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AUGUST 2004 NEWS |
COMMISSION DECLARES NATIONAL HUNTING AND FISHING DAY
COMMERCIAL FISHING FOR RED SNAPPER IN LA. WATERS TO REMAIN CLOSED UNTIL OCTOBER 1
2004-05 WATERFOWL LOTTERY HUNTS SCHEDULED FOR SHERBURNE W.M.A.
HUNTERS URGED TO BE MINDFUL WHEN HUNTING DOVES
36 LITTERING CITATIONS WRITTEN BY L.D.W.F. IN JULY
2004-05 HUNTING REGULATIONS AVAILABLE ON L.D.W.F. WEBSITE
TWO MEN CITED FOR BLACK DRUM VIOLATIONS
CUTOFF MAN ARRESTED ON POINTE-AUX-CHENES WMA
FISHERMAN ARRESTED FOR VIOLATING REVOCATION ORDER
ACADIA PARISH MEN SENTENCED FOR ILLEGAL SHRIMP PEDDLING
PINEVILLE MAN CITED FOR DUMPING GARBAGE ON DEWEY WILLS W.M.A.
CONCORDIA MAN ARRESTED FOR ALLEGED FISH SHOCKING AND OBSTRUCTION
OVER LIMIT TAKEN ON LAKE BISITINEAU
NATIONAL HUNTING AND FISHING DAY CELEBRATIONS PLANNED ACROSS STATE
SABINE W.M.A. 2004 PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED LOTTERY DEER HUNT
AMENDED RULES FOR THREE LAKES GO INTO EFFECT
UNDERSIZE CATFISH LEAD TO ST. CHARLES PARISH ARREST
L.D.W.F. UNCOVERS SHADY SHARK DEALINGS
SIX CITED FOR LITTERING AND DUMPING TRASH
FLORIDA DEALER CAUGHT TAKING UNREPORTED FISH OUT OF STATE
SUSPECTED GAME FISH VIOLATORS CITED IN LASALLE PARISH
SERGEANT TODD LAVIOLETTE NAMED WILDLIFE
LOUISIANA SHRIMPERS, SHRIMP VESSEL OWNERS COMMERCIAL FISHING FOR LARGE COASTAL SHARKS TO CLOSE IN LA. WATERS
UNREPORTED CRABS AND FISH DISCOVERED
CAMERON MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO FRAUDULENT SHRIMP SALES
GOVERNOR APPOINTS ASSISTANT SECRETARY AT WILDLIFE & FISHERIES
2004 LOUISIANA FALL SHRIMP SEASON OPENS IN ZONES 1 AND 3
L.W.F.C. SETS TENTATIVE MIGRATORY WATERFOWL SEASONS
COMMISSION ADJUSTS DOVE SEASON DATES
COMMERCIAL FISHING FOR DEEP-WATER GROUPER CLOSES IN LOUISIANA WATERS
AREA SIX DEER SEASON DATES RE-SET
L.W.F.C. SETS 2004-2005 OYSTER SEASONS
L.W.F.C. SETS PERMANENT OPENING DATE FOR ALLIGATOR SEASON
TURKEY HUNTING SEASONS PROPOSED NEW PUBLIC BOAT LAUNCH TO OPEN AUG. 10 AT POINTE-AUX-CHENES W.M.A.
2004 WHITE LAKE PRESERVE TEAL SEASON LOTTERY ANNOUNCED
COMMISSION DECLARES NATIONAL HUNTING AND FISHING DAY
At their September 2 meeting, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries
Commission signed a resolution declaring September 25, 2004 as Louisiana's
National Hunting and Fishing Day. This is the 20th year that this holiday
has been celebrated across the state.
As part of the celebration, events will be held in Minden, Monroe, Woodworth
and Baton Rouge. Hands-on activities such as target shooting, archery and
canoeing are popular at each site. The events will also provide food and
drinks for the families that attend.
Louisiana's National Hunting and Fishing Day is a recognition of the
economic contributions of the hunting and fishing industry and an
acknowledgement of the sport enjoyed by so many of our citizens.
COMMERCIAL FISHING FOR RED SNAPPER IN LA. WATERS TO REMAIN CLOSED UNTIL OCTOBER 1
The spring commercial fishery for red snapper in Louisiana waters closed on
August 10, 2004. The season will remain closed until the opening of the
fall commercial red snapper season on October 1.
The decision was made by Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
Secretary Dwight Landreneau, following notification by the National Marine
Fisheries Service that the Federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico will not
re-open for the September 1-10 time period, since the commercial red snapper
quote for the spring season is projected to have been taken.
Secretary Landreneau was authorized by the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries
Commission to take these actions to provide consistent regulations between
state and adjacent Federal waters, and noted that the season closure is
necessary to prevent overfishing of the species.
All commercial harvest, possession, purchase, barter, trade, sale or
attempts to purchase, barter, trade or sell red snapper is prohibited until
noon, October 1, 2004, the date set for the opening of the fall season.
The prohibition on sale/prohibition of red snapper during the closure does not
apply to red snapper that were harvested, landed ashore, and sold prior to
the effective date of the closure and were held in cold storage by a dealer
or processor provided appropriate records in accordance with R.S. 56:306.5
and 56:306.6 are properly maintained.
2004-05 WATERFOWL LOTTERY HUNTS SCHEDULED FOR SHERBURNE W.M.A.
The Sherburne Wildlife Management Area South Farm complex will be open for
lottery waterfowl hunts again during the 2004-05 hunting season.
Applications for the Sherburne hunts must be received in Baton Rouge by
October 1, and must be accompanied by a non-refundable $5 administrative
fee. Applications should be mailed to Waterfowl Lottery Applications,
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, P.O. Box 98000, Baton Rouge,
LA 70898. They are available at each of the LDWF regional offices or on the
LDWF web site: www.wlf.state.la.us. The application can be found by going
to the "Hunting Section", then clicking on "Seasons and Regulations," and
then clicking on the link for "Lottery Hunt Applications."
Lottery hunt dates for Sherburne WMA will be Nov. 20, Dec. 4, 18, 27, and
Jan. 3, 8, 15, 22 and 29. Each of these dates is a Saturday, except the
Dec. 27 and Jan. 3 hunts which are on the Monday following the Christmas and
New Year's holidays. Shooting hours will be one half hour before sunrise
until 12 noon.
During the Sherburne hunt, no more than three persons will be allowed to
hunt within a predetermined hunt area. Selected hunters will be notified by
mail and must submit an additional $10 fee to receive the necessary permits.
On the Youth Waterfowl Hunting days, Nov. 13-14, Sherburne WMA will be open
for youth duck hunting at no charge. All youngsters age 15 or younger, who
are accompanied by an adult age 18 or older will be welcome to participate
and no lottery application is needed. Youths must possess a hunter safety
certification or proof of successful completion of a hunter safety course.
Each youth must be accompanied by one adult 18 years of age or older.
If the accompanying adult is in possession of hunter safety certification, a
valid hunting license or proof of successful completion of a hunter safety
course, this requirement is waived for the youth.
The South Farm complex at Sherburne WMA will also offer additional duck
hunting opportunities on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the season, except on
Thanksgiving Day. The hunts will be conducted in the same manner as the
weekend hunts, but the lottery drawing will take place on the day of each
hunt at the hunter check station near the entrance to the WMA. No hunter
will be allowed to hunt more than one day per week. Lottery numbers
will be drawn at 4:30 a.m. and successful hunters will be assigned hunting
sites. Each hunter will be allowed to hunt only from the assigned hunting
site.
The Sherburne hunt area has been intensively developed and managed for
wintering waterfowl. Lottery hunts allow the department to manage hunting
pressure, promote quality-hunting experiences and still provide beneficial
winter habitat for wetland dependent species.
All hunters must have appropriate licenses, including federal duck stamps,
WMA hunting permits and Harvest Information Program (HIP) permits. No
licenses will be available at the hunting site and licenses will be checked.
Additionally, a self-clearing daily permit (free) must be completed and will
be available at the lottery hunt site. Permit applications and additional
information are available from any LDWF region office.
HUNTERS URGED TO BE MINDFUL WHEN HUNTING DOVES
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries would like to remind
hunters to be careful with their dove identification as they take to the
woods for the opening of the 2004-05 hunting season. September 4 marks
the opening of the first split of the dove season. The season is open for
mourning, Eurasian collard and ringed turtledoves only. White-wing doves
and any other species of doves may not be taken in Louisiana.
The daily bag limit for mourning doves is 12, with a possession limit of 24.
There is no bag limit on Eurasian collared-doves or ringed turtledoves,
provided that a fully feathered wing and head remain attached to the carcass
of the bird. Fully dressed Eurasian collared-doves and ringed turtledoves
(those without a fully feathered wing and head naturally attached to the
carcass) shall be included in the daily bag limit for mourning doves. The
bag limit for mourning doves and fully dressed Eurasian collared and ringed
turtle-doves is 12 in the aggregate.
Hunters found taking doves other than mourning, Eurasian collared or ringed
turtle-doves may be issued a citation by LDWF Enforcement Division agents.
This type of citation would be a violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act
and is a federal crime. The maximum penalty is $15,000 in fines and up to
six months in prison. To avoid this, hunters are encouraged to make sure
they are capable of identifying the differences between the species.
36 LITTERING CITATIONS WRITTEN BY L.D.W.F. IN JULY
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Law Enforcement Division
Administrator, Colonel Winton Vidrine has announced the citation of 36
individuals for alleged violations of the state's litter laws during July of
this year.
"Our enforcement agents will continue to enforce littering regulations in
our state," Vidrine said. "Anyone with knowledge of illegal dumping is
urged to report these crimes," he added.
The names of the alleged violators and parishes of the alleged violations
are listed below.
Joshua David Alexander in Sabine Parish;
Bruce Douglas Jr. Allen in Webster Parish;
Claudene Rene Ancar in Plaqumines Parish;
Robert L. Andrus in Evangeline Parish;
George J. Aucoin, Jr. in Jefferson Davis Parish;
Albert J. Avenel, Jr. in Plaqumines Parish;
Carol S. Bowman in Pointe Coupee Parish;
Walter Lee Brown in Webster Parish;
Marlon Anthony Brown in Lincoln Parish;
Christopher Doxey in Jefferson Davis Parish;
Josh Dathan Ducote in Rapides Parish;
Debra S. Farmer in Bossier Parish;
Glenn P. Fontenot, Jr. in Jefferson Davis Parish;
Louis Bernard Fountain in Franklin Parish;
Quacin G. Gonsales in Rapides Parish;
Ernesto Gonzales in St. James Parish;
Augusta Goodly in Evangeline Parish;
Shaun Foster Green in Evangeline Parish;
Patrick J. Guillot in Avoyelles Parish;
Lindsey Raeanne Hall in Ouachita Parish;
Anthony Paul Hanley in Jefferson Parish;
Christopher Jennings in Union Parish;
Calvin Joseph Landry III in Ascension Parish;
Jarred Todd Leger in Evangeline Parish;
Matt Thomas Leonard in St. Mary Parish;
Jose Tavera Mendoza in Rapides Parish;
Billy Joe Pinkston in Sabine Parish;
Russell Paul Rider in Allen Parish;
Jose Francisco Scourdra in Rapides Parish;
Vashaun Maurice Sellers in Caddo Parish;
Fernando Serna in Rapides Parish;
David Wayne Shepard in Acadia Parish;
Berry Smith, Jr. in Allen Parish;
Kevin Alton Tilley in West Carroll Parish;
Timothy C. Tynes in Webster Parish;
and Salomon Varela in Caddo Parish.
2004-05 HUNTING REGULATIONS AVAILABLE ON L.D.W.F. WEBSITE
The regulations for the 2004-05 hunting season are now available at the
website for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries,
www.wlf.state.la.us. The updated season dates, limits, rules and
regulations are posted in a downloadable file. Regulations may be viewed
on-line or printed out. For any questions or clarifications, please consult
the local LDWF office or call LDWF Headquarters at (225)765-2800.
TWO MEN CITED FOR BLACK DRUM VIOLATIONS
On August 12, Carl Joseph Daniel, 47, and William King, 59, both of
Raceland, were cited by Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
Enforcement Division agents for allegedly possessing over the limit of black
drum and possessing over the limit of black drum in excess of 27 inches. The
violations occurred on the Pointe-aux-Chenes Wildlife Management Area in
Lafourche Parish.
While performing routine compliance checks, agents allegedly found the men
in possession of 13 black drum, six of which exceeded 27 inches. The limit
for black drum is five per person, only one of which may exceed 27 inches.
The fish were seized and donated to charity.
The violations of possession of over the limit of black drum and possession
of over the limit of black drum in excess of 27 inches are each punishable
by a fine of up to $350, jail for not more than 60 days, or both, plus court
costs.
Agents participating in the case were Senior Agent Jim Matkin, Senior Agent
George Robinson and Cadet Ezekiel Talbert Jr.
CUTOFF MAN ARRESTED ON POINTE-AUX-CHENES WMA
Patrick J. Terrebonne, 38, of Cutoff was arrested by Louisiana Department
and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents on August 15 and booked into
the Lafourche Parish Jail for violating rules and regulations on the
Pointe-aux-Chenes Wildlife Management Area.
Terrebonne was cited for violating the wildlife management area regulations
when he was apprehended while allegedly using skimmer nets at night. It
is illegal to conduct any commercial activity or to use any commercial
gear on this WMA, or to utilize the WMA at night. Seized in connection with
this case were two skimmer nets and 98 pounds of white shrimp. The nets will
be held as evidence and the shrimp were sold, with the proceeds being held
in escrow by the department.
Violations of wildlife management area regulations carry fines of up to
$350, jail not more 60 days, or both, plus court costs for each count.
Agents participating in the case were Senior Agent Jim Matkin, Senior Agent
George Robinson and Cadet Ezekiel Talbert Jr.
FISHERMAN ARRESTED FOR VIOLATING REVOCATION ORDER
Michael J. Fonseca, 27, of Des Allemands, was arrested on August 13 by
agents from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement
Division for allegedly engaging in commercial fishing during a revocation
period. Fonseca has several prior charges for undersize catfish, commercial
license violations, and boating safety infractions. He has also served time
in prison for other criminal convictions.
Fonseca's fishing privileges were revoked in March 2004 due to unpaid
restitution ordered in a prior case from September 2002, in which he plead
guilty to taking undersize commercial catfish. Fonseca failed to appear for
at least two civil restitution hearings and was subsequently ordered to pay
civil restitution in the amount of $150 to the department for the value of
the fish. He failed to make payment and his fishing privileges were revoked.
On August 13, Fonseca was stopped in Bayou Des Allemands in St. Charles
Parish with a hoop net and 195 channel catfish. He was arrested and cited
for engaging in commercial fishing during a revocation period. The fish were
seized and sold. Agents also seized a 20-foot aluminum flat boat and a
115-horsepower outboard motor. Subsequent to this arrest and further
investigation, he was also cited in Lafourche Parish for commercially
fishing there while under revocation.
Engaging in commercial fishing during a revocation period carries a fine of
up to $500, jail for not more than 90 days, or both, plus court costs.
Agents participating in the investigation were Senior Agents Eddie Skena and
Joseph Arnaud, Sergeant Rusty Landry, and Cadet Scott Jeansonne.
ACADIA PARISH MEN SENTENCED FOR ILLEGAL SHRIMP PEDDLING
Two men pled no contest on August 12 in the 15th Judicial District Court in
Acadia Parish to charges of selling shrimp without a retail seafood dealer's
license and for failing to maintain records, and were sentenced by Judge
Kristian Earls.
On October 1, 2003, agents from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and
Fisheries Enforcement Division cited Michael Dupuis Jr., 25, of Rayne. Reid
Anthony Thibodeaux, 26, was cited on February 27, 2004. He is also from
Rayne. Judge Earls sentenced Dupuis to 60 days in the parish jail, to pay a
fine of $750 plus $113.50 in court costs and one year of probation with the
stipulation he pay the fine and court costs within 60 days of his release
from jail. Thibodeaux was sentenced to 90 days in the parish jail. Both
subjects had prior convictions for these offenses.
Agents participating in these cases were Sergeants Robert Buatt, Edwin
Broussard, and David Sanford, Senior Agent Aaron Monceaux, and Agent
Donnie Leger. Assistant District Attorney Lori McGee prosecuted the cases for
the state.
PINEVILLE MAN CITED FOR DUMPING GARBAGE ON DEWEY WILLS W.M.A.
On July 28, George A. Bennett, 41, of Pineville was cited for allegedly
dumping garbage on Dewey Wills Wildlife Management Area in LaSalle Parish.
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Agent Kevin Hill
found garbage on the WMA with items leading to Bennett. Sr. Agent Hill later
made contact with Bennett, and issued him a citation for littering.
The penalty for littering is a fine of up to $500, plus court costs, and
four hours of community service.
CONCORDIA MAN ARRESTED FOR ALLEGED FISH SHOCKING AND OBSTRUCTION
On August 14, wildlife enforcement agents from the Louisiana Department of
Wildlife and Fisheries arrested Thomas Oran Cockerham Jr., 46, of Ferriday
for allegedly taking fish illegally and obstruction of justice.
Senior Agent Joe Chandler Jr. and Sgt. Larry May were on patrol in the
Mississippi River when they saw Cockerham shocking and dipping catfish from
the water. When approached, Cockerham threw the suspected shocking device
overboard. Parts of the shocking device were recovered and the suspect was
arrested. His boat, motor and 48 catfish were seized as evidence. The
catfish were later donated to Christian Acres Boys Home in Tallulah.
Cockerham was booked into the Tensas Parish Jail with a bond set at $22,500.
The penalty for taking fish illegally is a fine of up to $750, imprisonment
for not more than 120 days, or both, plus court costs and forfeiture of
anything seized. Destroying evidence relating to the commission of a crime
(obstruction of justice) is punishable by fines of up to $10,000,
imprisonment for not more than five years, with or without hard labor, or
both.
Agents participating in the case in addition to Chandler and May were Lt.
John Rhodes and Sgt. Gene Wilson.
OVER LIMIT TAKEN ON LAKE BISITINEAU
On August 18, enforcement agents from the Louisiana Department of
Wildlife
and Fisheries Enforcement Division cited Lenward Brown Jr., 44, and
Samuel
Gene Brown, 53, both of Heflin, for allegedly taking over the limit of
black
bass on Lake Bistineau.
The Browns were checked and Lenward was found to be in possession of 16
black bass. Samuel had 33 black bass. The daily limit is ten. Both subjects
were cited for taking over limit freshwater fish. Penalties include fines
of up to $350, jail for not more than 60 days, or both, plus court costs.
Recent draw down of water levels at Lake Bistineau have resulted in numerous
reports of over the limit violations. Enforcement agents are keeping a close
eye on the lake and are checking creel limits on all fish.
Officers participating in the case were Sgt. Wesley Walker, Capt. Donnie
Bates, and Sgt. Kenny Balkom.
NATIONAL HUNTING AND FISHING DAY CELEBRATIONS PLANNED ACROSS STATE
September 25 has been designated as National Hunting and Fishing Day, and
the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is looking forward to
celebrating across the state. Four different locations will host events
coordinated by the department this year, and each will highlight the
great hunting and fishing tradition of the Sportsman's Paradise.
In northwest Louisiana, families are invited to the Bodcau Dam where LDWF
will team with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a celebration that is
usually attended by more than 2,000 visitors. The gates will open at 10
a.m. and festivities will conclude at 4 p.m. Attendees will be able to try
their skill on the target range with arrows, BBs or shotguns. There will
also be wild game tasting and the department will provide an
"electro-fishing" demonstration. Local charitable organizations will be on
hand to provide food and drinks. For more information, interested persons
can call Todd Buffington at (318)371-3050.
LDWF's Monroe district office will also be hosting an event with a very
special guest. Professional angler and television host Jimmy Houston will
be on hand to answer questions and sign autographs. Youngsters will
also be able to participate in bait casting, BB gun, archery and duck calling
contests. The site is located at 368 CenturyTel Drive in Monroe, and more
information can be obtained by calling (318)343-4044.
The LDWF Education Center in Woodworth will be inviting families to join
them for their celebration as well. Educational demonstrations, displays
and instruction for the general public, with a youth emphasis, will include
boating safety, fishing, wild game identification and a turkey net
demonstration. The center is one and one-half miles from exit 73 off I-49.
For more information, call (318)484-2212.
LDWF will be celebrating its 20th anniversary of National Hunting and
Fishing Day in Baton Rouge. The Waddill Outdoor Education Center on
Flannery Road will again play host to the event that will open at 9 a.m. and close at 3 p.m. Scheduled for this year are live animal displays, shooting
demonstration and the always-popular youth fishing contest. Area chefs
will also be preparing taste samples of wild game cuisine, including dove,
alligator and nutria.
"National Hunting and Fishing Day in Louisiana is really a celebration of
our state's great outdoor heritage," said LDWF Secretary Dwight Landreneau.
"These events across the state allow us to continue passing that heritage
down to future generations."
SABINE W.M.A. 2004 PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED LOTTERY DEER HUNT
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Wildlife Division and
the Wheeling Sportsmen Association are offering a new opportunity for
physically challenged deer hunters. The hunt is designed for those
individuals that cannot hunt without assistance. Hunters may bring someone
to accompany them or Wheeling Sportsman volunteers will provide assistance.
Each hunter will be assigned to a specific stand location.
The hunt will be held October 9-10, 2004 on Sabine WMA located in Sabine
Parish near the towns of Many and Zwolle, Louisiana. Applications must be
submitted no later than September 7, 2004. Successful applicants will be
notified by LDWF and provided with information on hunt procedures.
Applications are available at all LDWF Regional offices and on the LDWF web
site (www.wlf.louisiana.gov) under the heading of Special Seasons. There is
a $5 non-refundable application fee. For additional information contact the
Region 3 office at (318) 487-5885.
AMENDED RULES FOR THREE LAKES GO INTO EFFECT
Updated rules governing Spanish Lake will go into effect on August 20. The
new rules, as signed by LDWF Secretary Dwight Landreneau, will allow for
nighttime fishing on the Iberia Parish waterbody. The new rules will also
allow for the permanent removal of gates at the exit of the only access road
to the lake. Iberia Parish President Will Langlinais had the gates removed
in October of 2003 citing that a parish road should not be blocked.
Changes to fishing regulations on Cypress Lake and Black Bayou Reservoir
will also go into effect on August 20. The use of gill nets, trammel nets,
hoop nets, slat traps, wire nets and fish seines will be prohibited on these
waters in Bossier Parish. However, a special season will run from November
1 through the end of February of the following year, during which time hoop
nets, slat traps and wire nets will be allowed. All gear must be removed
prior to March 1 of each year.
These proposed rule changes came before the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries
Commission in April in the form of notices of intent. They were accepted
unanimously and Secretary Landreneau will enact them, effective August
20.
UNDERSIZE CATFISH LEAD TO ST. CHARLES PARISH ARREST
Agents from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement
Division arrested a Lafourche Parish man on August 5 for alleged commercial
fisheries violations. Dennis J. Dufrene, 49, of Des Allemands, was arrested
and booked into St. Charles Parish Prison for allegedly taking undersized
commercial catfish.
Agents on boating safety patrol in Bayou Des Allemands stopped Dufrene's
vessel to perform a boating safety compliance check. During the check,
Dufrene was found to be in possession of 540 channel catfish. A total of 291
of the fish were under the legal size limit of 11 inches. Commercial size
regulations allow ten percent of a commercial catch of catfish to be
undersize. In this case, the catch was 54 percent undersize. All of the fish
were seized and donated to charity.
The violation of taking undersized commercial catfish carries a fine of up
to $500, up to 90 days in jail, or both, plus court costs.
Agents participating in the case were Senior Agents Eddie Skena and Jason
Russo.
L.D.W.F. UNCOVERS SHADY SHARK DEALINGS
Agents of the Special Investigations Unit of the Louisiana Department of
Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division have cited six persons for
alleged federal fisheries violations. The citations stemmed from an
investigation of "finning" of sharks. "Finning" is the illegal practice of
catching sharks and removing the fins and discarding the carcass. The
unit is working under a joint enforcement agreement with the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Office for Law Enforcement.
On August 7, agents determined the fishing vessel "Patrick James" had
allegedly taken and sold approximately 1,125 pounds of shark fins and only
3,380 pounds of shark to Venice Fish and Shrimp, a wholesale seafood dealer
located in Venice.
Properly licensed and permitted commercial vessels and fishermen may legally
sell shark fins but only in proportion with shark carcasses. Shark fins
should represent approximately five percent of the carcass weight of a
shark. In this case, 1,125 pounds of shark fins represent over 22,000
pounds of shark, most of which were finned and discarded during the "Patrick
James" fishing trip.
The following persons were charged with numerous alleged violations of
federal regulations for shark: Cha Van Kha, 45 of Venice, captain of the
fishing vessel Patrick James; Tai Tan Nguyen, 23 of Gretna; Huong V.
Nguyen, 42, of Venice,; Ngai Ngoc Tran, 47, of Venice; Truong Thuy Le, 33 of
Venice; and Thai Hoa Ngo, 42, of Venice, owner of Venice Fish and Shrimp.
Penalties for these violations are fines of up to $250,000 and include permit sanctions.
Agents participating in the case were Senior Agents James Gomillion and Buck
Hampton.
SIX CITED FOR LITTERING AND DUMPING TRASH
Five men and one woman have been cited by Louisiana Department of Wildlife
and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents for allegedly littering or dumping
trash in six separate incidents. The violations took place in Allen,
Evangeline and Calcasieu parishes. Two of the incidents occurred on a state
wildlife management area and one on a scenic river.
Garrett P. Landry, 17, of Pitkin, was cited on August 12 after agents
completed an investigation into a complaint of a sofa being dumped in Ten
Mile Creek in Allen Parish. Ten Mile Creek is protected under the Louisiana
Natural Scenic Rivers Act. Berry Smith Jr., 54, of Elizabeth was cited on
July 13 after agents investigated a bag of trash dumped on the West Bay
Wildlife Management Area in Allen Parish. Larry G. Ware, 48, of Oakdale was
cited on August 8 when an agent found trash left by Ware on the West Bay
Wildlife Management Area. Mary G. Taylor, 51, of Lake Charles, was cited on
August 1 after an agent saw her toss litter from a vehicle in Evangeline
Parish. Donald G. Balzrette, 68, of Coushatta, was cited on August 6 in
Calcasieu Parish after agents saw him discard two plastic trash bags from a
vessel. Matthew V. Hodges, 58, of Oakdale, was cited on August 4 after
agents investigated a bag of trash discarded under the Calcasieu Parish
Bridge off of Highway 10 in Allen Parish.
Littering is punishable by a fine of up to $500, plus court costs, and four
hours of community service.
Agents participating in the cases were Lieutenant Jesse Savoie, Sergeant
Chris Cormier and David Liles, Senior Agents Scott Fontenot, Steven Vidrine
and Joey James, Agent Ray Thomas, and Cadet Aaron Herpin.
FLORIDA DEALER CAUGHT TAKING UNREPORTED FISH OUT OF STATE
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division
Special Investigative Unit has identified thousands of pounds of finfish
shipped out of Louisiana without being reported to LDWF as required by law.
The unit, working under a joint enforcement agreement with the National
Marine Fisheries Service initiated the investigation.
On August 6, agents cited Terrance Greg Abrams, 46, of Panama City, Florida,
owner of Greg Abrams Seafood, with 12 counts of failing to report commercial
fisheries data on over 240,000 pounds of fish landed in Louisiana then
transported to Florida for resale. The citations were filed in East Baton
Rouge Parish. Included in the unreported fish were over 150,000 pounds of
red snapper. The violations were for fish taken and transported out of
state from January through June of this year.
Information from reported fishery-landing records is used by LDWF to manage
the state's fisheries resources. Accurate information is essential to the
process. Many commercial species seasons are based on commercial quotas and
reported landings are used to determine when quotas are reached to prevent
over fishing.
Each count of failure to report commercial fisheries data carries a fine of
up to $500, up to 90 days in jail, or both, plus court costs.
Agents participating in the investigation were Sgt. Jay Diez, Senior Agent
Billy Gomillion and Agent Joel Cromp.
SUSPECTED GAME FISH VIOLATORS CITED IN LASALLE PARISH
Two Catahoula Parish men were cited on July 30 for alleged game fish
violations. Robert G. Huffman, 44, and Curtis R. Coleman, 42, both of
Jonesville were cited for the violations.
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents
watched as Huffman and Coleman raised a hoop net from a boat. Crappie,
fresh water game fish, were in the net. The crappie were dumped into the boat
and not returned to the water as required by Louisiana law. Upon approaching
Huffman and Coleman's boat, the agents found 93 crappie. The fish were
released and the hoop net was seized as evidence.
Coleman and Huffman were both cited for taking game fish illegally. Coleman
was also cited for not having a recreational gear license.
Taking game fish illegally carries a fine of up to $750, imprisonment for
not more than 120 days, or both, plus court costs and forfeiture of anything
seized. No recreational gear license carries a fine of $50 or jail for not
more than 15 days for the first offense.
Agents participating in the case were Sgt. Brian McDowell, and Sr. Agent
Brandon Miller.
SERGEANT TODD LAVIOLETTE NAMED WILDLIFE
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Sergeant Todd
Laviolette has been named the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
Enforcement Agent of the Year. His selection was announced at the 2004
Louisiana Wildlife Agents Association Conference on July 31 in Houma.
Colonel Winton Vidrine, Law Enforcement Division Administrator, cited Sgt.
Laviolette's 14 years of hard work and dedication as a wildlife enforcement
agent and his participation in teaching boating safety and hunter education
classes, while presenting the award.
Sgt. Laviolette also serves as the Region VIII evidence custodian and is a
member of the Wildlife Enforcement Dive Team, while maintaining a
substantial caseload. He is very knowledgeable about his patrol area
and conservation laws and regulations.
Todd and his wife Angelle reside in Chalmette with their two children,
Justin and Casey. He will attend the Southeastern Association of Fish
and Wildlife Agencies Conference this fall in South Carolina, representing
Louisiana.
Other wildlife enforcement agents nominated for agent of the year honors
were Region I Sgt. Patrick Staggs of Mt. Olive; Region II Jamey Hagan of Oak
Grove; Region III Senior Agent Travis Burnett of Glenmora; Region IV Senior
Agent Charles Ward of Monterey; Region V Sgt. David Liles of Kipling; Region
VI Senior Agent Cliff Ortis of Oscar; Region VII Senior Agent Toby Miller of
Kentwood; Region IX Sgt. Max Dupre of Thibodaux; Headquarters Sgt. Bryan
Marie of Houma and Region X Senior Agent David Nunez of Metairie.
LOUISIANA
SHRIMPERS, SHRIMP VESSEL OWNERS Louisiana shrimpers, shrimp vessel owners and shrimp dealers will soon receive a packet of information including a letter from Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Secretary Dwight Landreneau explaining the importance of demonstrating public support for the shrimp anti-dumping suit to the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC). Along with the letter, shrimpers, vessel owners and buyers will receive a petition form addressed to the Secretary of the USITC. Before the USITC publishes its final determination concerning the anti-dumping suit, those individuals who have not
already demonstrated public support for the trade action by submitting letter to the USITC. In order to qualify for standing as an affected domestic producer and be considered eligible to potentially receive monies resulting from the imposition of anti-dumping duties, the USITC must receive public statements of support from those wishing to participate.
The "Continued Dumping and Subsidy Offset Act" known as the "Byrd Amendment" allows distribution of anti-dumping and countervailing duties to qualified individuals or businesses that have qualifying expenses. Under the Byrd Amendment, monies generated from the collection of duties will be distributed to qualified individuals or businesses for qualified expenses incurred in future but not past years. A statement of public support alone does not guarantee that one will receive any money, however, it does demonstrate the shrimp industry's unity in support of the trade action. At some later date, the U.S. Customs Service (USCS) will require more Detailed information from claimants in order to be certified as an affected domestic producer. The Commissioner of the USCS makes the final determination as to who is eligible to receive funds and the amounts to be distributed based upon one's future qualifying expenses. Upon final determination of the dumping margins to be used in calculating the assessment of duties to be imposed against those countries targeted in the trade action, the USITC will have identified those individuals and businesses qualified as affected domestic producers.
In addition to Secretary Landreneau's letter and the USITC petition form is a list of Louisiana shrimp industry and community development organizations along with contact information that have agreed to provide assistance to those individuals upon request. For convenience, the LDWF has also provided a self-addressed return envelope for use in submitting letters of support to the Secretary of the USITC. Interested individuals or businesses that do not receive these packets may also contact LDWF offices in Baton Rouge, Slidell, New Orleans, Bourg, New Iberia or Lake Charles for additional form letters or assistance. Form letters and contact information for Louisiana shrimp industry and community development organizations will also be available on the Department's website at http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/apps/netgear/page1.asp under News & Events.
The anti-dumping suit, filed on December 31, 2003 by the SSA seeks to stop the illegal dumping of certain foreign shrimp from Brazil, China, Ecuador, India, Thailand and Vietnam by placing tariffs on these shrimp. Last month, the United States Department of Commerce (USDOC) issued preliminary determinations imposing anti-dumping duties against these countries. Final determinations of the antidumping duty investigation are expected to be made by the USDOC before mid-December. It is also anticipated that the USITC will publish its final injury determinations in mid-January, 2005.
There is every reason to believe that Brazil, China, Ecuador, India, Thailand and Vietnam have been dumping shrimp into U.S. markets at less than fair value and the state fully supports the anti-dumping suit sponsored by the Southern Shrimp Alliance (SSA). In an effort to halt illegal shrimp dumping practices, Governor Blanco has authorized the use of $350,000 in federal grant funds (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/U.S. Department of Commerce Award No. NA03NMF4520310) in support of this trade action. The State Attorney General's Office has assisted in these efforts by developing a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement between the Secretary of the LDWF and the SSA for the transfer of these funds and the Attorney General's office will be closely monitoring the case in order to look after the interests of the Louisiana shrimp industry. Additionally, the legislature has enacted Act 904, which will raise and dedicate over $525,000 to help pay legal fees. Through Executive Order (KBB 2004-05), the Louisiana Wild Caught Shrimp Industry Trade Action Advisory Council has been established in order to explore and develop additional funding sources to support the trade action.
Governor Blanco and Secretary Landreneau are deeply concerned about the effects that cheap foreign shrimp imports have had on the economic welfare of shrimpers and businesses and are committed to securing the maximum extent of relief available under the law for every Louisiana shrimper, vessel owner and business.
COMMERCIAL FISHING FOR LARGE COASTAL SHARKS TO CLOSE IN LA. WATERS Commercial fishing for large coastal sharks, as defined by Louisiana rule (L.A.C. 76:VII.357), will close in Louisiana waters at 11:30 p.m. on August 15, 2004, and the closure will remain in effect until January 1, 2005. Federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico will also be closed for commercial harvest of large coastal sharks during the same time period.
Effective with the closure, all commercial harvest, possession, purchase, exchange, barter, trade, sale or attempt to purchase, exchange, barter, trade or sell large coastal sharks or their fins is prohibited through January 1, 2005.
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Secretary Dwight Landreneau made the decision, as authorized by the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. Mr. Landreneau acted following notification by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) that the federal waters adjacent to Louisiana waters will be closed on that date.
NMFS determined that the large coastal shark commercial fishery quota for the second semiannual fishing season has been reached or is projected to be reached and action is necessary to ensure that the semiannual quota for large coastal sharks for the period July 1 through December 31, 2004, in the Gulf of Mexico is not exceeded.
UNREPORTED CRABS AND FISH DISCOVERED The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Special Investigative Unit cited the owner of Creek Company, a seafood dealership in St. Tammany Parish on July 22 for records and reporting violations. The investigation revealed over 70,000 pounds of live crabs, over 80 dozen soft shell crabs and 100 pounds of flounder, valued at over $80,000, were allegedly purchased and not reported since January of this year. State law requires reporting to LDWF all seafood transactions. Leverett J. Estain, Sr., 51, of Slidell, was cited for 168 counts of failure to maintain records and six counts of failure to report commercial fishery data.
LDWF uses fishery purchases and fishery data reports to adequately protect and manage Louisiana's fisheries resources.
The penalty for each violation is a fine of up to $500, up to 90 days in jail, or both, plus court costs for each count.
Senior Agent James Gomillion handled the investigation.
CAMERON MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO FRAUDULENT SHRIMP SALES Ray Paul McDaniel, 37, owner of Fresh American Shrimp in Cameron, pled guilty on June 29th in the 38th Judicial District Court in Cameron Parish to several charges stemming from a Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division investigation into the fraudulent sale of shrimp. Judge Ward Fontenot accepted the plea.
Judge Fontenot sentenced McDaniel to pay a total of $1829 in restitution, $2100 in fines, and $1032.50 in court costs. McDaniel was also sentenced to 30 months of jail time, which was suspended. He was placed on two years of supervised probation. McDaniel must return on October 12 for a probation review.
McDaniel has been cited on several occasions during the past year for violations including misdemeanor theft, two counts of theft by fraud, two counts of theft of goods, two counts of sale of commercial seafood without a wholesale-retail dealers license, and six counts of failing to maintain records. McDaniel was accused in several incidents of selling shrimp which were unfit for consumption from his Cameron Parish business.
Agents involved in the case were Lieutenants Glenn Angelle, Jesse Savoie, and Larry Breaux; Sergeant Remy Broussard; and Senior Agents Kane Thomas, Chris Harp, Jim Matkin, and David Liles.
GOVERNOR APPOINTS ASSISTANT SECRETARY AT WILDLIFE & FISHERIES BATON ROUGE - Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco has appointed W. Parke Moore, III, as the Assistant Secretary for the Office of Wildlife at the Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries.
"Parke Moore's educational and professional background have served the state well in previous managerial positions at two different agencies," said Blanco. "He will provide the same steady leadership in an administrative role at Wildlife & Fisheries."
Moore brings nine years of state service to the agency, serving most recently as manager of Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site for the Office of State Parks. His 14 years in the private sector included management positions for environmental consulting firms and staff biologist project support at Howard, Needles, Tammen & Bergendoff (HNTB).
Moore, a graduate of Louisiana State University (Baton Rouge), earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Forestry (1977) and a Master of Science Degree in Wildlife Management (1981). He earned certifications from The Wildlife Society as a Wildlife Biologist and The Institute for Hazardous Materials Management as a Hazardous Materials Manager. A U.S. Navy veteran, Moore served six years as an operator and instructor specializing in nuclear submarine power plants, participating in two North Atlantic patrols aboard the USS Von Steuben.
2004 LOUISIANA FALL SHRIMP SEASON OPENS IN ZONES 1 AND 3 The fall inshore shrimp season will open in Shrimp Management Zone 1 at official sunrise Monday, August 16, 2004 and in Shrimp Management Zone 3 at official sunrise Monday August 9, 2004. The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission approved the season dates at its August 5 meeting, based upon recommendations presented by Marine Fisheries Division staff.
The closing date set by the commission for Zones 1 and 3 is official sunset Tuesday December 21, 2004 except for the open waters of Breton and Chandeleur Sounds as described in the menhaden rule (LAC 76:VII.307D) which will remain open until 6:00 a.m. March 31, 2005.
Zone 1 includes Louisiana waters from the Mississippi-Louisiana state line to the eastern shore of South Pass of the Mississippi River. Zone 3 extends from the western shore of Vermilion Bay and Southwest Pass at Marsh Island to the Louisiana-Texas state line.
Acting on authority provided to Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Secretary Dwight Landreneau at the July 1 commission meeting, the Department Secretary opened Zone 2, that portion of Louisiana waters from the eastern shore of South Pass of the Mississippi River to the western shore of Vermilion Bay on August 2, 2004 at official sunrise. Zone 2 will also close to shrimping at official sunset December 21, 2004.
The commission also authorized Secretary Landreneau to change the closing dates of the 2004 fall shrimp season if biological and technical data indicate a need to do so or if enforcement problems develop and to close all or parts of state inside and outside waters if significant numbers of small white shrimp are found in these waters.
According to LDWF trip ticket report data, Louisiana commercial white shrimp landings in 2003 totaled approximately 63.8 million pounds (heads-on weight), the third highest white shrimp landings year on record, and were valued at $82.4 million.
L.W.F.C. SETS TENTATIVE MIGRATORY WATERFOWL SEASONS The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission voted to tentatively adopt proposed season dates, bag limits and shooting hours for the 2004-05 migratory waterfowl season. The dates will be ratified by a declaration of emergency from the commission unless the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service mandates radical changes. Robert Helm, a biologist from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, presented the proposed dates to the commission.
A 60 day season was adopted for ducks and coots, except pintails and canvasbacks. In the West Zone, the first split will open on November 13 and close on December 5. The second split will open on December 18 and run until January 23. In the East Zone, the first split will go from November 20 to December 5. The second split will last from December 18 until January 30.
Pintail season in the west zone will begin from November 13-21 then pick up again from December 18 to January 7; east zone dates are November 20-28 and December 18 to January 7. Canvasback season is December 18 through January 16 statewide.
Youth waterfowl weekend in the west zone is November 6-7 and in the east zone November 13-14.
The daily bag limit on ducks is six and may include no more than four mallards (no more than two of which may be females), three mottled ducks, one black duck, two wood ducks, three scaup and two redheads. During the pintail and canvasback seasons, the daily bag limit is one. The daily bag limit on coots is 15. In addition to the daily bag limit for ducks, the daily bag limit for mergansers is five, only one of which may be a hooded merganser. The possession limit on ducks, coots and mergansers is twice the daily bag limit.
Light geese and white-fronted geese will have an 86-day statewide season. The first split will open on November 6 and close on December 5. The second split will open December 18 and close on February 11. The daily bag limit on light geese is 20, with no possession limit. The daily limit on white-fronted geese is two, with a possession limit of four.
The Statewide Conservation Order for Light Geese will open on December 6, and the first split will close on December 17. The second split will open on February 12 and close on March 13. During this time, only snow, blue and Ross' geese may be taken and daily bag and possession limits are eliminated. The use of electronic calls and unplugged shotguns is permitted. Shooting hours during the order begin one-half hour before sunrise and extend until one-half hour after sunset.
The special-permit-required Canada Goose season will be January 15-23 in all of Louisiana, except for a small area in southwest Louisiana. The daily limit for Canada Geese is one and the possession limit is two. The special $5 permit may be obtained from any license vendor.
Rails may be taken November 13 to January 12. For King and Clapper rails, the daily limit is 15 in the aggregate, with a possession limit of 30. For Sora and Virginia rails, the daily and possession limit is 25 in the aggregate.
Gallinule season will open on November 13 and close on January 12. Daily bag limit is 15 and possession limit is 30.
Snipe may be taken November 6 to February 20. The bag limit is 8 and the possession limit is 16.
Shooting hours for migratory bird hunting, except for the Conservation Order, are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset, except at the Spanish Lake Recreation Area in Iberia Parish where shooting hours, including the Conservation Order, end at 2 p.m.
COMMISSION ADJUSTS DOVE SEASON DATES The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission voted to adjust the season dates for mourning doves in Louisiana. A declaration of emergency effectuated by the Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will ratify the tentative dates.
The dates for the 70-day split season are as follows: the first split opens on Sept. 4 and closes on Sept. 12; the second split opens on Oct. 9 and closes on Nov. 14; and the third split opens on Dec. 18 and closes on Jan. 10. There is a 12-bird aggregate daily bag limit and a 24-bird aggregate possession limit.
COMMERCIAL FISHING FOR DEEP-WATER GROUPER CLOSES IN LOUISIANA WATERS The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission passed a declaration of emergency at their August 5 meeting to close the commercial fishery for the deep-water grouper (misty, snowy, yellowedge, Warsaw grouper, and speckled hind), as requested by the National Marine Fisheries Service. NMFS and the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council requested consistent regulations for Louisiana waters to enhance effectiveness and enforceability of regulations.
Regulations for the deep-water grouper fishery in the Gulf of Mexico include a commercial quota. Based on reported landings, the National Marine Fisheries Service closed the deep-water grouper commercial fishery in Federal waters off Louisiana, and requested that the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enact compatible rules.
At its August 5 meeting, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission closed the commercial season for deep-water groupers in Louisiana waters from 12 noon on August 8, 2004 until 12:01 a.m. January 1, 2005.
The commission also authorized LDWF Secretary Dwight Landreneau to change or modify opening and closing dates for commercial deep-water grouper seasons in Louisiana waters to comply with changes or modifications in season dates in federal waters. The commission's actions ensure that regulations in state waters will mirror regulations of the National Marine Fisheries Service for federally managed waters.
AREA SIX DEER SEASON DATES RE-SET The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission voted to accept a declaration of emergency to adjust the Area 6 deer hunting season dates. The new dates reflect the original recommendations of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries staff. Because the action was taken as a declaration of emergency, the new dates will go into effect this hunting season.
The dates approved by the commission are as follows: Modern Firearms Still Hunt, November 20 through December 5; and Muzzleloader, December 6 through December 10.
Deer hunting Area 6 is located in central Louisiana. It consists of Ascension, Assumption, Iberville, Jefferson, Lafourche, Plaquemines, Pointe Coupee, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. James, St. John, St. Martin and West Baton Rouge parishes. It also includes portions of Avoyelles, Evangeline, Iberia, Lafayette, Livingston, Rapides, St. Landry, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Terrebonne and West Feliciana parishes.
L.W.F.C. SETS 2004-2005 OYSTER SEASONS Opening and closing dates for the 2004-05 oyster season on the public grounds were set at the August 5, 2004 meeting of the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission.
The oyster season in the Vermilion Bay Public Oyster Seed Ground as described in LAC 76:VII.507 and LAC 76:VII.509 will open one-half hour before sunrise on September 8, 2004 and close one-half hour after sunset on April 1, 2005.
The oyster season in the Bay Gardene Public Oyster Seed Reservation will open one-half hour before sunrise on September 15, 2004 and will close one-half hour after sunset on April 1, 2005.
The oyster season in the primary public seed grounds east of the Mississippi River bordered on the north by the Louisiana/Mississippi state line and on the south by the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet, including that portion of Lake Borgne as described in LAC 76:VII.513, will open one-half hour before sunrise on October 1, 2004 and close one-half hour after sunset on April 30, 2005.
The oyster season in the primary public seed grounds east of the Mississippi River bordered on the north by the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet and on the south by the Mississippi River and North Pass, including the sacking only area of the public grounds which is generally Lake Fortuna and Lake Machias to a line from Mozambique Point to Point Gardner to Grace Point at the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet will open one-half hour before sunrise on October 1, 2004 and close one-half hour after sunset on April 1, 2005.
The oyster season in the Bay Junop Public Oyster Seed Reservation will open one-half hour before sunrise on October 1, 2004 and will close one-half hour after sunset on October 10, 2004.
The oyster season in the Lake Mechant Public Oyster Seed Grounds as described in LAC 76:VII.517, with the exception of the 2004 cultch plant within the following corners: 1) latitude 29 degrees 18 minutes and 45.106 seconds north and longitude 90 degrees 56 minutes 54.820 seconds west, 2) latitude 29 degrees 18 minutes 26.090 seconds north and longitude 90 degrees 56 minutes 55.329 seconds west, 3) latitude 29 degrees 18 minutes 25.879 seconds north and longitude 90 degrees 56 minutes 45.090 west, and 4) latitude 29 degrees 18 minutes 44.895 seconds north and longitude 90 degrees 56 minutes 44.580 seconds west, will open one-half hour before sunrise on October 11, 2004 and close one-half hour after sunset on October 31, 2004.
The oyster season for the Calcasieu Lake public oyster ground will open one-half hour before sunrise on October 15, 2004 and will remain open until one-half hour after sunset on April 30, 2005. However, these conservation actions will not supercede public health closures.
The following areas will remain closed for the 2004/2005 oyster season: the Hackberry Bay Public Oyster Seed Reservation, the Sister Lake Public Oyster Seed Reservation, the Public Oyster Seed Grounds located in portions of Lake Tambour, Lake Chien, Lake Felicity, Deep Lake, and Barataria Bay (as described in LAC 76:VII.517) and the Sabine Lake Public Oyster Tonging Area.
The commission authorized Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries' Secretary Dwight Landreneau to take emergency action to close areas if oyster mortalities are occurring or to delay the season or close areas where significant spat catch has occurred with good probability of survival, or where it is found that there are excessive amounts of shell in seed oyster loads and the reef is being adversely impacted, or if enforcement problems are encountered. The secretary is also authorized to take emergency action to reopen areas previously closed if the threat to the resource has ended and to open areas if significant oyster resources are located. Public notice of any opening, delay or closure of a season will be provided at least 72 hours prior to such action, unless such closure is ordered by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals for public health concerns.
L.W.F.C. SETS PERMANENT OPENING DATE FOR ALLIGATOR SEASON The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission accepted a notice of intent to set a permanent opening date for the wild alligator season in Louisiana. The commission voted unanimously at its August 6 meeting to set the opening date as the first Wednesday of September. The season is to remain open for 30 days thereafter.
Noel Kinler, program manager for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, presented the resolution to the commission. According to the notice, "historical and current information collected by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries have indicated that the optimum time frame for the harvest of alligators is the month of September."
The commission set the opening of the 2004 wild alligator harvest season at its July meeting. This year's season will open on September 1, the first Wednesday of the month.
TURKEY HUNTING SEASONS PROPOSED The season dates for the 2005 Turkey Hunting Season were proposed to the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission at their August 5 meeting. Fred Kimmel, program manager for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, presented the notice of intent to the commission that contained the proposed dates, limits and regulations.
The suggested statewide opening date is March 25. The season in Area A would extend to April 24, Area B to April 17, and Area C to April 3. These are basic calendar adjustments from last year's framework. The daily bag limit is one gobbler, and the season limit is two gobblers.
Some realigning of area boundaries was included in the proposal. Caldwell Parish, west of Ouachita River southward to Catahoula Parish line, will be included in Area A. The Area A portion of Catahoula Parish will include the area west of Ouachita River and southward to LA 559 at Duty Ferry, north of LA 559 to LA 124, south and west of LA 124 from Duty Ferry to LA 8 at Harrisonburg and north and west of LA 8 to LaSalle Parish line and that portion lying east of LA 15. In Madison Parish, that portion of land lying east of US 65 from East Carroll Parish line to US 80 and south of US 80, and the lands east of the main channel of the Mississippi River will be included in Area A. All of Ascension and Iberville parishes east of the Mississippi River will be moved into Area B. Madison Parish will be removed from Area B. In Franklin Parish, the land east of Turkey Creek Lake, Turkey Creek and Boeuf River, north of Deer Creek, west of LA 15 and south of LA 562 will be included in Area C.
The notice of intent will be subject to a public comment period before being ratified by the commission.
NEW PUBLIC BOAT LAUNCH TO OPEN AUG. 10 AT POINTE-AUX-CHENES W.M.A. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will open a new public boat launch area within the Pointe-Aux-Chenes Wildlife Management Area on Tuesday, Aug. 10 following a ribbon cutting ceremony at 10 a.m.
The facility, over a third of a mile in length, will provide parking for 200 vehicles within a designated area aligned with La. 665 and Bayou Pointe Au Chene. Two, dual-lane launches were constructed at each end of the parking area. The northernmost launch provides access to the St. Louis Canal with the south end ramp providing access into the marsh on the east side of La. 665. Project construction included a bridge across Bayou Pointe Au Chene.
The $900,000 project costs were paid for with federal Coastal Impact Assistance Program funds totaling $685,000 and a Rockefeller Refuge Fund allocation of $215,000. Lowland Construction Company of Thibodaux was the project contractor.
The public facility is designed to provide easy access to the WMA and to eliminate highway congestion caused by outdoorsmen launching boats directly from the highway shoulder.
To reach the launch area from Houma, take La. 24 south to La. 55, turning left at La. 665. Continue to the bridge across Bayou Pointe Au Chene that is approximately one-half mile south of the Pointe-Aux-Chenes Wildlife Management Area headquarters on La. 665.
2004 WHITE LAKE PRESERVE TEAL SEASON LOTTERY ANNOUNCED The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is accepting applications for lottery teal hunts on White Lake Preserve. Up to two applications per hunter for up to two single, separate dates will be accepted.
Submission of more than one application per hunting date or more than two applications for the season will result in disqualification of the applicant. Available dates are Saturday, Sept. 18; Sunday, Sept. 19; Tuesday, Sept. 21; Thursday, Sept. 23; and Sunday, Sept. 26.
Persons 18 years of age or older may now send applications, available on the LDWF website (www.wlf.louisiana.gov) and at LDWF headquarters and regional offices, to the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Attention: White Lake Teal Hunt, P.O. Box 98000, Baton Rouge, LA 70898. Applications must be received by close of business on August 26, 2004. A $5 administration fee in the form of a check or money order payable to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries must accompany each application. Applications without a correct driver's license number will not be processed.
Successful applicants will be allowed to bring no more than one guest. All hunters must have appropriate licenses, including a basic hunting license (or Louisiana Sportsman's Paradise license), migratory waterfowl conservation license, federal duck stamp, and HIP permit.
Successful applicants will be notified and required to submit an additional check or money order for $200. In the event that a hunter is unable to participate on the date selected, he may transfer his permit to a qualified hunter of his choice, as long as the total number of hunts does not exceed two for the 2004 teal season. Transfers must be in writing and presented to the Hunt Coordinator on the morning of the hunt. Questions regarding the White Lake Preserve lottery teal hunt should be directed to Wayne Sweeny at (337)479-1894. |