By George Ermert, WWA Board Member and Policy Committee Chair
This article appeared in the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association’s February 2026 Newsletter edition.
Bill To Allow Responsible Sandhill Crane Hunting Season Passed Committees, Awaiting Action by Full Legislature
Legislation that will allow a responsible sandhill crane hunting season in Wisconsin is advancing and is now awaiting action by the full state Assembly and Senate.
On January 7, the bill was passed by the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions and Sporting Heritage by a vote of 3-2. And on January 14, the Assembly Committee on Sporting Heritage passed the bill by a vote of 7-3.
The affirmative passage of the bills at the committee level followed lengthy public hearings during which numerous conservation organizations testified in support of a responsible sandhill crane hunting season in Wisconsin, including WWA Executive Director Brad Heidel and WWA Vice President Todd Schaller.
The passage of the legislation out of committee is just the latest step in WWA’s efforts to help bring a scientifically supported, responsible sandhill crane hunting season to Wisconsin.
Over the last several years, WWA has organized a coalition of partners to advance this issue and has compiled background research and data to educate lawmakers, hunters, and the public. Some of the key partners working with WWA to bring a responsible sandhill crane season to Wisconsin include: Delta Waterfowl Foundation, Safari Club International, Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, and Ducks Unlimited.
WWA is hopeful that the full state Assembly and state Senate will take up the legislation to allow a responsible sandhill crane hunting season in Wisconsin before they adjourn for the year.
