Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Hunting and Game Management
What is the purpose of the program?
The purpose of the commission's Hunting and Game Management Program is to facilitate the safe, responsible, and sustained use of Florida's wildlife.
What services are provided by the program?
The Hunting and Game Management Program's services include
- coordinating the development and management of public hunting opportunities;
- delivering hunter safety training and certification;
- developing and managing public shooting ranges; and
- providing scientific expertise to inform decisions on managing game wildlife species.
Are there hunting opportunities on public lands?
The commission cooperatively manages public hunting opportunities on more than 6 million acres in its wildlife management area system. A person must possess a recreational hunting license (and other permits depending on the species and season) and a management area permit to hunt on wildlife management areas. There are licensing exemptions, including one for persons less than 16 years of age and more than 65 years of age.
Are hunters satisfied with their hunting experience?
For Fiscal Year 2019-20, commission data indicated that 75% of licensed deer hunters surveyed were satisfied with their deer hunting experience.
How are these activities funded?
Fiscal Year: 2021-22
| Title | Fund | Dollars | Positions |
|---|---|---|---|
| PROGRAM: WILDLIFE | |||
| HUNTING AND GAME MANAGEMENT |
7,525,698
|
45.00 |
|
TOTAL |
7,525,698 |
45.00 |
Source: www.transparencyflorida.gov
Updates
Protecting Florida Deer Populations. The commission approved rule changes in February 2021 that prohibit importing or possessing whole carcasses and certain parts of any species originating in the deer family from any place outside of Florida. The rule changes are intended to protect Florida's deer population by reducing the risk of chronic wasting disease being introduced into Florida. The infectious disease of the brain and central nervous system is fatal to deer species and there is no known cure. The commission has been testing for the disease since 2002 and it has not been detected in Florida. However, the disease has been detected in 26 states and is one of the most serious diseases facing state wildlife agencies. The new rules go into effect July 1, 2021.
Where can I find related OPPAGA reports?
A complete list of related OPPAGA reports is available on our website.
Where can I get more information?
Other Reports
No Net Loss of Hunting Lands 2019-20 Annual Report, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Websites of Interest
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Inspector General
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Research Publications
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Strategic Plan
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Performance Information
Performance measures and standards for the department may be found in its Long Range Program Plan.
What are the applicable statutes?
Whom do I contact for help?
George Warthen, Director, Hunting and Game Management, 850-488-3831, email: George.Warthen@myfwc.com
