The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division will hold meetings around the state as it begins the cycle for setting hunting regulations for the next two years.

The purpose of the meetings is two-fold: 1) to accept public input or consideration in the development of hunting regulation proposals for the 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 hunting seasons; and 2) to accept public input for consideration in the development of regulations to enact certain recommendations of the Land Management Steering Committee.

Considering hunting regulations, WRD is interested in input that seeks to simplify regulations and encourage the recruitment of young hunters and the retention of existing hunters. It is WRD’s goal to establish hunting regulations that are not only biologically sound but reflect the desires of the public.

Regarding the Land Management Steering Committee, the committee investigated the potential of WRD-managed lands to recover costs associated with providing recreational services. The committee produced recommendations that are summarized in a report that can be viewed at www.georgiawildlife.com/node/2419. For more information on submitting comments, people may visit www.georgiawildlife.com/node/916?cat=hunting.

The meeting that will be held in Southwest Georgia is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 3, at Albany Technical College in the Kirkland Conference Center, Building F. The location is 1704 South Slappey Boulevard, Albany. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m.