|
|
RALEIGH, N.C. (March 10, 2005) — The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission would like to remind organizers of dog-training field trials that a permit can enrich these events. Although a permit is not a requirement to stage a field trial, it can exempt participants from certain state game regulations. For example, hunters and dog handlers who live in other states would not have to buy a North Carolina hunting license — provided that they possess a valid hunting license from home states. The sanctioning permit also allows the release and hunting of propagated birds for dog-training purposes. Permits are free, and applications are easily obtained. Contact a local wildlife enforcement officer, or call the Wildlife Commission’s Division of Enforcement at (919) 733-7191. Applications are also available for download here (pdf). Applications must be submitted at least 30 days before the event. The Commission also encourages participants in field trials — or “test hunts,” as they are also called — to check the event’s status beforehand. Ask organizers whether the field trial is sanctioned by the Wildlife Commission, and determine what difference it will make. Out-of-state participants especially should make sure they are participating legally. If the event does not have a permit, then out-of-state residents must purchase a North Carolina hunting license. Even if the event is sanctioned, all participants — including those who are conducting and judging events — must have a valid license from their home state in their possession. The law does not require non-participating observers to have a license, but anyone who owns or handles dogs at the event or who carries a firearm at the site is considered a participant under the law. For more information, consult the North Carolina Inland Fishing, Hunting and Trapping Digest, which is available free from license vendors or online here. |