer until the animal is processed for consumption or prepared for taxidermy. It will be considered prima-facie evidence of hunting without a valid deer permit if any portion of the deer permit/tag is altered or separated in any manner. 1.2 Except as provided in 2.1, 3.1, 4.1, 4.7, 5.22, and 6.6 no individual shall purchase more than one deer permit/tag for each deer season -- one each, muzzleloader, shotgun, archery. 1.3 Hunting, pursuing, or molesting deer below mean high tidal water, or while deer are swimming in any waters of the state is prohibited. 1.4 The construction and/or use of permanent tree stands, or the use of nails, spikes, bolts, or climbing devices which may damage trees, is prohibited on state property; and on private property without the permission of the landowner. 1.5 The use of electronic deer calls is prohibited at all times. 1.6 The use of natural or artificial scents, mouth, or hand powered deer calls to attract deer is permitted. 1.7 The use of decoys to attract deer is prohibited. 1.8 Written permission is required to deer hunt on privately owned land (20-15-1 d). Such written permission shall be carried at all times while deer hunting, and failure to have such written permission shall be prima-facie evidence of not having written permission to hunt such land. Written permission must be shown to any authorized person upon demand, and must be presented when checking the deer. 1.9 Only one firearm or bow may be possessed in the field per individual hunter, while hunting deer. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) PART II DEER - MUZZLE-LOADING DEER SEASON 2.1 Muzzleloading Season: November 3 - November 25, 2001 Permit Required A. Statewide muzzleloader deer permit - Statewide, Either Sex B. Bonus muzzleloader deer permit - Antlerless Private Land The total bag limit during the entire muzzle loading season is two (2) deer. Muzzleloader deer hunters may purchase permits to take two deer. Statewide muzzleloader deer permit shall allow for the taking of one deer of either sex. The bonus muzzleloader deer permit shall allow for the taking of one antlerless deer on private land only. The bonus permit must be purchased prior to opening day. Some cities and towns have more restrictive ordinances, check local ordinances prior to hunting. All other deer hunting regulations shall apply (see Part I). 2.2 A current muzzle-loader deer permit is required for the muzzle-loading season. All deer must be conspicuously tagged by the hunter killing same immediately after killing or taking as provided, and taken by that same hunter to an Environmental Police Officer, or other Department designee for checking, within 24 hours. 2.3 During the muzzle-loading deer season, all hunters except those hunting raccoon at night, or archers in tree stands, or waterfowl hunters as provided, must wear a minimum of 200 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange material, contained in outer garment worn above the waist, and visible from all directions. A flourescent hat would meet the requirement. 2.4 Firearms for muzzle-loading deer season are limited to .45 caliber or larger using percussion caplock, flintlock, or older ignition systems and in-line ignition systems. Only single or double barrel firearms are allowed. All conversion kits which use a replacement barrel to convert a typical modern shotgun into a muzzle-loading rifle are prohibited. Also see Part 14.10. 2.5 Ammunition for muzzle-loading deer season is limited to a single lead projectile, including round ball, or maxi ball type projectiles. Sabot rounds for muzzle loader firearms either lead or jacketed are limited to .43 caliber or larger. Powder is limited to black powder or equivalent substitute. Telescopic sights are permitted. Possession of modern shotgun shotshells while hunting is prohibited. A muzzle-loader is considered unloaded when the percussion cap or pan powder is removed. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) 2.6 The limit for the muzzle-loading deer permit shall be one deer per permit as provided under Parts 2.1. 2.7 Within 24 hours of taking, as provided in Part 1.1, deer must be checked with a Department designated check station or with an Environmental Police Officer. Only specified vendors will be permitted to check deer. The list of approved vendors will be available prior to the season. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) PART III DEER - SHOTGUN DEER SEASON 3.1 Shotgun Season: December 1 - December 16, 2001 inclusive – Permit Required A. Either Sex Shotgun Permit – either sex deer may be taken in Providence and Kent county, and all of Washington county except New Shoreham (Block Island) December 1 - December 9, 2001 on both private and state Management land December 10 - December 16, 2001 on private land only. B. Bonus Antlerless Shotgun Permit – antlerless, private land, Providence and Kent county, and all of Washington county except New Shoreham (Block Island). Shotgun deer hunters may purchase permits to take two deer as follows: Either-Sex Shotgun Permit: shall allow for the taking of one deer of either sex for the first portion of the shotgun season on private and management lands, then on private lands only during the latter portion of season. The Bonus-Antlerless Shotgun Permit: shall allow for the taking of one antlerless deer on private land only, during either portion of the shotgun season. Permits may be used in any sequence. The bonus-antlerless permit must be purchased prior to opening day. Some cities and towns have more restrictive ordinances, check local ordinances prior to hunting. All other deer regulations shall apply (see Part I). 3.2 No person shall take deer with a shotgun, capable of holding more than five shells unless it is plugged with a one-piece filler which is incapable of removal without disassembling the gun. 3.3 Ammunition permitted for shotgun deer season includes rifled slugs or sabot round. Buckshot limited to double 00 or larger, buckshot prohibited in 20 gauge. Shotguns of 10, 12, 16, or 20 gauge are allowed. 3.4 All deer must be conspicuously tagged by the hunter killing same immediately after killing or taking as provided, and taken by that same hunter to a state-operated checking station for checking within 24 hours. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) 3.5 Deer killed or taken on the last day may be checked through a check station no later than 6:00 PM on that date, or by an Environmental Police Officer within 24 hours of taking. 3.6 During the shotgun season for deer, all hunters, except waterfowl hunters as provided, must wear a minimum of 500 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange material, contained in an outer garment and worn above the waist, a portion of which must include a head covering visible from all directions. 3.7 elds, when done in conjunction with decoys, is permitted during the shotgun deer season*. All other hunting, except otherwise provided under 4.1, 5.1, 9.2, 9.3, and 11.9,, shall be prohibited during period December 1 through December 16, 2001 except as provided. * Subject to Federal waterfowl framework not established at time of filing. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) PART IV DEER - ARCHERY DEER SEASON 4.1 Archery Season: October 1, 2001 - January 31, 2002, inclusive – Permit Required A. First Mainland Permit - either sex, mainland. B. Bonus Archery Permit - either sex, private land in Little Compton, Tiverton, North Kingstown, Coventry, Eastern Exeter (east of Rt. 3), South Kingstown, Narragansett, Richmond, Charlestown, Scituate, and Cranston only. C. Second Mainland Permit - antlerless, mainland. May be purchased after checking deer from one or the other of the First Mainland and bonus permits, but not from both. In total, archery deer hunters may purchase permits to take three deer. 4.2 The limit for the mainland archery deer season shall be one deer of either sex for the current archery deer permit, except as provided under 4.3, 4.7. 4.3 Archery deer hunters shall be permitted a bonus either sex deer valid on private land in the following towns: Little Compton, Tiverton, North Kingstown, South Kingstown,Coventry, Eastern Exeter (east of Rt. 3), Narragansett, Richmond, Charlestown, Scituate, and Cranston. The bonus either sex archery permit must be purchased prior to the season, October 1, 2001. 4.4 No bow used in hunting deer shall be equipped with any mechanical device for drawing or releasing the arrow (RIGL 20-15-4). A bow string release device whereby the bow is hand held, hand drawn, and finger released is permitted. 4.5 All broadheads used for deer hunting must be of the non-expandable, fixed cutting edge type. Cutting blades must be made of metal. Broadheads designed to rotate around the axis of the arrow when in flight are permitted. For additional information, see RIGL § 20-15-4. 4.6 All deer must be immediately tagged by the hunter after killing or taking as provided, and taken by that same hunter to an Environmental Police Officer, or other Department designee for checking within 24 hours. 4.7 After checking as provided, the archer will be entitled to purchase an additional mainland archery deer permit to take an antlerless deer by bow and arrow. Mainland shall mean all areas of Rhode Island open to bow and arrow hunting except Prudence and Patience Islands, and Block HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) Island. Only specified vendors will be permitted to check deer and sell additional permits. The list of approved vendors will be available prior to the season. 4.8 All archers when traveling to and from a tree stand, during the deer muzzle-loading season, must wear, above the waist, a minimum of 200 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange visible from all directions. A flourescent hat meets this requirement. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) PART V SPECIAL DEER SEASONS Prudence and Patience Islands 5.1 Archery season dates shall be, October 27, 2001 through January 13, 2002, if quota has not been reached. The only legal method of deer hunting on Prudence and Patience Islands is by archery, except as provided by 5.18 - 5.27 of these regulations. 5.2 The total season bag limit is one (1) deer of either sex. 5.3 A Prudence/Patience Island Archery Deer Permit (deer tag) is required to hunt on Prudence and Patience Islands. 5.4 While archery deer hunting, no possession of firearms permitted, except during the special paraplegic hunter deer season. 5.5 Reservations to hunt management areas are required by lottery. Reservations will be required on the south and north ends, Barre Units of Prudence and Patience for the first two weekends and two weekday periods, Saturday (10/27) and Sunday (10/28), Monday through Friday (10/29 – 11/ 2), and Saturday and Sunday (11/3 - 11/4), and Monday through Friday (11/5 – 11/9) ending November 9. 5.6 A lottery system will assign hunters on Prudence Island and Patience Island during the reservation period. Lottery applications may be obtained by mailing a request with a self-addressed stamped envelope (9½ x 4 inch envelope) to: DEER LOTTERY, Division of Fish and Wildlife, P.O. Box 218, West Kingston, RI 02892, or you may acquire an application online at www.state.ri.us/dem. Application dates will be July 6 through August 20, 2001. Two individuals may apply on one application, however, an individual may only apply once in the lottery system. Duplicate, illegible, incorrect, or incomplete forms will be rejected. The lottery reservation is non-transferable and non-negotiable. Hunters must complete and return hunter survey cards regardless of hunting activity or success in order to be eligible for future seasons. 5.7 On the south and north ends of Prudence Island 40 hunters respectively, per day may be assigned. On Patience Island and the Barre Unit on Prudence Island, 10 hunters respectively, per day may be assigned. 5.8 A quota of 175 deer may be taken, or as provided in 5.11 Hunting on the Islands will end the earlier of either January 13, 2002 or when quota is reached. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) 5.9 All deer taken on Prudence Island shall be immediately tagged by the hunter and checked by that same hunter through the check station designated by the Department of Environmental Management and a leg seal must be attached to the deer prior to leaving Prudence Island. The leg seal must remain attached to the deer until processed for consumption. 5.10 All deer taken on Patience Island shall be immediately tagged by the hunter and then checked by that same hunter through the deer check station on Prudence Island, or on the mainland by contacting an Environmental Police Officer or other Department designee within 24 hours after killing or taking. 5.11 The Division of Fish and Wildlife retains the right to alter the number of hunters, number of days hunted, and total deer harvested within the above season, if conditions warrant. 5.12 Proficiency testing is required of all archery hunters, hunting deer on Patience and Prudence, private and state-owned lands. The proficiency card is valid for two years from the date of issue and must be carried while hunting. 5.13 For private lands, written permission of the landowner must be obtained, and as required by local ordinance, must be countersigned by the Chief of Police or his representative on the Island. 5.14 The driving of deer while archery hunting or participating in deer driving for archery hunters is prohibited at all times on Prudence and Patience Islands. 5.15 On Prudence Island, during the period October 1, 2001 through January 13, 2002 inclusive, the casting of the rays of artificial lights, including spotlights, headlights, or other artificial light, at any time, on any highway or roadway, whether public or private, or any field, woodland, residential property, or forest, any building or farm animal, for the purpose of spotting, locating, or attempting to spot or locate any wild animal or wild bird is prohibited. 5.16 On Patience Island, there shall be no hunting of any species of wildlife, except archery hunting for deer, as provided. The possession of any firearm at any time on Patience Island, except for archery equipment as prescribed during the established archery season for deer, shall be prima-facie evidence of illegal hunting, (except as provided in 5.20). 5.17 Waterfowl hunting Prudence - The possession of firearms is permitted while en route to, or during waterfowl hunting; waterfowl hunters must possess all the following: A minimum of six (6) decoys, approved non-toxic HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) shot as specified in Rhode Island or Federal waterfowl regulations, and both the Rhode Island and Federal waterfowl stamps. No ball ammunition may be possessed. Possession of a loaded firearm more than (10) ten feet above mean high water is prohibited, except as provided in (Parts 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 9.5, & 11.2). HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) Paraplegic and double amputee hunters on Prudence Island, Portsmouth; and Fort Greene Army Reserve, Narragansett 5.18 The season for Prudence Island will be October 9 - 12, 2001 inclusive, and the season for Fort Greene will be October 16 - 19, 2001 inclusive, during legal shooting hours. 5.19 The taking of deer will be limited to paraplegic and double amputee hunters only. 5.20 A special hunting license must be obtained through the DEM Licensing Division, 235 Promenade St. Providence, RI 02908 (401) 222-3576 by each applicant prior to the hunt. None will be issued on the Island. An application signed by a physician for a first-time hunter, or a photocopy of a previous paraplegic/double amputee hunting license is required. Hunters for Fort Greene must also complete a registration card and mail it to R.I. Fish and Wildlife, Box 218, W. Kingston, RI 02892, ATTN: Fort Greene and postmarked by September 30. 5.21 None of the hunter's assistants will be allowed to hunt or carry firearms at any time. No license is required of the assistants. 5.22 Hunters may participate in either hunt. Only five (5) hunters will be permitted on Fort Greene. If needed, a lottery will be conducted to choose the five eligible hunters. Hunters will be notified after the selection. All hunters and assistants must register upon entering or leaving either location with the officer-in-charge. 5.23 All deer taken must be checked by an Environmental Police Officer or Department designee prior to leaving Prudence Island, or for Fort Greene by a Department designee, or at a state certified vendor check station. 5.24 All deer wounded, but not recovered, must be reported as soon as possible to the officer-in-charge. 5.25 Ammunition shall be limited to slugs -- 10, 12, 16, or 20 gauge only, buckshot is allowed by special permit only, 00 or larger. Hunters may use muzzle-loading firearms as defined under Muzzle-loading Deer Season. 5.26 Once a deer is taken, the successful hunter may no longer carry a firearm in the field, but may assist his fellow hunter(s). 5.27 Additional restrictions may be required on Fort Greene. 5.28 As the opportunity arises the Division will announce other properties and season & bag limits. Regulations will be promulgated. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) PART VI Block Island Deer Season 6.1 Deer hunting season dates are as follows: Archery deer hunting season dates for the Town of New Shoreham shall be: October 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30 November 1, 2, 5, 6, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 20 Archery & Shotgun November 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 December 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 Shotgun Only December 17, 18, 20, 21 January 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28, 29, 31 February 1, 4, 5, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 15 6.2 All state-owned land on Block Island is closed to deer hunting for the 2001-2002 season. 6.3 The limit shall be one deer of either sex, except as provided under 6.6. 6.4 A Block Island archery or shotgun deer permit is required to hunt on Block Island. Mainland deer permits will be invalid on the Island. Prior to start of the archery or shotgun deer season a hunter may purchase five permits. After season opening permit must be purchased as provided in 6.6. 6.5 In addition to the written permission requirements, all deer hunters on Block Island must obtain countersigned written permission from the Block Island Chief of Police or his representative on the Island. 6.6 After checking as provided in 6.9 a hunter may purchase additional Block Island Shotgun or Archery Deer Permits to take additional deer on Block Island until season closure. Hunters may possess not more than five (5) permits of any type at one time. 6.7 Ammunition permitted for shotgun deer season includes rifled slugs or sabot round. Shotguns of 10, 12, 16, or 20 gauge are allowed. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) 6.8 On Block Island, the casting of the rays of artificial lights, including spotlights, headlights, or other artificial light, at any time, on any highway or roadway, whether public or private, or any field, woodland, residential property, or forest, any building or farm animal, for the purpose of spotting, locating, or attempting to spot or locate any wild animal or wild bird is prohibited. 6.9 All deer must be tagged in a conspicuous manner by the hunter killing same immediately after taking. All deer taken on Block Island shall be checked by that same hunter through the designated check stations and a leg seal must be attached to the deer prior to leaving the island, and within 24 hours of taking. The leg seal must remain attached to the deer until processed for consumption. 6.10 Proficiency testing is required of all archery hunters that are hunting deer on Block Island. The proficiency card is valid for two years from the date of issue. The proficiency card must be carried while hunting. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) PART VII DEER - COOPERATIVE DEER HUNTING PROGRAM Northwest Cooperative -- The Northwest Cooperative Deer Hunting permits serve as your written permission for hunting this private land. These permits must be carried in addition to your individual deer permits. 7.1 Archery and muzzle-loader deer hunters must have state permits to hunt the Northwest Cooperative. A permit is required for each season: (Archery, Oct. 1 - Jan 31); (Muzzle-loader, Nov 3 - Nov 25). The Division reserves the right to alter the number of hunters, permits, or days of hunting as conditions warrant. Permits must be returned by February 14, 2002. Hunters must return permit to be eligible for the next season's permit. 7.2 Permits available after - September 1, and may be obtained by sending a self-addressed 9½ x 4 stamped envelope to: NORTHWEST COOP, R.I. Division of Fish and Wildlife, P.O. Box 218, West Kingston, RI 02892. Indicate the permit-type (e.g. archery, muzzleloader, or both). 7.3 Shotgun deer hunters must check in and out of the Durfee Hill check station daily, December 1 - 9, 2001 only for the Northwest Cooperative hunting area. No shotgun hunting permitted December 10 - 16, 2001. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) PART VIII *MIGRATORY GAME BIRDS 8.1 Mourning Doves - The open season for mourning doves shall be statewide: September 13 - 30, 2001 inclusive; October 20 - November 17, 2001; and December 22 - January 13, 2002, inclusive. Shooting hours shall be: First portion: 12:00 noon to sunset during the period September 13 – 30, 2001 Second portion: October 20 - November 17, 2001 - shall be sunrise to sunset Third portion: December 22 – January 13, 2002 - shall be sunrise to sunset. Daily bag/possession limits - 12/24. 8.2 Rails - The open season for rails shall be September 8, 2001 November 16, 2001, inclusive. daily bag/possession limits - King & Clapper Rail - 5/10, singly or in aggregate Sora & Virginia Rail - 5/10, singly or in aggregate 8.3 Common snipe - The open season for common snipe shall September 8 - November 14, 2001. daily bag/possession limits - 5/10 8.4 Woodcock - November 1 - 30, 2001 daily bag/possession limits - 3/6. 8.5 Allowed methods of taking and prohibited methods of taking migratory birds and waterfowl, shall be the same as set forth in 50 CFR 20 (sub parts A through N) of the U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, made under the provisions of and Act of Congress relating to migratory birds and waterfowl. A HIP permit is required for hunting all migratory birds. Special Regulation. 8.6 Canada Goose September 1 - 30, 2001 Daily bag limit is 5, 10 in possession A permit must be obtained from the Division of Fish and Wildlife prior to hunting during the special September Canada Goose Season. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) The permit must be returned to the: Division of Fish and Wildlife, P.O. Box 218, West Kingston, RI 02892, October 19, 2001 regardless of hunting success. Hunters must return the permit to be eligible for the 2002 Special Goose Season. 8.7 Sea Ducks (Eider, Old Squaw, & Scoter) October 1, 2001 - January 20, 2002 [framework dates] October 6, 2001 - January 20, 2002 [proposed] daily bag/possession limits - 7/14 only 4 of which may be scoters, eider, or old squaw. *Subject to Federal regulations HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) PART IX UPLAND GAME 9.1 Legal shooting hours for all game birds and mammals, except dove, turkey, waterfowl, coyote, deer, and raccoon will be sunrise to sunset, except as otherwise provided. On October 20, 2001 legal shooting hours will be 7:00 AM to sunset. 9.2 Open season for Fox, Gray Squirrels, Cottontail Rabbits, Snowshoe Hare October 20, 2001 - the last day of February EXCEPT during shotgun deer season (December 1 - 16, 2001). State land will remain December 10 -16, 2001. Prudence Island: November 1, 2001- November 30, 2001 EXCEPT on northern Prudence Island Management Area the season shall be January 14 - 31, 2002 inclusive. South Prudence and Patience Management Areas closed to shotgun small game hunting. Newport & Bristol Counties and East of Blackstone River & New Shoreham: remains open (December 1 - 16, 2001). Daily Bag limits: Cottontail rabbits shall be three. Snowshoe hare shall be one. Gray squirrels shall be five. 9.3 Open season for Ruffed Grouse, Bobwhite Quail, & Pheasant Ruffed Grouse & Quail - October 20 - December 31, 2001. Ruffed grouse hunting is CLOSED in the Arcadia Management Area in the Towns of Exeter, Richmond and West Greenwich. Ringneck Pheasant - Season limit 10 birds October 20 - December 31, 2001. Except December 1 - 16, 2001. State and will remain December 10 - 16, 2001. Prudence Island: November 1 - 30, 2001. - EXCEPT that on northern Prudence Island Management Area the season shall be: January 14 - 31, 2002 inclusive. South Prudence and Patience Management Areas closed to shotgun small game hunting. Newport & Bristol Counties and East of Blackstone River & New Shoreham: remains December 1 - 16, 2001 Daily Bag limits: Ruffed grouse shall be one (1) HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) Bobwhite quail (3) birds Ring-necked pheasants, two (2) birds, EXCEPT in Newport and Bristol Counties where the limit will be two male pheasants On New Shoreham, the open season on male ring-necked pheasants shall be the first and third Wednesdays in November, December, January, and additionally, December 28 and January 30 with a daily limit of two male pheasants. 9.4 Open season for Crows August 25 - October 8, 2001 Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only. October 20 - November 30, 2001 inclusive December 17, 2001 - April 9, 2002 Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only. Hunting hours for crows is sunrise to sunset Except on Northern Prudence Island Management Area the season shall be January 14 - 31, 2002, inclusive. No daily bag or possession limit. 9.5 The hunting seasons on woodchucks, crows, English sparrows, starlings, and rock doves shall be closed on Prudence Island at all times, EXCEPT during the period November 1 through November 30, annually, or as otherwise provided. South Prudence and Patience Management Areas closed to shotgun small game hunting. 9.6 The hunting of any species of wildlife EXCEPT white-tailed deer, coyote, and waterfowl as provided, or as otherwise provided, shall be prohibited in Providence, Kent, and Washington Counties during the annual shotgun deer season. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) PART X WILD TURKEY 10.1 The open seasons and dates for hunting wild turkey are: A. Special Season - Paraplegic hunters April 23 and 24, 2002. B. Statewide: April 25 through May 24, 2002. Applicants may obtain only one type of spring turkey permit per season. 10.2 One thousand four hundred (1,400) permits will be issued. If more than 1,400 applications are received, permits will be issued by a random selection process. The Division reserves the right to alter the number of permits and the number of hunting days at any time. 10.3 Area open to hunting restricted to: That portion of Providence County west of the Blackstone River, Kent County, Washington County, and Tiverton, Little Compton in Newport County. 10.4 Special Paraplegic season: A. A special turkey permit must be obtained from the DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife. Hunting in this season will be limited to paraplegic hunters only. B. An application signed by a physician for a first-time hunter is required. C. None of the hunter’s assistants will be allowed to hunt or carry firearms at any time. D. All turkeys taken must be checked at an official state designated checking station on the day of taking. 10.5 Hunting hours shall be from one half hour before sunrise to 1:00 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, daily, provided that all hunters shall leave the woods no later than 1:00 P.M. 10.6 The bag and possession limit shall be one (1) bearded male turkey per license per year. 10.7 Notwithstanding the provisions of RIGL 20-13-13, the methods of taking shall be limited to shotguns, gauges 10, 12, 16, and 20 only, with shot sizes 2, 4, 5, and 6 magnum loads only; and by archery equipment consisting of a long bow (straight limb, reflex, recurve, and compound bow) of not less than forty (40) pounds pull, and shall use broadhead arrows, with at least two cutting edges seven eighths inches (7/8") or greater at the widest point. A bow string release device where the bow is hand held, hand drawn and finger released is allowed. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) 10.8 The use of any other firearm, live decoy(s), baiting, dog(s), cooperative drive(s), electric calling devices, or any other devices, to capture or ensnare turkeys is prohibited. 10.9 The shooting of turkeys on the roost is prohibited. 10.10 Stalking or attempting to sneak up on a turkey to get a shot is prohibited. 10.11 Hunters must carry a turkey calling device (non-electric) while hunting. Calling is the only legal method for hunting wild turkey gobblers. 10.12 A person shall not hunt, kill, take, or attempt to take, or possess any wild turkey unless they possess on their person a permit to do so. Provided, however, that if an individual has a valid Rhode Island hunting license, that individual may call turkeys for individuals with a valid turkey permit. 10.13 A person receiving a turkey permit is required to sign, in ink, on the face of the turkey tag prior to hunting. A person killing a wild turkey shall immediately, before transporting or removing the carcass in any manner from where it was killed, complete and attach to the leg in a conspicuous manner the "turkey tag" provided with the permit following instructions printed on the tag. Said "turkey tag" shall remain attached to the turkey until the turkey is presented to a duly authorized check station for checking; where such tag shall be removed and a metal tag attached. The metal tag must remain attached until the carcass is prepared for consumption or taxidermy. The hunting of wild turkey when not in possession of a valid, signed unused "turkey tag" shall be prima-facie evidence of hunting without a valid turkey hunting permit. 10.14 Within the same calendar day, but no later than 4:00 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, after killing a wild turkey, the entire fully-feathered intact carcass of the bird must be presented by the person killing same to a duly authorized check station for the purpose of being recorded, examined, and sealed. 10.15 (a) Applicants must have a valid current Rhode Island hunting, combination, or other such valid license as required by law to hunt in Rhode Island before applying for a 2002 turkey permit. (b) Only one (1) application per person is allowed. (c) Application period is March 1 - 25, 2002 and applications postmarked after this date will be rejected. Applications will be accepted by U.S. Mail, First Class, ONLY. Walk-in applications will not be accepted. Send application to TURKEY PERMIT, RI Division of Fish and Wildlife, Government Center, 4808 Tower Hill Rd., Wakefield, RI 02879. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) (d) Permits will be issued by random drawing after March 25, 2002. In the event that fewer than 1,400 applications are received, the remaining permits will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Permits are non-transferable. (e) Duplicate applications and applications which are not complete, accurate, legible, or have been altered will be rejected. Those applicants will not be notified. (f) Applications must be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped, business size 9-1/2" X 4-1/4" envelope. 10.16 A mandatory hunter survey card will be issued to each permittee. This hunter survey must be returned to the Division by June 10, 2002; WHETHER YOU HUNT, OR WHETHER OR NOT YOU WERE SUCCESSFUL. Failure to return the survey card will result in the rejection of your application for the following turkey hunting year. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) PART XI FURBEARERS* 11.1 *Furbearers as defined by RIGL 20-16-1. 11.2 Raccoon - Open Season -- The open season for raccoon shall be 6:00 PM October 1, 2001 through the last day of February, inclusive; excluding the period of 1,2001 through December 16, 2001 inclusive, in Providence, Kent, and Washington Counties. In the Town of Portsmouth, Prudence Island, season shall be limited to January 14, 2002 through the last day of February, inclusive, with written permission of the landowner and special permit issued by the DEM representative on Prudence Island. That portion of Providence County east of the Blackstone River shall remain open to raccoon hunting during the period December 1 -16, 2001. Provided, however, that bow hunters with a valid deer archery permit may take raccoon on Prudence Island during legal deer hunting hours, October 27, 2001 through January, 13, 2002 or until the quota is filled. Special permit not required for bow hunters under this latter provision. Bag Limits - There is no season limit on raccoon. There are no limits to the taking of raccoon by bow hunters as provided under 11.2, or under special permit on Prudence and Patience Islands. There is no bag limit on fox. 11.3 The trapping season for mink, muskrat, skunk, raccoon, fox, opossum, and weasel shall be November 1, 2001, through January 31, 2002, inclusive. Traps may not be set, staked, or placed prior to 8:00 AM on opening day, November 1, annually. 11.3.1 The trapping season for beaver shall be December 1, 2001 March 15, 2002, inclusive. Traps may not be set, staked, or placed prior to 8:00 AM on opening day, December 1, 2001. Setting traps within 10 feet of a beaver lodge/bank den is prohibited, unless allowed under nuisance complaint request. All trappers participating in beaver trapping must first obtain a Special Permit (no fee) issued by the Division of Fish and Wildlife as well as a current RI Trapping License. Individual trappers may be limited to the number of beaver harvested as established by the Division of Fish and Wildlife. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) The number of beaver to be harvested within each watershed shall be determined by the Division of Fish and Wildlife, and the Division reserves the right to alter the number at any time. Special beaver permits/tags may be issued for selected watersheds, or specific sites within watershed. Special permits/tags are valid only for assigned trap sites. Harvest records and/or unused permits shall be returned to the Division of Fish and Wildlife within 14 days after the expiration of the permit; failure to return these records or permits within the specified time period may result in no future permits being issued to that permittee. 11.3.2 The experimental trapping season for fisher Martes pennanti shall be November 1, 2001 to November 30, 2001, inclusive. All trappers participating in the fisher trapping season must obtain a special permit (no fee) from the Division of Fish and Wildlife, Great Swamp Field Headquarters in addition to their current R.I. trapping license. There shall be a season limit of two (2) fisher per permit. All fisher pelts must be presented for tagging within 72 hours of taking. In addition, all fisher carcasses must be turned in to the Division of Fish and Wildlife, Great Swamp Field Headquarters. No fisher pelts will be tagged without the submission of the carcass to Fish and Wildlife. A trapper survey card will be issued to each permittee and must be returned to the Division at the close of fisher season. The Division of Fish and Wildlife reserves the right to alter the number of permits or the number of fisher harvested at any time. All other general trapping regulations apply. All permittees may be subject to administrative penalties of up to $1,000.00 for violation of any of these regulations pursuant to RIGL Chapter 42-17-6. 11.4 Body gripping "conibear" type traps in Sizes 110, 120, or 160 (or equivalent, not to exceed 6 ½ inch jaw spread as measured from hinge to hinge) shall be permitted on land or in water; Size 220 (or its equivalent, not to exceed 8 inch jaw spread) shall be permitted only if such trap is completely submerged in water, or placed at least six (6) feet above the surface of water or ground (i.e., trees). All other "conibear" type traps are prohibited. 11.4.1 For the taking of beaver, the use of 220 and 330 "Conibear" type traps shall be permitted only if such traps are completely submerged underwater and in a vertical position. Trap jaw spread not to exceed 10 inch opening when set. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) 11.5 Permits to trap state land are required, and are obtainable from the Division of Fish and Wildlife Field Headquarters, Box 218, West Kingston, RI 02892. "Conibear" type traps only -- water and tree sets only, 110 or 120 or equivalent only, except by special permit. 11.6 All "box" traps must have the name, address, and license number if applicable, of trapper attached. All steel traps must have the valid license number of the trapper embedded or cut into the trap, or a metal tag attached to the trap which, as a minimum, bears the trapper's license number as designated in RIGL 20-16-7. 11.7 The taking of bobcat by any method, is prohibited, except as provided under the Protected Nuisance Furbearer Policy (RIGL 20-16-2): 11.7.1 All protected furbearer trapping or hunting will be conducted by licensed trappers with special permits only. 11.7.2 Special permits for taking protected furbearers will be issued only by the Department of Environmental Management's Division of Fish and Wildlife, and Division of Enforcement. 11.7.3 Persons with complaints regarding protected furbearers will be given the name of trappers and will then make arrangements to trap the nuisance animal. The complainant will then request a special permit to be issued to the selected trapper. All complaints must be checked by a biologist and/or conservation officer before a special permit will be issued. 11.7.4 All decisions involving protected nuisance furbearers will rest with the D.E.M. Division of Fish and Wildlife and the Division of Enforcement. 11.8 Possession, at any time, of a pelt or carcass of an otter, fisher, bobcat or beaver that has not been tagged by an approved state or federal agency shall be prima-facie evidence of illegal taking. The Division of Fish and Wildlife may require that the skinned carcass be turned over for analysis. Otter and bobcat may only be possessed under RIGL 20-16-2 and RIGL 20-16-8. The pelt or carcass of the above named species must be presented for tagging within 10 days after taking or before selling the pelt or carcass, whichever comes first, except beaver, otter, and bobcat, which must be tagged within 72 hours after taking. 11.9 There is no closed season for red squirrel, chipmunk, woodchuck, or coyote (coyote pelts must be tagged by the Division of Fish and Wildlife prior to sale). HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) During the shotgun season for deer December 1 - 16 all coyote hunters must possess a valid shotgun deer permit. Legal hunting hours for the above species is sunrise to sunset, see 9.1, except for coyotes where the legal hunting hours shall be one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) PART XII REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS 12.1 The removal from the wild, for any purposes, of any reptile or amphibian to include their nests and eggs is prohibited except by special permit. The taking of snapping turtles at any time shall be limited to the following methods: turtle traps, snagging, snaring, grabbing, jugging, bow and arrow, or while legally fishing. Turtle traps must have a metal tag attached which, at a minimum, bears the trapper's name and address. Jugs must be marked indelibly with name and address of trapper. 12.2 The following species of reptiles and amphibians to include their nests and eggs are protected and possession without permit is prohibited at all times: Timber rattlesnake, Crotalus horridus; northern diamondback terrapin, Malaclemys terrapin; wood turtle, Clemmys insculpta; eastern box turtle, Terrapene carolina; spotted turtle, Clemmys guttata; and bog turtle, Clemmys muhlenbergi. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) PART XIII MANAGEMENT AREAS 13.1 The possession of a valid Rhode Island hunting, or combination hunting and fishing license, shall serve as a permit to hunt State Management Areas, and Tidal Lands pursuant to Title 20, Chapter 18, §§ 20-18-2 and 20-18-3 of the General Laws. 13.2 Permit shall be valid only from the first day of dove season in September through the last day of February, except when check stations are in operation for upland game at the Great Swamp, Carolina, Durfee Hill, and Arcadia; for turkey hunting; when special permits are required for deer hunting; or for waterfowl hunting on state lands. (See current abstract for check station dates). Bow hunters and muzzleloading hunters hunting deer on state management areas do not need to check in or out. 13.3 The carrying of firearms on state management areas at any other time is prohibited except as provided in Management Area Regulations 11.1 On management areas and designated undeveloped parks, carry of firearms and bows and arrows at any time, except during the open season for game birds and mammals, and while on shooting ranges, is prohibited. In addition to above, blank guns are permitted for the purpose of dog training in designated areas from January 1 to September 30. 13.4 Individuals must check in, and out, of state management hunter check stations each day they are open for upland season. Check station dates will be listed in the current Hunting Season Abstract. 13.5 Dog training and all hunting, except for bow hunting for deer, and waterfowl hunting, as provided, is prohibited on state land during the period of October 15, 2001 through October 19, 2001 unless otherwise provided. 13.6 From the period April 1 through August 15, annually, there shall be no trespassing, disturbing, or molesting of any species of nesting birds on Hope Island in the West Passage; Gould Island in the Sakonnet River, East Island and West Island off Sakonnet Point, or Gould Island in the East Passage, except by special permit. All cats, dogs, and other domestic animals are prohibited at all times upon these Islands, except that hunting dogs may be used during that period set aside by the Department for hunting of game birds and mammals on Hope Island only. 13.7 All users of state Management Areas, during the period October 20, 2001 through the last day of February (exception includes boat-launching sites, HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) raccoon hunters, archers in tree stands, or waterfowl hunters as provided) must wear a minimum of 200 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange material in a head covering visible from all directions. A flourescent orange hat will meet the requirement. During the shotgun season for deer, all hunters, except waterfowl hunters as provided, must wear a minimum of 500 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange material, contained in an outer garment and worn above the waist, a portion of which must include a head covering visible from all directions. 13.8 The possession and/or use of paint guns on state management areas is prohibited. See RIGL § 32-2-4. 13.9 A hunting license is required when training dogs on wild game on state management areas, except when participating in state-sanctioned field trials. 13.10 Complete dressing of game birds and mammals on state property is prohibited. Field dressing (removal of entrails only) is permitted. Head, skin, feathers, wings, tails, etc., shall remain attached to the carcass. 13.11 Dogs on State Management Areas allowed only under the following rules. 13.11.1 No dogs shall be trained, run, or exercised or be permitted to run at large on state management areas from March 15 to August 15, inclusive, without written permission of the Division of Fish and Wildlife except as otherwise provided in these regulations (13.5 and 13.12). 13.11.2 Walking of dogs on a leash of not more than 25 feet in length shall be permitted on roads and trails only. 13.11.3 All dogs must be wearing a collar with the name and address of the owner or handler and license tag. 13.12 Dog Training Areas -- Dog training areas shall be allowed on designated areas only, between January 1 and September 30. During this period, dogs may run freely provided they are under the command of the trainer by either voice, training collar, or check cord. 13.12.1 Areas designated for training dogs are: the Black Farm Management Area; the Nicholas Farm Management Area north of the Trestle Trail; and the Arcadia Midway Trail Area confined to the developed field complex east of Brook Trail, south of Austin Farm Road and west of the established field edges comprising the Midway fields area. Field trial areas are as depicted on maps drawn by the Division of Fish and Wildlife. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) 13.12.2 Training hours shall be sunrise to sunset. 13.12.3 All persons using areas for training shall possess a hunting license. 13.12.4 All dogs using areas shall be licensed and have proof of rabies vaccinations. 13.12.5 Training with live birds (pheasants/quail) is permitted provided the bird is released unharmed and all necessary permits are obtained. 13.12.6 Shooting of live birds for training purposes is prohibited. 13.12.7 Sanctioned field trial events may be held at the following locations by requesting a special permit from the Division of Fish and Wildlife: Arcadia, Carolina, Durfee Hill Marsh, and Burlingame (Durfee) Pond, and Nicholas Farm. 13.13 JOHN L. CURRAN STATE PARK/MANAGEMENT AREA 13.13.1 All hunting shall be within the inner boundaries of the buffer zones marked as posted by the Department. 13.13.2 Only shotguns and bow & arrows may be possessed or used while hunting. 13.13.3 The hunting of and/or possession of Mourning Dove or Wild Pigeons (Rock Dove) is prohibited. 13.14 SIMMONS MILL POND MANAGEMENT AREA -- Only archery equipment, bow and arrows, may be possessed or used while hunting white-tailed deer within the Simmons Mill Pond Management in Little Compton. 13.15 DUTCH ISLAND Prohibition on the entry upon Dutch Island. No person shall enter onto Dutch Island without the specific written permission of the Director. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) PART XIV GENERAL 14.1 Taking of moose or bear by any method is prohibited except as provided under special permit issued by the Director of the Department of Environmental Management. 14.2 The importation, exportation, possession, liberation, or sale, offer for sale, barter, or offer for barter of mute swans and their eggs is prohibited, except by special permit issued by the Director of the Department of Environmental Management or his designee. 14.3 The importation, exportation, possession, liberation, or sale, offer for sale, barter, or offer for barter of any live or pen-reared wild turkey or eggs of a wild turkey is prohibited. The possession of any dead untagged wild turkey is prohibited. 14.4 There is no closed season for monk parakeets or rock doves (wild pigeons). 14.5 From the third Saturday in October to the last day of February, annually, all hunters (unless bow hunting for deer; hunting raccoon at night; or waterfowl hunting from a blind or boat or crow over decoys), must wear a minimum of 200 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange material, contained in outer garments and worn above the waist, and visible in all directions. This may be a hat and/or vest. (see exceptions: muzzle-loading deer season - Part 2.3; shotgun deer season - Part 3.6; and archery deer season 4.8). 14.6 All dogs being utilized in hunting activities must be wearing a collar with a valid l icense tag, and the name and address of the owner or handler thereon. 14.7 Waterfowl hunting is permitted no more than 10 feet above mean high water on Prudence Island, except in that period from November 1 to November 30, and during the period October 9 - October 12 by paraplegic and double amputee deer hunters with special permit, and as otherwise provided. 14.8 Shooting at any animal at any time, while such animal is on a telephone line, pole, or tower, or electric line, pole, or tower, or any communication device is prohibited. 14.9 A muzzle-loading rifle, not to exceed .40 calibre, with round ball and patch only, may be used to hunt small mammals during the established seasons HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) for these species. The use of solid ball in a muzzle-loading shotgun is prohibited at all times, except when deer hunting as provided. 14.10 The use or possession of laser sights or night vision equipment while hunting is prohibited. 14.11 No person shall import or possess game birds for the purpose of liberation or stocking of said game birds into the State of Rhode Island without first having received a permit to do so from the Division of Fish and Wildlife. Persons holding a commercial game license or shooting preserve license may liberate game birds or mammals in connection with field trials and shooting preserves. See RIGL 20-2-16.1, 20-2-29, and 20-17-1. 14.12 No person shall feed any black bear (ursus americanus). No person shall intentionally use any method(s) to attract or entice a black bear. HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) RULE 8 EFFECTIVE DATE The foregoing Rules and Regulations - R.I. Hunting for the 2001 - 2002 Season, after due notice, are hereby adopted and filed with the Secretary of State this 28th day of June , 2001 to become effective twenty (20) days thereafter, in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 20, 20-1-4, 20-1-12, 20-1-13 , 42-35, 42-17.1, and 42-17.6 of the General Laws of Rhode Island of 1956, as amended. Jan Harmen Reitsma, Director Department of Environmental Management Notice Given on: 5/14/01 Public Hearing held: 6/13/01 Filing Date: 6/28/01 Effective Date: 7/17/01 HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) June 29, 2001 The Honorable Edward S. Inman, III Secretary of State 217 State House Providence, RI 02907 Dear Secretary Inman: The DEM - Division of Fish and Wildlife, in accordance with Chapters 20-1-4, 20-1-12, 20-1-13,“Department of Environmental Management", and 42-17.1, 42- 17.6, and 42-35 Administrative Procedures, General Laws of Rhode Island, 1956 as amended, has adopted regulations governing the following items: Hunting and trapping The purpose of these rules and regulations is to efficiently manage the fish and wildlife resources of Rhode Island. The attached regulations will become effective twenty (20) days subsequent to filing. Sincerely, John A. Stolgitis Chief HUNTING.DEM - (2001- 2002) Justification For the promulgation of Wildlife and Freshwater Fishing Regulations A public hearing and filing of regulations for wildlife and freshwater fishing must be done on an annual basis as required by RIGL 20-1-12 – Fixing of Seasons and Bag Limits, and RIGL 20-1-13 – Publication and Effective Date of Seasons and Bag Limits. The proposed regulations are formulated after the biological staff has reviewed and analyzed harvest data from the previous years hunting, fishing, and trapping seasons.