Commission Agenda Item No. 11
Presenter: Stormy King

Briefing
Update on Dove Hunting Regulations Enforcement
November 10, 2020

I.      Executive Summary:  With this item, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) staff seeks to brief the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission on TPWD’s efforts related to the enforcement of dove hunting regulations and trends in violations observed.

II.     Discussion: Dove season often provides the first opportunity for many young Texans and others new to the outdoors to enjoy the state’s natural resources as hunters.  This experience often becomes an annual tradition for many outdoors- men and women that lasts a lifetime.  In addition to providing hunting opportunity and the resulting economic impacts, the opening of dove season also serves as a harbinger of cooler temperatures and time spent in the field with friends and family.  These days are also much anticipated by Texas Game Wardens as they shift their attentions to the field after long, hot months spent on Texas’ waterways enforcing fishing and boating laws.  Due to the importance of responsible regulation to the sustainability of  wildlife resources, it is appropriate at some interval to provide a snapshot of the issues encountered by TPWD staff in regard to dove hunting, violations of relevant statutes and regulations, and how these topics may relate to trends observed by the Wildlife Division staff in relation to dove populations.