The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking public input on migratory bird hunting season frameworks for the years 2026-2030. Comments can be submitted through various formats (an online comment tool, email or at any of the public hearings) through March 6, 2026.

Historically, waterfowl and migratory bird season frameworks were developed on an annual basis. However, with near-unanimous support from conservation organizations and the public, a new process was developed to set season structures for multiple years at a time. This year is the first time the DNR is doing so.

An online public input form and supporting information are available on the DNR’s Waterfowl Hunting webpage for those interested in submitting comments electronically. Anyone interested in Wisconsin’s migratory bird hunting seasons is encouraged to provide feedback.

Individuals may also submit comments via email to Taylor Finger, DNR gamebird specialist, at Taylor.Finger@wisconsin.gov or Alissa Kakatsch, DNR assistant gamebird specialist, at Alissa.Kakatsch@wisconsin.gov. Comments will be accepted through 11:59 p.m. Friday, March 6, 2026.

The final way people can submit feedback is at one of four public hearings. Three of the public hearings are in-person meetings on March 2, 3 and 5, and the fourth is a virtual session on March 4. After public comments have been collected, a final season structure will go to the Natural Resources Board for approval.

PUBLIC HEARINGS DETAILS

Public Hearing #1
What: 2026–2030 Migratory Bird Hunting Season Public Hearing – La Crosse
When: Monday, March 2, from 7-9 p.m.
Where: DNR Service Center
Rooms B-19 and B-20
3550 Mormon Coulee Rd.
La Crosse, WI 54601

Public Hearing #2
What: 2026–2030 Migratory Bird Hunting Season Public Hearing – Rice Lake
When: Tuesday, March 3, from 7-9 p.m.
Where: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rice Lake
The Knapp Room
824 Bear Paw Ave.
Rice Lake, WI 54868

Public Hearing #3
What: 2026–2030 Migratory Bird Hunting Season Public Hearing – Virtual
When: Wednesday, March 4, from 7-9 p.m.
Where: Virtual via Zoom. Registration is required.

Public Hearing #4
What: 2026–2030 Migratory Bird Hunting Season Public Hearing – Appleton
When: Thursday, March 5, from 7-9 p.m.
Where: Fox Valley Technical College
D.J. Bordini Center, Room BC112A
5 N. Systems Dr.
Appleton, WI 54914

Photo Credit: WI DNR

Published on: Feb 20, 2026 at 10:12 am