View Rule

Recent changes in State regulations authorize historically illegal hunting practices for predators in order to increase game species. National Park Service (NPS) policies prohibit reducing native predators for the purpose of increasing numbers of harvested species. Federal law gives NPS authority to implement hunting closures and restrictions within national preserves for reasons of public safety, administration, floral and faunal protection, or public use and enjoyment. This rule would retain traditional restrictions on hunting in national preserves consistent with NPS policy. A rulemaking is preferable to temporary closures and restrictions that react to changes in State law but do not ensure long-term protection of wildlife consistent with NPS policy.