How are wetlands closed?
Wetlands may be closed in either of two ways. If there is sufficient time, a 72-hour closure is initiated. Such a closure is advertised at least three days before it is due to come into effect. Seventy two-hour closures may remain in place for the whole season. If there is an urgent need to close a wetland, it can be done on 24-hours notice. These emergency closures can only be implemented after consultation with the Emergency Closures Advisory Committee which contains nominees from hunting organisations and the Minister. Emergency closures can only last for seven days. Emergency closures allow the Department to implement a further closure with 72 hours notice if required. Closures are always advertised in a major newspaper in the public notices section. Hunting organisations are notified and signs are erected at the wetlands to alert hunters to the closure.
