Tennessee Wildlife Commission debates hunting regulations for Cheatham Lake area

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) held a significant meeting on April 24, 2025, where key discussions centered around proposed regulations affecting hunting areas and public access in state parks. The meeting addressed concerns raised by local hunters regarding restrictions on activities at Cheatham Lake and the management of hunting quotas in the region.

One of the primary topics was a proposal to prohibit all dog activities in designated hunting areas of state parks. This request aims to create a safer environment for hunters and wildlife, with a suggested 100-foot safety zone around trails and public access points. The committee discussed the implications of this regulation, particularly its potential impact on local hunting practices.

Additionally, the TWRA proposed increasing the size of the D. Mills Refuge by 2,700 acres and raising the hunter quota for deer archery hunts from four to fifteen. A new quota for a young sportsman's archery hunt was also introduced, aiming to engage younger hunters in the sport.

Public comments highlighted concerns from local hunters about the proposed restrictions at Cheatham Lake. Several hunters expressed their opposition to limiting access, especially during critical periods when they need to check on their equipment, such as ice eaters, which are essential for maintaining hunting conditions. They argued that the proposed regulations could hinder their ability to manage their hunting setups effectively.

Commissioner Box voiced support for allowing hunters to access their equipment during specific hours, suggesting a 10 AM to 2 PM window on non-hunting days. This amendment aims to balance the needs of hunters with the goal of protecting waterfowl populations.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further discuss these proposals and their implications for both hunters and wildlife management. The TWRA plans to present these recommendations to the full commission for approval, emphasizing the importance of finding a solution that accommodates both hunting activities and wildlife conservation efforts.