Carbondale Reporter

Earlier this year, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) proposed changes to the state's waterfowl hunting season that would have prevented hunting during the Christmas holiday break. This proposal led to significant concern among local hunters.

Illinois State Representative Dave Severin reported that his office received many complaints from constituents about the potential change. Severin stated he brought these concerns directly to IDNR officials and advocated for maintaining access to hunting during the holiday period so families could continue their traditions.

“I received a lot of correspondence from my constituents who were rightly concerned about preserving family traditions and participation in the outdoor sport that they love,” Severin said. “I am pleased to let my constituents know that their voice has been heard, and that the Department will host public meetings to discuss the 2026-2030 waterfowl hunting seasons.”

The IDNR has scheduled two public meetings next week for residents to share feedback on future waterfowl hunting seasons. The first meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Southern Illinois University’s Lawson Hall in Carbondale. The second is set for Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Carlyle High School in Carlyle.

Severin is a Republican who was elected in 2023 to represent Illinois' 116th House District, succeeding David Friess.