AGFC awards Benny Magness, hears first reading for carry of handguns

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission presented Benny Magness of Baxter County with a special award for his generosity and willingness to help during the AGFC Enforcement Division’s efforts to help victims of hurricanes Harvey and Irma. At its regularly scheduled meeting Thursday the commission said Magness donated manpower, gasoline and tankers to secure a reliable source of vehicle fuel during search-and-rescue efforts.In other news the commission heard the first official reading of a regulation change clarifying the carry of handguns for defensive purposes while hunting.

Under current regulations, hunters may not carry a modern gun while participating in archery or muzzleloading seasons, unless they have a valid concealed handgun carry permit. If passed, the amendment to this regulation will clarify, people may carry a handgun on commission-owned or -controlled property. Gun owners would also be able to carry a handgun while hunting, fishing or trapping on private property as long as it is for personal protection. The handgun must not be employed for hunting unless it is a legal killing device for a hunting season that is open. The handgun must otherwise be lawfully possessed.

The proposed code amendment will be presented for final consideration and adoption at the January 18, 2018 Commission meeting.

The Commission also began the interviewing process for the next director of the AGFC. They plan to also reopen the application period to offer any other candidates an opportunity to apply.

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