The Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission is gearing up to commence 2025 with its inaugural meeting in Dyersburg, settling into The Lenox Event & Golf Co. at the Farms with committee gatherings kicking off at 1 p.m. tomorrow and the full agenda unfolding the following morning, Friday at 9 a.m., as reported by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
Attendees can expect Dr. Brad Cohen from Tennessee Tech University to deliver a comprehensive annual report on the mallard research study now spanning half a decade; this work delves into the lives of these ducks across state and federal sanctuaries in West Tennessee, striving to enrich understanding of their habitat and patterns, and Dave Kostersky of Ducks Unlimited Canada will be in attendance again to offer updates on various programs including the Fall Flights and wetlands conservation initiatives in Canada that showcase a harmonious international bond with Tennessee's own wildlife conservation efforts.
For those with a vested interest in the piscatorial and commercial fishing domains, the TWRA Fisheries Division is slated to reveal a sneak peek of the next season's rules and regulations covering both sport fish and commercial fishing for 2025-26, with a public comment period made available post-meeting, a crucial chance for stakeholders to voice their perspectives before the Commission's decisive vote in February; moreover, Fisheries Chief Jason Henegar will recap potential alterations to current policies on commercial wildlife use alongside regulations affecting fish farming, catch-out operations, and bait dealers, and these deliberations are set for a vote, as detailed by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
Alongside this, there shall be a discussion regarding vessel requirements and navigational rules during a rule hearing; meanwhile, TFWC Chairman Jimmy Granbery is tasked with the formation of a special committee responsible for the election of the 2025-26 officers, a voting process due next month, Granbery will also assemble a team charged with the honor of selecting this year’s Legacy Award winner—both actions concerted steps towards bolstering the Commission’s foundational structure for the upcoming year.
In light of potential weather setbacks, the TWRA is primed to broadcast any scheduling changes linked to inclement winter conditions via its official website and social media platforms, ensuring attendees and the general populace are kept abreast of the latest developments.
