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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2006
CONTACT: Spencer Vaa, 688-4786
PIERRE, S.D. - With South Dakota's Light Goose Conservation Order now open, sportsmen
will be bagging snow, blue and Ross' geese. Some of these birds will be wearing a leg
band, and hunters need to remember to report these bands.
Waterfowl Biologist Spencer Vaa said banding is the cornerstone of waterfowl management, so it is important that hunters call the toll-free number if they bag a banded goose this spring.
“Banding helps biologists learn about migratory routes and helps determine waterfowl survival and harvest rates," Vaa noted. "Since the conservation order was initiated in 1999 to reduce the population of mid-continent light geese, hunters in South Dakota have bagged an average of 84,686 each spring.
To report a bird band, call toll-free 1-800-327-BAND. An operator will ask for the band number and how, when and where it was recovered. Callers will receive a Certificate of Appreciation with the bird's information, and the band is theirs to keep.
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