Migratory Bird Subsistence Harvest in Alaska; Spring/Summer Subsistence Harvest Regulations for Migratory Birds in Alaska During the 2003 Subsistence Season

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service or we) is establishing spring/summer migratory bird subsistence harvest regulations in Alaska for the 2003 subsistence season. This rule establishes regulations that prescribe frameworks, or outer limits, for dates when harvesting of birds may occur, species that can be taken, and methods and means excluded from use. These regulations were developed under a new co-management process involving the Service, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, and Alaska Native representatives. They are not intended to be a complete, all-inclusive set of regulations, but are intended to provide an initial framework to legalize customary and traditional subsistence uses of migratory birds in Alaska. The rulemaking is necessary because the regulations governing the subsistence harvest of migratory birds in Alaska are subject to annual public review. Certain provisions in this rulemaking expire on August 31, 2003, for the spring/summer subsistence harvest of migratory birds in Alaska. In subsequent years, seasons will open after April 1 and will close prior to September 1.