Wildlife officials impose new turkey hunting limits due to population decline

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) held a significant meeting on January 1, 2025, focusing on recent changes to turkey hunting regulations and the status of turkey populations in the state. The meeting addressed the ongoing decline in turkey numbers and the measures taken to manage the population effectively.

The first major discussion point was the implementation of a daily bag limit of one turkey per day, reduced from three. This change aims to distribute the harvest more evenly and is part of a broader strategy to address the decline in turkey populations observed over the past 15 years. Additionally, the commission reduced the number of permits available to hunters from three to two per person during the spring season and established a nonresident cap of 10,000 permits.

The meeting highlighted that current turkey populations are comparable to levels seen in 2005-2007, prompting the need for these regulatory adjustments. For the fall season, the changes included a limit of one permit and a reduction in the bag limit from two turkeys to one. The fall hunting season was also shortened to October and November.

The commission reported a 52% decline in turkey populations since their peak in 2009, with recent harvest numbers reflecting this trend. Despite these challenges, the commission noted that the number of permits sold in 2021 was among the highest recorded, largely due to an increase in nonresident permits. However, the harvest numbers for the current year have stabilized compared to last year.

A positive note was shared regarding the brood survey, which saw participation from around 8,000 individuals. The results indicated improved nesting conditions due to favorable weather in 2024, following a drought in the previous year. The commission encouraged public participation in the brood survey scheduled for July and August.

Research efforts were also discussed, with ongoing studies capturing and monitoring turkey populations. Initial findings suggest a median nest initiation date later than expected, with a notable production rate observed in the Pine Ridge area.

The meeting concluded with a transition to discussions on deer management, indicating a comprehensive approach to wildlife conservation in Nebraska. Overall, the NGPC is actively working to ensure sustainable turkey populations while engaging the public in conservation efforts.