Bill > S687

This bill aims to support wildlife conservation and habitat protection in North Carolina through several key initiatives. It appropriates $5 million each for three major programs: addressing Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer populations, restoring northern bobwhite quail habitats, and supporting red wolf conservation. The CWD program includes creating a cash bounty for reporting positive cases and providing reduced-price hunting licenses. The quail conservation effort offers grants to landowners for habitat restoration and includes a translocation program. The red wolf conservation initiative provides cost-share grants to landowners protecting wolf habitats and supports rural tourism related to wolf populations. Additionally, the bill modernizes wildlife licensing by creating age-based categories for hunting and fishing licenses, offering multi-generational discounts and installment payment options. The Department of Transportation will also install wildlife crossings for red wolves on Highway 64. The Wildlife Resources Commission is required to seek additional funding from non-state sources and report on the implementation of these programs. The bill becomes effective on July 1, 2025, and demonstrates a comprehensive approach to wildlife management, balancing conservation efforts with support for rural landowners and local economies.

Budget and Finance

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S687