Capt.

Seems these signs are getting posted on WMA's and other public use lands of late.




Seems the law reference in Sec. 26-16-3a went into effect in 2008 but it's getting some new push.

(f) Dogs must be on a leash no longer than seven (7) feet and under the control of their owner or
keeper. The person responsible for the dog, must hold the leash at all times. The provisions of this
subsection shall not apply to the proper use of dogs while in the act of hunting or the training of
dogs for the specific purpose of hunting, however all dogs may be prohibited on any area or during
any time period when so posted by the Department.
Amendment published in Conn. Law Journal November 5, 1996, effective October 18, 1996;
amendment published in Conn. Law Journal May 24, 2005, effective April 27, 2005; amendment
published in Conn. Law Journal March 25, 2008, effective February 29, 2008

Seems hunters have fewer places to run and train their hunting dogs before the season opens. The law also seems to conflict with Sec 226-49a when birds are not involved. The signs do not accurately reflect the TRAINING aspect stated in the law.

Sec. 26-49. Training of hunting dogs. Permits for liberation of artificially propagated birds. (a) Any person holding a valid hunting license issued as provided for under section 26-27 is authorized to train hunting dogs in the field during any closed season, except during any period when the woods and fields are closed by proclamation issued by the commissioner because of forest fire hazard, under regulations issued by the commissioner.

Are these misleading signs being posted because a push from anti-hunting groups or some other reason?