News

New Jersey Fish and Game Approves “Emergency” October Bear Hunt

Follow

If you have been following the closure of the bear season in New Jersey you will quickly realize that this headline is big news. We published an article back on August 29th highlighting the closing of bear season in the Garden State. This was not a closure initiated through proper channels. Instead, The state’s Comprehensive Black Bear Management Policy expired and would not be renewed by the governor, Phil Murphy. Read all about it here.

 The New Jersey Herald just reported that the NJ Fish and Game council approved an emergency order to reestablish black bear hunting in the state for the month of October. It is not clear if that order will move forward though. It requires approval by the two main political opponents of the hunt, Environmental Commissioner Shawn LaTourette and Gov. Phil Murphy. Gov. Murphy included the dissolving of bear hunting in his running platform for his election to office and his up for reelection this year. Many fear he may not address the request by the Fish and Game council. 

The New Jersey Herald reports, “Since the state game code already includes a bear hunting season, the emergency action, which would be good for 60 days after approval, could allow an October archery hunt, said Division of Fish and Wildlife Director Dave Golden.”

It believed that this proposition is fueled by the notion that hunters help regulate the bear population and that the unsigned Comprehensive Black Bear Management Policy will not allot necessary money to help the state manage nuisance bears and address bear complaints and damage. In addition to creating a season for archery, muzzleloader, and rifle, the order will create new jobs to handle bear and wildlife complaints

Hopefully the order can clear both desks and put into effect before the season is set to kick-off in October. 

Do you wish to speak out against the recent stalling on the Black Bear Management Policy and support the new season proposal? BHA has a great template to use to share with your local officials to voice your concern. Use the link below to speak out!

Voice your concerns here!

Listen to our Podcast
Apple Podcasts, Google, Spotify, Amazon Music

Like what we are creating? Buy us a coffee to say thanks!

Justin Townsend

Justin (Choctaw) is an avid hunter, angler, and chef whose passion for the outdoors lead him to create Harvesting Nature in 2011. He continues to hunt, fish, and cook all while sharing his experiences with others through film, podcasts, print, and with recipes. He also proudly serves in the United States Coast Guard.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

0
    0
    Your Cart
    Your cart is emptyReturn to Shop