Public commenters urge changes to turkey and muzzleloader seasons during TWRA meeting

During the meeting's public comment period, members of the public raised hunting-season proposals for agency consideration. Fred Walker of Maryville requested the agency consider a flintlock deer season and described differences in muzzleloader sighting and delivery; he offered printed photographs to illustrate visibility and said he is involved with CORA. Scott Summers (identified as a realtor and lifelong turkey hunter) urged ending turkey season by mid-May, suggested earlier season starts, and proposed restoring a three-bird harvest limit in select high-population zones (and selling a supplemental tag) to both increase local opportunity and provide revenue.

Commissioners thanked the speakers and reminded the public that hunting-regulation previews are scheduled in March with final votes in April. Staff said proclamation and season-adoption timelines typically include a March preview and an April vote for the following season’s regulations.