ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is considering a big change in the black bear hunting season.
The agency said Monday it may eliminate the quota system that has dictated the length of each season since bear hunting resumed in 2004 after a 51-year ban.
Instead, the season would be of a predetermined length. That's how hunting seasons for other species are run.
The proposal will be considered at stakeholders meeting in Owings Mills on Feb. 12.
The department says the change would enable hunters to plan better. Under the quota system, they've had to call a hotline each night to learn whether the season has ended.
The DNR set a quota for last year's hunt of 95 to 130 bears. It ended the season at 94.
