Game & Fish Seek Sage Grouse Comments

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is seeking public comments on its proposed 2012 sage grouse season regulation.

The department proposes to allow sage grouse hunting from Sept. 15-30 this year with a daily limit of two birds and a possession limit of four. The department proposes to close the season in parts of northeastern Wyoming, including Sheridan, Johnson and Campbell counties as well as the western portions of Crook and Weston counties.

Scott Edberg is assistant chief game warden. He says the department is extending the comment deadline because the proposal to close sage grouse hunting in northeastern Wyoming is prompting an increase in public comments.

Sage grouse populations have dropped all over the West. The birds are particularly susceptible to energy development and other disturbances.