Federal subsistence goat hunting season to close in a portion of Unit 5A

The closed area begins on the west shore of Harlequin Lake and the western edge of Yakutat Glacier; then west of Harlequin Lake and Yakutat Glacier to Yakutat Bay and Disenchantment Bay; and south of Russell and Nunatak Fjords. The closure is effective Saturday, July 31, 2021, at 11:59 p.m., and will remain in effect through January 31, 2022. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) has issued a closure to the State season for the same area (Emergency Order 01-01-21). Hunters are reminded that there is no Federal hunting season for goats in the Nunatak Bench area defined as; that area between the Hubbard Glacier and the West Nunatak Glacier on the north and east sides of Nunatak Fjord.

Aerial surveys indicate a decline in the mountain goat population starting in 2006. Harvest of goats in this area could have long term negative effects on the health and recovery of this population.

For additional information, contact U.S. Forest Service Yakutat District Ranger Lee Benson at 907-784- 3018 or email wildlife biologist Susan Oehlers at susan.oehlers@usda.gov. Information on the Federal Subsistence Management Program can be found at https://www.doi.gov/subsistence.

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