Alligator Task Force public forums set for June

HAMPSTEAD, NC (WWAY) — Where do alligators live, how long do they live, and when should they be removed? Those are just some of the questions that will be discussed during public forums held by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission and the N.C. Alligator Task Force.

During the forums, they will present a draft of the N.C. Alligator Management Plan and receive input from those who attend.

The draft Alligator Management Plan was developed by the N.C. Alligator Task Force, which was established by resolution by the Commission in 2016. The draft plan provides biological information on alligators in North Carolina, identifies knowledge gaps and additional research needed on alligators, identifies areas where alligators may be overpopulated, and recommends biological and social strategies to address alligator management issues.

Three of the forums are in our area.

The first will be held June 5 in Pender County at the Hampstead Annex Auditorium on Hwy 17 in Hampstead.

Another forum will be held June 13 at Bladen Community College in the Parker Building 17, room 113.

The third forum will be June 14 at the Brunswick County Complex Coop Extension Training Room, building N.

All forums begins at 7:00 p.m. An online comment form is available for those who cannot attend a public forum but would like to offer input.

Comments on the plan will be accepted until June 25.