In light of the pandemic, procedures were expected to change for public waterfowl sites, particularly related to the draws; and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources just announced some key changes. More changes are likely as the main duck and goose seasons draw nearer.
Click here to link to the full press release.
The key current information from the IDNR is below:
. . . Permits are no longer mailed to successful participants but will be emailed, and participants can check the status of their permit application online and print their permit. Hunters should note several changes to the Duck and Goose Hunting Area Permits. In anticipation of required changes at Duck and Goose Hunting Area Permit sites due to the coronavirus pandemic, permit allotments have been increased at several sites. IDNR anticipates not being able to hold daily standby drawings at sites for unallocated permits or no-show permit holders. Permit allotments have been increased to equal the total number of hunting stakes/blinds at these sites. Local hunters accustomed to hunting these sites via standby drawings should apply for permits to ensure they can hunt these sites this season. More information, including online applications, instructions and a list of participating sites is available on the IDNR website at: https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/hunting/waterfowl/Pages/OnlinePermitApplication.aspx Permit sites with anticipated changes to standby hunting include: Banner Marsh SFWA, Rice Lake SFWA, Double T SFWA, Anderson Lake SFWA, Mermet Lake SFWA, Horseshoe Lake SFWA (Alexander Co), and Union Co SFWA. One new site added to the permit system this year is field goose hunting at the Black Crown Marsh Unit of Moraine Hills State Park in Lake County. Goose hunting at Black Crown Marsh will be available to one party of hunters per day four days per week. Additional changes at waterfowl hunting sites Changes to daily procedures at other waterfowl hunting sites are anticipated in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Please watch for additional IDNR press releases outlining changes and check with sites for specific procedures. Through responsible actions, hunters can help ensure that IDNR can continue to offer outdoor recreation opportunities.
