DNR Official Recommends Against Bobcat Trapping, Other Rule Changes

The Indiana Natural Resources Commission is expected to vote on the proposals Tuesday.

Photo by Don DeBold, Wikipedia.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) - A proposal to create a hunting season for bobcats in Indiana should be revised, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources’ chief administrative law judge has determined.

Bobcats were removed from Indiana’s endangered species list in 2005 after nearly 50 years of protection. Earlier this year, the DNR proposed the reintroduction of bobcat hunting and trapping in southern Indiana counties in 2019. The season with a bag limit of one bobcat per licensed hunter would run from November 8 through January 31.

Another proposal would require animal control workers to kill raccoons, opossums, or coyotes when they are captured.

However, both of the proposed rules changes have received sizable opposition. More than 200 people have attended meetings to speak against them. 2,000-plus comments have been submitted online.

DNR chief administrative law judge Sandra Jensen said in a report that the proposals are minimal and don't fully address the public's concerns.

The Indiana Natural Resources Commission is expected to vote on the proposals Tuesday, May 15.

In a FAQ about the proposed bobcat hunting season, the DNR says “A limited, highly regulated season will allow those with interest the opportunity to hunt or trap bobcats. This season will not jeopardize bobcat populations in Indiana. It will be closely regulated to still allow the bobcat population to thrive.”

More from Local News


Events

Randall Equipment Company Celebrates Grand Opening

Find high-quality lawn equipment in Dillsboro.

East Central Drama Club Presents Finding Nemo Jr. This Weekend

More than 100 students K-12 will perform three shows.

Harrison HS Track Stars to Compete on National Stage

Adidas and New Balance will host respective national events this week.

Lawrenceburg Girls Soccer Wins Team of the Year Award

The Tigers were recognized at the Cincinnati Enquirer High School Sports Awards on Wednesday.

First of Six SIRC Races Happens June 28 in Rushville

The summer road racing series supports area high school cross country programs.

On Air

Eagle Country 99.3 playing
Miranda Lambert - The House That Built Me

Thomas Rhett Beer Can't Fix 12:25
Tim McGraw Just To See You Smile 12:21
Terri Clark When Boy Meets Girl 12:18
Rodney Atkins Farmer's Daughter 12:14