The Pennsylvania Game Commission adopted season dates and bag limits for the coming year at its April meeting. They also approved some changes to the rules and regulations.

Some significant changes concern Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). Hunters will no longer be prohibited from transporting harvested deer between two different points in the state. Also, successful hunters will now be required to remove all high-risk deer parts (brain, spine, etc.) from the field and dispose of them in commercial trash. That makes sense in getting CWD prions out of the field to help prevent spreading the disease.

The regulatory prohibition on urine-based attractants for deer hunting has been removed. The Executive Director of the Game Commission now has the authority to impose localized restrictions on deer feeding on an as-needed basis.

Another significant change is that firearms will now be allowed for the Agricultural Deer Harvest Program during any open season (such as archery). Previously, hunters could only use the implement allowed for the season that was open. This change was made to better meet the goals of the “Ag Tag” program. Please note that landowners can still specify what implements can or cannot be used on their property.

The Game Commission also adopted changes to the Certified Hunter Program. It will now be statewide. The program pairs seasoned hunters with landowners who are looking to reduce deer populations on their properties. Check out the PA Game Commission’s website for details on the eligibility requirements.

The elk hunting application process has been simplified. Elk tags will also now be limited to one per lifetime.

Sunday hunting was approved last year, and State Game Lands were opened. The Commission has now voted to remove the Sunday hunting prohibition on commercial regulated hunting grounds as well. Due to a nuance of the law, this change will not take effect until officially published (in about 6 weeks or so).

Some changes were made to the regulations for baiting deer in the areas around Philadelphia. They eliminate the requirement to space out feeders and allow for additional types of bait to be used, such as apples.

The Game Commission increased the size of allowable traps for beaver and otter to 14 inches. They also approved the use of snap traps for weasels.

Additional Game Lands have been purchased this year (as happens every year). An agreement was reached with a coal company to mine a small area next to an existing mine, which will add over one million dollars to the fund to purchase and maintain more Game Lands in the future.

The newly adopted changes also include allowing non-hunters to ride bikes, horses, etc. on Game Lands on Sundays during times of the year when hunting is open. Non-hunters will now be required to wear a fluorescent orange hat or at least 250 square inches of fluorescent orange on the chest, back and head visible from all sides. While not part of the regulations, don’t forget to put fluorescent orange on your pets for safety during open hunting seasons.

Don’t forget to celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd and let’s all enjoy the outdoors!

John S. Van Etten is the current president of the Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs of Sullivan County, Inc.