8/18/2005
2005 HIP REGISTRATION REQUIRED TO HUNT MIGRATORY BIRDS - Tom Keith

LINCOLN, Neb. -- The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds dove hunters they must register with the federally mandated Harvest Information Program (HIP) and must carry their registration number with them when hunting migratory game birds -- dove, duck, geese, snipe, rail, coot or woodcock -- during the 2005-2006 hunting seasons. The new number will remain valid through June 30, 2006.

The goal of the program is to help state and federal wildlife managers estimate the number of migratory birds harvested each year. Those estimates will help biologists set limits and seasons, as well as help protect the tradition of hunting. The lack of information on huntings effect on wildlife has been used in court to challenge hunting in some states. HIP information is needed to counter the claims by those who would shut down migratory bird hunting seasons.

Registration is required of all migratory bird hunters, including residents, nonresidents, lifetime permit holders, veterans and the over 70 fee-exempt permit holders. Only resident hunters under the age of 16 are exempted from registration. Registered hunters receive a registration number that they must carry with them while hunting.

Registration is free, easy and takes less than five minutes, whether done online or by phone.

To register online anytime, day or night, go to www.nehip.com. To register by phone, call the HIP 24-hour, toll-free number, 1-888-403-2473. The system can handle many calls simultaneously, so there shouldnt be a wait, but hunters should register early to avoid the anticipated rush as dove season approaches.

Nebraska hunters should be aware that if they hunt migratory birds in another state they must also register with HIP in that state, and nonresident hunters coming here to hunt migratory game birds must register in Nebraska.



 

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