MIGRATORY GAME BIRD HUNTING - IN VIRGINIA July 2020-June 2021 - eRegulations
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MIGRATORY GAME BIRD HUNTING IN VIRGINIA July 2020-June 2021 INCLUDING • Dove • Woodcock • Snipe • Rail • Gallinule/Moorhen • All Waterfowl Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources www.virginiawildlife.gov www.gooutdoorsvirginia.com
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MIGRATORY
GAME BIRD
HUNTING
IN VIRGINIA Meghan Marchetti / DWR
July 2020-June 2021 WHAT’S NEW FOR 2020-2021������������������������������������������������������������������4
GENERAL INFORMATION
SHOOTING HOURS������������������������������������������������������������������������������������4
POSSESSION LIMITS���������������������������������������������������������������������������������4
NON-TOXIC SHOT��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������4
BLAZE COLOR REQUIREMENTS���������������������������������������������������������������4
YOUTH & VETERANS WATERFOWL HUNTING DAYS���������������������������������4
LICENSE FEES���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������6
REGULATIONS BY SPECIES
Commonwealth of Virginia DOVE�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������10
Ralph S. Northam, Governor RAILS AND GALLINULES�������������������������������������������������������������������������10
Secretary of Natural Resources WOODCOCK AND SNIPE�������������������������������������������������������������������������11
Matthew J. Strickler SEPTEMBER TEAL����������������������������������������������������������������������������������12
Department of Wildlife Resources DUCKS����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������12
Ryan J. Brown, Executive Director SEA DUCKS���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������13
Members of the Board
MERGANSERS����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������13
John W. Daniel II, Chair, Richmond COOTS����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������14
Brian Vincent, Vice-chair, Farmville
Frank Adams, King William
CANADA GOOSE�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������14
Leon Boyd, Vansant SEPT. CANADA GOOSE AND LIGHT GOOSE��������������������������������������������15
Catherine H. Claiborne, Richmond ATLANTIC BRANT�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������16
Douglas Dear, Syria
Mamie A. Parker, Ph.D., Dulles TUNDRA SWAN���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������16
Tom Sadler, Verona
Karen Terwilliger, Locustville
WHAT TERMS DO I NEED TO UNDERSTAND?����������������������������������������17
G. K Washington, Dillwyn WATERFOWL HUNTING SAFETY TIPS����������������������������������������������������18
Mission Statement WATERFOWL QUOTA/MANAGED HUNTS�����������������������������������������������19
Conserve and manage wildlife populations and habitat
for the benefit of present and future generations. LAWFUL HUNTING METHODS���������������������������������������������������������������� 22
Connect people to Virginia’s outdoors through boating,
education, fishing, hunting, trapping, wildlife viewing UNLAWFUL HUNTING METHODS����������������������������������������������������������� 23
and other wildlife-related activities. Protect people and
property by promoting safe outdoor experiences and WATERFOWL BLIND LAWS��������������������������������������������������������������������� 24
managing human-wildlife conflicts.
AREAS CLOSED TO WATERFOWL HUNTING����������������������������������������� 27
The Department of Wildlife Resources shall afford to
all persons an equal access to Department programs PERMISSION TO HUNT���������������������������������������������������������������������������� 27
and facilities without regard to race, color, religion,
disability, national origin, sexual orientation, gender SUNRISE-SUNSET TIMETABLE��������������������������������������������������������������� 29
identity, age, political affiliation, or veteran’s status. If
you believe that you have been discriminated against
in any program, activity, or facility, please write to:
Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, Attn: This publication is to be used as a supplement to Hunting and Trapping in Virginia, 2020-2021 booklet and is for general
Executive Director’s Office, 7870 Villa Park Dr, Suite use and contains information regarding programs, policies, regulations, rules, or fees of the Virginia Department of
Wildlife Resources (DWR) current at the time of printing. Information may change after printing and any changes will
400, P.O. Box 90778, Henrico, VA 23228. supersede the information in this publication. DWR’s programs, policies, regulations, rules, or fees can be found at www.
virginiawildlife.gov. Specific laws are found in the Code of Virginia (http://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode) or the Wildlife Resource
On the Cover: Department Regulation Manual (http://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title4/agency15). For answers to specific questions
King rail at Mackey Island, photo © Bob Schamerhorn about hunting and fishing, contact the Department of Wildlife Resources office nearest you or visit www.virginiawildlife.gov.
Caution: More restrictive regulations may apply to National Wildlife Refuges open to public hunting. For additional information
Inside illustrations © Spike Knuth on federal regulations, contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, 5721 South Laburnum Ave.,
Richmond, VA 23231; phone (804) 771-2883, 771-2280; FAX (804) 222-8421.
The sale of advertising paid a large portion of the cost of this publication. The Department of Wildlife Resources neither en-
dorses the products or services offered in the advertising, nor accepts any liability from the use of such products or services.
DIRECTOR’S
MESSAGE
You may notice in this edition of the Hunting and Trapping in
Virginia Digest that our agency’s name and logo have changed.
While we have been known for many years as the Virginia Depart-
ment of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF), effective July 1,
2020, we became the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources
Meghan Marchetti / DWR
(DWR). While this change will help us be more recognizable to
all Virginians, we want to assure you that absolutely nothing has
changed with respect to our commitment to Virginia’s sportsmen
and sportswomen and the species that we appreciate and pursue.
Over the last 104 years, the agency’s full scope of responsibilities
has changed, as has Virginia’s public. While we began as purely a Williamstown, MA | Birmingham, AL
game management agency, today we are a comprehensive wildlife
management agency, providing services to all Virginians and pro-
moting all of our wildlife and its habitats. All of these efforts have
been achieved through the contributions of our hunters, anglers, and trappers for the benefit of all.
We remain firm in our commitment to those who have historically made our work pos-
sible. Additionally, we also want to welcome and enhance relationships with other wildlife
About This Guide
enthusiasts to further enhance our efforts. This best lays a groundwork for the future of the
management of all of our wildlife and habitats, and will bring to the table other interests to add
to the support that you have historically provided. We will remain the stewards of Virginia’s This high-quality guide is offered to you
game populations and make sure that hunters, anglers, and trappers are able to enjoy excellent by the Virginia Department of Wildlife
sporting opportunities across the Commonwealth. We’re also committed, as are many of you, Resources through its unique partnership
to continuing our mission to educate and encourage new generations of sportsmen and sports- with J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC.
women to participate in hunting, fishing, boating, and recreational shooting opportunities that
The revenue generated through ad sales
we have been so fortunate to enjoy.
It may take a while to get used to our new name and the DWR acronym, but we think it significantly lowers production costs and
will be well worth it in the long term to better reach all of Virginia’s current and future wildlife generates savings. These savings translate
enthusiasts and to ensure full and continued support for the species that we honor and enjoy. into additional funds for other important
Thank you for all of your support for this agency and of our wildlife; we could not do what we agency programs.
do without each of you! If you have any feedback or are inter-
ested in advertising, please contact us at
Ryan Brown, Executive Director, DWR
413.884.1001 or at www.JFGriffin.com
Graphic Design:
VIRGINIA’S WILDLIFE Jon Gulley, Dane Fay, John Corey,
Evelyn Haddad, Chris Sobolowski
RESTORATION
PROGRAM AND YOU
Hunters and trappers create many opportunities for Virginians to enjoy excep-
tional hunting, trapping, and wildlife watching. Through the Federal Wildlife Res-
toration program, you help the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources make
wildlife-oriented outdoor recreation even better each time you buy a firearm, am-
munition, or a hunting or trapping license.
When you buy hunting-related equipment, a portion of the excise tax levied on
the manufacturer goes to the Federal Wildlife Restoration program. Virginia cur-
rently receives approximately $12 million each year from this program, which
funds a large portion of the Department’s habitat management and wildlife
population research projects.
This guide is also
available online at
Photo by Meghan Marchetti / DWR
2 2020-2021 VIRGINIA MIGRATORY GAME BIRD HUNTING WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOV
CONTACT
INFORMATION
Headquarters Regional Offices
7870 Villa Park Drive, Suite 400 Region 1 Region 4
Henrico, VA 23228 3801 John Tyler Memorial Hwy. P.O. Box 996, 517 Lee Highway
(804) 367-1000; (804) 367-1278 V/TDD Charles City, VA 23030 Verona, VA 24482
(804) 829-6580 (540) 248-9360
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 90778 Region 2 1320 Belman Road
Henrico, VA 23228-0778 1132 Thomas Jefferson Road Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Forest, VA 24551-9223 (540) 899-4169
Boating Registration/ (434) 525-7522
License Fees
(804) 367-1000 Region 3
1796 Highway Sixteen
Note: The Headquarters Office is the only Marion, VA 24354
Department location where visitors may title/ (276) 783-4860
register a boat. These services are not available
at the Regional Offices.
Additional Contacts
Report Wildlife Violations Only Virginia Department of Forestry USDA Wildlife Services
(800) 237-5712 Headquarters: (434) 977-6555 (804) 739-7739
or wildlifecrime@virginiawildlife.gov State Forests: (804) 492-4121
www.dof.virginia.gov/stateforest/recreation/ U. S. Forest Service Supervisor
Boating Registration/ hunting.htm George Washington and
License Fees Jefferson Forest
(804) 367-1000 Department of Conservation and www.fs.usda.gov/gwj
Recreation Reservation Center (540) 265-5100 or (888) 265-0019
Quota Hunts www.dcr.virginia.gov
www.gooutdoorsvirginia.com (800) 933-7275 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
(Federal wildlife inquiries only)
(804) 771-2883; (804) 771-2280
REFER A FRIEND TO JOIN YOU IN THE OUTDOORS
1. Generate your referral code
at License.GoOutdoorsVirginia.com
2. Your friend uses your code at checkout
when buying their first fishing, hunting or wildlife license or permit
3. We mail you BOTH a gift
Visit License.GoOutdoorsVA.com >
WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOV2020-2021 VIRGINIA MIGRATORY GAME BIRD HUNTING 3
WHAT’S NEW
FOR 2020-2021
• The daily bag limit for scaup has been • The Atlantic Brant season has been increased a person applying to license a stationary
changed from 2 birds per day to a hybrid from 30 days to 50 days while maintaining a blind in public waters to also have a state
season with a 1-scaup daily bag limit for 2 brant per day bag limit. See page 16. and federal duck stamp. See pages 24-26 for
the first 40 days (October 9-12, Novem- • Legislation passed during the 2020 session additional information.
ber 18-29 and December 19-January 11), changed some laws related to waterfowl
then a 2-scaup limit for the remaining 20 hunting and stationary waterfowl blinds.
days (January 12-31). Two scaup per day are These changes prohibits hunting in the pub-
allowed on both Youth/Veterans Waterfowl lic waters of the Commonwealth within 150
Hunting Days (October 24 and February 6). yards of a residence without the consent of
See page 12. the landowner. The legislation also requires
General Information moorhens) is allowed on Sundays (on private pink) hat or solid blaze colored upper body
lands and on public lands as permitted by the clothing that is visible from 360 degrees or
landowner) subject to geographical limitations display at least 100 square inches of solid blaze
Migratory Game Birds established by the Director of the Department colored material at shoulder level within body
Migratory game birds means species of water- and except within 200 yards of a house of wor- reach and visible from 360 degrees.
fowl (ducks, geese, brant, swans, and mergan- ship or any accessory structure thereof. • Hats may have a bill or brim color or design
sers) and webless species (coots, doves, gal- other than solid blaze color. Hats shall not
linules, moorhens, rails, snipe, and woodcock). Non-toxic Shot be in “camo” style, since the latter is designed
Non-toxic shot approved by the Department to prevent visibility. A logo, which does not
Shooting Hours [steel, bismuth-tin, Iron-tungsten, Iron-tung- detract from visibility, may be worn on a
No person shall take migratory game birds sten-nickel (HEVISHOT), copper-clad iron, blaze colored hat.
except during the hours open to shooting as tungsten-bronze, tungsten-iron-copper-nickel, • Hunters using an enclosed ground (pop-up,
prescribed. Shooting hours for all waterfowl, tungsten matrix, tungsten-polymer, tungsten- chair, box, etc.) that conceals them from
all seasons is one-half hour before sunrise until tin-iron, tungsten-tin-bismuth, tungsten-tin- view shall display at least 100 square inches
sunset, (except when otherwise permitted in iron-nickel, and tungsten-iron-polymer] is of solid blaze colored material, visible from
the September Canada Goose season and the required for hunting all waterfowl, mergansers, 360 degrees attached to or immediately above
Light Goose Conservation Order season). See coots, moorhens, gallinules, snipe, and rails. the blind. This blaze color is in addition to
sunrise-sunset timetable on page 29. Non-toxic Lead shot is not allowed for hunting these spe- any worn on the hunter’s person.
shot is required for all waterfowl hunting and cies and cannot be in possession in the field
for rail and snipe hunting. while hunting these species. Shot size should Exceptions
be no larger than “T”. • Blaze colored clothing is not required of
Possession Limits waterfowl hunters, dove hunters, individuals
The possession limit for migratory game birds Blaze Color Requirements participating in hunting dog field trials, and
is 3 times the daily bag limit (except for light The term “blaze colored” in reference to clothing fox hunters on horseback without firearms.
geese and tundra swans), but no one is allowed or other items required for specific safe hunting • Hunters hunting with archery tackle during
to have more than one daily bag limit of game practices shall be one of two colors: 1) traditional an open firearms deer season in areas where
in his possession while in the forests, fields, or blaze orange or 2) bright pink or fluorescent pink the discharge of firearms is prohibited by
waters of this state. Wounded birds reduced which will be known as blaze pink. state law or local ordinance, are exempt from
to possession shall be immediately killed and When hunting any species during a firearms the blaze color requirement.
included in the daily bag limit. deer season and on youth apprentice deer hunt- • Other than muzzleloader deer hunters, blaze
ing weekend: colored clothing is not required of any hunters
Sunday Hunting • Every hunter (see exceptions below), or per- hunting during the muzzleloader deer seasons.
Hunting for waterfowl (ducks, coot, geese, brant, sons accompanying a hunter, shall wear a
and swan) and rails (including gallinules and solid blaze colored (blaze orange or blaze
YOUTH & VETERANS WATERFOWL HUNTING DAYS
October 24, 2020 and February 6, 2021
Statewide. Open to Youth 15 years of age and under, Military Veterans (as defined in section 101 of title 38, United States
Code) and members of the Armed Forces on active duty, including members of the National Guard and Reserves on active duty
(other than for training). Participants may harvest the allowed daily bag limit of ducks (see pg. 12), sea ducks (including in the
Special Sea Duck Zone), and other waterfowl, including Atlantic brant, coots, mergansers, gallinules, moorhens, light geese,
1 Canada goose in the Atlantic Population Zone, 5 Canada geese in the Southern James Bay Population and Resident Popula-
tion zones, and 1 tundra swan (if in possession of a tundra swan permit) on the designated days. Resident youth aged 12-15,
nonresident youth age 15 or under, and Veterans need a valid Virginia hunting license, unless license exempt. All hunters partici-
pating must be Virginia HIP registered (www.gooutdoorsvirginia.com). All youth must be accompanied and directly supervised
by an adult at least 18 years of age or older who has a valid Virginia hunting license (unless license exempt). The accompanying
adult cannot hunt ducks (unless they are a Veteran), but may hunt for those species for which there is an open season.
4 2020-2021 VIRGINIA MIGRATORY GAME BIRD HUNTING WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOV
DON’T FORGET FEDERAL ELECTRONIC
TO REGISTER OR “E-STAMP” DUCK
WITH HIP STAMP PROGRAM
All hunters (whether licensed or A Federal Duck Stamp is
license-exempt) who plan to hunt required for all persons 16
migratory game birds including years and older in order to
dove, waterfowl, rail, woodcock, hunt waterfowl. A convenient
snipe, coots, gallinules, or moor- online option is available
hens, must be registered with whereby hunters can obtain
the Virginia Harvest Information an E-stamp for $27.50. The
Program (HIP). A new HIP regis- E-stamp is valid immediately
tration is required on July 1 of following the purchase and
each year. Hunters are no longer for up to 45 days. The actual
given a separate HIP number, Federal Duck Stamp will be
but confirmation of your HIP reg- mailed to the customer within
istration will be printed on your 45 days and must be signed
license, or issued separately for and carried thereafter while
license-exempt hunters. Informa- hunting waterfowl. Waterfowl 2020-2021 Federal Duck Stamp
tion obtained from HIP is vital for hunters can still purchase Artwork by Eddie LeRoy
the management of migratory their Federal Duck Stamp at ©All rights reserved by USFWS
birds in Virginia. Register for HIP some U.S. Post Offices at a
online at www.gooutdoorsvirginia. cost of $25.00.
com or call 888-788-9772.
To obtain the E-stamp Federal Duck Stamp go to the Department’s website
If you DO NOT hunt the migratory (www.gooutdoorsvirginia.com) and click on hunting and fishing licenses or visit
birds noted above, you DO NOT one of over 800 license agents throughout the Commonwealth.
need to register for HIP.
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7x4.75_Newspaper_VA_5-20.indd 1 5/22/20 8:38 AM
LICENSE
FEES
(Issuance fee is included in all prices.)
Resident and nonresident licenses are valid for one year from the date of purchase except the bear license, deer/turkey license, and the Virginia migratory
waterfowl conservation stamp (which are valid July 1–June 30 only), the apprentice hunting license (valid for 2 years from date of purchase), and lifetime licenses.
The bear license and deer/turkey license that are part of a package (e.g. Sportsman’s License or combo licenses) are also only valid July 1–June 30. For informa-
tion on Hunter Education requirements see page 7 in the hunting and trapping digest or go to www.virginiawildlife.gov/hunting/education. It is unlawful to alter,
change, borrow, or lend a hunting license or permit.
For Legacy, Lifetime, and Veterans Lifetime Licenses and information please see page 8.
Resident Hunting Licenses Nonresident Hunting Licenses
LICENSES FEE LICENSES FEE
Resident Sportsman’s License (age 16 and older) $100.00 Nonresident Junior Hunting License* (under age 12) $13.00
The Sportsman’s License isn’t all inclusive but offers a hunting license, Nonresident Junior Hunting License* (age 12 to 15) $16.00
bear license, deer/turkey license, archery license, muzzleloading license, Nonresident Youth Combination Hunting License (under age 16) $31.00
freshwater fishing license, and trout license. Other licenses/stamps may Includes hunting license, bear license, deer/turkey license, archery
be required (waterfowl stamps, National Forest stamp, etc.). Purchaser license, and muzzleloading license.
should also ensure that the bear and deer/turkey license tags are valid for
Nonresident Hunting License* (age 16 and older) $111.00
intended hunting season.
Nonresident 3-Day Hunt License* (age 16 and older) $60.00
Resident Junior Hunting License*
$8.50 Must be 3 consecutive days
(age 12 to 15; optional for under 12 years old)
Nonresident Apprentice Hunting License* $21.00
Resident Youth Combination Hunting License (age 12 to 15) $16.00
Valid for 2 years from date of purchase.
Includes hunting license, bear license, deer/turkey license, archery
Nonresident Annual Hunting License for 70% or Greater Service-Connect-
license, and muzzleloading license.
ed Partially Disabled Veterans and Service-Connected Totally and Perma-
Resident Hunting License* (age 16 and older) nently Disabled Veterans
1-year license $23.00 Nonresident Veterans rated 70% or greater or as Total and Permanent
2-year license $44.00 Service-Connected by the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs Administrative
Office may apply for a discounted annual hunting license by application
3-year license $65.00 only. Please note this license does not include bear, deer/turkey, archery,
4-year license $86.00 muzzleloading or other applicable licenses, stamp, and/or permits.
Resident County or City Hunting License* (age 16 and older) $16.00 *Special Annual Basic Freshwater Fishing & Hunting Licenses for Partially
Disabled Veterans
For county or city of residence only.
*Special Annual Basic Freshwater Fishing & Hunting License for Nonresi-
Resident Apprentice Hunting License* $11.00 dent Totally and Permanently
Valid for 2 years from date of purchase. Please visit www.virginiawildlife.gov for applications listed above, instruc-
tions, and prices. Applications may be mailed or brought into our Henrico
Resident Senior Citizen Hunting License* (age 65 and over) $9.00 office location only.
Resident Annual Hunting License for 70 Percent or Greater Service- * Annual bear license, deer/turkey license and all applicable licenses, stamps,
Connected Partially Disabled Veterans or permits are required in addition to this license.
Resident Veterans rated 70% or greater service-connected by the U.S.
Dept. of Veterans Affairs Administrative Office may apply for a discount-
ed annual hunting license. Please note this license does not include bear,
deer/turkey, archery, muzzleloading or other applicable licenses, stamp,
and/or permits. Please visit www.virginiawildlife.gov for application,
WHERE TO OBTAIN A LICENSE
instructions, and prices. Applications may be mailed or brought into our Online
Henrico office location only. www.gooutdoorsvirginia.com.
* Annual bear license, deer/turkey license and all applicable licenses, stamps, • Create Your Customer Account: The new Go Out-
or permits are required in addition to this license.
doors Virginia site allows you to create a unique cus-
tomer account to access licenses and products that
apply to you based on age and residency.
• Existing Customers: Log in using your date of birth
and either your DWR Customer ID or your previous
WHAT LICENSES DO I NEED? year’s DWR license number and license year. Select
the license(s) you want, pay with your credit card and
To Hunt Dove, Woodcock, Snipe, Gallinules, print your license if needed.
or Rails
In Person
A hunting license (unless license exempt), and a HIP
registration is required. A National Forest Permit or State Sold by some clerks of the Circuit Court, at license
Forest Use Permit may also be required. agents across Virginia, and DWR headquarters. Not
sold at DWR regional offices. To find a license agent
To Hunt Waterfowl visit: https://license.gooutdoorsvirginia.com/Licensing/
A hunting license (unless license exempt), a HIP registra- LocateAgent.Aspx
tion, a Federal Duck stamp (16 years and older), and a By Phone /Mobile Phone
Virginia Duck Stamp (16 years and older, unless license
exempt) are required. A National Forest Permit or State (804) 367-1000 during regular business hours, or use
Forest Use Permit may also be required. your GoOutdoors Virginia mobile app.
6 2020-2021 VIRGINIA MIGRATORY GAME BIRD HUNTING WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOV
Shooters & Hunters:
Help Prevent Wildfires.
T
he target shooting and hunting
community prides itself on being safe • Make it a point to know the
and responsible with firearms in all regulations and rules related to
situations—from using them outdoors to storing shooting in areas experiencing dry
them safely at home. Sometimes, however, and hot conditions, whether on public
unusual conditions such as extremely dry or private land or at shooting ranges.
environments require an extra level of awareness Many national forests, for example, do
and safety on the part of shooters. not allow recreational shooting when
Wildfires have many possible causes. The National fire restrictions are in effect.
Shooting Sports Foundation, the trade association • Consider the type of ammunition and
for the firearms and ammunition industry, reminds targets you are using. Minimize the
all shooters that during dry and hot weather risk of fires by not using steel-jacketed
conditions their use of certain ammunition and
ammunition, ammunition with steel-core
targets could accidentally ignite a wildfire. NSSF
components, tracer rounds or exploding
reminds all target shooters and hunters, as well
targets in fire-prone areas.
as other outdoor enthusiasts, to consider the
potential consequences of their activities in fire- • Remember that equipment, such as
prone environments. cars and ATVs, can have extremely
hot exhaust systems that could
ignite dry vegetation, so park only in
designated areas.
• Extinguish and dispose of smoking
materials safely.
• Follow guidelines to extinguish
campfires.
• Warn others of potential dangers and
behaviors for starting wildfires.
• Report any wildfire you see to
authorities.
• Spread this message to other target
shooters, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
NSSF.ORG
LICENSE
FEES
For Legacy, Lifetime, and Veterans Lifetime Licenses and information please see below.
Miscellaneous Licenses, Permits, and Stamps
One or more of the following may be required in addition to a resident or nonresident hunting license.
LICENSES FEE PERMITS FEE
All blind licenses are available for purchase online at www.gooutdoorsvirginia. National Forest Permit $4.00
com or through any number of DWR license agents throughout the state. To hunt and trap within National Forest. Not required of residents under
There is an option to select if a metal plate is needed (new or replacement). If the age of 16 to trap; residents who have an annual senior citizen hunting
purchased online or through a license agent you will receive a license showing license ($9.00).
your blind information; the decal and metal plate (if requested) will be mailed
Virginia State Forest Use Permit (age 16 or older) $16.00
separately within 5 to 7 business days.
Allows hunting, trapping, fishing, mountain biking, and horse riding. No
Stationary Blind $23.50
motorized vehicles on gated roads/trails (open or closed). Sold in coopera-
When purchasing a stationary blind license you must provide GPS coordi- tion with the Virginia Department of Forestry.
nates along with a description of where the blind is located. These coordi-
$4.00
nates are needed to help evaluate whether blinds are within the required Access Permit
per day
distances, and they will help in future improvements of the blind licensing
process. Coordinates should be reported as latitude and longitude and • The permit fee is $4 for a daily permit or $23 for an annual permit. The
can be entered in one of three formats: 1) Degrees, minutes, seconds access permit may be purchased online or at any license agent.
(35° 45’ 52”), 2) Degrees and decimal minutes (35° 45.87’), or 3) Decimal
degrees (35.76°). • An access permit is not required of any person, 17 years of age or
older, accessing a wildlife management area or DWR fishing lake, if
Floating Blind $41.00
they have in their possession a valid hunting, freshwater fishing, or
Offshore Blind Stake (limit 4 per licensee) $6.00 trapping license or current boat registration.
Nonresident Hunting Preserve $23.00
To hunt within the boundaries of a licensed shooting preserve, in lieu of • The access permit requirement does not apply to Department-owned
other required licenses. boat ramps or segments of the Appalachian Trail on Department-
owned land.
• Daily group rates are available. For more information go to
www.virginiawildlife.gov/access-permit/.
STAMPS FEE
Federal Migratory Duck E-Stamp $27.50
To take migratory waterfowl; required of persons 16 years of age and over
in addition to hunting license. Valid July 1 through June 30. See page 5.
Virginia Migratory Waterfowl Conservation Stamp $10.00
Required of persons 16 years of age and older, unless license exempt.
Valid July 1 through June 30.
LIFETIME AND SPECIAL ANNUAL LICENSES
Legacy Lifetime complete and submit the Youth Hunter Education Compli-
ance form and a copy of their Hunter Safety or equivalent
• Available to Virginia residents and non-residents under completed certificate.
the age of 2 years upon date of application receipt to De-
partment of Wildlife Resources. Senior Combo Lifetime
• The legacy hunting lifetime license is valid until the indi- • Available to Virginia residents 80 years of age and older.
vidual’s 12th birthday at which time they must complete
• All other licenses, stamps, and permits (except the bear
an approved hunter education course or equivalent, then
license and deer/turkey license) are required in addition to
transfer the legacy to a regular hunting lifetime at no ad-
this license.
ditional charge.
Veteran Total and Permanent
Lifetime
Service-Connected Lifetime
• Virginia resident and non-resident lifetime licenses available.
• Virginia residents who are rated as total and permanently
• Virginia residents may purchase their lifetime licenses online service-connected disabled by the U.S. Veterans Admin-
through www.gooutdoorsvirginia.com provided their Vir- istration office may apply for this lifetime license(s).
ginia residency status can be verified through Virginia DMV.
• The Veteran lifetime hunting license includes small game
• The lifetime hunting license equals the state hunting li- state hunting, bear, deer/turkey, archery, muzzleloading.
censes; all other applicable licenses, stamps, or permits All other applicable licenses, stamps, or permits are re-
are required in addition to this license. quired in addition to this license.
• Resident Junior Lifetime Hunting license is available to • Please visit www.virginiawildlife.gov for applications, prices,
Virginia residents under the age of 12. This license will ex- and further instructions when applying for a lifetime license.
pire on their 12th birthday, and is transferable when they
8 2020-2021 VIRGINIA MIGRATORY GAME BIRD HUNTING WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOVGet Ready, Gear Up, Go Hunt
When you gear up your purchase
supports the Virginia Wildlife Grant
Program, which connects youth to the
outdoors through hunting, fishing,
and other outdoor activities. Over the
last six years, the Grant Program has
engaged 55,000 youth through 187
projects across Virginia!
Together, we work better and do better!
To order go to GoOutdoorsVirginia.com.
THE VIRGINIA CONSERVATION POLICE OFFICER
Protectors of Virginia’s Wildlife and Natural Resources
The badge of the Conservation Police Officer (CPO) represents those who
have dedicated their lives to the protection of wildlife and natural resources,
as well as promoting a safe environment for anglers, hunters, boaters, and
other outdoor enthusiasts. To earn it requires comprehensive training and
highly specialized skills, along with a passion for the outdoors and its wildlife.
Conservation Police Officers are fully certified sworn officers through the
Department of Criminal Justice Services, with the authority to enforce all of
the laws of Virginia. However, due to the unique nature of this profession,
those who wear the badge of the CPO are unlike any other police officer. CITIZEN
Each CPO must be able to take on many different roles — from educator and FEEDBACK:
ambassador to outdoor enthusiast; from evidence technician to boat collision reconstructionist; Your feedback, whether positive
and from crime analyst to wildlife crime detective responsible for managing informants. or negative, is important.
CPOs also provide public safety and emergency response, sometimes during severe weather
Visit dwr.virginia.gov/ops to
conditions, requiring that they put their lives on the line to rescue others.
see how you can file an Officer
CPOs frequently conduct patrols in remote areas on foot, ATV, and boat — usually without Commendation or Complaint, or
back-up and often under the cover of darkness. In these types of stressful situations, CPOs must express a Law Enforcement
“…maintain calm in the face of danger, scorn or ridicule; demonstrate self-restraint; and be constantly Division Praise or Dissatisfaction.
mindful of the welfare of others.” (CONSERVATION POLICE OFFICER’S CODE OF ETHICS)
9REGULATIONS
BY SPECIES
Statewide Dove Hunting Seasons
Dove First Segment Second Segment
September 5-October 28 November 21-29
Hours: Third Segment
September 5 December 24-January 19
• 12:00 noon until sunset.
Hours for Second and Third Segments:
September 6-October 28 One-half hour before sunrise until sunset.
• One-half hour before sunrise until sunset.
Bag Limit
No Sunday hunting of dove on public waters 15 per day, 45 in possession. Composed of
or on public lands. mourning doves and white-winged doves, singly
or in combination.
Dove Hunting On Wildlife Management Areas
Dove hunting is permitted within the boundaries of the following wildlife management areas:
Amelia, Big Survey, Briery Creek, Cavalier, Chickahominy, Clinch Mountain, Crooked Creek,
Dick Cross, Fairystone, Featherfin, Gathright, Goshen, Hardware River, Hidden Valley, Highland,
Horsepen, James River, Little North Mountain, Mattaponi, Mattaponi Bluffs, Oakley Forest,
Pettigrew, C.F. Phelps, Powhatan, Rapidan, Robert W. Duncan, Stewarts Creek, Thompson, Ware
Creek, and White Oak Mountain. Additional information on specific Wildlife Management
Areas (WMAs) can be found here, and the Managed Dove Fields section of our website provides
a summary of WMAs that have actively managed dove fields for this year.
First Segment Second Segment
September 5-October 28 November 21-28
Hours: Third Segment
September 5 December 24-January 19
• 12:00 noon until sunset.
Hours for Second and Third Segments:
September 6-October 28 One-half hour before sunrise until sunset.
• One-half hour before sunrise until sunset. Hunting permitted daily except Sundays.
• Hunting permitted only on Wednesdays,
Saturdays, and Labor Day. Bag Limit
15 per day, 45 in possession. Composed of
mourning doves and white-winged doves, singly
or in combination.
Rails Season Attention Rail and Snipe Hunters
September 9-November 17 In Virginia, non-toxic shot is required for hunt-
ing rails, gallinules, and snipe, in addition to all
Hours waterfowl, mergansers, and coots.
One-half hour before sunrise until sunset.
Sunday hunting for rails and gallinules is
Bag Limit allowed on private lands and public lands
Clapper/King 15 — counted together daily, as permitted by the landowner.
45 in possession.
Sora/Virginia 25 — counted together daily,
75 in possession.
Gallinules Gallinules — 15 per day, 45 in possession. (singly
or in combination)
10 2020-2021 VIRGINIA MIGRATORY GAME BIRD HUNTING WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOVWoodcock
Season Bag Limit
November 7-30 3 per day, 9 in possession.
December 24-January 13
No Sunday hunting of woodcock on public
Hours waters or on public lands.
One-half hour before sunrise until sunset.
Snipe Season Attention Rail and Snipe Hunters
October 9-12 In Virginia, non-toxic shot is required for hunt-
October 21-January 31 ing rails, gallinules, and snipe, in addition to all
waterfowl, mergansers, and coots.
Hours
One-half hour before sunrise until sunset. No Sunday hunting of snipe on public waters
or on public lands.
Bag Limit
8 per day, 24 in possession.
The most up-to-date
regulations online.
11REGULATIONS
BY SPECIES
*Note: Hunters are reminded to positively
September Teal Season: East of I-95
September 17-September 30 identify their ducks before shooting, since other
species, such as wood ducks, may be in the area.
Season: West of I-95
September 21-September 30 Special Requirements
In addition to a HIP registration, a federal
Hours migratory duck stamp and a Virginia Migra-
One-half hour before sunrise until sunset. tory Waterfowl Conservation Stamp (unless
license exempt) are also required to hunt teal
Bag Limit during this season.
6 per day, 18 in possession.*
(any combination of blue-winged and green-
winged teal only)
Ducks Seasons
October 9-12 (Black duck closed)
Hours
One-half hour before sunrise until sunset.
November 18-29
December 19-January 31 Closed season on harlequin ducks.
Bag Limit The possession limit is three times the daily
Daily Bag Limit: 6 ducks of any species except bag limit. No person may take more than one
for the following restrictions: can include no daily bag limit in any one day.
more than 2 mallards (only 1 hen mallards), 4
scoters, 4 long-tailed ducks, 4 eiders, 3 wood
ducks, 2 redheads, scaup: 1 per day except 2 per
day from January 12-31, 1 pintail, 2 black ducks
(except closed during Oct. 9-12), 2 canvasbacks,
1 mottled duck, and 1 fulvous whistling duck.
Waterfowl Hunting On Wildlife Management Areas
For information about quota or managed hunts for Hunters may not occupy their hunting location and on Thursdays and Sundays of the duck and
waterfowl and dove on Department WMAs, see until 5 a.m. and hunting must end by 1 p.m. goose seasons.
page 19 or go online at www.virginiawildlife.gov. Waterfowl hunting at Doe Creek WMA is Waterfowl hunting on Mattaponi Bluffs
Waterfowl hunting on the James River WMA is open to walk-in hunting on Saturdays only for WMA is permitted only on October 9-12, and
permitted only on the opening day, Wednesdays, half days during the last two segments of the at any time during the multi-species quota hunt
and Saturdays of the duck and goose seasons. general waterfowl season. Hunters may hunt period by the selected individuals and guests, and
Waterfowl hunting on the Mattaponi Wildlife until 1:00 p.m. and must have all decoys up and on Wednesdays and Saturdays after the quota
Management Area is permitted only on October be away from the impoundments by 2:00 p.m. hunt period (Jan 5 - end of waterfowl season).
9-12, and on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Satur- The area is open on Sundays for scouting and For information about waterfowl hunting on
days of the duck and goose seasons. wildlife viewing. other WMAs see our website at https://www.
Game Farm Marsh WMA is open for hunting Waterfowl hunting on the Robert W. Dun- virginiawildlife.gov/wma.
on Friday, Saturday, and Monday of the October can WMA is permitted only on October 9-12
segment of the duck season (Oct. 9, 10, and
12), and on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sat-
urdays during the November (Nov. 18-29), and
December–January (Dec. 19-Jan. 31) segments
of the duck season. Hunters may not occupy the
area before 5:00 a.m. and must vacate the area
by 1:00 p.m. Hunting on Friday and Saturday
of the October segment (Oct. 9 and 10) and
on the opening day of the November segment
(Nov. 18) and the December–January segment
(Dec. 19) will be by Quota hunt only—see page
20. Outside of the duck season segments listed
above, waterfowl hunting on Game Farm Marsh
is open with no restrictions on hunt days, times,
or hunter numbers.
Waterfowl hunting on and within 500 yards of
the Ware Creek WMA is permitted (except por-
tions of Philbates Creek) on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Steve Oehlenschlager / Shutterstock
and Saturdays of the duck and goose seasons.
12 2020-2021 VIRGINIA MIGRATORY GAME BIRD HUNTING WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOVOutside the Special
Special Season
November 11-January 9 Sea Duck Zone
Sea Duck Season Sea ducks cannot be taken in the Sea Duck Zone
Bag Limit after January 9. Sea ducks can, however, be taken
in the *Special 5 per day (15 in possession), but may include no during the regular duck season (Oct. 9-12, Nov.
more than 4 scoters, 4 eiders or 4 long-tailed ducks. 18-29 and Dec. 19-Jan. 31) in all other areas out-
Sea Duck Zone side of the sea duck zone (i.e.: within 800 yards
*Special Sea Duck Zone Boundary of any shore, island or emergent vegetation…),
Those waters at a distance greater than 800 since they are included in the regular season
Sea duck species are scoter, long-tailed duck yards from any shore, island, or emergent vege- duck bag. No more than 4 scoters, 4 eiders or 4
(formerly oldsquaw), and eider. tation in the following areas: the ocean waters of long-tails can be included in the regular season
Virginia, the tidal waters of Northampton and daily limit of 6 ducks.
Accomack counties, and the Chesapeake Bay
and each of its tributaries up to the first high-
way bridge. Back Bay and its tributaries are not
included in the special sea duck hunting area.
Mergansers Seasons Bag Limit
October 9-12 5 birds daily, of which only 2 birds may be a
November 18-29 hooded merganser (15 in possession, only 6 of
December 19-January 31 which may be hooded mergansers).
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13REGULATIONS
BY SPECIES
Coots Seasons Bag Limit
October 9-12 15 per day, 45 in possession.
November 18-29
December 19-January 31
Canada Goose
Atlantic Population Zone (AP) Seasons Southern James Bay Population
December 19-January 1 Zone (SJBP) Seasons
January 16-31 November 18-29
(Includes White-fronted Geese) December 19-January 14
Bag Limit January 15-February 15
1 goose per day (3 in possession).
Bag Limit
Resident Population Zone (RP) Seasons 3 geese per day: Nov. 18-29 and
November 18-29 Dec. 19-Jan. 14. (9 in possession)
December 19-February 24 5 geese per day: Jan. 15-Feb. 15. (15 in possession)
Bag Limit Shooting Hours - All Zones
5 geese per day (15 in possession). One-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
Note: All seasons also include White-fronted geese along with Canada geese.
Canada Goose Zones
The dividing lines between the hunting zones are as follows:
Atlantic Population (AP) Hunt Zone line) at the West Virginia-Virginia border, south
The area east of the Stafford/King George to Interstate 64 (the Blue Ridge line follows
County line from the Potomac River south to county borders along the western edge of
the Rappahannock River, then west along the Loudoun-Fauquier-Rappahannock-Madison-
Stafford County line to Interstate 95, then south Green-Albemarle and into Nelson counties),
along Interstate 95 to Route 460 in Petersburg, then east along Interstate 64 to Route 15, then
then southeast along Route 460 to Route 32 in south along Route 15 to the North Carolina line.
the city of Suffolk, then south along Route 32
to the North Carolina border. Resident Population (RP) Hunt Zone
The portion of the state west of the SJBP
Southern James Bay Population Hunt Zone.
(SJBP) Hunt Zone
The area to the west of the AP Hunt Zone
boundary and east of the following line: the FR
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Resident Population Zone Southern James Bay Population
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14 2020-2021 VIRGINIA MIGRATORY GAME BIRD HUNTING WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOVSeptember
Season Bag Limit
September 1-September 25 10 per day, 30 in possession.
Canada Goose Hunt Zone September Canada goose hunting is not per-
Statewide. mitted within the boundaries of the Amelia
and Dick Cross Wildlife Management Areas.
Hours: East of I-95
September 1-16 Special Requirements
• One-half hour before sunrise to one-half In addition to a HIP registration, a federal
hour after sunset. migratory duck stamp and a Virginia Migra-
tory Waterfowl Conservation Stamp (unless
September 17-25 license exempt) are also required to hunt geese
• One-half hour before sunrise to sunset. during this season.
Hours: West of I-95 Note: Electronic calls and unplugged shotguns
September 1-20 are not allowed for hunting Canada geese.
• One-half hour before sunrise to one-half
hour after sunset.
September 21-25
• One-half hour before sunrise to sunset.
Light Goose Regular Season by phone (866-721-6911), and obtain a Hunter
October 17-January 31: statewide Activity Report prior to hunting. The Hunter
(Greater and Lesser Snow Geese and Ross’s Geese) Activity Report must be submitted to the
Bag Limit Department within two weeks following the
25 per day, no possession limit. close of the season, either through the agency
website (above) or by mail (Light Goose Conser
Shooting Hours vation Order, 3801 John Tyler Memorial High-
One-half hour before sunrise to sunset. way, Charles City, VA 23030). Registration will
begin December 5, 2020.
Light Goose Conservation Order
(See hunt zone in blue below.) Conservation Order Zone
February 1-April 5, 2021 Same as the AP Canada Goose Zone — the
area east of the Stafford/King George County
Bag Limit line from the Potomac River south to the Rap-
No daily or possession limit. pahannock River, then west along the Stafford
County line to Interstate 95, then south along
Special Hunting Methods: Electronic calls, Interstate 95 to Route 460 in Petersburg, then
unplugged shotguns, and extended shooting southeast along Route 460 to Route 32 in the
hours are allowed. city of Suffolk, then south along Route 32 to the
North Carolina border.
Shooting Hours: One-half hour before sunrise
to one-half hour after sunset.
All hunters who plan to participate in the Light
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WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOV2020-2021 VIRGINIA MIGRATORY GAME BIRD HUNTING 15REGULATIONS
BY SPECIES
Atlantic
Seasons Bag limit
November 24-29 2 per day, 6 in possession.
Brant December 19-January 31
Tundra Swan Seasons The drawing is open only to holders of a valid
November 18-January 31 Virginia hunting license. A hunter may only
apply for a swan permit online through the
Bag limit Department’s website at www.gooutdoors-
1 per permit. virginia.com.
Swan hunting permits are non-transferable
Tundra Swan Hunt Area and are valid for use only by the person to whom
Hunting will be permitted in all counties and issued. Permits must be in the immediate pos-
portions of counties lying east of I-95 and south session of the permit holder while swan hunt-
of the Prince William/Stafford County line ing. Immediately at the time and place of kill
in Chopawamsic Creek at Quantico Marine successful permittees must cancel their swan
Corps Base. hunting permit by permanently recording the
month and day of kill and by attaching the
Tundra Swan Permit permit to the swan as instructed. The DWR
Before any person may hunt tundra swans in is required to obtain hunter participation and
Virginia, he or she must first apply for and harvest information to offer this tundra swan
receive a tundra swan hunt permit. Permits hunting season. Hunters are required to com-
are issued through a special drawing. The dead- plete the tundra swan hunt questionnaire (sur-
line to submit applications for this drawing vey) and submit their results to the Department
is September 25, 2020. The Department will by February 16, 2021. Those who fail to submit
issue no more than 638 swan hunting permits. their results are ineligible for future drawings.
SPORTSMEN: BOAT SMART, WATERFOWL
WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET INFORMATION
Wearing a life jacket may save your life. It is estimated that 80 percent of The web is a wonderful tool for
boating-related drownings could have been prevented had the victim been waterfowlers. Information on
wearing a life jacket. season dates and bag limits can
be found along with information
The newest type of life jacket, the manual or automatic inflatable, is lightweight
on waterfowl population status,
and comfortable. They are versatile enough to be worn at any time of the year,
habitat conditions, as well as
and fit easily over a hunting coat or sweater.
current waterfowl research being
conducted in Virginia. Sites we
Safety Tips recommend include:
• Check the weather before leaving. Virginia Department of
• Wear a life jacket or float coat. Wildlife Resources
Waterfowl Homepage
• Remain seated and keep weight evenly distributed.
www.virginiawildlife.gov/wildlife/
• Anchor from the bow, never from the stern. waterfowl
• Properly load your boat. USFWS and Flyway
Council website
• Stay with your boat if it should capsize.
www.flyways.us
• Dress for the water temperature—guard against
Federal Register Documents
hypothermia.
www.fws.gov/policy/
• Leave the alcohol at home.
For more information, contact Boating Education at: BoatSafety@dwr.virginia.gov.
16 2020-2021 VIRGINIA MIGRATORY GAME BIRD HUNTING WWW.VIRGINIAWILDLIFE.GOVDEFINITIONS
& TERMS
What Terms not exceed, the largest daily bag limit prescribed Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
for any one species or for any one specified For official recommendations visit https://pubs.
Do I Need to geographic area in which taking occurs. ext.vt.edu/424/424-100/424-100_pdf.pdf.
• Official recommendations state the guide-
Possession limit means the maximum number
Understand? lines for planting wheat in Virginia are one
of migratory game birds of a single species or week before to one week after the first killing
a combination of species permitted to be pos- frost, October 15-November 15 in eastern
Migratory birds are birds protected by federal sessed by any one person when lawfully taken in Virginia; October 1-November 1 in the Pied-
law as a result of treaties signed with other the United States in any one specified geographic mont; October 1-October 25 west of the Blue
countries. Protected migratory birds are listed area for which a possession limit is prescribed. Ridge. Plant 120-150 lbs. per acre (36 seeds
in Title 50 Code of Federal Regulations, Sec- per sq. ft. or 20 seeds per drill ft. in 7" rows).
tion. 10.13. This list includes almost all birds Aggregate possession limit means the maxi- Plant in 6-8" rows or solid seeded.
found in the United States with the exception mum number of migratory game birds of a single • Wheat planted or scattered outside of these
of the house sparrow, feral pigeon (commonly species or combination of species taken in the guidelines does not satisfy the definition of
called rock dove), European starling, Eurasian United States permitted to be possessed by any normal agricultural planting. Therefore,
collared-dove, mute swan, and upland game one person when taking and possession occurs it is unlawful to hunt migratory game birds
birds (which are protected by state laws). in more than one specified geographic area for over such areas.
All migratory birds are protected. However, which a possession limit is prescribed. The aggre-
a subset of migratory birds classified as migra- gate possession limit is equal to, but shall not Normal agricultural operation means a nor-
tory game birds may be hunted in accordance exceed, the largest possession limit prescribed mal agricultural planting, harvesting, post-
with state and federal regulations. The list of for any one of the species or specified geographic harvest manipulation, or agricultural practice
migratory game birds includes species of ducks, areas in which taking and possession occurs. that is conducted in accordance with official
geese (including brant), swans, mergansers, recommendations of state Extension Specialists
doves, rails, coots, gallinules and moorhens, Personal abode means one’s principal or ordi- of the Cooperative Extension Service of the U.S.
woodcock, and snipe. nary home or dwelling place, as distinguished Department of Agriculture.
from one’s temporary or transient place of abode
Daily bag limit means the maximum number or dwelling such as a hunting club, or any club Normal soil stabilization practice means a
of migratory game birds of a single species or house, cabin, tent or trailer house used as a hunt- planting for agricultural soil erosion control
combination (aggregate) of species permitted ing club, or any hotel, motel, or rooming house or post-mining land reclamation conducted in
to be taken by one person in any one day during used during a hunting, pleasure, or business trip. accordance with official recommendations of
the open season in any one specified geographic state Extension Specialists of the Cooperative
area for which a daily bag limit is prescribed. Migratory bird preservation facility means: Extension Service of the U.S. Department of
1. Any person who, at their residence or place Agriculture for agricultural soil erosion control.
Aggregate daily bag limit means the maxi- of business and for hire or other consid-
mum number of migratory game birds per- eration; or Baited area means any area on which salt, grain,
mitted to be taken by one person in any one 2. Any taxidermist, cold-storage facility or or other feed has been placed, exposed, depos-
day during the open season when such person locker plant which, for hire or other con- ited, distributed, or scattered, if that salt, grain,
hunts in more than one specified geographic sideration; or or other feed could serve as a lure or attraction
area and/or for more than one species for which 3. Any hunting club which, in the normal for migratory game birds to, on, or over areas
a combined daily bag limit is prescribed. The course of operations, receives, possesses, where hunters are attempting to take them. Any
aggregate daily bag limit is equal to, but shall or has in custody any migratory game birds such area will remain a baited area for ten days
belonging to another person for purposes following the complete removal of all such salt,
of picking, cleaning, freezing, processing, grain, or other feed.
storage, or shipment.
Baiting means the direct or indirect placing,
Normal agricultural planting, harvesting, or exposing, depositing, distributing, or scattering
post-harvest manipulation means a planting or of salt, grain, or other feed that could serve as a
harvesting undertaken for the purpose of produc- lure or attraction for migratory game birds to,
ing and gathering a crop, or manipulation after on, or over any areas where hunters are attempt-
such harvest and removal of grain. In Virginia, ing to take them.
this also applies to food plots that are planted for
the purpose of hunting migratory game birds. Manipulation means the alteration of natural
Relevant factors include recommended planting vegetation or agricultural crops by activities that
dates, proper seed distribution, seed bed prepara- include but are not limited to mowing, shred-
tion, application rate, and seed viability. These ding, dicing, rolling, chopping, trampling, flatten-
practices are to be conducted in accordance ing, burning, or herbicide treatments. The term
with official recommendations of State Exten- manipulation does not include the distributing
sion Specialists of the Cooperative Extension or scattering of grain, seed, or other feed after
removal from or storage on the field where grown.
Natural vegetation means any non-agricul-
tural, native, or naturalized plant species that
grows at a site in response to planting or from
existing seeds or other propagules. The term
natural vegetation does not include planted
millet. However, planted millet that grows on
its own in subsequent years after the year of
©Spike Knuth planting is considered natural vegetation.
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