OCALA, FL (352today.com) — In a move aimed at supporting long-term wildlife management, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) voted this week in Ocala to advance proposed changes to black bear hunting regulations. While no final decision has been made yet, the amendments will now move into the public advertising phase, with a final vote expected in August.

The proposed rules are part of a broader effort to update the 2019 Florida Black Bear Management Plan, which was reviewed in December during a 5-year update. FWC staff gathered extensive public input between December 2024 and April 2025, receiving more than 3,900 comments and over 13,000 unique responses through an online tool.

“The resurgence of the Florida black bear is not just a victory for conservationists; it’s a win for all Floridians,” said FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto. “Hunting is a biologically sound method to slow population growth, resulting in a healthy and well-managed Florida black bear population for the future.”

How it helps the community

  • Protects neighborhoods: Managing bear populations in fast-growing areas like Marion County can reduce the risk of human-bear encounters.
  • Supports ecosystem balance: Regulated hunting ensures bear numbers remain sustainable and in harmony with available habitat.
  • Preserves conservation progress: Officials say a structured approach to population control can protect both wildlife and the community.

FWC staff emphasized that hunting alone won’t eliminate human-bear conflicts. Education, community involvement, and ongoing bear management programs will remain essential.

If approved in August, most rule changes would go into effect for the 2025-26 hunting season.

Learn more about the proposed rules at MyFWC.com/BearHunting and how to avoid bear conflicts at BearWise.org.

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