Migratory Bird Hunters Must Register for HIP

LINCOLN – Hunters of migratory birds are reminded of their requirement to register for the Harvest Information Program (HIP). Registration began Aug. 1.

HIP registration is required of residents age 16 and older and all nonresidents who plan to hunt migratory game birds in Nebraska between Aug. 1, 2016 and July 31, 2017. These birds are doves, ducks, geese, snipe, rail, coots and woodcock. Among those who must register in Nebraska are hunters registered in another state and holders of lifetime, 64-and-over veteran, and 69-and-over senior permits.

HIP, which is required by federal regulation of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, helps wildlife managers estimate the number of migratory birds harvested each year. Those estimates help biologists set limits and seasons.

Register for the free program at OutdoorNebraska.gov/HIP or call toll-free at 877-634-8687. Registered hunters are assigned a number that they must carry with them while hunting.

Hunting permits may be purchased at OutdoorNebraska.org.