THE STATE OF GEORGIA
EXECUTIVE ORDER
BY THE GOVERNOR:

WHEREAS: In 2011, HB 277 was enacted, providing a framework for deer hunters in this state practicing supplemental feeding; and

WHEREAS: Since 2011, the Department of Natural Resources has found no evidence that hunting over feed has directly impacted deer harvest . numbers, nor has the Department observed any direct evidence of disease linked to supplemental feeding in Georgia; and

WHEREAS: Pursuant to O.C.G.A. 27-3-9 and 27-3-15, the Board of Natural Resources is authorized to establish Northern and Southern deer hunting zones based on sound wildlife management principles; and

WHEREAS: In the Southern Zone of the state hunters may hunt deer within two hundred yards of feed, while those in the Northern Zone may not; and

WHEREAS: Such a distinction produces an inequity among licensed hunters based on geography which is not necessarily tied to deer population and abundance

NOW,THEREFORE,PURSUANTTOTHEAUTHORITYVESTEDINMEAS GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA, IT IS HEREBY

ORDERED:

That the Department of Natural Resources evaluate and determine an appropriate expansion of the Southern Zone and present such findings to the Board for action based on sound wildlife management principles.

This 9th day of April, 2018.

GOVERNOR