CDFW Newshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/NewsCDFW to Conduct Helicopter Surveys to Monitor Big Game Populations, Inform Hunting Regulationshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/cdfw-to-conduct-helicopter-surveys-to-monitor-big-game-populations-inform-hunting-regulationsWildlife HealthThu, 08 Feb 2024 16:34:52 GMTCDFW is initiating annual helicopter surveys to inventory and monitor mule deer, elk, pronghorn antelope and bighorn sheep populations throughout the state. Flights will be conducted in portions of Solano, Mendocino, Siskiyou, Modoc, Lassen, Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside counties during February and March 2024.<p>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is initiating annual helicopter surveys to inventory and monitor mule deer, elk, pronghorn antelope and bighorn sheep populations throughout the state. Flights will be conducted in portions of Solano, Mendocino, Siskiyou, Modoc, Lassen, Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside counties during February and March 2024.</p> <p>CDFW utilizes a variety of survey methods to regularly monitor big game population size, distribution, demographics and trends over time. In more forested environments, CDFW employs the use of trail cameras and fecal DNA. In more open habitats, aerial surveys provide an efficient and rapid method of data collection, affording CDFW biologists the ability to cover larger areas in relatively shorter time periods.</p> <p>CDFW scientists use the survey data in statistical models to estimate the total population size of each species in different hunt zones or management units. This information helps wildlife managers better understand population performance relative to a variety of factors including climate change, habitat quality, human-wildlife conflict and habitat fragmentation, among others. Results are also used to make regulated harvest recommendations to the California Fish and Game Commission, which is the state regulatory authority that adopts tag quotas, hunting seasons and zone boundaries.</p> <p>These efforts are important for managing California’s wildlife populations and are especially critical due to recent harsh winter conditions that may have had negative impacts on population numbers.</p> <p>Big game hunters and other members of the public are encouraged to participate in the commission’s annual regulatory cycles. Information regarding upcoming meetings, including dates, locations, background documents and virtual meeting links are available at the <a href="https://fgc.ca.gov/Meetings/2024" target="_blank">California Fish and Game Commission website</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Thomas.Batter@wildlife.ca.gov">Dr. Tom Batter</a>, Wildlife Branch, (916) 215-5330<br /> <a href="mailto:Peter.Tira@wildlife.ca.gov">Peter Tira</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 215-3858</em></p> California Fish and Game Commission Holds Hybrid Meetinghttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/california-fish-and-game-commission-holds-hybrid-meeting9FGCMon, 18 Dec 2023 18:08:28 GMTAt its December meeting, the California Fish and Game Commission acted on several issues affecting California’s natural resources. The following are just a few items of interest from this month’s meeting held in San Diego, with an option for the public to join via Zoom. The Commission authorized publication of notice of its intent to amend regulations for waterfowl and big game hunting, including bighorn sheep, elk and deer.<p>At its December meeting, the California Fish and Game Commission acted on several issues affecting California’s natural resources. The following are just a few items of interest from this month’s meeting held in San Diego, with an option for the public to join via Zoom.</p> <p>The Commission authorized publication of notice of its intent to amend regulations for waterfowl and big game hunting, including bighorn sheep, elk and deer.</p> <p>The Commission unanimously approved the strategies recommended by its Wildlife Resources Committee (WRC) to address American bullfrog and non-native turtles found in California. Commission staff will work with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) on implementing the eight recommended strategies, including any regulatory proposals.</p> <p>The Commission voted unanimously to adopt proposed amendments to regulations regarding incidental take authorization for work on pre-existing artificial structures within state marine protected areas and marine managed areas.</p> <p>The Commission voted unanimously to adopt the 90-day extension of emergency regulations for California halibut recreational daily bag and possession limits.</p> <p>The Commission authorized publication of notice of its intent to amend recreational fishing regulations for federal groundfish in state waters for consistency with federal rules in 2024, and recreational groundfish seasons, bag and depth limits.</p> <p>Commission President Eric Sklar and Vice President Erika Zavaleta participated in the full meeting, Commissioner Jacque Hostler-Carmesin participated the first day and most of the second day, and Commissioner Samantha Murray participated the second day; all commissioners were in San Diego for the meeting. There is currently one vacancy on the Commission.</p> <p>The agenda for this meeting, along with supporting information, is available on the <a href="https://fgc.ca.gov/Meetings/2023" target="_blank">Commission website</a>. Archived <a href="https://cal-span.org/search/?q=fish+and+game+commission" target="_blank">video of past Commission meetings</a> is available online. The next meeting of the full Commission is scheduled for February 14-15, 2024, at the Natural Resources Headquarters Building in Sacramento and via Zoom.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contact:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:jordan.traverso@wildlife.ca.gov">Jordan Traverso</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 212-7352</em></p> CDFW Chooses Prominent Wildlife Species for its 2024 Warden Stamp Serieshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/cdfw-chooses-prominent-wildlife-species-for-its-2024-warden-stamp-seriesWarden StampThu, 14 Dec 2023 14:24:21 GMTFor the past 13 years CDFW has used the Warden Stamp Program to help enhance resources for its Law Enforcement Division. The stamp has become a collectors’ item for people of all walks of life, and a way for the public to show support for CDFW wardens and their continued work to maintain the balance of the state’s many plants and animal species. Since the Program’s inception in 2010, the Warden Stamp has featured species like black bear, tule elk, sturgeon, spiny lobster and a bald eagle, just to name a few. For 2024, the Warden Stamp will feature one of the state’s most visible and widespread wildlife species: the mule deer.<p>For the past 13 years the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has used the Warden Stamp Program to help enhance resources for its Law Enforcement Division. The stamp has become a collectors’ item for people of all walks of life, and a way for the public to show support for CDFW wardens and their continued work to maintain the balance of the state’s many plants and animal species. Since the Program’s inception in 2010, the Warden Stamp has featured species like black bear, tule elk, sturgeon, spiny lobster and a bald eagle, just to name a few. For 2024, the Warden Stamp will feature one of the state’s most visible and widespread wildlife species: the mule deer.</p> <p>“Species are selected for the Warden Stamp Program to represent California’s fish and wildlife populations and the people who support their conservation and management,” said Nathaniel Arnold, Acting Chief of the CDFW Law Enforcement Division. “The 2024 mule deer stamp symbolizes the important role this species plays in California’s wilderness landscape and their longstanding popularity with hunting and non-hunting Californians. The mule deer is the perfect addition to the Warden Stamp Program and its mission to support CDFW wildlife officers and their work.”</p> <p>The 2024 stamp can be purchased for $5 and features a digital rendition of a tan and white buck (male deer) created by CDFW staff member, Sarah Guerere. The stamp is its usual warden shield shape, with a deep forest green background featuring the official warden shield and year. To view an image of the 2024 Warden Stamp, please visit <a href="/warden-stamp">wildlife.ca.gov/warden-stamp</a>.</p> <p>The mule deer stamp, along with past stamps, are <a href="https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/internetsales/" target="_blank">available to purchase online</a>, for $5. To purchase the stamp, scroll to bottom of the page and click “Continue as Guest.” Then click on “2023 Warden Stamps” under the Menu tab. To add the mule deer stamp to your cart, click on the line that reads “Warden Stamp Decal - 2024 Edition” and follow prompts to check out.</p> <p>After you make your purchase, CDFW’s outreach team wants to hear and highlight the stories of the people who make this program a success. If you have a unique stamp story or want to share how or why you purchase a Warden Stamp each year, email <a href="mailto:Leticia.Palamidessi@wildlife.ca.gov">Leticia.Palamidessi@wildlife.ca.gov</a> for a chance to be highlighted in a future outreach campaign.</p> <p>Since 1871, CDFW’s wildlife officers (wardens) have been dedicated to being the department’s “boots on the ground” when it comes to protecting California’s valuable natural resources like the mule deer. The Warden Stamp Program was created to address the need for better equipment and training for wardens.</p> <p>Wildlife officers patrol on foot, by plane, boats, horseback and in a variety of vehicles. Although their objective of protecting California’s plants and animals remains the same, threats to native species are always evolving. From the growing threat of wildfires, drought and internet wildlife traffickers – CDFW’s wildlife officers continue their commitment to being stewards of the Golden State’s natural resources. Please continue to support wildlife officers and their mission by purchasing the 2024 Warden Stamp.</p> <p>Thank you for your support!</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong></em><br /> <em><a href="mailto:Patrick.Foy@wildlife.ca.gov">Capt. Patrick Foy</a>, CDFW Law Enforcement Division, (916) 508-7095<br /> <a href="mailto:Leticia.Palamidessi@wildlife.ca.gov">Leticia Palamidessi,</a> CDFW Outreach, (916) 708-8517</em></p> California Drivers Reminded to be Aware of Wildlife on Our Roadshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/california-drivers-reminded-to-be-aware-of-wildlife-on-our-roadsWildlifeFri, 03 Nov 2023 11:42:15 GMTIt’s that time of year when CDFW reminds drivers to be aware of wildlife on state roads and highways.<p>It’s that time of year when the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) reminds drivers to be aware of wildlife on state roads and highways.</p> <p>Every autumn, as Daylight Saving Time concludes, the number of vehicle-wildlife collisions on California roadways increases. As drivers adjust to less daylight during the evening commute during the first week of November, please understand this is also the time of year that deer, elk, bears and other animals are typically on the move for migration, mating or foraging.</p> <p>Collisions with wildlife can be dangerous and costly for drivers. Nearly 400 people were injured in more than two thousand collisions in 2019 involving wildlife, according to the California Highway Patrol. Also, the UC Davis Road Ecology Center estimates the total annual cost of animal-vehicle conflicts in California to be about $250 million.</p> <p>“Wildlife-vehicle collisions pose an increasingly significant threat to both people and wildlife and can result in serious injury or death. This time of year, large native species such as deer and elk are more likely to cross highways or roads during their mating season (rut), and black bears are on the search for food,” said Human-Wildlife Conflict Program Coordinator Vicky Monroe. “We ask drivers to remain cautious, vigilant, and aware of their surroundings while driving to help reduce this conflict."</p> <p>Learn more about CDFW’s efforts to <a href="/News/Archive/california-prioritizes-key-locations-to-improve-wildlife-connectivity?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery#gsc.tab=0">improve wildlife connectivity.</a></p> <p>Standard driving safety tips that also benefit wildlife include:</p> <ul> <li>Be extra alert when driving near areas wildlife frequent, such as streams and rivers, and reduce your speed especially around curves.</li> <li>Don't text and drive! Leave your phone alone; it can wait.</li> <li>Pay extra attention driving during the morning and evening hours when wildlife are often most active.</li> <li>If you see an animal on or near the road, know that others may be following.</li> <li>Don't litter. Trash and food odors can attract animals to roadways.</li> <li>Pay attention to road shoulders. Look for movement or reflecting eyes. Slow down and honk your horn if you see an animal on or near the road.</li> <li>Respect wildlife. California is their home too.</li> </ul> <p>CDFW thanks drivers for recognizing the importance of safe driving as daylight hours are reduced.</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contact:</strong></em><br /> <em><a href="mailto:tim.daly@wildlife.ca.gov">Tim Daly</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 201-2958</em></p> Nonprofits Encouraged to Apply for Fundraising Hunting Tagshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/nonprofits-encouraged-to-apply-for-fundraising-hunting-tags1HuntingMon, 09 Oct 2023 14:22:45 GMTCDFW invites nonprofit organizations to help fundraise for wildlife conservation and research by auctioning big game hunting license tags for the 2024-25 hunt season.<p>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) invites nonprofit organizations to help fundraise for wildlife conservation and research by auctioning big game hunting license tags for the 2024-25 hunt season.</p> <p>Proceeds from the sale of these tags are returned to CDFW to fund projects that benefit bighorn sheep, deer, elk and pronghorn antelope. Last year’s auctions raised more than $900,000 for the conservation and management of big game species. Past projects funded by the sale of these and other hunting tags have included crucial habitat conservation, post-wildfire forest restoration, wildlife population studies and the installation of artificial watering devices to support wildlife during drought conditions.</p> <p>Up to 18 tags will be reserved for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations to sell or auction. Nonprofit organizations compete through an application process for a chance to auction these special tags, which can only be purchased by members of the public through these auctions. The tags offer special hunting opportunities for deer, elk, pronghorn antelope and bighorn sheep. The application process is designed to ensure maximum proceeds are received from the tags to benefit wildlife.</p> <p>The availability of these tags for auction often boosts attendance and participation at nonprofit events, which can benefit a nonprofit’s own fundraising efforts.</p> <p>A call for applications and the required application form are available at <a href="/Licensing/Hunting/Fundraising">CDFW’s Fundraising with Big Game License Tags web page</a>. Applications must be received by 3 p.m. on Oct. 16, 2023.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Regina.Vu@wildlife.ca.gov">Regina Vu</a>, CDFW Wildlife Branch, (916) 516-2132<br /> <a href="mailto:Peter.Tira@wildlife.ca.gov">Peter Tira</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 215-3858</em></p>