The Parks and Wildlife Commission NT (PWCNT) would like to remind permit holders that Lambells Lagoon Conservation Reserve and Howard Springs Hunting Reserve will close for waterfowl hunting at 7:30pm on Wednesday, 23rd of December.
For Territorians who are interested in hunting during the Christmas-New Year period, all other locations will close to waterfowl hunting on Sunday, 3rd January 2016. This includes Shoal Bay Conservation Reserve, Harrison Dam Conservation Reserve, Crown land and private property.
Chief Wildlife Ranger, Sally Heaton, said a record 2370 hunting permits were issued, a 9 per cent increase from last season, with only four infringement notices handed out since the 15 week season began on 23 September 2015.
The Northern Territory Government has been working closely with stakeholders this year to improve the management of the waterfowl hunting season. The most welcome change being the introduction of the five year permit option. From the record 2370 permits issued the vast majority of hunters opted for the five year option.
“Once the commencement dates are announced for the 2016-2017 waterfowl hunting season, any five year permit holders won’t need to apply for a hunting permit and will be able to head out to the declared hunting reserves once the season officially begins.” Ms Heaton said.
“PWCNT encourage all hunters to submit waterfowl hunting permit returns for the season to assist the Northern Territory Government to ensure the long term sustainability of the magpie geese population and to ensure that hunting remains viable well into the future.
“Permit returns are a critical, efficient and effective part of monitoring the hunting effort.
“They ensure the best available data is available to help determine the timing and duration of the next hunting season, along with what the bag limits should be.
“We congratulate the majority of hunters on their good behaviour this season and thank organisations such as NT Field and Game and their members for educating the public about safe and ethical hunting practices.
“All hunters are encouraged to stay safe, Be Crocwise and enjoy the rest of the hunting season.”
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Media Note – for more information contact Sally Heaton 8995 5053