Because of their migratory nature, waterfowl species in Nebraska are managed in cooperation with neighboring states, the Central Flyway and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Regulations for waterfowl seasons set by states must fall within federal frameworks.
Once every five years, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the four Flyway Councils reconsider the criteria for waterfowl zone boundaries and allow states to reassess their zones and submit modifications for approval. This process is occurring between 2024-2025.
Hunter input
Hunters will be asked for their input on current waterfowl zone boundaries in November 2024 and January 2025. This input will be reviewed and considered in NGPC staff’s proposal of new zone boundaries to be approved by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Explore Nebraska’s current waterfowl zones for duck, coot and dark goose seasons, all of which will be subject to new federal criteria and could change starting with the 2026 hunting season.