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Photo Credit: Jamie Richie (USFWS)
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge Hunting and Fishing
Plan
March 2020
Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations Appendix B. Comparison
of Current vs. Proposed
Changes to the Hunting and Fishing Program Appendix C.
Environmental Assessment Appendix D. Intra-Service Section 7
Evaluation
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Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge Hunting and Fishing
Plan
March 2020
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge 2591 Whitehall Neck
Road
Smyrna, DE 19977
Submitted By: Project Leader
______________________________________________ ____________
Signature Date Concurrence: Refuge Supervisor
______________________________________________ ____________
Signature Date Approved: Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge
System
______________________________________________ ____________
Signature Date
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Hunting and Fishing Plan Table of Contents
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan ii
Hunting and Fishing Plan Table of Contents HUNTING AND FISHING
PLAN TABLE OF
CONTENTS...............................................................................................
II
INTRODUCTION
.....................................................................................................................................................
1
STATEMENT OF OBJECTIVES
..................................................................................................................................
3
DESCRIPTION OF HUNTING AND FISHING
PROGRAM.............................................................................................
4
A. AREAS TO BE OPENED OR CHANGED TO HUNTING AND FISHING
................................................................................
4 B. SPECIES TO BE TAKEN, HUNTING PERIODS, HUNTING ACCESS
...................................................................................
7 C. HUNTER AND ANGLER PERMIT REQUIREMENTS
.....................................................................................................
9 D. CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION WITH THE STATE
............................................................................................
9 E. LAW ENFORCEMENT
....................................................................................................................................
10 F. FUNDING AND STAFFING REQUIREMENTS
..........................................................................................................
10
CONDUCT OF THE HUNTING AND FISHING PROGRAM
.........................................................................................
14
A. HUNTER PERMIT APPLICATION, SELECTION, AND/OR REGISTRATION
PROCEDURES .......................................................
14 B. REFUGE-SPECIFIC HUNTING
PROCEDURES..........................................................................................................
14 C. REFUGE-SPECIFIC FISHING REGULATIONS
..........................................................................................................
18 D. RELEVANT STATE REGULATIONS
......................................................................................................................
19
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
.........................................................................................................................................
21
A. OUTREACH FOR ANNOUNCING AND PUBLICIZING THE HUNTING AND
FISHING PROGRAM............................................... 21
B. ANTICIPATED PUBLIC REACTION TO THE HUNTING AND FISHING PROGRAM
................................................................ 21
C. HOW HUNTERS AND ANGLERS WILL BE INFORMED OF RELEVANT RULES AND
REGULATIONS .......................................... 21
COMPATIBILITY DETERMINATION
........................................................................................................................
21
REFERENCES
.........................................................................................................................................................
22
Figures FIGURE 1. OVERVIEW MAP OF BOMBAY HOOK NATIONAL WILDLIFE
REFUGE
.............................................................................
6 FIGURE 2. MAP OF THE PROPOSED DEER AND SMALL GAME HUNTING AREAS
.........................................................................
11 FIGURE 3. MAP OF THE PROPOSED TURKEY HUNTING AREAS
...............................................................................................
12 FIGURE 4. MAP OF THE PROPOSED WATERFOWL HUNTING AREAS
........................................................................................
13 FIGURE 5. PROPOSED FISHING ACCESS
...........................................................................................................................
20 Appendices Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations Appendix B.
Comparison of Current vs. Proposed Changes to the Hunting and
Fishing Program Appendix C. Environmental Assessment Appendix D.
Intra-Service Section 7 Evaluation
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Introduction
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 1
Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge Hunting and Fishing
Plan
Introduction National wildlife refuges (NWRs) are guided by the
mission and goals of the National Wildlife Refuge System (Refuge
System); the purposes of the individual refuge; U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service (Service) policy; national and state laws; and
international treaties. Relevant guidance includes the National
Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act (NWRSAA) of 1966, as
amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of
1997; the Refuge Recreation Act of 1962; and selected portions of
the Code of Federal Regulations and Service Manual. Bombay Hook NWR
was established in 1937 under the authority of the Migratory Bird
Conservation Act;
“… as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other
wildlife.” Executive Order 7643, dated June 22, 1937 “... for use
as an inviolate sanctuary, or for any other management purpose, for
migratory birds.” 16 U.S.C. 715d (Migratory Bird Conservation Act)
“... particular value in carrying out the national migratory bird
management program.” 16 U.S.C. 667b (An Act Authorizing the
Transfer of Certain Real Property for Wildlife, or other
purposes)
In 1940, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Presidential
Proclamation 2416 changing the name of the refuge from Bombay Hook
Migratory Waterfowl Refuge to Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge.
The mission of the Refuge System, as outlined by the National
Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act, as amended by the
National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act (16 U.S.C. 668dd et
seq.), is to:
“...administer a national network of lands and waters for the
conservation, management and, where appropriate, restoration of the
fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitats within the
United States for the benefit of present and future generations of
Americans.”
The Refuge Improvement Act mandates the Secretary of the
Interior in administering the Refuge System to (16 U.S.C.
668dd(a)(4):
• Provide for the conservation of fish, wildlife, and plants,
and their habitats within the Refuge System;
• Ensure that the biological integrity, diversity, and
environmental health of the Refuge System are maintained for the
benefit of present and future generations of Americans;
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Introduction
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 2
• Ensure that the mission of the Refuge System described at 16
U.S.C. 668dd(a)(2) and the
purposes of each refuge are carried out;
• Ensure effective coordination, interaction, and cooperation
with owners of land adjoining refuges and the fish and wildlife
agency of the States in which the units of the Refuge System are
located;
• Assist in the maintenance of adequate water quantity and water
quality to fulfill the mission of the Refuge System and the
purposes of each refuge;
• Recognize compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses as
the priority general public uses of the Refuge System through which
the American public can develop an appreciation for fish and
wildlife;
• Ensure that opportunities are provided within the Refuge
System for compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses; and
• Monitor the status and trends of fish, wildlife, and plants in
each refuge. Therefore, it is a priority of the Service to provide
for wildlife-dependent recreation opportunities, including hunting
and fishing, when those opportunities are compatible with the
purposes for which the refuge was established and the mission of
the Refuge System. Bombay Hook NWR contains 16,162 acres of salt
marsh, freshwater wetlands, forests, shrubland, open fields, and
grasslands, with salt marsh comprising the majority of the refuge.
The refuge is primarily contiguous block of land and waters in
eastern Kent County Delaware, extending along the shore of the
Delaware River and Delaware Bay from Sluice Ditch to Port Mahon
(Figure 1). The refuge was established in 1937 as a resting and
feeding area for migratory and wintering waterfowl. The refuge’s
objectives and mission have been expanded to include providing
habitat for other migratory and non-migratory birds and other
wildlife, including threatened and endangered species, and
providing appropriate wildlife-dependent recreational opportunities
for the public. Bombay Hook NWR currently provides deer and
waterfowl hunting, along with limited opportunities for small game,
wild turkey, and upland migratory game bird hunting. Deer hunting
receives the most activity as compared to other hunts available at
Bombay Hook NWR based on hunter harvest data. Currently, deer
hunting occurs in four designated areas (Figure 2) within the
refuge (Headquarters, Regular/Fischer, Steamboat Landing, and South
Upland Areas). Methods of take include archery, muzzleloader and
shotgun. A public lottery system is held for all firearm hunting
for deer and turkey before the start of the firearm season; while
archery hunting has no advanced requirements, permits are issued by
a first-come, first-serve basis. A special 1-day youth hunt is
permitted on the Fischer Tract and on the Steamboat Landing Hunt
Area. The refuge provides handicapped-accessible deer stands on
Headquarters and Regular Areas.
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Statement of Objectives
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 3
The refuge currently offers five regulated waterfowl hunting
areas. Snow goose hunting is allowed during the Delaware season in
the Snow Goose Area only when the area is opened by the Refuge
Manager. Waterfowl hunting is prohibited during the firearm deer
seasons. Small game, upland game and turkey hunting is only
permitted in the South Upland Area, under hunts managed by the
State of Delaware. Hunters may take turkey, gray squirrel,
cottontail rabbit, ring-necked pheasant, bobwhite quail, raccoon,
opossum, red fox, and mourning dove in season in accordance with
State hunting regulations. Within Delaware, approximately 13
percent of households have a member that have hunted deer in
Delaware in the past 2 years. Most of Delaware’s hunters (82
percent) target deer (Rogerson et al. 2010). Overall, hunting
participation in Delaware is slowly declining. In 2016,
approximately 15,148 resident hunting licenses were sold, which is
a 37 percent decline from the 24,000 or more licenses sold annually
between the mid-1970s and mid-1980s. Over the past 10 years
reported, license sales have dropped 10 percent, from 16,970 in
2006 to 15,148 in 2016 (DNREC 2019). Freshwater fishing has
historically not been allowed on the refuge. Although, if a boat
enters the refuge from Delaware Bay or the Leipsic River,
individuals can fish from their boat. Fishing access is restricted
on land and in waterways closed to commercial fishing. This
proposed hunting and fishing plan would open two areas of the
refuge to recreational fishing. In contrast to hunting, resident
fishing license sales have increased over the same time periods. In
2015, approximately 48,535 resident fishing licenses were sold,
which is nearly four-fold increase from the 11,000 to 15,000
licenses sold annually between the mid-1970s and mid-1980s. Over
the past 10 years reported, license sales have increased from
17,690 in 2005 to 48,535 in 2015 (DNREC 2019). The increase of
license sales are the result of regulation changes prompted by
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
(DNREC) requiring a fishing license for tidal fishing and crabbing
(saltwater and freshwater). Changes proposed within this hunting
and fishing plan are aimed at helping the refuge achieve its
desired objectives described herein, and to provide high-quality
hunting and fishing opportunities that address the needs of these
wildlife-dependent public uses. Statement of Objectives The
objectives of the hunting and fishing program at Bombay Hook NWR
are as follows:
• Allow visitors to enjoy quality wildlife-dependent recreation,
appreciate the cultural and natural resources of the refuge, and
increase their understanding and support of the refuge’s
mission;
• Design a hunting and fishing program that is administratively
efficient and manageable with existing staffing and funding
levels;
• Provide the public with a high-quality recreational experience
on refuge lands and increase opportunities and access for hunters
and anglers;
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Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 4
• Fulfillment of the Refuge Improvement Act;
• Implement a hunting and fishing program that is safe and
enjoyable for all refuge users;
• Provide hunting and fishing opportunities for youth, disabled,
and apprentice hunters and
anglers (as recommended by Department of the Interior
Secretarial Order 3356); and
• Design a hunting and fishing program that is in better
alignment with refuge habitat management objectives and State of
Delaware hunting and fishing regulations, utilizing the Service’s
Hunt/Fish Opportunity Tool (SHOT) Station Report.
The Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the
Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, and the Refuge Recreation
Act of 1962 authorize public hunting and fishing on refuges where
the program is compatible with the purposes for which the refuge
was established. As part of this document, compatibility
determinations were prepared and, assuming management decisions are
based on sound biological principles, and user time and space
restrictions are used to minimize wildlife disturbance, hunting and
fishing are deemed compatible and worthwhile recreational
opportunities to provide for the public. Description of Hunting and
Fishing Program
A. Areas to be Opened or Changed to Hunting and Fishing Proposed
changes within this hunting and fishing plan include expanding the
four hunting areas to nine total zones, establishing two approved
fishing areas within the refuge, transitioning from a lottery based
system to a free-roam system within the new zones, and implementing
regulations to better or more closely align with State regulations.
The refuge (Figure 1) proposes adopting State hunting and fishing
regulations for the areas open for those uses, with some additional
refuge-specific regulations to minimize conflicts with other refuge
objectives and visitor activities. The Service assessed hunting and
sport fishing opportunities and regulations using the Service’s
Hunt/Fish Opportunity Tool (SHOT). Information is this report can
be used to promote regulatory alignment for hunting and sport
fishing; alignment of Service regulations between stations; and new
or expanded hunting and sport fishing opportunities on Service
lands and water. The Service assessed regulatory alignment of
hunting and sport fishing regulations with general state
regulations, based on species open, season dates, method of take,
and bag/creel limits. Hunting assessments included a hunt-unit
level analysis of these factors. Sport fishing assessments included
analyses of all fishable waters, fresh and marine/tidal. Additional
factors assessed included alignment to State land regulations;
general public access; limits on the number of people who can hunt
or fish; and how permits are issued, including drawings, lotteries,
and first-come first-serve; and demographics such as youth and
people with disabilities. The hunting and fishing program will be
reviewed annually. Of the 16,162 acres that comprise Bombay Hook
NWR, 9,714 will be open to hunting and fishing opportunities. This
is an increase of 1,017 acres than was previously offered in
the
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Description of Hunting and Fishing Program
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 5
refuge. Table 1 shows the number of acres per unit. The portions
of refuge lands acquired with Migratory Bird Conservation Funds
which could be opened to hunting was increased to a maximum of 40
percent by the 1958 Amendment to the Duck Stamp Act (16 U.S.C.
668dd(d)(1)(A), National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act;
16 U.S.C. 703-712, Migratory Bird Treaty Act; and 16 U.S.C.
715a-715r, Migratory Bird Conservation Act). Considering this
threshold, Bombay Hook NWR is opening no more than approximately
6,334 acres (39 percent) to waterfowl hunting. These acres are
comprised of the West Waterfowl and Regular/Fischer, Steamboat
Landing, South Waterfowl, South Upland, Snow Goose, and the Mahon
Tract. Table 1. Hunting Unit Acres of Bombay Hook NWR
Hunt Unit Acreage Closed 7,115 Headquarters Area 820 Mahon Tract
270 Regular/Fischer Tract 1,169 Snow Goose 2,997 South Upland 576
South Waterfowl 1,456 Steamboat Landing Tract 857 West Waterfowl
and Regular/Fischer Tract 902 Total Station Acreage 16,162
Previously, fishing has not been allowed at Bombay Hook NWR.
Changes proposed within this hunting and fishing plan would open
two areas for fishing access. The first is a freshwater pond near
the Allee House on Finis Road, which would have a newly constructed
fishing pier allowing easy access to anglers. The second would be a
walk-in access along an existing boat launch on the Leipsic River
maintained by the refuge. This area would allow saltwater fishing
and crabbing access in accordance with existing State regulations.
As a walk-in access, no launching of boats or other watercraft
would be allowed.
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Description of Hunting and Fishing Program
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 6
Figure 1. Overview map of Bombay Hook National Wildlife
Refuge
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Description of Hunting and Fishing Program
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 7
B. Species to be Taken, Hunting Periods, Hunting Access Season
dates: All seasons will conform to applicable State and Federal
regulations as published annually by DNREC’s Division of Fish and
Wildlife, except for where indicated otherwise. Method of take
allowed: Specific means of harvesting a species for hunting
includes use of shotgun, muzzleloader, and archery (including
crossbows) in accordance with State dates and restrictions.
Handguns are only allowed as a lesser method of take. Falconry,
rifles (including pistol-caliber), air rifles, nontoxic shot, and
trapping with conibears, legholds or snares, are not included as a
method of take. The use of dogs will be allowed consistent with
State regulations. White-tailed Deer Hunting deer is already
permitted in the Headquarters Area, Regular/Fischer Tract, South
Upland, South Waterfowl, Steamboat Landing Tract, and West
Waterfowl and Regular/Fischer Tract (Figure 2). Under this hunting
and fishing plan, the Mahon Tract would be opened to allow hunting
as well. Seasons and bag limits for each hunt area are set by the
refuge. No deer hunting is allowed within the Snow Goose hunting
unit. All hunting is closed on Sundays. Methods of take for these
hunt zones would also remain the same as they are already in
alignment with the State regulations. Archery deer season hunting
is only allowed in the Regular/Fischer Tract, Steamboat Landing
Tract Hunt, and Mahon Tract. Currently there are approximately 31
hunt days which would remain the same across the seven zones listed
above. Due to popularity and the need to restrict access for other
uses, the Headquarters Area would maintain approximately 3 days of
lottery hunts annually. The State lottery is maintained for South
Waterfowl Area only. Disabled hunting would limit use of accessible
blinds to individuals who are permanently confined to a wheelchair.
Both the Snow Goose and South Waterfowl areas would remain closed
to deer hunting. Regular and Fischer Tract hunt areas would also be
closed to deer hunting on West Waterfowl Area waterfowl hunt days
to minimize conflicts between different hunting activities. The
State estimates that the deer population in Delaware exceeds
40,000, although no official survey has been conducted since 2009.
It is presumed by Delaware’s DNREC that the deer population has
exceeded the cultural carrying capacity and needs to be reduced
(Rogerson et al. 2010). Wild Turkey This hunting and fishing plan
proposes opening the Mahon Tract, Regular/Fischer Tract, Steamboat
Landing Tract, and West Waterfowl and Regular/Fischer Tract for
turkey season (Figure 3). This would open an additional 2,916 acres
(3,492 total) to hunters in accordance with State season dates and
times. Permits are issued through preseason lottery drawing
administered by the State. Waterfowl (Coot, Dark Geese, Light
Geese, Duck and Sea Duck) Waterfowl hunting will be open select
days and select hunting units for the entire season for waterfowl.
The two, 1-day youth hunts will take place in the South Upland and
South Waterfowl units (Figure 4). The refuge proposes expanding
hunting opportunities by including hunting
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Description of Hunting and Fishing Program
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 8
access in the Mahon Tract in the South Waterfowl Area and the
Steamboat Landing Tract. Approved, non-toxic shot is required for
migratory birds, including waterfowl. Webless Migratory Game Birds
(other than waterfowl) Gallinule, rail, snipe, and woodcock would
be hunted in the Mahon Tract, South Upland, South Waterfowl and
Steamboat Landing Tract with accordance with all State regulations.
Season and bag limits vary each year. The hunt lottery on the South
Waterfowl Area will continue to be managed by the State. Crow
hunting is strictly prohibited within the boundary of the refuge.
The use of dogs will be allowed consistent with State regulations.
Units that would remain closed for this hunting include: the
Headquarters Area, Regular/Fischer Tract, Snow Goose, and West
Waterfowl and Regular/Fischer Tract. Dove hunting is only allowed
in the South Upland Area, where it is already in alignment with the
State regulations and is expected to remain the same. Other areas
are closed due to potential conflicts with other hunting seasons.
Upland Game Birds (Ring Necked Pheasant and Quail) Pheasant hunting
is allowed in the Mahon Tract, Regular/Fischer Tract and Steamboat
Landing Tract in accordance with all State regulations. Pheasant
hunting remains open in the South Upland unit and is already in
alignment with State regulations. This hunting and fishing plan
proposes adding Mahon Tract, Regular/Fischer Tract and the
Steamboat Landing Tract to hunting opportunities for pheasant.
Quail hunting is only allowed in the South Upland Area. The State
is closing Northern Bobwhite hunting on the Cedar Creek Wildlife
Management Area (WMA) on the north side of the refuge. The refuge
proposes to close the remainder of the refuge to assist the State’s
efforts to restore a sustainable population. Small Game (Red Fox,
Cottontail Rabbit, Gray Squirrel, Coyote, Opossum, Raccoon) Small
game hunting is only allowed as follows: in the South Upland, Mahon
Tract, Regular/Fischer Tract, Steamboat Landing Tract and the West
Waterfowl and Regular/Fischer Tract hunting zones.
• Fox and coyote are proposed for hunting according to State
regulations only in zones and season dates open for white-tailed
deer. Hunting is only open for fox in the South Upland unit. There
are no proposed changes for beavers, groundhogs, opossums, or
raccoons. Foxes cannot be hunted by chase within the refuge.
• The Headquarters Area, Mahon Tract, Regular/Fischer Tract,
South Upland, Steamboat Landing Tract and West Waterfowl and
Regular/Fischer Tract are proposing to align with State regulations
except for date range, hours of the day, and methods of take
including rifle and other for coyotes.
• Rabbit and squirrel are proposed as open for hunting according
to State regulations.
• Groundhog/woodchuck and beaver hunting are not allowed on the
refuge. No changes to these hunting opportunities are a part of the
proposed changes.
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Description of Hunting and Fishing Program
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 9
• Raccoon and opossum are subject to hunting during daylight
hours, as the refuge is closed at night. Hunt hours during the
October antlerless deer seasons are from ½-hour before sunrise
through ½-hour after sunset.
Fishing and Crabbing Previously, fishing has not been allowed at
Bombay Hook NWR. This hunting and fishing plan proposes adding two
new locations for fishing opportunities and allowing saltwater
fishing and crabbing access in accordance with existing State
requirements. The first area is a freshwater pond located near the
entrance to Finis Road, which contains a warm-water freshwater
fishery including panfish, catfish, and bass. All fishing within
the pond is catch and release only. The second area along the
Leipsic River contains white perch, catfish, short rockfish, and
blue crab. Fishing regulations would align with current State
regulations for season date/time, and species-specific
requirements, except as noted earlier under bag limits and methods
of take. Fishing access can be gained by car and on foot to the
freshwater pond. Access to the Leipsic River launch fishing area is
by walk-in only and no launching of boats or other watercraft would
be allowed. In accordance with State dates and restrictions, all
methods of take are allowed for fishing and crabbing. Exceptions to
State regulations include no bow fishing, added restrictions in the
freshwater fishing area including hook restrictions (barbless hooks
only), bait restrictions (artificial only allowed), and catch and
release. Exceptions to State regulations in saltwater areas include
a prohibition against the use of unattended tackle (crab pots). Bag
or creel limits are not applicable in the freshwater, catch and
release only area. All other fishing and crabbing limits are
allowed in accordance with State regulations. Hunting and Fishing
Access Public hunting access to the refuge can be gained from
Whitehall Neck Road and Delaware Route 9. Hunters must access
refuge lands from designated access points. All vehicle travel is
restricted to maintained gravel roads and parking areas. All
participants in hunting and fishing programs must park in
designated parking areas only. Waterfowl hunters that intend to use
motorized boats will access refuge hunt areas from Shearness Dike,
the refuge boat ramp, Woodland Beach, or from Port Mahon (State
ramp). Tidal information is available on the State Division of Fish
and Wildlife’s web site. All boaters are required to operate their
craft and possess all safety equipment in accordance with Delaware
State and U.S. Coast Guard Regulations. The use of mechanized
vehicles on refuge lands is prohibited (walk-in only). C. Hunter
and Angler Permit Requirements All hunters must have in their
possession a signed State hunting license and current refuge
hunting permit. Except for lottery hunt areas, permits are
available beginning in July through the hunting season. Permits are
available at the refuge office, refuge website, or upon request
from the Refuge Manager. For lottery hunts, a preseason lottery
drawing will be conducted to issue permits. All anglers must have
in their possession a State fishing license (DNREC 2019). D.
Consultation and Coordination with the State National wildlife
refuges, including Bombay Hook NWR, conduct hunting and fishing
programs within the framework of State and Federal regulations.
Bombay Hook NWR staff have met with DNREC Division of Fish and
Wildlife to discuss hunting and fishing opportunities at the
refuge.
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Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 10
Future consultation, if any, will be considered during
implementation. The refuge has moved forward with developing this
hunting and fishing plan based on previously approved hunt plans,
discussions with the State Division of Fish and Wildlife, and
public input. E. Law Enforcement The enforcement of refuge and
State hunting and fishing regulations, trespass, and other public
use violations normally associated with management of a national
wildlife refuge is the responsibility of Federal wildlife officers
and State conservation officers. These officers cooperate with, and
are assisted by, State and local police officers as well. During
the hunting and fishing seasons, the refuge will be patrolled by
law enforcement officers. Regulations and maps will be posted on
the Bombay Hook NWR website
(https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Bombay_Hook/) at the refuge
headquarters/visitor center, and the hunter information kiosk.
Boundaries of the refuge are clearly marked by refuge boundary
signs. F. Funding and Staffing Requirements There are costs
involved in offering these wildlife-dependent, priority public
uses. Most of the costs are associated with preparing and
administering hunting areas. This includes management of the three
lottery deer hunts, which requires closure of refuge lands to all
other public uses. Staff costs are associated with administration
(i.e., printing and processing applications and issuing permits),
law enforcement, signage, infrastructure such as parking areas,
roads, gates, and habitat management. Signage, maps, brochures $
520
Infrastructure (deer stands and blind grass) $ 940
Hunting/Fishing Preparation and Administration $ 5,300 Law
Enforcement $ 2,880 Total annual recurring annual costs $ 9,640
https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Bombay_Hook/
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Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 11
Figure 2. Map of the Proposed Deer and Small Game Hunting
Areas
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Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 12
Figure 3. Map of the Proposed Turkey Hunting Areas
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Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 13
Figure 4. Map of the Proposed Waterfowl Hunting Areas
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Conducting the Hunting and Fishing Program
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 14
Conducting the Hunting and Fishing Program To ensure
compatibility with refuge purposes and mission of the Refuge
System, hunting and fishing is conducted in accordance with State
and Federal regulations and supplemented by refuge-specific
regulations. However, the Refuge Manager may, upon annual review of
the hunting and fishing program, impose further restrictions on
hunting or fishing, recommend the refuge be closed to hunting or
fishing, or further liberalize hunting and fishing regulations up
to the limit of State regulations. The refuge would restrict
activity if it becomes inconsistent with other, higher priority
refuge programs or endangers refuge resources or public safety. A.
Hunter Permit Application, Selection, and/or Registration
Procedures All hunters must have in their possession a signed State
license and current refuge hunting permit. Except for zoned hunting
areas, permits are available beginning in July through the hunting
season. Permits are available at the refuge office or refuge
website. As proposed in this plan, the refuge would transition into
a free-roam hunting system available on a first-come, first-serve
basis on days designated by the Refuge Manager during the State
hunting seasons in areas open to hunts for those species. A hunting
access permit would be required for hunters to park in designated
areas located within each hunting area. Under this system, hunters
would self-register from a centralized location and select their
preferred hunting area from an allotted number of available access
permits designated for that specific area. For lottery hunts, a
preseason lottery drawing will be conducted to issue permits.
Turkey hunting would only be allowed via a lottery permit issued
through the standard preseason lottery drawing administered by the
State. Fishing and crabbing in designated areas on refuge does not
require any special application, selection, or registration. B.
Refuge-Specific Hunting Procedures To ensure compatibility with
refuge purposes and the mission of the Refuge System, hunting must
be conducted in accordance with State and Federal regulations, as
supplemented by refuge-specific regulations (50 CFR Chapter 1,
Subchapter C), and information sheets/brochures. Refuge-specific
stipulations are also detailed in the Hunting Compatibility
Determination (Appendix A). Listed below are general procedures
that pertain to hunting on Bombay Hook NWR as of the date of this
plan. These may be modified as conditions change or if refuge
expansion occurs. All Hunting Programs
1. The refuge will not assign permanent hunting structures
except for non-ambulatory hunting activities. Hunting from
stand/blind/step which has been attached with nails, wire, or
screws or permanently attached in any other manner is prohibited.
Hunting blinds/stands/steps must be portable and removed at the end
of each day.
2. Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on
national wildlife refuges must comply with all provisions of state
and local law. Persons may only use (discharge)
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Conducting the Hunting and Fishing Program
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 15
firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (50 CFR 27.42 and
specific refuge regulations in 50 CFR Part 32).
3. Hunters may not be on the refuge any earlier than 2 hours
before the morning shooting time.
4. Areas may be closed to hunting without prior warning.
5. No vegetation may be cut on the refuge (e.g., for shooting
lanes, camouflaging, etc.).
6. The use of natural vegetation for camouflaging blinds is
prohibited.
7. Practice or target shooting on the refuge is prohibited.
8. Overnight camping and open fires are prohibited.
9. No hunting is permitted in designated safety zones.
10. When requested by Federal and State enforcement officers,
hunters must display all game, hunting equipment, and ammunition
for inspection.
11. No littering. Bombay Hook NWR is a carry-in/carry-out
refuge.
12. Motor vehicles and boats are restricted to designated
routes, parking areas, and boat launching ramps.
13. Permits are non-transferable.
14. Individuals assisting non-ambulatory deer hunters in the
lottery hunts are not permitted to hunt; however, up to three
individuals may hunt while assisting a non-ambulatory waterfowl
hunter in the West Waterfowl Area.
15. Submission of harvest information to refuge staff for deer
and waterfowl is required.
16. For the Statewide youth hunts, all designated hunt areas
(Fischer Tract, Steamboat Landing, and South Waterfowl Areas) will
be open for waterfowl and deer hunting on a first-come, first-serve
basis.
17. The refuge will monitor, evaluate, and make necessary
adaptations to the hunting
program to ensure that the refuge is meeting resource management
objectives and continuing to offer quality experiences. The Refuge
Manager has the authority to extend or close hunting opportunities
on the refuge within the established hunting seasons of the
Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, while ensuring
compatibility.
18. The use of mechanized vehicles on refuge lands is
prohibited.
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Conducting the Hunting and Fishing Program
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 16
19. The distribution of bait and the hunting over bait is
prohibited.
20. The use or possession of alcoholic beverages or any
controlled substances is prohibited.
21. All boaters are required to operate their craft and possess
all safety equipment in accordance with Delaware State and U.S.
Coast Guard regulations.
Deer Hunting
1. Free-roam hunting is available on a first-come, first-serve
basis on days designated by the refuge manager during the State
hunting seasons in the Fischer Tract, Steamboat Landing and Regular
deer hunting areas with the following
restrictions/requirements:
a. Archery hunting will only be allowed as a lesser method of
take during the firearm season.
b. During gun hunting seasons, all deer hunters including
archers must display a minimum of 400 square inches of hunter
orange on the head, chest and back while hunting consisting of a
vest and hat or jacket and hat.
c. Hunters in the Regular Hunt Area will be required to stay
within the boundaries of the specific zones.
d. Steamboat Landing Tract and Fischer Tract are each comprised
of one zone.
2. For the lottery hunts in the Headquarters Area, a limited
number of permits will be issued through a preseason drawing and
hunters may choose their own hunting location anywhere within the
hunt area zones on a first-come, first-serve basis.
3. The refuge will participate in all State hunting seasons and
bag limits except the October Antlerless deer season and the late
handgun season. The refuge will consider participating in the
October Antlerless Season only if an overabundance of deer arises,
as determined by the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife and
concurrence by the refuge.
4. No check-in or check-out is required for free roam or lottery
hunts except South Upland Area for state managed stands.
5. Deer drives are prohibited.
6. Hunters must be off the refuge by one and one-half hours
after the end of legal shooting time.
7. Wheelchair accessible blinds are available for non-ambulatory
hunters that possess an Interagency Access Passport.
8. Scouting is allowed in deer hunt areas during designated
dates and times.
Waterfowl Hunting 1. South Waterfowl Area
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Conducting the Hunting and Fishing Program
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 17
a. Permits for the South Waterfowl Area will be issued at the
State Little Creek Management Area check station by a lottery
system.
b. Blinds will no longer be provided. Hunting will be restricted
to a site marked by a stake, a maximum of three people are
permitted for each blind site.
c. Only synthetic materials may be used for concealment. d.
Hunters must be out of the South Waterfowl hunt area by one and
one-half hours
after legal shooting time.
2. West Waterfowl Hunt Area a. For each hunt day on the West
Waterfowl Hunt Area, up to 12 hunting parties will
be allowed on a first come first served basis. Blinds will not
be provided. Hunting is permitted on dates indicated by the refuge
manager until noon during the hunting season.
b. A maximum of four people are permitted for each blind site.
c. Up to two non-ambulatory blinds in the West Waterfowl Hunt Area
are available
for hunters permanently confined to a wheelchair that possess an
Interagency Access Passport.
d. The use of dogs will be allowed consistent with State
regulations. e. Hunting concludes at 12 p.m. and hunters must be
out by 1 p.m. to reduce
conflicts with other refuge uses.
3. South Upland Area a. Waterfowl hunting in this area follows
State hunting regulations, seasons, and bag
limits.
4. Snow Goose Area a. Only snow geese may be taken. b. A boat is
required for access. c. Blinds must be temporary in nature, and
removed at the conclusion of the day’s
hunt. d. No hunting is permitted within 300 yards of the dike
roads, 500 yards of Sluice Ditch,
100 yards of the Bay Shore, or 500 yards of the Leipsic
River.
5. Youth Waterfowl Hunt a. Only enrollees who complete the Young
Waterfowler Training Program may
participate in the mentored hunt in the Young Waterfowler Hunt.
Only young waterfowlers may possess or discharge a weapon.
b. Youth hunting is available on the South Waterfowl Area. Blind
sites are issued by the State at the Little Creek Management Area
Check Station.
c. Youth hunters must be accompanied by a guardian. d. The
refuge will follow the criteria established by the State of
Delaware for
hunter/guardian ages, safety qualifications, etc.
Upland Game and Webless Migratory Bird Hunting 1. The refuge has
adopted State hunting regulations and seasons for the South
Upland
Hunting Area with the following restrictions: a. Hunters must be
off the refuge by one hour after legal shooting hours.
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Conducting the Hunting and Fishing Program
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 18
2. All upland game, turkey and webless migratory game bird
hunting will be limited to the
South Upland Area, Steamboat Landing and northern most portion
of the Regular/Fischer Tract (see Figure 2).
3. State issued permit is required for turkey hunting. A limited
number of hunters will be selected through a preseason lottery
drawing conducted by the State.
4. No check-in or check-out is required.
5. The use of dogs will be allowed consistent with State
regulations.
6. No night hunting. C. Refuge-Specific Fishing Regulations To
ensure compatibility with refuge purposes and the mission of the
Refuge System, fishing must be conducted in accordance with State
and Federal regulations, as supplemented by refuge-specific
regulations (50 CFR Chapter 1, Subchapter C), and information
sheets/brochures. Refuge-specific stipulations are also detailed in
the Fishing Compatibility Determination (Appendix A). Listed below
are general procedures that pertain to fishing on Bombay Hook NWR
as of the date of this plan. These may be modified as conditions
change or if refuge expansion occurs. All Fishing Programs Fishing
and crabbing is allowed in designated areas. (See Figure 5).
Fishing regulations would align with current State regulations for
season date/time, and species-specific requirements.
1. No refuge-specific permits are required; however, all anglers
must have in their possession a State fishing license. All anglers
(and shellfishers) also need a Delaware-issued Fisherman
Information Network (FIN) number.
2. The license must be carried on the person at all times and
must be exhibited to Federal and State officers upon request.
3. Place all trash in receptacles provided.
4. The destruction, disturbance or removal of nesting
facilities, plants or animals is prohibited.
5. Littering is prohibited.
6. Camping and open fires are prohibited.
7. Fishing access can be gained by car and on foot to the
freshwater pond and on-foot to the Whitehall Landing (Leipsic River
launch).
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Conducting the Hunting and Fishing Program
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 19
8. The refuge is open from ½-hour before legal sunrise to ½-hour
after legal sunset.
9. We prohibit the use of lead tackle for fishing on the refuge.
D. Relevant State Regulations Hunters are responsible for knowing
and complying with all Delaware regulations. The refuge requires no
specific orientation or safety training for hunters participating
in general hunting activities.
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Conducting the Hunting and Fishing Program
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 20
Figure 5. Proposed Fishing Access
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Public Engagement
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 21
Public Engagement A. Outreach for Announcing and Publicizing the
Hunting and Fishing Program Hunting and fishing opportunities are
publicized through refuge pamphlets, website, social media, and
press releases. B. Anticipated Public Reaction to the Hunting and
Fishing Program With the addition of fishing, the refuge would be
open to all six of the Refuge System’s priority public uses
(hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife photography,
environmental education and environmental interpretation).
Estimates range from 100,000 to about 170,000 people who visit the
refuge each year (Friends of Bombay Hook 2019). Most of the hunting
that occurs on the refuge takes place in designated hunting areas
that are either closed to and/or experience a very low level of use
by other users. We anticipate no adverse reaction to the refuge
hunts by anti-hunter groups and individuals, since hunting has been
the leading force of conservation within the refuge since 1953.
Similarly, given the increase in fishing throughout the State, we
do not anticipate any adverse reaction to opening fishing access
for visitors. Response to any demonstrations or protests will be
coordinated through the DOI North Atlantic-Appalachian Region 1
Office of the Service. If necessary, State and local law
enforcement officials may be asked to assist.
C. How Hunters and Anglers Will Be Informed of Relevant Rules
and Regulations Hunting and fishing information sheets and maps are
updated annually and made available to hunters and anglers via the
refuge website and at the visitor center. General information
regarding hunting and other wildlife-dependent public uses can be
obtained at the address below, or by emailing [email protected],
or calling the refuge at (302) 653-9345: Bombay Hook NWR
Headquarters 2591 Whitehall Neck Road Smyrna, DE 19977 When
visiting the refuge, areas closed to hunting will be clearly marked
with “Closed Area,” “No Hunting Zone,” or “No Waterfowl Hunting
Zone” signs as appropriate. Hunting zones will be demarcated with
colored signs. Areas closed, but adjacent to open fishing areas
will be marked with “Areas Closed to Fishing.” The boundaries of
all lands owned by the Service are posted with refuge boundary
signs. Compatibility Determinations Hunting, fishing, and all
associated program activities proposed in this plan are found
compatible with the purposes of the refuge. Allowing deer,
migratory birds, upland game birds and small games hunting and
fishing on Bombay Hook NWR contributes to, and does not materially
interfere with, or detract from, the mission of the Refuge System
and the purposes for which the refuge was established. See the full
compatibility determinations for both hunting and fishing in
Appendix A.
mailto:[email protected]
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References
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan 22
References Delaware Department of Natural Resources and
Environmental Control (DNREC). Accessed
August 2019. Delaware Hunting & Fishing License Statistics.
Division of Fish and Wildlife. Dover, DE. Online at:
http://www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/Info/Pages/LicenseStats.aspx
Friends of Bombay Hook. Accessed August 2019. Bombay Hook
National Wildlife Refuge.
Online at:
http://www.friendsofbombayhook.org/aboutbombayhook.html Rogerson,
J., M. Globetti, R. Hossler, E. Moore, K. Reynolds, D. Hotton, M.
Pepper, and A.E.
Shovers. 2010. Delaware Deer Management Plan 2010 - 2019: A
Guide to How and Why Deer are Managed in The First State. Delaware
Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Control.
Division of Fish and Wildlife. Game Species Management Program.
Dover, DE. Online at:
http://www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/Hunting/Documents/Deer%20Plan%20-%20FINAL%2005212010.pdf
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service). 2011. National
Wildlife Refuge Visitor Survey
2010/2011: Individual Refuge Results for Bombay Hook National
Wildlife Refuge. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge. Accessed
August 2019. Visitor Activities at Bombay Hook. Online at:
https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Bombay_Hook/visit/visitor_activities.html
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental
Control (DNREC). Accessed
August 2019. Recreational Fishing Requirements. Division of Fish
and Wildlife. Dover, DE. Online at:
http://www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/Fisheries/Pages/FishingInfo.aspx
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2019. SHOT Station Report Bombay
Hook National Wildlife
Refuge (FF05RBMH00). Delaware Department of Natural Resources
and Environmental Control (DNREC). Accessed
August 2019. Delaware requires a fishing license for fresh and
tidal waters. Division of Fish and Wildlife. Dover, DE. Online at:
http://www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/Fisheries/Pages/NewFishingLicense.aspx
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2019. Compatibility
Determination of the Bombay
Hook National Wildlife Refuge. U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service.
http://www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/Info/Pages/LicenseStats.aspxhttp://www.friendsofbombayhook.org/aboutbombayhook.htmlhttp://www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/Hunting/Documents/Deer%20Plan%20-%20FINAL%2005212010.pdfhttp://www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/Hunting/Documents/Deer%20Plan%20-%20FINAL%2005212010.pdfhttps://www.fws.gov/refuge/Bombay_Hook/visit/visitor_activities.htmlhttp://www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/Fisheries/Pages/FishingInfo.aspxhttp://www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/Fisheries/Pages/NewFishingLicense.aspx
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APPENDIX
A COMPATABILITY DETERMINATION
APPENDIX
A COMPATABILITY DETERMINATION
Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations
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Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan A-1
Compatibility Determinations USE: Hunting REFUGE NAME: Bombay
Hook National Wildlife Refuge, hereafter referred to as the refuge,
located in Kent County, Delaware. DATE ESTABLISHED: June 1937
ESTABLISHING AND ACQUISITION AUTHORITY(IES): Migratory Bird
Conservation Act, 16 U.S.C. § 715-715r, as amended. Executive Order
7643, signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on June 22, 1937,
Federal Register page and date: 2 FR 1305, June 25, 1937
established Bombay Hook Migratory Waterfowl Refuge “in order to
effectuate further the purposes of the Migratory Bird Conservation
Act (45 Stat.1222).” The order established Bombay Hook Migratory
Waterfowl Refuge and established the area “as a refuge and breeding
ground for migratory birds and other wildlife.” On July 25, 1940,
President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Presidential Proclamation
2416 changing the name of the Refuge from Bombay Hook Migratory
Waterfowl Refuge to Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge. REFUGE
PURPOSE(S): “... as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory
birds and other wildlife ...” Executive Order 7643, dated June 22,
1937 “... for use as an inviolate sanctuary, or for any other
management purpose, for migratory birds.” 16 U.S.C. 715d (Migratory
Bird Conservation Act) “... particular value in carrying out the
national migratory bird management program.” 16 U.S.C. 667b (An Act
Authorizing the Transfer of Certain Real Property for Wildlife, or
other purposes) NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE SYSTEM MISSION: “The
mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System (Refuge System) is
to administer a national network of lands and waters for the
conservation, management, and where appropriate, restoration of the
fish, wildlife and plant resource and their habitats within the
United States for the benefit of present and future generations of
Americans” (Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, Public Law
105-57 - 16 U.S.C. 668dd-668ee, Refuge System Administration Act of
1966).
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Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan A-2
DESCRIPTION OF USE: (a) What is the use? Is the use a priority
public use? The use is the public hunting of white-tailed deer,
upland game, webless migratory birds, turkey, and waterfowl on the
refuge. Deer hunting will occur on 4,593 acres, waterfowl hunting
on up to 6,334 acres, small game (cottontail rabbit, gray squirrel,
red fox) on 2,872 acres, webless game birds (dove, quail, woodcock,
rails) on 2,583 acres, and turkey hunting on 3,492 acres. The use
will occur during dates determined by the refuge within the
framework of State and Federal hunting seasons and during
Conservation Orders. Hunting was identified as one of six priority
public uses by Executive Order 12996 (March 25, 1996), and
legislatively mandated by the Refuge System Administration Act of
1966, as amended by the Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997
(Public Law 105-57), and reinforced as a priority use by Department
of the Interior Secretarial Order 3356 (September 15, 2017). (b)
Where would the use be conducted? The use will be conducted within
the refuge’s 16,162 acres of salt marsh, forests, shrubland, and
grasslands. Hunting will occur on the following areas (Figure 2.):
Fischer Tract, Regular Area, Headquarters Hunt Area, West Waterfowl
Area, Snow Goose Hunt Area, South Waterfowl Area, Steamboat
Landing, and South Upland Area. Thirty-nine percent of the refuge
(6,334 acres) will be open to migratory bird hunting. Forty percent
is the maximum amount of land allowed by law (16 U.S.C.
668dd(d)(1)(A), National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act;
16 U.S.C. 703-712, Migratory Bird Treaty Act; and 16 U.S.C.
715a-715r, Migratory Bird Conservation Act). Below is a description
of the specific areas open for each type of hunting opportunity.
Table A-1. Hunting Area and Seasons of Bombay Hook NWR
Hunt Unit Acreage Seasons** Closed 7,115 None Headquarters Area
820 Deer (lottery hunts only),
Small Game (only during deer hunts)
Mahon Tract 270 Deer, Turkey, Waterfowl, Pheasant, Webless
Migratory Birds, Small Game
Regular/Fischer Tract 1,169 Deer, Turkey, Small Game Snow Goose
2,997 South Upland 576 Deer, Turkey, Waterfowl,
Pheasant, Webless Migratory Birds, Small Game
South Waterfowl 1,456 Waterfowl, Webless Migratory Birds,
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Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan A-3
Steamboat Landing Tract 857 Deer, Turkey, Waterfowl, Webless
Migratory Birds, Pheasant, Small Game
West Waterfowl and Regular/Fischer Tract 902 Deer, Turkey, Small
Game Total Station Acreage 16,162*
* A total of 6,061 acres is currently open to migratory bird
hunting. The maximum amount of land allowed by law is 6,500 acres
(40 percent rule). Lands purchased with Land and Water Conservation
Funds do not apply. Forty percent rule does not apply to Snow Goose
Conservation Order. **Follow State hunting seasons but include
seasonal closures and time restrictions imposed by the refuge (see
hunting objectives and strategies in this section for more
information). (c) When would the use be conducted? The use would be
conducted in designated areas of the refuge in accordance with
Federal and State regulations. Hunting would take place within the
open hunting seasons established by the Delaware Division of Fish
and Wildlife (DFW). (d) How would the use be conducted? Hunting
will be conducted during the State of Delaware’s hunting seasons,
in accordance with Federal and State regulations. Federal
regulations in 50 CFR pertaining to the Refuge System, as well as
existing, refuge-specific regulations will apply. However, the
Project Leader may, upon annual review of the hunting program and
in coordination with the Delaware Department of Natural Resources
and Environmental Control (DNREC) DFW, impose further restrictions
on hunting, recommend that all or portions of the refuge be closed
to hunting, or further liberalize hunting regulations within the
limits of state seasons and regulations. We may restrict hunting if
it conflicts with other, higher priority refuge programs or
endangers refuge resources or public safety. A portion of the
refuge will be closed to the public on the Headquarters Area hunt
days to facilitate the hunt. The Visitor Center will remain open on
those days. Closed areas of the refuge at Fischer Tract, Regular
Area and Steamboat Landing, Snow Goose Hunt Area, South Waterfowl
Area, and South Upland Area are open only to permitted hunters
during designated times of the hunting season. For the remainder of
the year, these areas, with the exception of a portion of the
Regular Area, are closed to the public. Most hunting that would
affect a closure usually ends by February. In these cases, the
refuge will only temporary close the appropriate designated areas
and ensure proper and timely notification to the public. Closures
apply to persons not possessing a valid hunt permit:
1) Headquarters Area: (Deer hunting only) Partial closure of the
refuge on Headquarters Area hunt days. Access limited to the
western section of refuge. The Visitors Center will remain
open.
2) Regular Area: (Deer hunting only) Partial closure of the
refuge. Access limited to
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Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan A-4
eastern section of wildlife drive during Regular Area hunt
days.
3) West Waterfowl Hunt Area: Access limited to western most
section of wildlife drive during hunt days until 1 p.m. (see hunt
plan).
Public access to the refuge can be gained from Whitehall Neck
Road and Delaware Route 9. Hunters must access refuge lands from
designated access points. No motorized or mechanized vehicles are
allowed on refuge property. Motorized boats will access refuge Snow
goose hunting areas from Shearness Dike, the refuge boat ramp,
Woodland Beach, or from Port Mahon (State ramp). Tidal information
is available on the State DFW’s web site. All boaters are required
to operate their craft and possess all safety equipment in
accordance with Delaware State and U.S. Coast Guard Regulations. No
launching, except for hunting, is allowed on refuge.
Refuge-specific regulations can be viewed in the Code of Federal
Regulations (50 CFR §32.27). Procedures for general hunting and
specific hunt opportunities are listed within the Bombay Hook NWR
Hunting and Fishing Plan. (e) Why is this use being proposed?
Hunting is one of the priority public uses defined by Executive
Order 12996 (March 25, 1996) and the Refuge System Administration
Act of 1966, as amended by the Refuge System Improvement Act of
1997 (Public Law 105-57). Department of the Interior Secretarial
Order 3356 (September 15, 2017) emphasized identifying
opportunities to increase outdoor recreation opportunities for all
Americans, including opportunities to hunt and fish. This
legitimate and appropriate use of a national wildlife refuge is
generally considered compatible, as long as it does not materially
interfere with or detract from the fulfillment of the Refuge System
mission or the purposes of the refuge. In Delaware, the DNREC DFW
establishes hunting seasons and bag limits to meet population
objectives and to offer people the opportunity to experience a
traditional outdoor recreational activity. Game species population
objectives are a function of factors such as habitat limitations
and landowner tolerances, and each year the seasons and bag limits
are designed to remove the harvestable surplus without long-term
negative impacts to the population as a whole. The ability to
effectively manage game species populations depends in large part
on the ability of hunters to access land with quality habitat.
Providing hunting opportunities on the refuge will aid the State in
meeting its management objectives and preserve a wildlife-dependent
priority public use long associated with this land.
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Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan A-5
AVAILABILITY OF RESOURCES: The estimated cost to operate the
hunting and fishing program is estimated to be $9,640 annually.
Program Staff Days
Cost
Big Game - Deer 19.5 $6,460
Big Game - Turkey 0 $0
Upland Game 0 $0
Waterfowl 9.0 $3,180
Other Migratory Birds 0 $0
Total 28.5 $9,640 The financial and staff resources necessary to
provide and administer this use at its current level and at the
proposed level are sufficient, and we expect the use to continue in
the future subject to availability of appropriated funds. Signs for
posting hunting areas, trails, etc. will have an initial, one-time
cost, and the refuge has available resources to properly allow and
implement this effort. The refuge will be eliminating permit fees
to hunt on the refuge. ANTICIPATED IMPACTS OF THE USE: Hunting can
result in positive or negative impacts to the wildlife resource. A
positive effect of increasing access to the refuge will be the
provision of additional wildlife-dependent recreational
opportunities and a better appreciation and more complete
understanding of the wildlife and habitats associated with Delmarva
Peninsula ecosystems. This can translate into more widespread and
stronger support for the refuge, the Refuge System, and the
Service. Direct impacts are those impacts immediately attributable
to an action. Indirect impacts are those impacts that are farther
in time and space. Effects that are minor when considered alone,
but collectively may be important are known as cumulative effects.
Incremental increases in activities by people engaged in the
variety of allowed uses on the refuge could cumulatively result in
detrimental consequences to wildlife and/or habitats. It will be
important for refuge staff to monitor these impacts to ensure trust
resources are not adversely impacted. Our analysis of potential
impacts are included within this compatibility determination and
the environmental assessment accompanying the hunting and fishing
plan. Impacts on Socioeconomic Environment In 2013, Delaware sold
16,786 licenses which amounts to 2.3 percent of the State’s
population (Mueller 2015). The National Survey of Fishing, Hunting,
and Wildlife Associated Recreation collects information about
anglers, hunters, and wildlife watchers in the U.S. (U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service and U.S. Census Bureau). The 2006 Survey (the most
recent survey analyzed on a state-by-state basis) found that
395,000 Delaware residents and nonresidents 16 years old
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Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan A-6
and older participated in wildlife-associated recreation in
Delaware. While the total number of participants1 has fallen since
2001, the number of days spent participating in wildlife recreation
increased. In 2006, state residents and nonresidents spent $299
million on wildlife recreation in Delaware, compared to $148
million in 2001 (in $2006). Wildlife-Related Visitors in
Delaware
Visitors (Resident and Non-Resident) Visitor-Days (Resident and
Non-Resident)
% Non-Resident Visitor-Days
Activity 2001 2006 2001 2006 2006
Wildlife Viewing 232,000 285,000 722,000 855,000 16%
Fishing 148,000 159,000 1.4 million 1.8 million 33%
Hunting 16,000 30,000 226,000 654,000 22%
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Census Bureau In
contrast to national trends (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and
U.S. Census Bureau, 2006), hunting participation in Delaware
increased. A majority (57 percent) of hunting was for big game,
with the remainder being for migratory birds (29 percent) and small
game (14 percent) (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Census
Bureau). All hunting-related expenditures in Delaware totaled $41
million in 2006 (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Census
Bureau). Equipment made up the largest proportion of hunting
expenditures ($25 million, or 60 percent). This was followed by
trip-related expenses, such as food and lodging, transportation,
and other trip expenses, which made up one-third of all hunting
expenditures. The purchase of other items, such as magazines,
membership dues, licenses, permits, and land leasing and ownership,
made up the remainder of all hunting expenditures. We expect that
hunting will have a slight positive economic benefit to the local
economy. Refuge actions would neither disproportionately affect any
communities nor damage or undermine any businesses or community
organizations. No adverse impacts are foreseen to be associated
with changes in the community character or demographic composition.
We expect public use of the refuge to increase, thereby increasing
the number of days visitors spend in the area and correspondingly,
the level of visitor spending in the local communities. Impacts on
Cultural Resources For compliance with Section 106 of the National
Historic Preservation Act, the refuge staff will, during the early
planning stages of any proposed significant new hunt actions,
provide the Regional Historic Preservation Officer a description
and location of all projects, activities, routine maintenance and
operations that affect ground and structures, details on requests
for those uses. That office will analyze those undertakings for
their potential to affect historic and
1 The sum of anglers, hunters, and wildlife-watchers exceeds the
total number of participants in wildlife-related recreation because
many individuals engaged in more than one wildlife-related
activity.
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Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan A-7
prehistoric sites, and consult with the State Historic
Preservation Officer and other parties as appropriate. Refuge lands
are vulnerable to looting, despite our best efforts at outreach,
education, and law enforcement. In addition, refuge visitors may
inadvertently or even intentionally damage or disturb known or
undiscovered cultural artifacts or historic properties. We will
continue our vigilance in looking for this problem, continue our
outreach, and use law enforcement where necessary. With a
relatively small group of hunters dispersed across the refuge
during the hunting season, impacts will be minimal based on our
observations of past hunting impacts. Impacts on Air Quality
Hunting is expected to have minimal adverse short-term, long-term
or cumulative impacts on local or regional air quality. Localized
increases in emissions from hunter’s vehicles or boat motors would
be negligible compared to current off-refuge contributions to
pollutant levels and likely increases in air emissions in the Kent
County airshed from land development over the next 15 years. Any
adverse air quality effects from refuge activities would be more
than offset by the benefits of maintaining the refuge in natural
vegetation. The hunting program would not violate Environmental
Protection Agency standards and would comply with the Clean Air
Act. Impacts on Soils Hunting is expected to have minimal adverse
short-term, long-term or cumulative impacts on soils. The hunt
program has the potential to cause some soil compaction since
off-trail foot travel occurs. However, with a limited number of
hunters dispersed across the refuge during the hunting season,
impacts would be minimal based on our observations of past hunting
impacts. Vehicles would continue to be confined to existing refuge
roads and parking lots to minimize impacts outside of that
developed footprint. Soil compaction will also occur in the
immediate areas surrounding blind site stakes for waterfowl hunting
in the South and West Waterfowl Areas. Hiking or walking can alter
habitats by trampling vegetation, compacting soils, and increasing
the potential of erosion (Liddle 1975). Soil compaction makes root
penetration more difficult, making it harder for seedlings to
become established. In moderate cases of soil compaction, plant
cover and biomass is decreased. In highly compacted soils, plant
species abundance and diversity is reduced in the long-term as only
the most resistant species survive (Unger and Kaspar 1994). Soil
compaction is also common where there is a lot of traffic, which
can affect soil microbes and invertebrates, plant roots and animal
burrows (Buckley 2001). Impacts on Hydrology and Water Quality
Hunting is expected to have minimal adverse short-term, long-term
or cumulative impacts on hydrology or water quality based on the
location of parking areas away from ditches or streams, and staff
observations of past hunting impacts. Hunters may walk off-trail to
access a hunting area, thereby creating new trails and affecting
drainage. However, we expect such impacts to be minimal considering
anglers are not repeatedly using the same paths, and levels of use
are unlikely to create adverse effects. Refuge staff has observed
only negligible problems associated with erosion, incision,
compaction or stream alteration, and we do not expect any increase
in these negligible impacts. The hunting program would not violate
Federal or State standards for
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Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan A-8
contributing pollutants to water sources and would comply with
the Clean Water Act. Impacts on Vegetation Hunting is expected to
have minimal adverse short-term, long-term or cumulative impacts on
vegetation. Hiking or walking can alter habitats by trampling
vegetation, compacting soils, and increasing the potential of
erosion (Liddle 1975). Soil compaction makes root penetration more
difficult, making it harder for seedlings to become established. In
moderate cases of soil compaction, plant cover and biomass is
decreased. In highly compacted soils, plant species abundance and
diversity is reduced in the long-term as only the most resistant
species survive (Unger and Kaspar 1994). Hiking may impact
vegetation succession as disturbance of vegetation not only results
in an alteration of vegetation but also a change in light and
moisture and topographical changes that can reduce habitat quality
for ground and shrub-nesting avian species. Deer, waterfowl,
turkey, and upland game hunting will cause minimal impacts on
terrestrial and aquatic vegetation. The ability to free roam in
non-lottery areas for deer and waterfowl hunting will provide
hunters with 9,714 acres of access and increase the potential for
vegetation trampling. The possibility for new trails to be
developed from repeated hunter entry will occur. However, repeated
or cumulative impacts to any individual site will be lessened as
hunters select their own preferred sites. The one exception is at
South Waterfowl Area. Concentrated activity around blind sites may
reduce vegetation density in the more vulnerable salt marsh
habitats. Sites will be monitored and stakes will be moved as
needed to promote revegetation. Repeated visitation to any
particular locale at the refuge could cause damage to vegetation
and therefore, wildlife habitat. Substantial, widespread habitat
degradation could through time result in negative effects to
wildlife by reducing available cover, food, nesting habitat, etc.,
along frequently used access routes. Hunting impacts to wildlife
habitat are expected to be minimal as most species will have
already become dormant. Accidental introduction of invasive plants,
pathogens, or exotic invertebrates attached to boats or trailers is
a possible source of direct adverse impacts. The phasing out and
elimination of over 120 deer hunting stands and waterfowl hunting
blinds will reduce disturbance to impacted vegetation and soils by
allowing hunters to choose their preferred hunting location verses
concentrating them in specific locations. Impacts to vegetation are
also minimized by not permitting hunters to cut vegetation for
shooting lanes or for use as camouflage. Furthermore, no natural
vegetation is permitted for use as camouflage on the refuge.
Impacts to vegetation are further minimized because hunting from a
stand which has been attached to a tree with nails, wire, or screws
or permanently attached in any other way is prohibited. People can
be vectors for invasive plants when seeds or other propagules are
moved from one area to another. Once established, invasive species
can out-compete native plants, thereby altering habitats and
indirectly impacting wildlife. At this time, invasive plants are a
moderate problem at the refuge. Refuge staff members are working to
control these plants. The threat of invasive plant establishment
will always be an issue requiring annual monitoring, and when
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Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan A-9
necessary, treatment. In the event new undesirable invasive
species are found on the refuge, staff will work to eradicate the
weeds and educate the visiting public about the problem. Managing
White-tailed Deer Populations Deer overabundance can affect native
vegetation and natural ecosystems and have been well-studied (White
2012, Tilghman 1989, Nudds 1980, Hunter 1990; Behrend et al. 1970).
White-tailed deer selectively forage on vegetation (Strole and
Anderson 1992), and thus can have substantial impacts on certain
herbaceous and woody species and on overall plant community
structure (Averill et al. 2018, Waller and Alverson 1997). These
changes can lead to adverse impacts on other wildlife species that
depend on this vegetation for food and/or shelter. Several studies
have shown that over browsing by deer can decrease tree
reproduction, understory vegetation cover, plant density, and plant
diversity (Warren 1991). Heavy deer populations in the Great Smokey
Mountains National Park in Tennessee caused a reduction in the
number of plant species, a loss of hardwood species, and a
predominance of conifer species compared to an ecologically similar
control area with fewer deer (Bratton 1979). While deer populations
at the refuge are not to a level of management concern, the use of
hunting as a proactive management tool is worth consideration for
the refuge hunting program. Managing Snow Goose Populations In the
past three decades, the greater snow goose population as indexed by
the spring survey has undergone a five-fold increase to over one
million birds. Various light goose populations in North America
have experienced rapid population growth, and have reached levels
such that they are damaging habitats on their Arctic and subarctic
breeding areas (Abraham and Jefferies 1997, Alisauskas 1998, Jano
et al. 1998, Didiuk et al. 2001). Habitat degradation in arctic and
sub-arctic areas may be irreversible, and has negatively affected
light goose populations (Abraham and Jefferies 1997), and other
bird populations dependent on such habitats (Gratto-Trevor 1994,
Rockwell 1999, Rockwell et al. 1997). Natural marsh habitats on
some migration and wintering areas have been impacted by light
geese (Giroux and Bedard 1987, Giroux et al. 1998, Widjeskog 1977,
Smith and Odum 1981, Young 1985). In addition, goose damage to
agricultural crops has become a problem (Bedard and Lapointe 1991,
Filion et al. 1998, Giroux et al. 1998, Delaware Division of Fish
and Wildlife 2000). The increasing numbers of light-geese are
viewed as a continental problem, but with real local consequences.
A common feeding strategy of snow geese on refuge wetlands is to
grub for underground roots and tubers. Primary marsh vegetation
species exploited in this fashion are; salt marsh cordgrass
(Spartina alterniflora), salt meadow cordgrass (Spartina patens)
,Olney’s bulrush (Scirpus americanus), black needlerush (Juncus
romerianus), and cattail (Typha sp). Grubbing for rhizomes of these
species, especially in salt marshes, results in areas denuded of
vegetation, typically referred to as “eat-outs” (Kelley and Blohm
2007). Snow goose eat-outs in salt marshes tend to re-vegetate
during the subsequent growing season, however at a reduced
vegetative density. Vegetation density at these eat-outs may
increase after several years to pre-eat-out levels, if left alone.
However, at most NWRs where eat-outs occur within salt marsh
habitats, snow geese return each winter to the same areas to feed.
This may be a result of the vegetative growth being at an earlier
stage of development, being more nutritious,
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Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan A-10
or having a less dense root mat and therefore easier to grub. We
assume that during the time snow geese are feeding in a salt marsh,
much of the soil and sediment is loosened and placed into
suspension. This material may then be washed away during high or
flood tide periods. After several years of successive eat-outs at
the same location, a lowering of ground elevation may occur causing
a more permanent impact to the site. Salt marsh eat-outs can be
detrimental to habitat integrity and other wildlife species. This
is a result of the radical change of habitat structure from dense
vegetation to mudflat. Undoubtedly, this conversion negatively
affects invertebrate communities as well as species such as rails,
and waterfowl that feed on these invertebrates and rely on dense
vegetative structure for cover. However, some refuge staff report
increased use of snow goose eat-outs by shorebirds during
migration, as well as, some species of waterfowl. This is
particularly the case at Prime Hook NWR, Edwin B. Forsythe NWR, and
Bombay Hook NWR. Hunting to reduce the snow goose population is key
to restoring local habitat and reduce impacts to the artic breeding
grounds. Impacts on Federal and State Endangered Species While the
bald eagle is no longer a federally listed species, the refuge uses
National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines for bald eagle management
to implement time-of-year restrictions for nesting eagles. The
guidelines do not permit any activity within 660 feet of an active
nest. No other recreational activities will be permitted near
active nests based on the recommended guidelines and, therefore,
are not expected to have any negative impacts on bald eagles (U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service 2007). Red knots have the potential to
occur on the refuge but are not likely to occur in areas with
hunting access (IPaC 2019). Migrating red knots use marine habitats
like sandy beaches, saltmarshes, estuaries, and mangrove swamps.
Occasionally, they will move inland to frequent shorelines of
larger lakes and freshwater marshes. Since hunting does not occur
in the impoundments, no adverse effects to the Rufous red knot are
anticipated. Refuge staff would continue to monitor for any effects
of all activities associated with hunting on threatened or
endangered species. Impacts on Waterfowl Because over 80 percent of
the refuge is wetlands, all recreational activity has the potential
of impacting waterfowl, shorebirds, marsh birds, and other
migratory bird populations feeding and/or resting near the hunting
area(s). Conflicts arise when migratory birds and humans are
present in the same areas (Pease et al. 2005, Boyle and Samson
1985). Response of wildlife to human activities includes departure
from site (Owen 1973, Burger 1981, Korschgen et al 1985, Henson and
Grant 1991, Kahl 1991, Klein 1993), use of suboptimal habitat
(Erwin 1980, Williams and Forbes 1980), altered behavior (Burger
1981, Korschen et al. 1985, Morton et al. 1989, Ward and Stehn
1989, Havera et al. 1992, Klein 1993), and increase in energy
expenditure (Morton et al. 1989, Belanger and Bedard 1990). McNeil
et al. (1992) found that many waterfowl species avoid disturbance
by feeding at night instead of during the day. Human disturbance to
migratory birds could decrease nesting behavior and increase alert
and escape behavior for various species. General adverse impacts of
waterfowl hunting are mortality, crippling and disturbance.
Belanger and Bedard (1995) concluded that disturbance
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Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan A-11
caused by waterfowl hunting to waterfowl resources can:
1. Modify the distribution and use of habitats by waterfowl; 2.
Affect their activity budget and decrease their foraging time; and
3. Disrupt pair and family bonds and contribute to increased
hunting mortality.
The Service annually prescribes frameworks, or outer limits, for
dates and times when hunting may occur and the number of birds that
may be taken and possessed. These frameworks are necessary to allow
State selections of season and limits for recreation and
sustenance; aid Federal, State, and Tribal governments in the
management of migratory game birds; and permit harvests at levels
compatible with population status and habitat conditions. Because
the Migratory Bird Treaty Act stipulates that all hunting seasons
for migratory game birds are closed unless specifically opened by
the Secretary of the Interior, the Service annually promulgates
regulations (50 CFR Part 20) establishing the frameworks from which
States may select season dates, bag limits, shooting hours, and
other options for the each migratory bird hunting season. The
frameworks are essentially permissive in that hunting of migratory
birds would not be permitted without them. Thus, in effect, Federal
annual regulations both allow and limit the hunting of migratory
birds. Migratory game birds are those bird species so designated in
conventions between the United States and several foreign nations
for the protection and management of these birds. Under the
Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703-712), the Secretary of the
Interior is authorized to determine when “hunting, taking, capture,
killing, possession, sale, purchase, shipment, transportation,
carriage, or export of any bird, or any part, nest, or egg” of
migratory game birds can take place, and to adopt regulations for
this purpose. These regulations are written after giving due regard
to “the zones of temperature and to the distribution, abundance,
economic value, breeding habits, and times and lines of migratory
flight of such birds, and are updated annually” (16 U.S.C. 704(a)).
This responsibility has been delegated to the Service as the lead
Federal agency for managing and conserving migratory birds in the
United States. Acknowledging regional differences in hunting
conditions, the Service has administratively divided the nation
into four Flyways for the primary purpose of managing migratory
game birds. Each Flyway (Atlantic, Mississippi, Central, and
Pacific) has a Flyway Council, a formal organization generally
composed of one member from each State and Province in that Flyway.
Bombay Hook NWR is in the Atlantic Flyway. The process for adopting
migratory game bird hunting regulations, located in 50 CFR part 20,
is constrained by three primary factors. Legal and administrative
considerations dictate how long the rulemaking process will last.
Most importantly, however, the biological cycle of migratory game
birds controls the timing of data-gathering activities and thus the
dates on which these results are available for consideration and
deliberation. The process of adopting migratory game bird hunting
regulations includes two separate regulations-development
schedules, based on “early” and “late” hunting season regulations.
Early hunting seasons pertain to all migratory game bird species in
Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands; migratory game
birds other than waterfowl (e.g., dove, woodcock, etc.); and
special early waterfowl seasons, such as teal or resident Canada
geese. Early hunting seasons generally begin prior to October 1.
Late hunting seasons generally start on or after October 1 and
include most waterfowl seasons not
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Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan A-12
already established. There are basically no differences in the
processes for establishing either early or late hunting seasons.
For each cycle, Service biologists and others gather, analyze, and
interpret biological survey data and provide this information to
all those involved in the process through a series of published
status reports and presentations to Flyway Councils and other
interested parties. Though not as detailed as that for waterfowl,
relevant data are collected and summarized for migratory bird
species such as dove, woodcock, etc. Bird monitoring data are
available through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (Service)
Division of Migratory Bird Management Website
(http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/). Because the Service is
required to consider the abundance of migratory birds and other
factors, the Service undertakes a number of surveys throughout the
year in conjunction with the Canadian Wildlife Service, State and
Provincial wildlife-management agencies, and others. To determine
the appropriate frameworks for each species, we consider factors
such as population size and trend, geographical distribution,
annual breeding effort, the condition of breeding and wintering
habitat, the number of hunters, and the anticipated harvest. After
frameworks are established for season lengths, bag limits, and
areas for migratory game bird hunting, migratory game bird
management becomes a cooperative effort of State and Federal
Governments. After Service establishment of final frameworks for
hunting seasons, the States may select season dates, bag limits,
and other regulatory options for the hunting seasons. States may
always be more conservative in their selections than the Federal
frameworks but never more liberal. Season dates and bag limits for
national wildlife refuges open to hunting are never longer or
larger than the State regulations. In fact, based upon the findings
of an environmental assessment developed when a national wildlife
refuge opens a new hunting activity, season dates and bag limits
may be more restrictive than the State allows. Through past monthly
aerial surveys from October through November, the Delaware DFW was
able to evaluate long-term trends in duck and goose populations
(Table 1.1, and more current data are not available). The surveys
gave fairly accurate information about geese, but duck populations
such as wood ducks and sea ducks are almost impossible to
accurately count. Furthermore, these surveys do not cover the
entire State, but only the primary waterfowl habitat in Delaware,
which is approximately the eastern half of the State. Based on the
findings of these monthly surveys during the 2008-2009 hunting
season, the refuge harvested between 0.22 percent and 0.44 percent
of the State’s estimated monthly duck population and between 0.06
percent and 0.15 percent of the State’s estimated monthly goose
population (Table 1.3).
http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/
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Appendix A. Compatibility Determinations
Bombay Hook NWR Hunting and Fishing Plan A-13
Table 1.1. Number of waterfowl harvested and hunter visits on
Bombay Hook NWR compared to statewide harvest. Waterfowl includes
geese and ducks. Year Statewide Waterfowl
Harvest* Refuge Waterfowl Harvest
Refuge Hunter Visits
2001 76,210 1,149 1,091 2002 95,170 1,212 1,165 2003 88,800
1,509 1,197 2004 73,190 1,126 1,259 2005 71,740 972 1,026 2006
64,630 797 926 2007 81,600 1,021 974 2008 107,100 1,320 995
*Statewide waterfowl harvest data from:
https://www.fws.gov/birds/surveys-and-data/harvest-surveys.php
Table 1.2. Comparison of waterfowl harvest at Bombay Hook NWR to
State, Flyway, and United States harvest in the 2008 hunting
season.
Waterfowl Harvest Area Ducks Geese Bombay Hook NWR 708 612
Delaware* 62,000 45,100 Atlantic Flyway* 1,744,700 1,009,800 United
States* 13,723,200 3,825,900
*Harvest estimates from (Raftovich et al. 2009) Table 1.3.
Comparison of duck and goose harvest at Bombay Hook NWR to State
waterfowl survey results during the 2008-2009 hunting season. Month
Refuge Duck
Harvest Statewide Duck Survey Results*
Refuge Goose Harvest
Statewide Goose Survey Results*
October 2008 66 22,509 27 18,071 November 2008 100 22,614 57
69,319 De