Wildlife Commission alters coyote hunting season with September to March timeframe

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) Commission made a significant decision during its meeting on April 24, 2025, voting to alter the night vision coyote hunting season. The new season will run from September 1 through March 31, excluding the rifle deer antlered season, and includes a three-year sunset provision. The motion passed with a vote of 5 to 2, reflecting a divided opinion among commissioners.

The discussion surrounding this regulation highlighted the importance of public input in the regulatory process. Several commissioners expressed concerns about ensuring adequate opportunities for public comment before finalizing any regulations. The commission emphasized that any proposed regulation should go through a thorough workshop process, allowing for public feedback and agency expertise before moving into the formal promulgation phase.

In addition to the coyote hunting regulation, the meeting also touched on broader legislative issues affecting the commission's ability to propose regulations. There was a discussion about the need for clarity in the legislative process regarding how commissioners can initiate agenda items and the importance of maintaining public engagement throughout the regulatory process.

The KDWP Commission's decision on the coyote hunting season marks a notable shift in wildlife management practices in Kansas, with implications for both hunters and wildlife conservation efforts. As the commission moves forward, the focus will remain on balancing regulatory changes with public involvement and transparency.