1 Cibola National Wildlife Refuge Hunt Plan April 2020 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Cibola National Wildlife Refuge 66600 Cibola Lake Road Cibola, AZ 85328 Submitted By: Project Leader ______________________________________________ ____________ Signature Date Concurrence: Refuge Supervisor ______________________________________________ ____________ Signature Date Approved: Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System ______________________________________________ ____________ Signature Date
Transcript
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Cibola National Wildlife Refuge Hunt Plan
April 2020
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Cibola National Wildlife Refuge
66600 Cibola Lake Road Cibola, AZ 85328
Submitted By: Project Leader ______________________________________________ ____________ Signature Date
Concurrence: Refuge Supervisor ______________________________________________ ____________ Signature Date
Approved: Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System ______________________________________________ ____________ Signature Date
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Table of Contents I. Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 4
II. Statement of Objectives .......................................................................................................... 8
III. Description of Hunting Program ............................................................................................ 8
A. Areas to be Open to Hunting ........................................................................................... 8
B. Species to be Taken, Hunting Periods, Hunting Access ................................................ 12
Table 1. Refuge Hunt Units, Acreage, and Allowable Species to Hunt ................................... 10 Table 2. Cibola NWR Hunting Matrix for 2019–2020 Hunt Season. ....................................... 12 Table 3. Dove hunting seasons on Cibola NWR. ...................................................................... 16 Table 4. Gambel’s quail hunting season on Cibola NWR. ....................................................... 16 Table 5. Desert cottontail rabbit hunting season on Cibola NWR ............................................ 17 Table 6. Mule deer hunting season on Cibola NWR................................................................. 20
List of Figures
Figure 1. Map of hunt management units on Cibola NWR ....................................................... 9 Figure 2. Map of waterfowl, snipe, and goose hunting areas on Cibola NWR ........................ 13 Figure 3. Map of dove, quail, and rabbit hunting areas on Cibola NWR ................................ 19 Figure 4. Map of deer hunting areas on Cibola NWR. ............................................................ 21
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I. Introduction
National wildlife refuges are guided by the mission and goals of the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS), the purposes of an individual refuge, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) policy, and laws and international treaties. Relevant guidance includes the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, Refuge Recreation Act of 1962, and selected portions of the Code of Federal Regulations and Fish and Wildlife Service Manual.
Cibola National Wildlife Refuge (Cibola NWR/refuge) was established in 1964 as mitigation for straightening, channelizing, and armoring the banks of the Colorado River from approximately river-mile 106 to 87 by the Bureau of Reclamation for flood protection, bank stabilization, water salvage, and downstream sediment reduction. Its establishment was recommended by the Lower Colorado River Land Use Plan of 1964 to preserve and enhance the ancestral waterfowl wintering grounds essential to the maintenance of adequate waterfowl populations in the Pacific Flyway (USDOI 1964). Public Land Order 3442, August 21, 1964, established the 16,627-acre Cibola NWR. Public Law No: 109-127, December 7, 2005, transferred 140.32 acres near Walter’s Camp from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Between 1964 and 2006, lands were added by various means including transfer from other federal agencies, lease, purchase, and donation bringing the total refuge acreage to its current 18,443 acres. The refuge purpose states these lands are “…reserved for use of the … United States Fish and Wildlife Service, as the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge” and “…subject to their use for reclamation purposes or wildlife refuge purposes.”
Approximately 10 miles of the channelized portion of the lower Colorado River bisects the refuge. Refuge lands are located in both Imperial County, California, and La Paz County, Arizona. The city of Blythe, California, is located 20 miles north of the refuge, and Yuma, Arizona, is 83 miles to the south. Situated within the Sonoran Desert, the refuge is located in the historic floodplain of the Colorado River, known as the lower Colorado River Valley. In this vast expanse of desert, the refuge contains wetland and riparian habitats including several lakes, marshes, and backwaters, along with managed moist-soil units, agricultural fields, mesquite forests, desert uplands, and restored cottonwood/willow forests.
Many species of birds (~288 species), reptiles (~35 species), and mammals (~60 species) have been documented at Cibola NWR. The refuge is managed as wintering habitat for migratory waterfowl, sandhill cranes, federally listed threatened and endangered species, and other native wildlife. The threatened and endangered species include the Yuma Ridgway’s rail (Rallus obsoletus yumanensis), western yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus), southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus), razorback sucker (Xyrauchen texanus), bonytail chub (Gila elegans), desert pupfish (Cyprinodon macularius), and desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii, Mojave Desert population).
Hunting is one of several wildlife-dependent recreational activities that are compatible with refuge goals. Other wildlife-dependent recreational activities include fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, environmental education, and interpretation, to name a few.
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All are equally important activities on the refuge. Paramount to any recreational use is providing wildlife a refuge; a place to rest, feed, reproduce, live “for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.”
History
Although the refuge was established in 1964, it was not until 1975 that the first refuge hunt plan was written. The refuge totaled 13,487 acres of marsh and water, upland habitat, and some cropland. Most of the refuge was accessible for hunting, with the exception of Unit 1 North and the Cibola Lake Management Area. These two units were set aside to provide resting and feeding areas for wildlife without hunting disturbance. At that time, hunting pressure was considered low and there were few regulations beyond the general State regulations, with the exception of season dates being more limited on the refuge. The plan opened portions of the refuge to waterfowl, dove (white-winged and mourning), Gambel’s quail, desert cottontail rabbit, and mule deer hunting.
Hunting was allowed from September through January. The 1975 hunt plan estimated that the refuge would provide 2,000 hours of dove hunting; 1,500 hours of resident game hunting; and up to 1,500 hours of waterfowl hunting opportunities. Predator/furbearer hunting and trapping was prohibited. Methods of take were species dependent and included rifle, muzzleloader, shotgun, and bow and arrow. No fees were charged.
Between 1975 and 1988, additional regulations were implemented to safely accommodate sportsmen hunting different species, while still fulfilling the mission of the refuge. The refuge employed a hunt coordinator and monitors for waterfowl hunts. Waterfowl hunting was permitted from ½ hour before sunrise to 3:00 p.m. Hunting times for other species followed State shooting hours, although season dates varied between the State(s) and the refuge.
During the goose season, a lottery-based drawing system was implemented in the 1980s for hunt blinds in Unit 2. During waterfowl season, Unit 2 was available only to waterfowl hunters until noon to improve the quality of the hunt by reducing hunt pressure. The requirement for steel shot for waterfowl hunting was established in the 1980s.
Areas open to hunters were also available for wildlife observation and other outdoor recreational activities. In 1984, an Auto Tour Loop was established in Unit 1 North, an area not open to hunting, with the intent of reducing hunter/recreationist conflicts and providing enhanced wildlife viewing opportunities.
The adverse impacts of lead ammunition to wildlife and the environment had been gaining science-based attention for several years. By 1993, the steel shot requirement was broadened to include desert cottontail, quail, and dove to aid in the responsible management of the refuge.
Around 1997–98, local sportsman’s clubs and other partners raised funds and helped refuge staff install 18 pit-blinds for goose hunting in Unit 2. Five of the blinds were later moved to the Island Unit for safety reasons. Two blinds were built for physically challenged hunters. A nominal fee was charged to defray the costs of conducting the lottery for goose pit-blinds.
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From 1998 through 2002, the Island Unit access times were changed, removing evening hunts to give birds a place and time to rest and to improve hunt quality and hunter success. The Unit 2 lottery system for goose hunting remained in place, but hunt days were reduced from seven days a week to four days per week.
In 2008, restoration of Hart Mine Marsh was initiated under the Multi-Species Conservation Program overseen by the Bureau of Reclamation. This restoration created more actual wetland habitat. Construction was completed and the unit was flooded in 2010. The area was open to entry from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily during the season, but all other hunting and public entry was prohibited from October through February.
Around 2010, a private contractor was hired to conduct the goose-blind lottery and a small fee increase resulted. This change was an attempt to reduce refuge administrative cost and needed personnel time to conduct the lottery. In approximately 2015, the private contractor was released due to various issues. The fee was dropped and the pit-blind drawing returned to being conducted by refuge personnel and volunteers.
For over 10 years, Cibola NWR has provided a quality hunting experience for youth waterfowl hunters. In conjunction with Arizona Game and Fish Department and other partners, Cibola NWR sponsors a Youth Waterfowl Hunt Camp in which young hunters are given the opportunity to hunt waterfowl with a mentor. Annually, during the second weekend of December, Unit 2 and the hunt blind area of the Island Unit are closed to all other hunters to allow a safe and quality hunting experience for young hunters. This tradition is extremely popular and one in which Cibola NWR will continue to participate.
Effective July 1, 2019, under California Fish and Game Code, the use of any lead projectiles, or ammunition containing lead projectiles when taking any wildlife with a firearm is prohibited. The law was phased in starting in 2013. Lead presents a high risk to wildlife through ingesting spent shot from the ground or as a result of scavenging carcasses. The negative effects of lead contamination on human health, wildlife, and the environment are extremely detrimental and often irreversible. Therefore, firearm ammunition used in pursuing waterfowl, small and upland game on Cibola NWR must be approved non-toxic (non-lead). Deer hunting on refuge lands in California also require non-toxic ammunition. For deer hunting on refuge lands in Arizona to be consistent with California, the refuge requests voluntary compliance with using non-toxic ammunition.
Refuge hunt plans continually evolve to best manage natural resources and balance recreational use. This updated plan adds hunting opportunities for species in areas of the refuge, most notably Hart Mine Marsh and Unit 2. Methods of take have also been markedly increased and are now more in-line with the respective state’s hunting regulations.
The mission of the NWRS, as outlined by the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act (NWRSAA), as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act (16 U.S.C. 668dd et seq.), is to:
“... to administer a national network of lands and waters for the conservation, management and, where appropriate, restoration of the fish, wildlife, and plant
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resources and their habitats within the United States for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.”
The NWRSAA mandates the Secretary of the Interior in administering the System to (16 U.S.C. 668dd(a)(4):
● Provide for the conservation of fish, wildlife, and plants, and their habitats within the NWRS;
● Ensure that the biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health of the NWRS are maintained for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans;
● Ensure that the mission of the NWRS described at 16 U.S.C. 668dd(a)(2) and the purposes of each refuge are carried out;
● Ensure effective coordination, interaction, and cooperation with owners of land adjoining refuges and the fish and wildlife agency of the States in which the units of the NWRS are located;
● Assist in the maintenance of adequate water quantity and water quality to fulfill the mission of the NWRS and the purposes of each refuge;
● Recognize compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses as the priority general public uses of the NWRS through which the American public can develop an appreciation for fish and wildlife;
● Ensure that opportunities are provided within the NWRS for compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses; and
● Monitor the status and trends of fish, wildlife, and plants in each refuge.
Therefore, it is a priority of the Service to provide for wildlife-dependent recreation opportunities, including hunting and fishing, when those opportunities are compatible with the purposes for which the refuge was established and the mission of the NWRS.
For certain species, the refuge has different hunting seasons from the state seasons to minimize conflicts with other refuge wildlife-dependent activities. The refuge also has limited the method of take for some species in certain units. Such unit-by-unit restrictions are based upon considerations of a specific unit’s characteristics (e.g., size, shape, habitat type), potential safety issues, or potential for conflict with other on-unit or off-unit uses or activities.
This plan outlines public hunting opportunities on Cibola NWR for waterfowl (ducks, geese, and coots), Wilson’s snipe (Gallinago delicate), common gallinule (Gallinula galeata), white-winged dove (Zenaida asiatica), mourning dove (Z. macroura), Eurasian collared-dove (Streptopelia decaocto), Gambel’s quail (Callipepla gambelii), desert cottontail rabbit (Sylvilagus audubonii), and mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus). This plan supports the update of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), defines boundaries of hunt units, and reinitiates harvest reporting of all species on the refuge. This plan adds Eurasian collared-dove to the list of legal species to hunt, removes common gallinule and Wilson's snipe from the list of legal species to hunt, and simplifies the Unit 2 goose hunt program.
This revised hunt plan for Cibola NWR incorporates the following objectives to conform to the Secretarial mandates. This plan supersedes all former refuge hunt plans.
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II. Statement of Objectives
The objectives of the hunting program on Cibola NWR are:
• To provide wildlife-dependent recreational opportunities compatible with refuge purposes in designated areas, in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and consistent with the Secretary of the Interior’s goal of expanding hunting opportunities on Federal lands (Secretarial Order 3347 and 3356).
● To standardize and simplify hunt unit boundaries and regulations.
● To more closely align refuge regulations with state regulations.
● To maintain biodiversity by preserving the natural diversity and variety of biotic
communities on refuge lands.
● To foster support of refuge goals and objectives by working in close association with the public, Arizona Game and Fish Department (AGFD), California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), Bureau of Reclamation, partner groups, and other entities to manage wildlife and habitat on the refuge.
● To provide hunting opportunities, while also offering other wildlife-dependent recreation such as fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, environmental education and conservation interpretation.
III. Description of Hunting Program
Cibola NWR consists of 18,443 acres of varying habitat including open water; marshland; dense, woody vegetation; and open fields. Greater than 66 percent of the refuge (12,243 acres) is available for hunting for ducks, coots, geese, snipe, gallinule, mourning dove, white-winged dove, Eurasian collared-dove, Gamble’s quail, desert cottontail rabbit, and mule deer. The various refuge hunts occur on different areas of the refuge as shown in Figure 1.
A. Areas to be Open to Hunting
There are seven managed units open to hunting (Table 1). However, not all species may be hunted in all units and varying State and refuge regulations apply.
Boat launches are available at different locations on the refuge. Cibola Lake, Three Fingers Lake, and Hart Mine Marsh are no wake zones and only electric trolling motors or manually powered vessels may be used. With the exception of the main channel of the Colorado River, all waters on the refuge are No-Wake Zones.
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Figure 1. Map of hunt management units on Cibola NWR
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Table 1. Refuge Hunt Units, Acreage, and Allowable Species to Hunt
Hunt Unit Acres Species Hunted Unit 1 South 1,074 Dove, Gambel’s quail, desert cottontail
In addition to native plant restoration, a variety of management practices are used throughout the refuge to create wildlife habitat, thereby increasing hunting opportunities as well. Management practices are implemented as applicable in each hunting unit creating a mosaic of vegetation types. Vegetative characteristics and access information of the different hunt units are described below.
Unit 1 South: This unit extends from what is currently farmed fields in Unit 1 North south to Hart Mine Road (refer to Figure1). The unit is accessible from Hart Mine Road and a few location off the East Levee Road. The area is dominated by dense woody brush and trees such as salt cedar, quailbush, mesquite, and palo verde.
Unit 2: Unit 2 consists of the fields south of the Hart Mine Road and is bounded by the Arnett Ditch to the west. The southern boundary is a refuge service road that runs along the Hart Mine Marshes’ northern edge. The refuge service road is open to public foot traffic, but unauthorized vehicles are prohibited. The parking area for Unit 2 is accessed from Goose Shack Road. The 386 acres of this unit are a combination of planted crops (acreages and crops vary), native vegetation, and occasionally flooded areas to provide wildlife food and promote hunting opportunities. This unit provides concrete pit-blinds that are distributed through the norther portion of the Unit. During waterfowl season, blinds are assigned via a lottery-based reservation system for goose and waterfowl hunters (see section IV. A.). Following October 31st each fall, the area will be temporarily closed to all hunting until the Unit 2 opening day for goose season. The temporary closure is to improve goose/waterfowl hunting opportunities following reopening.
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Hart Mine Marsh: The southern boundary of Unit 2 (the refuge service road) is the northern boundary of Hart Mine Marsh. The southern boundary is the Tie-Back Levee Road. The western area includes the Arnett Ditch. Access is available via Marsh Road and the Tie-Back Levee Road. In general, the area is dominated by marsh habitat (dense cattail stands, standing water, and salt cedar). The southeastern section of the hunt unit contains seasonally flooded mud flats and salt cedar. From October 1 through March 14, public access is permitted only between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Island Unit: This unit is bound by the old river channel to the west and the channelized portion (now the main river) of the Colorado River to the east. The southern boundary will be posted with marked signs. Hunting beyond this point is prohibited because of nearby residential areas. This unit is accessible by the West Levee Road and Hart Mine Road. Parking is available by the kiosk at the intersection of West Levee Road and the Island Unit Bridge and on the southern end of the Island Unit Middle Road. During the 10-day general deer hunting season, vehicles are not allowed past the kiosk parking area. This unit hosts a variety of habitat types including agricultural land, moist soil units, meanders, and mesquite forests. Hunting blinds are available in the marsh areas. Hunt hours on the Island Unit follow state regulations. Access to the Island Unit will remain prohibited from one hour after sunset to 4:30 a.m. MST to provide undisturbed feeding areas for waterfowl in managed moist soil units.
Old River Channel: This unit is the southern section of the original channel of the Colorado River. The middle of the river serves as the border between Arizona and California. Hunters should be cognizant of which state they are in and adhere to the respective State’s hunting regulations. The northern boundary is the lower (southern) edge of Pretty Water with the southern boundary ending just north of Walter’s Camp. Access to the river can be gained from boat launches at Walter’s Camp and Mitchell’s Camp. The Old River Channel is a No-Wake Zone.
Pretty Water: The Pretty Water area extends for approximately 1.5 miles south from the old river channel cut off from the channelized portion of the Colorado River. At the southern end, a large, vegetated area separates Pretty Water from the rest of the old river channel. The middle of the area serves as the border between Arizona and California. Hunters should be cognizant of which state they are in and adhere to the respective state’s hunting regulations. Access to Pretty Water is primarily from a boat launch south of Marlow Road. All of Pretty Water is in a No-Wake Zone. Hunting hours at Pretty Water follow state regulations.
California Lands: The California hunting unit extends westward from banks of Pretty Water and Old River Channel to the refuge boundaries. These lands can be accessed from the north by Marlow Road and Mitchell’s Camp Road; southern access is gained from Walter’s Camp Road and Three Slashes Road. Three Fingers Lake is also encompassed by this hunting unit and has a boat launch for access. All of Three Fingers Lake is a No-Wake Zone. This area is primarily arid desert; vegetation is composed of desert scrub species and annuals.
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B. Species to be Taken, Hunting Periods, Hunting Access
Regulations follow the respective state’s rules and seasons (Table 2) with additional refuge restrictions for some species on hunting hours, methods of take, and/or season length to conserve wildlife, protect endangered species, and best serve all refuge visitors. Further information for state regulations can be accessed here for Arizona and here for California.
Table 2. Cibola NWR Hunting Matrix for 2019–2020 Hunt Season.
Season State Approximate Dates* Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb
Geese, ducks, coots, snipe, and gallinule AZ Oct 19–Jan 27
Goose: Unit 2 AZ Nov 26–Jan 27 Dove (all three species) AZ Sept 1–Sept 15 Dove (mourning and Eurasian) AZ Nov 23–Jan 6
Desert cottontail rabbit AZ Sept 1–Feb 10 Gambel’s quail AZ Oct 19–Feb 10 General deer AZ Nov 9–Nov 18 Archery deer AZ Dec 14–Jan 31 Geese, ducks, coots, and gallinules CA Oct 19–Jan 27
Snipe CA Oct 19 – Feb 2 Dove (all three species) CA Sept 1–Sept 15 Dove (all three species) CA Nov 11–Dec 25 Desert cottontail rabbit CA Sept 1–Jan 28 Gambel’s quail CA Oct 15–Jan 28 General deer CA Nov 5–Nov 27 Archery deer CA Oct 1–Oct 23
Figure 2. Map of waterfowl, snipe, and goose hunting areas on Cibola NWR
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1. Waterfowl Ducks, American Coots, Common Gallinule, and Geese (dark and light) The Arizona and California waterfowl hunting seasons are concurrent and generally begin the third weekend of October until the final weekend in January providing approximately 103 hunt days. Methods of take include shotgun, bow and arrow, and crossbow consistent with state regulations. Only shotguns capable of holding no more than three shells may be used for waterfowl. All ammunition must be approved non-toxic (non-lead). There is no restriction on the amount of ammunition a hunter may possess. Shooting hours follow state regulations unless stated differently below. Areas open to waterfowl hunting are shown in Figure 2.
The annual Youth Waterfowl Hunt Camp takes place during the second weekend of December, (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). The Island Unit hunt blind area and all of Unit 2 are closed to all other hunters during this time.
Unit 2 –A lottery-based reservation system is currently in place to hunt geese from pit blinds; ducks, coots, and gallinule may be taken incidentally during the reserve goose hunt. For the Unit 2 reserved goose hunt (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays), methods of take included shotgun, bow and arrow, and crossbow. Hunting is allowed from the third Saturday of November through the end of the goose season. Hunting on Unit 2 is permitted only on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Access is 4:30 a.m. MST to one hour after sunset.
Hart Mine Marsh – Entry for hunters and other refuge visitors is permitted between 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. MST, October 1 through March 14.
Island Unit – Hunting is permitted and follows Arizona regulations. During the Arizona 10-day general deer hunting season, roads on the Island Unit are open only to foot traffic and non-motorized vehicles (i.e., game carts). Parking is available next to the Island Unit kiosk. The Island Unit is open from 4:30 a.m. MST to one hour after sunset.
Pretty Water – Hunting is permitted on and around the water. This area encompasses waters of Arizona and California. Respective state regulations apply.
Old River Channel – Hunting is permitted on and along the Old River Channel. This area encompasses waters of Arizona and California. Respective state regulations apply.
California Lands – Hunting is permitted and follows California regulations.
Wilson’s Snipe
In Arizona the hunting season is concurrent with the waterfowl season and generally begins the third weekend of October until the final weekend in January providing approximately 103 hunt days. In California, the snipe season is under upland game bird hunting and typically extends several additional days past the end of waterfowl season. Methods of take include shotgun, bow and arrow, and crossbow. Only shotguns capable of holding no more than three shells may be used for waterfowl. All ammunition must be approved non-
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toxic (non-lead). There is no restriction on the amount of ammunition a hunter may possess. Shooting hours follow state regulations unless stated differently below. Areas open to snipe hunting are shown in Figure 2.
Unit 2 – A lottery-based reservation system is currently in place to hunt geese from pit blinds; snipe may be taken incidentally during the reserve goose hunt. Hunting is allowed from the third Saturday of November through the end of the goose season. Hunting on Unit 2 is permitted only on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Access is 4:30 a.m. MST to one hour after sunset and follows state regulations.
Hart Mine Marsh – Entry for hunters and other refuge visitors is permitted between 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. MST, October 1 through March 14.
Island Unit – Hunting is permitted and follows Arizona regulations. During the Arizona 10-day general deer hunting season, roads on the Island Unit are open only to foot traffic and non-motorized vehicles (i.e., game carts). Parking is available next to the Island Unit kiosk. The Island Unit is open from 4:30 a.m. MST to one hour after sunset and follows state regulations.
Pretty Water – Hunting is permitted on and around the water. This area encompasses waters of Arizona and California. Respective state regulations apply.
Old River Channel – Hunting is permitted on and along the Old River Channel. This area encompasses waters of Arizona and California. Respective state regulations apply.
California Lands – Hunting is permitted and follows California regulations.
2. Dove (Mourning, White-winged, and Eurasian collared-dove)
Arizona and California offer two dove hunting seasons, which provide approximately 60 hunt days. However, there are differences in allowable species and end-of-season dates for each state. The early season for both states is September 1–15. A second season typically starts in November and ends in December (California) or January (Arizona). Hunters should confirm hunting season dates annually for each state. Table 3 gives approximate dates and allowable dove species to be hunted on Cibola NWR. Eurasian collared-dove can now be hunted on the refuge during the State’s mourning dove seasons. The hunt blind area of the Island Unit is closed to dove hunting the second weekend of December annually to accommodate the Youth Waterfowl Hunt Camp. Areas open to dove hunting are shown in Figure 3.
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Table 3. Dove hunting seasons on Cibola NWR.
State Hunt Season at Cibola NWR Arizona– mourning, white-winged, Eurasian collared-doves
Methods of take include shotgun, bow and arrow, and crossbows. Only shotguns capable of holding no more than three shells may be used for doves. All ammunition must be approved, non-toxic (non-lead). There is no restriction on the amount of ammunition in possession. Shooting hours follow state regulations unless otherwise stated below:
Unit 1 South – Hunting is permitted and follows Arizona regulations.
Unit 2 – Hunting is permitted during the early season only (September 1–15) and follows Arizona regulations. Access is 4:30 a.m. to one hour after sunset. Unit 2 is closed to dove hunting during the second dove season when waterfowl hunting season is open.
Hart Mine Marsh – Entry for hunters and other refuge visitors is only permitted between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. from October 1 through March 14.
Island Unit –Hunting is permitted and follows Arizona regulations. During the Arizona 10-day general deer hunting season, roads on the Island Unit are open only to foot traffic and non-motorized vehicles (i.e., game carts). The Island Unit is open from 4:30 a.m. MST to one hour after sunset.
California Lands – Hunting is permitted and follow California regulations.
3. Gambel’s quail
Quail hunting is permitted and provides approximately 100 days of hunting opportunity in Arizona and approximately 95 hunt days in California. Units open to quail hunting are shown in Figure 3. The hunt blind area of the Island Unit are closed to quail hunting the second weekend of December annually to accommodate the Youth Waterfowl Hunt Camp. Hunting season dates and regulations follow the Arizona and California regulations as applicable. Table 4 shows the respective hunt seasons of Gambel’s quail at Cibola NWR.
Table 4. Gambel’s quail hunting season on Cibola NWR.
State Hunt Season at Cibola NWR Arizona October 5–February 10* California October 15–January 29*
*Dates are approximate and change yearly.
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Methods of take include shotgun, handgun shooting shot, bow and arrow. All ammunition must be Federally approved, non-toxic (non-lead). There is no restriction on the amount of ammunition possession. Shooting times follow respective State regulations.
Unit 1 South – Hunting is permitted and follows Arizona regulations.
Unit 2 – Hunting is permitted from the opening of the quail season through October 31, and again after the last day of waterfowl season until the close of the state quail season. Access is 4:30 a.m. MST to one hour after sunset. Arizona regulations apply. No quail hunting is allowed from November 1 to the end of the waterfowl season.
Hart Mine Marsh – Entry for hunters and other refuge visitors is permitted only between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. MST from October 1 through March 14.
Island Unit – Hunting is permitted and follows Arizona regulations. During the Arizona 10-day general deer hunting season, roads on the Island Unit are open only to foot traffic and non-motorized vehicles (i.e., game carts). Parking is available next to the Island Unit kiosk. The Island Unit is open from 4:30 a.m. MST to one hour after sunset.
California Lands – Hunting is permitted and follows California regulations.
4. Desert cottontail rabbit
Hunting for desert cottontail rabbit is permitted and provides approximately 130 hunt days in Arizona and 120 hunt days in California; the respective state hunting regulations apply. Areas open to desert cottontail hunting are shown in Figure 3 and hunting seasons are presented in Table 5. The hunt blind area of the Island Unit is closed to desert cottontail rabbit hunting the second weekend of December annually to accommodate the Youth Waterfowl Hunt Camp.
Table 5. Desert cottontail rabbit hunting season on Cibola NWR
State Hunt Season at Cibola NWR Arizona September 1 – end of Arizona quail season California September 1 – end of California quail season
Methods of take include shotgun, rifle, handgun, muzzleloader, bow and arrow, and crossbow. All ammunition must be approved, non-toxic (non-lead). There is no restriction on the amount of ammunition in possession. Shooting times follow state regulations.
Due to the flat terrain, dense vegetation, proximity to residences/structures, and general safety concerns, hunting cottontail rabbits with rifles is only allowed on the California Lands hunt unit.
Unit 1 South – Hunting is permitted and follows Arizona regulations.
Unit 2 – Hunting is permitted from the opening of the rabbit season through October 31, and again after the last day of waterfowl season until the close of the state quail season.
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Arizona regulations apply. Access is 4:30 a.m. MST to one hour after sunset. No rabbit hunting is allowed from November 1 to the end of waterfowl season.
Hart Mine Marsh – Entry for hunters and other refuge visitors is permitted only between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. MST from October 1 through March 14.
Island Unit – Hunting is permitted and follows Arizona regulations. During the Arizona 10-day general deer hunting season, roads on the Island Unit are open only to foot traffic and non-motorized vehicles (i.e., game carts). The Island Unit is open from 4:30 a.m. MST to one hour after sunset.
California Lands – Hunting is permitted and follows California regulations.
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Figure 3. Map of dove, quail, and rabbit hunting areas on Cibola NWR
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5. Mule deer There are several hunting seasons for mule deer in Arizona and California (Table 6), creating approximately 59 hunt days on Cibola NWR. For the 10-day general hunt on the Island Unit, and the general deer hunt on California Lands, muzzleloader, shotgun, rifle, handguns, crossbow, and bow and arrow are permitted. Methods of take for all other hunt units are crossbow and bow and arrow only. Approved, non-toxic (non-lead) ammunition is required for mule deer hunting on California Lands. The hunt blind area of the Island Unit is closed to mule deer hunting the second weekend of December annually, to accommodate the Youth Waterfowl Hunt Camp.
Areas open to mule deer hunting are shown in Figure 4.
Table 6. Mule deer hunting season on Cibola NWR.
State Hunt Season at Cibola NWR Arizona– Unit 43A and 43B November 8 – November 17* Arizona– archery (Unit 43A and 43B) December 13 – January 31* California– Zone D12 November 2 – November 24* California– archery (Zone D12) October 5 – October 27*
*Dates are approximate and change yearly.
Unit 1 South – Hunting methods in this unit are bow and arrow and crossbow only. Arizona hunting regulations apply.
Unit 2 – Hunting methods in this unit are bow and arrow and crossbow only. Hunting is permitted after the last day of waterfowl season, which is usually the last week of January, through the end of the archery deer season. Access is 4:30 a.m. MST to one hour after sunset. Arizona hunting regulations apply.
Hart Mine Marsh – Hunting methods for this unit are bow and arrow and crossbow only. Entry for hunters and other refuge visitors is only permitted between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. MST from October 1 through March 14. Arizona hunting regulations apply.
Island Unit – Hunting is permitted and follows Arizona regulations. During the Arizona 10-day general deer hunting season, roads on the Island Unit are open only to foot traffic and non-motorized vehicles (i.e., game carts). Parking is available next to the Island Unit kiosk. Deer may be taken on the Island Unit during the general deer hunt using rifle, shotgun, handgun, muzzleloader, bow and arrow, and crossbow in accordance to state regulations. Legal shooting hours follow state regulations. The Island Unit is open from 4:30 a.m. MST to one hour after sunset.
California Lands – Hunting is permitted and follows California regulations.
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Figure 4. Map of deer hunting areas on Cibola NWR.
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C. Hunter Permit Requirements Hunters are required to have a State hunting license, appropriate tag(s) as required by the state, and all applicable hunting stamps. The Unit 2 goose hunt is a lottery based reservation system and hunters must apply and be drawn for this hunt (see section IV. A.) Additionally, hunters must read and sign a refuge tearsheet applicable to the game species they are pursuing and have it in their possession while hunting on the refuge. The signed tearsheet is important to ensure that hunters are aware of the designated hunting areas and any special regulations that apply (https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Cibola/visit/visitor_activities.html).
D. Consultation and Coordination with the State
The refuge reached out to AGFD and CDFW in spring 2016 to discuss this hunt plan. Prior to this time, refuge staff had spoken to AGFD and CDFW staff on a number of occasions about the need for a new hunt plan, and have continued coordination with the States. Part of this coordination has been with the goal of better aligning refuge regulations with those of the respective states. Changes in this plan have resulted in increased hunting opportunities and less complex refuge hunting regulations. We also worked with the local State biologist and conservation officers early in development. The refuge reviewed operations and regulations for neighboring lands to find consistency where possible.
The refuge will continue to coordinate and consult with AGFD and CDFW staff regarding the hunt plan and refuge hunt regulations. Annual consultation is held with the AGFD and will continue. Refuge staff will continue to meet with state law enforcement agents and biologists on a regular basis to discuss issues and concerns. We have continued to consult and coordinate on specific aspects of the Hunt Plan.
E. Law Enforcement
Federal wildlife officers shared with Kofa and Imperial NWRs enforce federal and state hunting regulations, trespass, and other public use violations associated with the management of the refuge. The officers cooperate with, and are assisted by, special agents, state conservation officers, and local county sheriffs. Federal and state law enforcement will continue to work together patrolling the refuge for public safety and game violations.
The following methods will be used to administer and enforce hunting regulations:
• Refuge and hunt area boundaries will be posted. • The refuge will provide a tearsheet that is specific to each species hunted. These
tearsheets will show hunt areas and include specific hunt regulations. This information will be available at the visitor center, refuge entrance kiosks, and on Cibola NWR’s website (https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Cibola/visit/visitor_activities.html).
• Federal and state wildlife officers will conduct hunter compliance checks to ensure compliance with federal and state laws and refuge-specific regulations.
• Federal wildlife officers will coordinate with state, county, and other law enforcement agencies.
Adequate funding is available. It is estimated that it will take approximately 385 staff days each year to operate and manage the program, conduct the goose hunt reservation and lottery, supply leaflets and hunting regulations, respond to public inquiries, post signage, and provide law enforcement coverage. Additionally, the refuge maintains moist-soil units and plant crops, which supports quality hunting opportunities on the refuge. The estimated administrative cost is approximately $250,000 annually.
IV. Conduct of the Hunting Program
A. Hunter Permit Application, Selection, and/or Registration Process
With the exception of the pit-blind lottery at Unit 2 during waterfowl season, registration is not required to hunt on the refuge. However, each hunter is required to have a signed refuge tearsheet for the specific game they are pursing in their possession while hunting. Hunt tearsheets can be obtained at the Cibola NWR office, refuge kiosks, and the refuge website https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Cibola/visit/visitor_activities.html).
Only Unit 2’s managed waterfowl hunt requires a reservation. To participate in the lottery, hunters must submit an application to the refuge office during business hours or by mail postmarked by November 1. The application form, 3-2355 (Waterfowl Lottery Application), can be downloaded from the internet (https://www.fws.gov/forms/3-2355.pdf), from the refuge website (https://www.fws.gov/refuge/cibola/) or picked up at the visitor center. There is no application fee, but ensure the application information is correct and legible. Mail applications to:
Cibola National Wildlife Refuge Attn: Hunt Drawing
66600 Cibola Lake Road Cibola, AZ 85328
Hunting on Unit 2 is permitted only on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Up to four of the 2-day hunt blocks may be requested per application. Hunters will be selected at random for one hunt date block. Hunt blocks will not be available for reservation during the Youth Waterfowl Hunt Camp, which is usually held the second weekend in December.
For each 2-day hunt period, a maximum of nine hunters will be selected at random from the applications received. Successful applicants will be notified of their hunt dates and position order by November 14th by phone, email, or mail. An additional three people may accompany a permitted hunter.
On the day of the hunt, all hunters must report to the Unit 2 goose hunt check-in building (at the Unit 2 parking area) by 4:30 a.m. on the day of their selected hunt. Hunting parties with a reservation holder will be able to select pit blinds based on the position order given during the lottery. Each hunter will be assigned a position order (pick) for selecting a blind on the days of their hunt (i.e., Hunter A has pick 1 and chooses blind 4, Hunter B has pick 2 and chooses
blind 6, etc.). If reserved blinds are not claimed, hunters may participate in a standby lottery the morning of the hunt. Hunters with CHAMP (Challenged Hunter Access/Mobility Permit) will be given priority for disabled accessible blinds.
The refuge visitor center is located at 66600 Cibola Lake Rd, Cibola, AZ 85328. The office telephone number is 928-857-3253 and faxes can be sent to 928-857-3420.
B. Refuge-Specific Hunting Regulations
Listed below are refuge-specific regulations that pertain to Cibola NWR as of the date of this plan. These regulations may be modified as conditions and requirements change.
All hunting times follow state regulations with the exception of Hart Mine Marsh. Hart Mine Marsh access and hunting hours will remain 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. MST, October 1 through March 14, to provide an undisturbed roosting and feeding area for waterfowl and sandhill cranes.
(d) Cibola National Wildlife Refuge—(1) Migratory game bird hunting. We allow hunting of goose, duck, coot, moorhen (gallinule), common snipe, mourning and white-winged dove, Eurasian collared-dove on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) We allow only shotgun, bow and arrow, and crossbow.
(ii) Hunters may only hunt during designated days and times.
(iii) All ammunition must be Federally approved non-toxic shot (non-lead).
(iv) You must remove all temporary blinds, boats, and decoys from the refuge following each day's hunt (see §27.93 of this chapter).
(v) The Hart Mine Marsh area is open to entry from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. from October 1 through March 14.
(2) Upland game hunting. We allow hunting of Gambel's quail and cottontail rabbit on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following conditions:
(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (d)(1)(iii) of this section apply.
(ii)For cottontail rabbit, we allow only shotgun, bow and arrow, crossbow, handgun, rifle, and muzzleloader.
(iii) For quail, we allow only shotgun, bow and arrow, crossbow, and handgun shooting shot.
(iv) You may hunt cottontail rabbit from September 1 through the last day of the respective State's quail season.
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(3) Big game hunting. We allow hunting of mule deer on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following condition:
(i) We allow rifle, shotgun, handgun, muzzleloader, crossbow and bow and arrow, except for archery only hunts.
(4) Sport fishing. We allow sport fishing and frogging subject to the following condition: Cibola Lake is open to fishing and frogging from March 15 through Labor Day.
C. Relevant State Regulations
License requirements follow state regulations. Hunters are responsible for knowing which State they are hunting in, and applicable stamps, tags, etc. Attendance at a hunter’s safety course is strongly encouraged. Daily bag and possession limits follow state regulations.
D. Other Refuge Rules and Regulations for Hunting
The following refuge rules and regulations are applicable to all hunting activities:
1. Hunting is allowed only in designated areas of the refuge. Not all species may be hunted within every hunting Unit.
2. Hunters are required to sign and carry the refuge hunt tearsheet for the specific game they are pursuing.
3. Hunting may only occur during seasons, dates, times, and in areas posted by signs and indicated on refuge tearsheets, which are available at the refuge office, kiosks, and website.
4. The use of trail cameras is prohibited. 5. The use of flagging tape, reflective tape, or markers on the refuge is prohibited. 6. Littering is prohibited. Shell casings and cartridges constitute litter and must be picked
up and disposed of properly. 7. No hunting is allowed between the Levee Roads and on the main stem of the Colorado
River. 8. Special regulations apply to Unit 2 managed goose hunt. See sections 3 B.2 and 4 A. 9. The Hart Mine Marsh area is open to access from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. MST from
October 1 through March 14. 10. Only electric trolling motors or manually powered vessels may be used on Cibola Lake,
Three Fingers Lake, and Hart Mine Marsh. 11. All refuge waters are wakeless speed zones (defined by State law) with the exception of
the main channel of the Colorado River. 12. The roads on the Island Unit are closed to motorized vehicle traffic during the Arizona
10-day general deer hunting season; access is permitted by walk-in and non-motorized vehicle (ex. game carts) only.
13. Disturbing, destroying, or removing any vegetation is prohibited. 14. The use or possession (within physical proximity) of alcohol while hunting is
prohibited. 15. Target shooting or the discharge of a weapon except to hunt is prohibited.
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16. Anyone for hire, assisting, or guiding a hunter or fisherman, must obtain, possess, and carry a valid Special Use Permit issued by the refuge.
17. Game may only be retrieved from a closed area with specific consent from an authorized refuge employee.
18. Camping and fires are not permitted on the refuge. 19. All operators and vehicles, including all types of off-road vehicles must be licensed,
registered, and insured for highway use to be operated on refuge roads. 20. Off-road and non-public road (refuge service roads) travel is prohibited. 21. Hunters are encouraged to report each day’s harvest, for all species hunted, at the end
of each day’s hunt. Hunter harvest cards (FWS Form 3-2359 thru 3-2362, dependent on species hunted) as well as collection boxes will be provided at the refuge kiosks and office to report harvest.
22. Dogs are only allowed off leash specifically for hunting and during the appropriate season; training or general off-leash use of dogs is prohibited on the refuge.
V. Public Engagement
A. Outreach for Announcing and Publicizing the Hunting Program
A mailing list is maintained to distribute information to the public via news releases to local newspapers, radio stations, television stations, websites, and interest groups. Special announcements, articles, and postings may be released in conjunction with hunting season. In addition, information about hunting will be available at the Cibola NWR office, refuge kiosks, and the refuge website.
B. Anticipated Public Reaction to the Hunting Program
In December 2016, the refuge initially announced its intent to prepare a revised Cibola NWR Hunt Plan for continuing hunting opportunities as well as expanding hunting opportunities. A 30-day public scoping period was conducted from December 29, 2016 to January 29, 2017 and 16 comments were received. Comments were generally in favor of keeping some hunt areas and times the same, some expressed interest in extended hunting hours, and other requested additional hunts and fewer restrictions. An additional announcement and public comment period was conducted from April 1, 2020 through April 30, 2020. It is anticipated that the hunting community will be in favor of this new plan due to the expansion of more hunting opportunities and fewer restrictions. Providing visitor experiences to all refuge users is a priority for the Service and is reflected in this plan.
C. How Hunters will Be Informed of Relevant Rules and Regulations
General information regarding hunting and other wildlife-dependent public uses can be obtained at Cibola NWR office located at 66600 Cibola Lake Road, Cibola, AZ 85328 or by calling 928-857-3253. Information regarding hunting dates, maps, applications, permit requirement, and regulations are available on the refuge webpage at https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Cibola/visit/visitor_activities.html. Information is also available in Leaflets located at refuge kiosks.
A draft compatibility determination has been completed in conjunction with this hunt plan and the Environmental Assessment. Hunting and all associated program activities proposed in this plan are expected to be found compatible with the purposes of the refuge.
References
AGFD. 2017b. Hunt Arizona 2017 Edition: Survey, Harvest and Hunt Data for Big and Small Game. Arizona Game and Fish Department. Information and Education Division, Information Branch, Publication Section. Phoenix, AZ.
USFWS. 1969. (Cibola NWR). Annual hunting and fishing programs: Kofa, Cabeza Prieta, Imperial, and Cibola. https://ecos.fws.gov/ServCat/
