
The New Jersey Fish and Game Council is proposing the 2022 Comprehensive Black Bear Management Policy (CBBMP) and amendments pertaining to black bears in the Game Code (NJAC 7:25-5.6). The CBBMP outlines non-lethal and lethal management actions to ensure the longevity of this species, provide for human safety and reduce bear-human conflict. In addition to the CBBMP, changes are proposed to the section of the Game Code regulating the hunting of black bears. These changes prohibit the harvest of bears less than 75 lbs. live weight as well as adult bears accompanying these young bears and prohibit the hunting of bears within 300 feet of a baited area.
This public hearing announcement is specific to the proposed adoption of the CBBMP and changes to the Game Code that would be put in place for 2023 (and beyond). Concurrently, the Fish and Game Council also moved to initiate a regulated bear hunt for December 2022 through an emergency rule. This public hearing notice is not related to the emergency rule or the 2022 season.
The 60-day Public Comment Period, which began on December 5, 2022, through February 3, 2023, is now closed. All comments received are currently being processed.