Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge White-tailed Deer, Exotic Ungulate, and Alligator

Draft Hunt Plan

January 2020

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

22817 Ocelot Road Los Fresnos, Texas 78566

Submitted By:

Refuge Manager, Laguna Atascosa NWR

_____________________________________________________________ ______________ Signature Date

Concurrence:

Refuge Manager, Lower Rio Grande Valley NWR

_____________________________________________________________ ______________ Signature Date

Refuge Supervisor, South Texas Refuge Complex

_____________________________________________________________ ______________ Signature Date

Approved:

Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System

_____________________________________________________________ ______________ Signature Date

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Table of Contents I. Introduction 4 II. Statement of Objectives 6 III. Description of Hunting Program 6

A. Areas to be Opened to Hunting 6 B. Species to be Taken, Hunting Periods, Hunting Access, and Fees 8 C. Hunter Permit Requirements 13 D. Consultation and Coordination with the State/Tribes 13 E. Law Enforcement 14 F. Funding and Staffing Requirements 14

IV. Conduct of the Hunt 15 A. Hunter Application and Registration Procedures 15 B. Refuge-specific Hunting Regulations 15 C. Relevant State Regulations 17 D. Other Refuge Rules and Regulations for Hunting 17

V. Public Engagement 18 A. Outreach for Announcing and Publicizing the Hunting Program 18 B. Anticipated Public Reaction to the Hunting Program 18 C. How Hunters Will Be Informed of Relevant Rules and Regulations 19

VI. Compatibility Determination 19 References 20

VII. Maps 21

List of Tables

Table 1. Hunt type, species, and maximum number of refuge hunt permits (tearsheets) issued per annual hunt on Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge broken down by unit. ....... 8

List of Figures

Figure 1. Hunt units on Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge. ......................................... 21 Figure 2. Laguna Atascosa Unit................................................................................................... 22 Figure 3. Bahia Grande Unit. ....................................................................................................... 23 Figure 4. La Selva Verde Unit. .................................................................................................... 24

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I. Introduction

National wildlife refuges are guided by the mission and goals of the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS), the purposes of an individual refuge, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) policy, and laws and international treaties. Relevant guidance includes the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, Refuge Recreation Act of 1962, and selected portions of the Code of Federal Regulations and Fish and Wildlife Service Manual.

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge (Laguna Atascosa NWR, LANWR, or refuge) was established by the Migratory Bird Commission on October 31, 1945, and the first tract forming the refuge was acquired on March 29, 1946, pursuant to the Migratory Bird Conservation Act of 1929.

The primary purpose of the refuge is “...for use as an inviolate sanctuary, or for any other management purpose, for migratory birds…” (Migratory Bird Conservation Act of 1929 (16 U.S.C. 715d), as amended); and for conservation and enhancement of other wildlife species, as well as providing opportunities for wildlife-dependent recreation to the public.

Refuge staff completed a refuge hunt plan in 1986 to provide the public with hunting opportunities for white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and feral hogs (Sus scrofa) (USFWS 1986). A revised hunt plan was drafted, but potentially never signed, in 1994, which added nilgai antelope (Boselaphus tragocamelus) to the species hunted (USFWS 1994). In 2015, a hunt plan was drafted that went out for informal public scoping and received primarily favorable comments. This 2019 hunt plan supersedes previous hunt plans, and is updated to include the continued hunting of white-tailed deer, feral hogs and nilgai antelope, and the addition of American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), and other exotic ungulates as defined by the State of Texas including fallow deer (Dama dama), axis deer (Axis axis), sika deer (Cervus nippon), Barbary sheep (Ammotragus lervia), and black buck (Antilope cervicapra) as hunted species. This plan also expands areas where hunting is allowed in the Laguna Atascosa Unit, and opens two additional refuge units to hunting for the first time: Bahia Grande and La Selva Verde.

The refuge is not open to waterfowl hunting; however, we will continue to allow access for retrieval of harvested waterfowl hunted from Navigable Waters of the United States. Hunting is not allowed from boats or floating devices, and access is allowed on the refuge only up to the mean high water mark for retrieval purposes only.

The refuge is located in Cameron County, Texas, approximately 25 miles northeast of Los Fresnos, Texas (Figure 1, page 20). Partly bordering the lower reaches of the Laguna Madre, and one of only five hypersaline lagoons in the world, the refuge supports a wide range of habitats including thornscrub forests, coastal and saline prairies, tidal flats, and sand and clay dunes. The location of the refuge at the southern extent of Texas exposes it to ecological influences from the Great Planes, tropics, Gulf Coast, and desert, creating one of the most biologically diverse regions in North America. Hosting over 400 bird species, the refuge is situated at the confluence of the Mississippi and Central Flyways and is a crucial stopover point for millions of migrating birds, with numbers peaking during fall migration (USFWS 2019b). The refuge’s native thornscrub habitat is home to one of two remaining breeding populations of ocelot in the United States, and the freshwater Laguna Atascosa and adjacent wetlands of the

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Laguna Madre host approximately 80% of the nation’s overwintering redhead ducks. Other refuge focal species include the aplomado falcon (Falco femoralis) and Kemp’s ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys kempii). Supporting an extensive array of plant, amphibian, reptile, and mammal species, the refuge is also an important observation area for uncommon and rare butterflies (USFWS 2019c).

The refuge is part of the South Texas Refuge Complex (STRC), which also includes the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge and Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge (LRGVNWR). Located in a region that was historically characterized by thornscrub and prairie habitat, then largely converted over time to agriculture, the refuge is gradually becoming surrounded by areas increasingly influenced by energy and urban development. The STRC headquarters is located in Alamo, Texas, approximately 60 miles west of Laguna Atascosa NWR. Due to geographical logistics, and through an internal agreement, LANWR manages several areas under the jurisdiction of LRGVNWR.

The mission of the NWRS, as outlined by the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act (NWRSAA), 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 NWRSAA, in 16 U.S.C. 668dd (a)(4), mandates the Secretary of the Interior, in administering the NWRS, to:

• Provide for the conservation of fish, wildlife, and plants, and their habitats within the NWRS;

• Ensure that the biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health of the NWRS are maintained for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans;

• Ensure that the mission of the NWRS 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 NWRS are located;

• Assist in the maintenance of adequate water quantity and water quality to fulfill the mission of the NWRS and the purposes of each refuge;

• Recognize compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses as the priority general public uses of the NWRS through which the American public can develop an appreciation for fish and wildlife;

• Ensure that opportunities are provided within the NWRS 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 recreational opportunities, including hunting and fishing, when those opportunities are compatible with the purposes for which the refuge was established and the mission of the NWRS.

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The Laguna Atascosa NWR hunting program provides affordable and accessible public hunting opportunities that are very limited in South Texas. White-tailed deer hunting on the refuge is one of the most popular public deer hunts in the Rio Grande Valley, especially for local hunters. Archery hunts have been held annually since 1970, and firearm hunts have been held annually since 1979. Special youth hunts and exotic-only (feral hog and nilgai antelope) hunts have been held most years since their inception around the year 2010 (USFWS 2010). All hunts are conducted during seasons set by the State of Texas (State).

II. Statement of Objectives

The objectives of implementing a white-tailed deer, exotic ungulate, and alligator hunting program on Laguna Atascosa NWR are to:

• Provide expanded recreational opportunities on refuge lands for hunters, including youth; • Preserve the biodiversity and natural balance of biological communities on the refuge by

reducing impacts associated with exotic species; • Improve the overall health of white-tailed deer on the refuge by preventing

overpopulation; and • Expand hunting opportunities on public lands to align with Secretarial Order 3356

(Hunting, Fishing, Recreational Shooting, and Wildlife Conservation Opportunities and Coordination with States, Tribes, and Territories).

Hunting is consistent with the larger goal of the refuge’s Comprehensive Conservation Plan to “provide and enhance opportunities to participate in compatible wildlife-dependent recreation.”

III. Description of Hunting Program

The refuge hunting program is designed to provide quality hunting opportunities, while minimizing conflicts with non-hunting user groups. During hunt periods, all other recreational activities in associated hunt units will be prohibited. Due to the increase in workload that is expected from implementing 51 additional days of hunts, the refuge will only initiate the proposed hunts through a phased approach. The various hunts will be planned in priority order. Currently, the highest priority hunts are those proposed for Bahia Grande. The lowest priority hunts are the Subunit 4 hunts and the American alligator hunt.

A. Areas to be Opened to Hunting.

A total of 45,086 acres will be open to hunting in three main refuge units: Laguna Atascosa, Bahia Grande, and La Selva Verde (Figure 1, page 20). The refuge periodically acquires additional land in accordance with the approved refuge expansion boundary; therefore, these unit boundaries may expand over time.

Areas within the Laguna Atascosa Unit will be opened to hook/line/firearm hunting of alligator, and archery and firearm hunting of white-tailed deer, nilgai, and feral hogs (Figure 2, page 21).

Areas within the Bahia Grande Unit will be opened to archery and muzzleloader hunting of nilgai and feral hogs (Figure 3, page 22).

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The La Selva Verde Unit will be opened to youth firearm hunting for nilgai and feral hogs (Figure 4, page 23).

Table 1 (page 8), shows acreages open to hunting in each unit, as well as species, hunting method, and maximum number of permits sold per annual refuge hunt.

Hunt Units for the LANWR Hunt Program:

Laguna Atascosa Unit (33,766 huntable acres):

This unit is characterized by upland shrub, wetland shrub, grassland, saltmarsh, and brackish marsh habitat. The Laguna Atascosa Unit is bounded to the north and south by the northern and southern refuge boundaries, to the east by County Road and the Laguna Madre, and to the west by the western refuge boundary. This unit is further subdivided into Subunits 1 through 8, and includes the Laguna Atascosa, Cayo Atascosa, Pelican Lake, and the Moranco Blanco Wetland. This unit is accessed from within the refuge on Lakeside Drive and County Road, or from Farm to Market (FM) 106. There is no over-land access to Subunit 4 of the Laguna Atascosa Unit; therefore, hunters may enter only this Subunit via boat, with access allowed only from the Harlingen Ship Channel. Hunters may launch boats from the Adolph Thomae, Jr. County Park (county use fees apply). During hunts, a staffed hunt check station, including a skinning and weighing area, is located just north of the intersection of Island Fields Road and Ocelot Road. The refuge plans to phase out the manned hunt check station within the next five years and transition to a self-check system.

Bahia Grande Unit (9,293 huntable acres, which includes 3,865 huntable acres owned by LRGVNWR and managed by LANWR):

This unit is characterized by upland shrub, wetland shrub, grassland, and brackish marsh habitat and extends from the northern refuge boundary and State Highway 100 southward to State Highway 48. Bahia Grande is bounded to the east and west by the eastern and western refuge boundaries. This unit includes Bahia Grande, a brackish, tidally influenced lake, as well as several connected wetlands and smaller saltwater bays, including the Little Laguna Madre and Laguna Larga. The unit also includes part of San Martin Lake. All of these lakes are indirectly connected with the Lower Laguna Madre via the Brownsville Ship Channel. This unit is accessed via the Red Gate from State Highway 48. Hunters will have two additional access options: from the north via the Tower Gate off of State Highway 100, and from the south via the Yellow Gate off State Highway 48. During hunts, a self-service hunt check station will be located at the parking area inside the Red Gate.

La Selva Verde Unit (2,027 huntable acres, owned by LRGVNWR and managed by LANWR):

This unit is characterized by upland forest, upland shrub, wetland shrub, and grassland habitat and includes refuge lands from La Selva Verde Road southward to County Road (CR) 510. La Selva Verde is bordered to the east and west by the eastern and western refuge boundaries and is accessed from CR 510. This unit includes approximately 75 acres of the original Resaca de los Fresnos, which is mechanically flooded to provide habitat for migratory waterfowl and other wildlife. La Selva Verde is closed to public use except during hunts. This unit is accessed via FM 501.

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Table 1. Hunt type, species, and maximum number of refuge hunt permits (tearsheets) issued per annual hunt on Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge broken out by unit.

Hunt Unit (Huntable Acres) Hunt Type Species

Max No. of Refuge Permits

per Annual Hunt*

Laguna Atascosa Unit (33,766 ac) Archery (Subunits 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, & 8)

White-tailed deer** 800

Firearm (Subunits 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, & 8)

White-tailed deer** 200

Firearm (Subunit 4) Nilgai, feral hog 50

Youth Firearm (Subunit 7) Nilgai, feral hog 30

Hook/Line/Firearm*** (Subunits 1, 2, & 6)

Alligator 20

Bahia Grande Unit (9,293 ac) Archery Nilgai, feral hog 150

Muzzleloader Nilgai, feral hog 150

La Selva Verde Unit (2,027 ac) Youth Firearm Nilgai, feral hog 20 *Number of hunt periods per season is set annually by the refuge, and may vary from year to year. **Includes incidental take of nilgai, feral hogs, and other exotic ungulates. ***Alligators must be captured with a hook and line and dispatched with a firearm.

B. Species to be Taken, Hunting Periods, Hunting Access, Fees

Laguna Atascosa NWR provides the public with recreational hunting opportunities specifically for the following species: white-tailed deer, nilgai antelope, feral hog, and alligator.

Nilgai antelope and feral hogs are hunted annually during refuge exotic ungulate hunts. The take of these species as well as fallow deer, axis deer, sika deer, Barbary sheep, and black buck is incidental to all refuge hunts, with the exception of alligator hunts. In adherence with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) regulations, there is an unlimited bag limit on exotic ungulates.

For all hunted species on the Laguna Atascosa NWR, hunt periods are scheduled within species-specific hunting seasons established by TPWD, and are immediately preceded by one scouting day. The refuge will prioritize hunts scheduled October through February to avoid disturbing the nesting activity of shorebirds, such as red knots (Calidris canutus) and piping plovers (Charadrius melodus), and other focal species, such as the aplomado falcon (Falco femoralis). In Subunit 7 of the Laguna Atascosa Unit, the refuge will prioritize hunts in April and May due to the needs of the refuge ocelot monitoring program. The refuge adheres to State regulations on legal shooting hours.

State-wide bag limits for hunted species are set annually by TPWD; however, bag limits for refuge hunts can be more restrictive and are set annually by the refuge. Refuge bag limits, number of hunters per hunt period, and areas hunted can be restricted by the refuge and are based

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on factors including weather conditions, management needs, population trends, and refuge hunt results.

Vehicle parking is allowed only in parking areas and along roads designated on refuge hunt maps, which are updated annually and distributed to hunters at the pre-hunt, mandatory hunter orientation. Hunters may access all open roads in the hunt units by foot, bicycle, or electric bicycle. The only allowed means of off-road travel is on foot.

Hunters with a disability that prevents them from accessing remote hunt units must apply for a special use permit 30 days prior to their awarded hunt. Youth hunters with a disability, who are participating in a Texas Youth Hunt Program (TYHP) hunt, must apply for special accommodation through the TYHP (tyhp.org) (Texas Youth Hunt Program 2019).

Hunters are not allowed to enter the refuge or access hunting units from Adolph Thomae Jr. County Park or by boat, with the exception of Subunit 4, within the Laguna Atascosa Unit, which may be accessed via boat. The following areas are closed to hunting: any area posted as a no hunting zone, Adolph Thomae Jr. County Park, the Waller Tract, Tocayo Tract, Frieze Tract, Escondido Tract, Boswell Tract, Sendero del Gato, and Resaca de la Gringa.

Hunt applications, permits, and fee payments for non-youth hunts are processed by the TPWD Public Drawn Hunt System. All refuge hunters are selected by lottery. Up to four people can apply together on one application. Hunters must apply for hunt permits through the TPWD website, tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/hunt/public/public_hunt_drawing (TPWD n.d. a)

Special youth hunts may be organized directly though TPWD or via TYHP:

• TPWD youth hunts on the refuge are free, and youth are chosen via lottery. Each youth hunter, age 9 to 17, must be under the direct supervision of an adult age 18 or older. Youth hunters must be at least age 9 to participate in hunting on the refuge. Information about TPWD hunts, including any scheduled youth hunts on the refuge, is found at tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/hunt/public/public_hunt_drawing.

• TYHP is a separate program and may charge permit and application fees for youth hunts on the refuge. For this program, any fees, as well as hunt applications, permits, and selections, are processed by TYHP. Information about youth hunts through the TYHP is found at tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/hunt/youth_hunting/tx_youth_hunt_program/ (TPWD n.d. b) or tyhp.org.

Additional site- and species-specific details about hunt seasons, hunter access, and fees are as follows.

White-tailed Deer:

Firearm

Hunt Season: Annual refuge hunts are conducted on up to 15 days total per season, distributed in up to five three-day hunts, currently October through January.

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Access: Hunters are not allowed to enter the refuge or access hunting units by boat or via Adolph Thomae Jr. County Park. Hunters with disabilities requesting access to a hunt with an ATV or UTV may be granted access to West Lake Road up to Coyote Loop in Subunit 2. All ATVs/UTVs must remain on the roadway. Permitted hunters must park in the Prairie Trail parking lot located in Subunit 1 along FM 106.

Fees: Firearm permits are currently $80.00 per hunter for hunts up to three days, or $130.00 per hunter for hunts four days or more, plus a processing fee of $3.00 per application.

Archery

Hunt Season: Hunts are conducted up to 20 days total per season, distributed in up to four five-day hunts, currently October through November.

Access: Hunters are not allowed to enter the refuge or access hunting units by boat or via Adolph Thomae Jr. County Park. Hunters with disabilities requesting access to a hunt with an ATV or UTV may be granted access to West Lake Road up to Coyote Loop in Subunit 2. All ATVs/UTVs must remain on the roadway. Permitted hunters must park in the Prairie Trail parking lot located in Subunit 1 along FM 106.

Fees: Archery permits are currently $80.00 per hunter for hunts up to three days, or $130.00 per hunter for hunts four days or more, plus a processing fee of $3.00 per application.

Nilgai Antelope, Feral Hogs, and other Exotic Ungulates:

Firearm

Hunt Season: Annual refuge hunts are conducted on up to 15 days total, distributed in up to five three-day hunts, during any time of the year, excluding June, July, and August.

Access: Currently, exotic ungulate firearm hunts are only held on Subunit 4 within the main Laguna Atascosa hunt unit. There is no over-land access to this unit, therefore, hunters must enter this unit via boat. Hunters may launch boats from the Adolph Thomae, Jr. County Park (county use fees apply). Hunters are allowed to dock boats only along the Harlingen Ship Channel; access from the east via the Laguna Madre is not allowed. Hunters may travel in Subunit 4 only on foot. This unit is very remote and undeveloped to such an extent that it prevents safe accommodation of hunters with disabilities.

Fees: Firearm permits are currently $80.00 per hunter for hunts up to three days, or $130.00 per hunter for hunts four days or more, plus a processing fee of $3.00 per application.

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Muzzleloader

Hunt Season: Annual refuge hunts will be conducted on up to 15 days total, distributed in up to five three-day hunts, during any time of the year, excluding June, July, and August.

Access: In the Bahia Grande Unit, hunters with disabilities requesting access to a hunt with an ATV or UTV may be granted access on the main road from the Red Gate on State Highway 48 up to Tower Gate on State Highway 100. All ATVs/UTVs must remain on this main roadway. Permitted hunters must park in the main Bahia Grande parking lot located at the Red Gate.

Fees: Muzzleloader permits are currently $80.00 per hunter for hunts up to three days, or $130.00 per hunter for hunts four days or more, plus a processing fee of $3.00 per application.

Archery

Hunt Season: Annual refuge hunts are conducted on up to 15 days total, distributed in up to three five-day hunts, during any time of the year, excluding June, July, and August.

Access: Hunters are not allowed to enter the refuge or access hunting units by boat. Hunters with disabilities requesting access to a hunt with an ATV or UTV may be granted access as follows:

• In the Laguna Atascosa Unit, access may be granted to West Lake Road up to Coyote Loop. All ATVs/UTVs must remain on the roadway. Permitted hunters must park in the Prairie Trail parking lot located in Subunit 1 along FM 106.

• In the Bahia Grande Unit, access may be granted to the main road from the Red Gate on State Highway 48 up to Tower Gate on State Highway 100. All ATVs/UTVs must remain on this main roadway. Permitted hunters must park in the main Bahia Grande parking lot located at the Red Gate, at a parking area 1.5 miles north of Red Gate, or during wet conditions, along designated locations on the shoulder of Centerline Road.

Fees: Exotic archery permits are currently $80.00 per hunter for hunts up to three days, or $130.00 per hunter for hunts four days or more, plus a processing fee of $3.00 per application.

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Youth Firearm

Hunt Season: Annual refuge hunts are conducted on up to nine days per season, distributed in up to three three-day hunts; dates will be determined annually, and will fall within youth hunt seasons established by TPWD and/or exotic ungulate hunt seasons set by the refuge.

Access: Youth hunters may access all open roads in the hunt units, contingent upon the rules/guidelines of the refuge and/or the TYHP. The only allowed means of off-road travel is on foot. Youth hunters are not allowed to enter the refuge or access hunting units by boat. Hunters with a disability must apply for special accommodation, as appropriate, through either the refuge or TYHP. Guides and transportation to hunt sties will be provided for hunts on Subunit 7, and additional special regulations may apply to reduce disturbance to refuge wildlife. Access to La Selva Verde Unit is through an entrance road that is accessible from FM 510 on the south side of the property. Hunters would be allowed to enter and park along this road.

Fees: Youth hunts through TPWD are free. Youth hunts through TYHP may involve various fees, which are set by TYHP.

Alligator

Hook/line/firearm

Hunt Season: Annual hunts are conducted on up to six days per hunting season, distributed in up to two three-day hunts. The current State hunting season for Cameron County is April through June; however, this timing is under review and may change in the near future. The refuge will coordinate with TPWD to conduct alligator hunts within the State hunting season in either the spring or the fall.

Access: Hunters must access the alligator hunting area via FM 106, and are allowed to drive on West Lake Trail, Gator Pond Road, and South Boundary Road. Parking is allowed beside these three trails; vehicles must not block through traffic. The only allowed means of off-road travel is on foot. Hunters with disabilities requesting access to a hunt with an ATV or UTV may be granted access to West Lake Road up to the south end of the Laguna Atascosa. All ATVs/UTVs must remain on the roadway. Permitted hunters must park in the Prairie Trail parking lot located in Subunit 1 along FM 106.

Fees: Alligator permits are currently $80.00 per hunter for hunts up to three days, or $130.00 per hunter for hunts four days or more, plus a processing fee of $3.00 per application.

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C. Hunter Permit Requirements

All hunters must possess a valid State of Texas hunting license and any State-required stamps or tags. Hunters must obtain and carry with them a signed refuge hunt permit (tearsheet). Refuge hunt permits (tearsheets) will be distributed to drawn hunters by TPWD, and will be signed at mandatory hunter orientation, which is held by the refuge prior to each hunt. The refuge does not require hunters to have a special use permit for the refuge, except for hunters requesting special accommodations due to a disability. Hunters will be required to check in harvested game at the hunt check station and/or submit a harvest report. Every hunter (including out-of-state hunters) born on or after September 2, 1971, must successfully complete a Hunter Education training course. While hunting, hunters must carry with them proof of certification or deferral for this course.

White-tailed Deer, Exotic Ungulate, and Alligator Hunts:

Hunt applications, permits, and fee payments are processed by the TPWD Public Drawn Hunt System. Hunters are selected by TPWD through a lottery process. TPWD will notify selected hunters and send them a packet, which includes permits and instructions. Hunters must apply for hunt permits through the TPWD drawn hunts website, tpwd.texas.gov/drawnhunts.

Youth Hunts:

Hunters participating in youth hunts through TYHP are responsible for understanding and complying with all regulations set by TYHP. All youth hunters are responsible for understanding and complying with TPWD regulations regarding the hunt, including permitting, licenses, and weapons allowed. This information is found at tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/hunt/youth_hunting/tx_youth_hunt_program/ and tpwd.texas.gov.

D. Consultation and Coordination with the State/Tribes

Prior to 2016, Laguna Atascosa NWR and TPWD hunt activities were conducted independently. However, starting with the 2016-2017 hunt season, refuge hunts have been planned and conducted in consultation with TPWD. Prior to the start of each hunt season, refuge hunt permits (tearsheets) and a general hunt brochure are reviewed by refuge staff, and any necessary modifications are made based on population trends of hunted species on the refuge, hunter success rates, and/or other factors associated with the hunt. These documents identify information for the upcoming hunt season, including areas to be hunted, number of permits sold, and refuge rules and requirements. The hunt permits and general hunt brochure are shared with TPWD, and any identified issues are resolved in coordination with TPWD hunt program staff. Dates for refuge hunt periods are published on TPWD’s website, tpwd.texas.gov, and the hunt lottery and permitting processes are administered through the TPWD online hunt permit system.

There are no recognized tribes currently living in the Rio Grande Valley (Texas State Library and Archives Commission 2017).

The USFWS Director, Interior Region 6 and 8, met with TPWD representatives early in 2019 to discuss and coordinate for meeting the directives in Secretarial Order 3356 (Hunting, Fishing, Recreational Shooting, and Wildlife Conservation Opportunities and Coordination with States, Tribes, and Territories) (Boyd Blihovde, pers. comm. 2019). Expansion of the refuge’s

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recreational hunting opportunities to include new units and new species is in compliance with this secretarial order.

E. Law Enforcement

Enforcement of refuge regulations and state laws associated with management of hunts on the Laguna Atascosa NWR is the responsibility of authorized officers and commissioned federal wildlife officers. State game wardens often assist federal wildlife officers with staffing established refuge hunts.

Law enforcement staff will enforce all applicable state and federal regulations, as well as refuge-specific regulations. Enforcement efforts include spot checks for permits, licenses, legal equipment, and legal means and methods. Officers may also help staff the hunt check station.

The following methods will be used to control and enforce hunting regulations:

• Hunt information will be available online at the refuge website and in person at the visitor center;

• Refuge boundaries and areas closed to hunting will be clearly posted; • The refuge will provide hunters with a map that shows hunt areas; • Law enforcement officers will coordinate with TPWD and other law enforcement

agencies for the staffing of all refuge hunts; • Law enforcement staff will conduct random inspections for compliance with federal and

state laws as well as refuge-specific regulations pertinent to the hunt; and • A mandatory orientation will be conducted for hunters prior to each hunt. During these

briefings, refuge staff will review hunting rules and regulations and answer any questions.

F. Funding and Staffing Requirements

Funding for the hunt program is supported by annual operating and Recreational Fee Program funds, and is roughly split into administrative and operational costs. Administrative costs include staff salaries, law enforcement coverage, and maintenance of access roads, hunt facilities, and signs. The expansion of the refuge hunting program to include additional units and species will increase administrative costs. It is estimated that annual administrative costs of the refuge hunt program will be approximately $85,100. Material costs include permit printing, portable restroom rental, and hunt check station operational costs. It is estimated that the annual material costs of the refuge hunt plan will be approximately $16,700.

Two law enforcement officers are normally tasked with meeting the law enforcement needs for the roughly 120,000-acre refuge. Volunteers typically staff the hunt check station. Refuge biologists and managers administer hunter orientations, and all other refuge staff provide some measure of support for the hunt program, as well as other public use programs.

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IV. Conduct of the Hunt

A. Hunter Application and Registration Procedures

Non-youth hunt applications and permits are processed by the TPWD Public Drawn Hunt System. Hunter application and notification deadlines are set by TPWD. All refuge hunters are selected by lottery conducted by TPWD, and complete hunting packages with permits, refuge hunt permits (tearsheets), and instructions are sent to drawn hunters. Up to four hunters can apply together on one application. All applications are completed online at tpwd.texas.gov/drawnhunts.

Youth hunts may be administered through TPDW or TYHP.

• Youth hunters 9 to 17 may apply for drawn youth hunts through TPDW. Hunter application and notification deadlines are set by TPWD. All refuge hunters are selected by lottery conducted by TPWD, and complete hunting packages with permits, refuge hunt permits (tearsheets), and instructions are sent to drawn hunters. All applications are completed online at tpwd.texas.gov/drawnhunts.

• For youth hunts through TYHP, applications, educational programs, selection, notification, and any fees are administered by TYHP. Information about youth hunter requirements and registration for TYHP is available at tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/hunt/youth_hunting/tx_youth_hunt_program/ and tyhp.org/.

Each hunter accessing the refuge in a motor vehicle during a hunt is required to obtain a Vehicle Validation Tag. These are available at the refuge visitor center and at each mandatory hunt orientation, which is held the day prior to each hunt period. The Vehicle Validation Tag must be completed and displayed face up on the hunter’s vehicle dashboard throughout both the scouting period and hunt period.

Each hunter must also procure a refuge hunt permit (tearsheet), and keep it on their person for the duration of the hunt.

B. Refuge-specific Hunting Regulations

Listed below are the proposed changes to the refuge-specific regulations that pertain to Laguna Atascosa NWR as of the date of this plan. The following text is based on proposed hunting regulations published June 26, 2019 in the Federal Register (84 FR 30314) (USFWS 2019a). The text has been amended to reflect the most recent updates in the refuge hunt program.

(i) Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge. (1)-(2) [Reserved]

(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer, feral hog, nilgai antelope, other exotic ungulates, and American alligator on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

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(i) We allow the incidental take of nilgai antelope, feral hog, and other rarely observed exotic ungulates, such as fallow deer, axis deer, sika deer, Barbary sheep, and black buck, during all refuge hunts, with the exception of American alligator hunts.

(ii) We require hunters to attend refuge hunter orientation before hunting on the refuge. We require each hunter to obtain and carry with them a signed and dated hunt information tearsheet in addition to the State hunt permit.

(iii) Bag limits for species hunted on the refuge are provided in refuge hunt information tearsheets. State-wide bag limits are set annually by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, however, bag limits for refuge hunts can be more restrictive and are set annually by the refuge.

(iv) Each hunter age 17 and younger must be under the direct supervision of an adult age 18 or older.

(v) We allow a scouting period prior to the commencement of each refuge hunt period. A permitted hunter and a limit of two non-permitted individuals may enter the hunt units during the scouting period, which begins after hunter orientation and ends at legal sunset. Each hunter must clearly display a Vehicle Validation Tag face up on the vehicle dashboard when scouting and hunting.

(vi) We allow hunters to enter the refuge 11⁄2 hours before legal sunrise during their permitted hunt periods. Hunters must leave the hunt units no later than one hour after State legal shooting hours.

(vii) Hunters may access hunt units only by foot, bicycle, or e-bike.

(viii) We allow hunting from portable stands or by stalking and still hunting. There is a limit of one blind or stand per permitted hunter. Hunters must attach hunter identification (permit number or State license number) to the blind or stand. Hunters must remove all blinds and stands at the end of the permitted hunt period (see 50 CFR §27.93).

(ix) During American alligator hunts, we allow hunters to leave hooks set over only one night period at a time; set lines must be checked daily. Hunters must field dress all harvested big game in the field and check the game at the hunt check station before removal from the refuge. Hunters may use a non-motorized cart to assist with the transportation of harvested game animals.

(x) We prohibit the killing or wounding of a game animal and then intentionally or knowingly failing to make a reasonable effort to retrieve and include it in the hunter's bag limit.

(4) Sport fishing. We allow fishing and crabbing on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:

(i) We allow fishing and crabbing year-round only from Adolph Thomae Jr. County Park, on San Martin Lake of the Bahia Grande Unit, and on the South Padre Island Unit.

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(ii) We allow only pole and line, rod and reel, hand line, dip net, or cast net for fishing. We prohibit the use of crab traps or pots for crabbing. Anglers must attend all fishing lines, crabbing equipment, and other fishing devices at all times.

(iii) In the Bahia Grande Unit, inside the refuge boundary on San Martin Lake, we allow only bank and wade fishing, accessed on foot. In other waters of the Bahia Grande Unit, we do not allow boats or fishing inside the refuge boundary.

C. Relevant State Regulations

All hunters must possess a valid State of Texas hunting license and any state-required stamps or tags. If drawn, hunters will receive official notification and a permit from TPWD stating that they have been drawn to participate in a hunt. Youth hunters participating in the refuge’s youth hunts must obtain the necessary licenses, stamps or tags required by TPWD and/or TYHP, as appropriate. Hunters must visibly wear 400 square inches of hunter orange including 144 square inches visible on both the chest and back, and a hunter orange cap or hat visible on the head.

D. Other Refuge Rules and Regulations for Hunting

• All hunting will be in accordance with State regulations. Additional, refuge-specific hunting regulations will be provided annually in refuge hunt permits (tearsheets) and at the mandatory hunter orientation prior to the start of each hunt period.

• The refuge only allows the use of shoulder-fired muzzleloaders and rifles, as well as bows and crossbows, during the firearm hunt. Hunters may only discharge firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (50 CFR 27.42 and specific refuge regulations in 50 CFR Part 32). Muzzleloader firearms must be .40 caliber or larger, and modern rifles must be center fired and .22 caliber or larger. All hunting firearms must be unloaded and cased while in a vehicle. Loaded is defined has having rounds in the chamber of a rifle or having a firing cap in a muzzleloader.

• Hunters are not allowed to enter or exit the refuge hunt units via Adolph Thomae Jr. County Park. Vehicle parking is allowed only in parking areas and along roads designated on refuge hunt maps. All roads in the hunt units may be accessed by foot or bicycle. Hunters must not block gates. A Vehicle Validation Tag for each hunter must be conspicuously displayed on the vehicle dashboard.

• Hunters may be required to check out daily at the hunt check station at the end of each hunting day or no later than one hour after legal shooting hours. Hunters that need to track game after sunset must call the hunt check station (956-443-9227).

• Prohibited activities on the refuge include the following: o Exceeding the refuge speed limit of up to 25 mph, as posted, o Camping, except at Adolph Thomae Jr. County Park, o Use or possession of alcoholic beverages and/or drugs, o Possession and/or use of dogs while scouting or hunting, o Use of motorized or electric carts or wagons, o Taking or destruction of any plant or animal species, including venomous snakes, not

designated on the hunter’s permit, o Distribution of bait or hunting over bait, o Use of flagging and/or markers,

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o Use of, or hunting from, any type of watercraft or floating device, o Use of drones/aircraft, o Use of artificial lights (including vehicle headlights and game cameras) to locate,

observe, or take animals, o Fires, littering, target practice, and commercial guiding, and o Disturbing, molesting, or interfering with anyone engaged in the pursuit of an

authorized activity on the refuge. • Permitted hunters are subject to inspection of permits, vehicles, equipment, and bag

limits by state and federal law enforcement officers. TPWD hunting regulations apply to hunting on the refuge. We encourage hunters to contact TPWD at 1-800-792-1112, or go to tpwd.texas.gov for complete information.

• Hunters must adhere to any necessary cattle fever tick prevention measures, which may include freezing hides and heads for a designated period of time and/or subjecting hides and heads to an approved anti-parasitic treatment. These fever tick prevention measures may change annually and will be stated in the refuge hunt pamphlets and/or at mandatory hunter orientations.

• Hunt fees are generally non-refundable, although fees may be reimbursed under certain circumstances. Any hunt may be cancelled without notice in the event of unexpected occurrences, to include, but not limited to, flooding or wildfire. Hunt permits are not transferrable.

V. Public Engagement

A. Outreach for Announcing and Publicizing the Hunting Program

The refuge makes available to the public the schedule for refuge hunt periods by posting dates on the TPWD website, tpwd.texas.gov. Hunting regulations for the State of Texas are published each year in a hunting guide; this also includes information about how to apply for a refuge hunt permit (tearsheet), dates for hunting on the refuge, and where to find more information. Refuge-specific hunting information is included on the refuge hunt permits (tearsheets), which are updated annually and made available to the public at the refuge visitor center and the hunt check station.

B. Anticipated Public Reaction to Hunting Program

Public scoping for expanding the hunting program at Laguna Atascosa NWR, to include additional hunt areas on Bahia Grande, Laguna Atascosa, and La Selva Verde Units, will be initiated as soon as the draft CFRs are published in the Federal Register. A press release will be published in local newspapers, and a town hall meeting will be held to discuss the hunt plan. A public notice will be displayed on the STRC website and at the LANWR visitor center and website. Hunting has been allowed on Laguna Atascosa NWR for over 30 years. In 2015, a draft hunt plan went out for informal scoping and received largely positive public reaction. We expect little to no negative public reaction to this 2019 hunt plan, and a considerable amount of public support, due to expansion of inexpensive hunting opportunities for white-tailed deer and nilgai antelope. Feedback from formal public scoping will be incorporated into this hunt plan.

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C. How Hunters Will Be Informed of Relevant Rules and Regulations

General information regarding hunting and other public uses may be obtained at the Laguna Atascosa NWR visitor center at 22688 Buena Vista Road, Los Fresnos, Texas 78566, or by calling 956-748-3607 (or 956-244-2019). Information can also be found on our website.

VI. Compatibility Determination

A revised compatibility determination has been completed in conjunction with this hunt plan and the Environmental Assessment. Hunting and all associated program activities proposed in this plan are expected to be found compatible with the purposes of the refuge.

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References

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. N.d. Drawn Hunts: The Online-Only Drawing System. (https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/hunt/public/public_hunt_drawing.) Accessed October 24, 2019.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. N.d. Texas Youth Hunting Program. (https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/hunt/youth_hunting/tx_youth_hunt_program.) Accessed October 3, 2019.

Texas State Library and Archives Commission. 2017. Native American Relations in Texas: Indian Nations of Texas. (http://www.tsl.texas.gov/exhibits/indian/intro/page2.html.) Accessed October 3, 2019.

Texas Youth Hunting Program. 2019. Texas Youth Hunting Program. (http://www.tyhp.org.) Accessed October 23, 2019.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1986. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge: Refuge Management Plan. Part 4, Chapter 1.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1994. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge: Hunt Plan. Revised August 1994.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2010. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge: Comprehensive Conservation Plan.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2019a. 2019-2020 Station Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations: A Proposed Rule by the Fish and Wildlife Service on 06/26/2019. Federal Register 84 FR 30314.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2019b. Flyways. (https://www.fws.gov/birds/management/flyways.php.) Accessed October 24, 2019.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2019c. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge - Texas. (fws.gov/refuge/laguna_atascosa/.) Accessed September 23, 2019.

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VII. Maps

Figure 1. Hunt units on Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge.

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Figure 2. Laguna Atascosa Unit.

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Figure 3. Bahia Grande Unit.

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Figure 4. La Selva Verde Unit.