Wisconsin DNR asks public to weigh in on framework of 2026-31 duck seasons

Madison — Duck hunters may comment on the 2026-31 season framework through March 30 as the Wisconsin DNR works through a series of public meetings during the agency’s season-setting process.

Under a relatively new format, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) allows states to review and change the zones and splits for their duck seasons every five years, instead of doing so annually. As part of that process, the DNR will host meetings to present information on the agency’s proposed zones and splits for the 2026-2031 duck seasons. The public may attend those meetings or provide online feedback. Comments may also be submitted through email or mail.

Meetings

There will be three in-person meetings – La Crosse, Rice Lake, and Appleton – and one virtual meeting. All meetings – virtual, too – start at 7 p.m.

The La Crosse meeting is set for Monday, March 17, at the DNR’s La Crosse office at 3550 Mormon Coulee Road.

The Rice Lake meeting is set for Tuesday, March 18, at the AmeriVu Inn and Suites, 1710 S. Main Street.

The Appleton meeting is set for Wednesday, March 20, at the Fox Valley Technical College at 1825 North Bluemound Drive in Room B124. Use entrance 12 and park in the west lot.

The virtual session is set to run Wednesday, March 19. Duck hunters may join the Zoom meeting through links posted on the DNR web site.

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Comment

Public feedback on the proposed seasons zones and splits must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, March 30. Comments may also be submitted during the three meetings, and at any time prior to the March 30 deadline.

Hunters may send written comments to: Wisconsin DNR, C/O Taylor Finger or Alissa Kakatsch, Bureau of Wildlife Management, 101 S. Webster St., P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707, or email to taylor.finger@wisconsin.gov or alissa.kakatsch@wisconsin.gov.

The DNR has posted proposed 2026-31 duck season zones and splits options on its waterfowl hunting webpage.