Contact: Sgt. Gregory Rhodes, Fish & Wildlife Enforcement, 302-739-9913 or 302-542-6102, or Joanna Wilson, Public Affairs, 302-739-9902
DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Blotter Aug. 24-31
DOVER (Sept. 6, 2011) – To achieve public compliance through education and enforcement actions that help conserve Delaware’s fish and wildlife resources and ensure safe boating and public safety, DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement agents issued 21 citations and a number of warnings for violations of recreational boating and fishing regulations between Aug. 24 and Aug. 31.
In addition, Enforcement is continuing to investigate the presence of invasive northern snakeheads in Becks Pond, a very popular fishing pond in Bear. Following an incident in August in which a teen was bitten by a snakehead, agents have been seeking information from the public that would lead to a suspect or suspects who placed the fish in the pond. State and federal law prohibits possession of these highly aggressive, predatory fish, a species that can impact other fish, amphibians and invertebrates. Anyone with information that might help the investigation is asked to call Sgt. Gregory Rhodes, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement, at 302-542-6102, or call Enforcement dispatch at 302-739-4580.
The number of citations issued by violation type from Aug. 24 to Aug. 31 included the following:
Boating Safety: child life jacket violation (2), not carrying enough life jackets for all passengers (2).
Fisheries Conservation: Over limit recreational crab pots (3), recreational possession of undersized striped bass (1), undersized white perch (2), no fishing license (6).
Wildlife Conservation: Trespass after hours on wildlife area (1).
Other: Loitering (3), unregistered motor vehicle (1).
Are you AWARE?
With fall hunting beginning with dove and archery deer seasons, for this week’s Are You Aware reminder, the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section has a few tips and reminders for hunters:
· During the month of September, all dove-hunting on state wildlife lands must be done using non-toxic shot. Dove hunters should also be aware of their shot pattern and where it is likely to land.
· Delaware migratory bird hunters – those whose take includes doves, geese and ducks – are required to obtain a Harvest Information Program (H.I.P.) number, free of charge, by calling toll free 1-855-335-4868 or visiting www.dnrec.delaware.gov/delhunt.
· Part of every hunter’s preparation for hunting season should include purchasing a hunting license and obtaining any related permits or stamps. Complete information on hunting in Delaware for the 2011-2012 season is available at www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw.
· Delaware residents age 16 to 64 and older are required to purchase a license to hunt in Delaware. Age 65 and older are not required to purchase a hunting license. Residents age 13 to 15 must purchase a junior license. See the 2011-2012 Delaware Hunting and Trapping Guide, available at license dealers and online, for non-resident requirements and more information.
· It is the hunter’s responsibility to know whose land he or she is on, and to secure permission from private landowners before entering their property. Failure to do so can result in arrest for trespassing.
Citizens are encouraged to report fish and wildlife and boating violations to the Delaware Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section at 302-739-4580.
Vol. 41, No. 339
