Game Commission approves multiple land acquisitions, range rule and ag-deer program reforms

At its public meeting the Game Commission approved a series of property transactions, conservation purchases and additional regulatory changes affecting ranges and agricultural deer control.

Land and donations: the commission accepted a donation of about 62 acres in Elk Township, Chester County, from The Nature Conservancy, creating what staff said will be Game Land No. 340. The board approved a number of additional acquisitions and option-price agreements to be paid from the commission’s restricted accounts or through third-party commitments. Several parcels were discussed and approved by voice vote; four properties (L-3892 in Butler County, L-3895 in Elk County, L-3896 in Potter County and L-3897 in Perry County) were tabled for further stakeholder input at the bureau director’s request. Commissioners emphasized the strategic importance of several purchases for habitat connectivity and public access.

Oil and gas non-surface use agreement: the commission approved terms for a 5-year paid-up non-surface use oil and gas…