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DNR Clarifies Permits Required For Release Of Captive-Raised Mallards
ANNAPOLIS, MD - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently adopted regulations to clarify that captive-raised mallard ducks may not be released to the wild except under the authority of a permit from DNR.
“Considering concerns over health standards and proper husbandry, it is imperative that the DNR know the origin, as well as when and where captive-raised mallards are being released in Maryland,” said Paul A. Peditto, Director of DNR’s Wildlife and Heritage Service.
Captive-raised mallard ducks may be released only under the authority of a Regulated Shooting Area Permit, Retriever Training Permit, or a special Field Trial Permit. A Regulated Shooting Area is a tract of land on which the licensee may release and shoot captive-raised mallard ducks and other game birds. Requirements, regulations and application forms to apply for a Regulated Shooting Area Permit may be viewed online at http://www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/rsapermit.asp.
A Retriever Training Permit allows the permittee to release and immediately shoot or retrieve captive-raised mallard ducks and other game birds for the purpose of dog training. Requirements, regulations, and application procedures for a Retriever Training Permit may be accessed online at http://www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/retpermit.asp.
Permits for conducting sanctioned field trials during closed seasons must be obtained from DNR Regional Wildlife and Heritage Offices.
Citizens with questions concerning the release of captive-raised mallards should contact DNR Game Population Specialist, Bill Harvey at 410-221-8838, ext. 108.
February 28, 2008 Contact: Olivia Campbell
410-260-8016 office I 410-507-7525 cell
ocampbell@dnr.state.md.usMaryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 449,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland's forests, fisheries and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic and cultural resources attract 12 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland's effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state's number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov