Game, Fish, and Parks Committee Meeting
Game, Fish, and Parks Committee
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Jan 28, 2026
Meeting Information
This meeting of the Game, Fish, and Parks Committee includes discussions on legislative proposals, an overview of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and its divisions, and updates on various initiatives and challenges facing the state's natural resources, including chronic wasting disease, hunting regulations, and public access to natural areas.
Meeting Summary
Feral Hog Management Legislation
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House Bill 946 was presented and passed, authorizing the use of drones to locate feral hogs on private property as a measure to control the growing population. [Video 00:03:04]
Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Updates
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Commissioner Raven provided a high-level overview of the DNR's operations, including its FY26 budget of $355 million (with $181 million from state funds) and the functions of its Coastal Resources, Law Enforcement, State Parks and Historic Sites, and Wildlife Resources divisions. [Video 00:10:22]
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The DNR's coordinated response to Winter Storm Fern involved over 200 personnel, leading to the closure of four state parks and an estimated $250,000 loss in revenue from cancellations. [Video 00:20:16]
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The "Outdoors Beyond Barriers" (OBB) initiative successfully conducted 20 adaptive hunting events, 14 adaptive fishing events, and mobility-impaired hiking events, utilizing specialized equipment like action track chairs to make outdoor activities accessible for disabled individuals. [Video 00:23:01]
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The state park pass fee increased from $5 to $10 on January 1, with all generated revenue directly funding park maintenance and receiving generally positive public feedback. [Video 00:25:03]
Wildlife and Fisheries Management Initiatives
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The oyster mariculture industry is expanding, with three designated zones and nine contracted harvesters, supported by new summer harvest regulations allowing morning harvesting. [Video 00:26:30]
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Efforts are ongoing to secure state management authority for red snapper, with a proposed 62-day season (July-August), a one-fish limit, and mandatory harvest reporting via a mobile app, with a decision anticipated by May. [Video 00:28:36]
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The "Hunters for the Hungry" program has expanded to 52 counties with 56 participating processors, collecting 120,000 pounds of venison for food banks, nearing its annual goal of 140,000 pounds. [Video 00:31:01]
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Ten confirmed cases of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) have been identified across Lowndes, Berrien, Lanier, and Atkinson counties, with over 3,000 deer samples tested as part of ongoing monitoring and management efforts. [Video 00:32:25]
Committee Discussion and Q&A
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Committee members inquired about the state's flexibility in setting duck season dates, with the Commissioner confirming efforts to maximize the season length within federal guidelines, potentially shifting dates later in the season. [Video 00:36:20]
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Concerns were raised regarding deer overpopulation in Cherokee County, to which the DNR responded by encouraging hunter harvest through extended bow season and urban wildlife programs to manage populations. [Video 00:44:50]
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The recruitment and retention of game wardens remain a challenge, though the department is currently meeting staffing demands with 23 cadets in the academy. [Video 00:46:56]
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on Jan 29, 2026
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