USE OF TRAIL CAMERAS AND BLINDS ON PUBLIC LANDS

PIERRE, S.D. - The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Commission proposed the use of trail cameras and portable hunting blinds on public lands at their March meeting.

Portable tree stands, portable blinds and climbing devices that do not utilize nails, wire, or bolts for attachment are proposed to be allowed from Aug. 25 to Feb. 15, inclusive. Portable blinds may also be used during the spring turkey season.

The proposal would also allow for trail cameras placed on public lands owned, leased or controlled by the department; they may be attached to trees, posts or other structures by utilizing no more than one nail, bolt or screw. The name and address or the year and current applicable big game license number of the owner or user must be on the exterior of an unattended trail camera.

Previous regulations did not fully address the use of ground blinds and trail cameras; which are commonly used today. A five-day limit currently exists for leaving many types of recreational equipment and property on department lands. The department proposes to extend the period in which this equipment may be utilized and appropriately regulate its placement.

The Commission will finalize these proposals during their April 7-8, 2016, meeting at the McCrory Gardens in Brookings. Written comments can be emailed to wildinfo@state.sd.us. To be part of the official public record, comments must be received by 12 p.m. CDT on April 7, 2016. Please include your full name along with the city and state of residence. If you would like to comment in person, the public hearing will be April 7, 2016, at 2 p.m. CDT.

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