ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources says it may change the way black bear hunts are managed to make planning easier for hunters.

The agency said Tuesday it's proposing to end the quota system that has dictated the length of bear hunting seasons since 2004. Instead, the season would be of a predetermined length, like hunting seasons for other species.

The measure is among a number of proposed regulatory changes scheduled for public hearings next Tuesday in Wye Mills and March 6 in Frostburg.

Under the quota system, hunters have 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 after 94 bears were killed in six days.