The Seney National Wildlife Refuge is proposing to allow plant and animal product gathering (noncommercial) to occur on the refuge. W
e are seeking public comment on allowing this use on the refuge. You are invited to review the draft compatibility determination document that includes our justification and analysis. This use is a re-evaluation of an existing use previously allowed to occur on the refuge and through this process we are expanding opportunities for what visitors may collect.
This use is the gathering of wild edibles such as wild berries, nuts, plant parts (i.e. leaves, pine cones, etc.) and mushrooms, as well as, the collection of seeds, evergreen boughs and white-tailed deer antlers on refuge lands for personal use. This use will meet the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System by providing outdoor recreational opportunities for the benefit of the American public while conserving fish, wildlife and plant resources on these lands. The document is available beginning May 7th, for 15 days.
The draft compatibility determination is available in print at the Seney National Wildlife Refuge Administrative Office. The draft compatibility determination is also available electronically on the refuge website at www.fws.gov/refuge/seney/. You can contact the refuge at 906-586-9851 ext. 11 or sara_siekierski@fws.gov to request either printed or electronic copies and provide comments. Please let us know if you need the document in an alternative format.
Across the country, national wildlife refuges provide additional recreational opportunities for the public where it is compatible with refuge purposes. The harvest of wild edibles, evergreen boughs and deer antlers are traditional outdoor activities that encourage people to get outside and explore their public lands. It fosters a connection to the refuge and nature through personal outdoor experiences that engage the senses and foster an appreciation of the outdoors.
Review the Draft Plant and Animal Product Gathering Compatibility Determination from our website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/seney/gatheringCD.html
