In the United States, Game and Fish news this week has centered on significant funding, regulatory changes, and seasonal opportunities across several states. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced the allocation of over 55 million dollars to state fish and wildlife agencies through the State Wildlife Grant Program. This funding is designed to help states protect and manage species of conservation need, promote recovery of threatened or endangered wildlife, and conserve habitats. According to The Wildlife Society, the grants are distributed based on a formula considering population size and geographic area, supporting actions outlined in each State Wildlife Action Plan. These plans identify top conservation priorities and aim to proactively avoid future federal listings of threatened species while keeping populations healthy for future generations. Since the year 2000, this grant program has invested over 1.3 billion dollars across the United States, emphasizing research, habitat management, and restoration.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife put into effect new regulations for the 2025 ocean salmon fishing season following decisions made by the California Fish and Game Commission earlier in May. These align with federal recommendations and impact both commercial and recreational salmon fishing along the California coast. The department also held calendar events this month, such as spring turkey hunting seasons and educational programs at wildlife areas like Gray Lodge and North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve. These initiatives offer a combination of hunting opportunities and conservation education, highlighting efforts to balance recreation and resource protection. The department continues to caution hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to check for closures due to wildfires or storm damage before planning trips this season.

In Arizona, the deadline for the fall 2025 hunt permit applications is rapidly approaching. The Arizona Game and Fish Department is encouraging hunters to submit their applications for deer, turkey, javelina, bighorn sheep, bison, and sandhill crane hunts by June third. The department provides customer service support and online resources to guide applicants through the process, stressing the importance of valid licenses and correct customer information. Additionally, Arizona’s Game and Fish Commission held a public meeting in Kingman to discuss hunting regulations, conservation priorities, and public engagement.

Internationally, while most headlines remained domestic, ongoing discussions in North America and Canada addressed policies for safe electrofishing practices to minimize harm to aquatic species. Montana and Alberta continue to lead with stringent policies, while the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service requires training and recordkeeping for staff engaged in such activities to protect sensitive species.

A common thread across this week’s Game and Fish developments is the focus on proactive conservation, collaborative funding, and public involvement. There is a clear emphasis on balancing recreational opportunities such as hunting and fishing with stewardship and species protection, reflecting national and local priorities as outlined by state and federal agencies.