Commercial Harvest of Freshwater Turtles in Texas

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Gluesenkamp
Posts: 290
Joined: June 8th, 2010, 7:57 am
Location: Texas

Commercial Harvest of Freshwater Turtles in Texas

Post by Gluesenkamp »

I have been reviewing the commercial turtle harvest issue in Texas. Surprisingly, annual dealer reports indicate virtually no commercial harvest in recent years. Interviews with game wardens revealed that they very rarely encounter evidence of commercial harvest. However, hobbyists and researchers continue to report observations of commercial harvest from various locations around the state. Commercial collection of softshells, common snappers, and red-eared sliders is legal in private waters with an appropriate commercial license. I am seeking reports from the herping public regarding commercial collection in Texas (legal or otherwise). As always, I encourage you to contact your local GW if you observe illegal collection (i.e. off-limits species or harvest in public waters). Thanks for your help.
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