TWRA Press Release:
NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission (TFWC) will hold its final meeting of 2025 at the Tennessee Aquarium (Lupton Room) in Chattanooga on Dec. 4-5. Committee meetings begin Thursday, Dec. 4 at 1 p.m., with full Commission proceedings continuing Friday, Dec. 5 at 9 a.m. To watch both meetings, visit our TWRA YouTube Channel.
The Commission will have three rulemaking hearings, which were previewed by Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) staff at the TFWC’s October meeting in Nashville. To view the October TFWC meeting, click here. They pertain to the Deer Baiting Privilege License, the North Cumberland OHV permit, and changes to the Endangered or Threatened Species list.
Additionally, the TWRA Fisheries Division staff will preview the 2026-27 fishing regulations. Following the meeting, a public comment period will be open. The Commission will vote on the proposals at its January meeting in Dyersburg. Furthermore, the Fisheries Division will present the annual Fisheries Biologist of the Year and Fisheries Technician of the Year awards during Friday’s meeting.
A brief history and update on black bear management in Tennessee will be presented. Staff will also discuss ongoing work within the program, address human-bear conflicts, highlight successes in addressing them, and outline plans for future work to ensure effective bear management.
Leading up to the rule making hearing, Wildlife & Forestry Division Assistant Chief Mark McBride and Wildlife Veterinarian Dr. Dan Grove will present background information on the Deer Baiting Privilege License during Thursday’s committee meetings. Expected impacts of baiting on deer, deer harvests, impacts on other species, and CWD will be among the topics discussed.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is responsible for protecting, managing, and conserving fish and wildlife species for the benefit of Tennesseans and visitors. The Agency also maintains public safety through law enforcement and safety education on waterways.