Sangamon Sun

State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) are addressing concerns from Southern Illinois hunters about the recently announced 2026-2030 waterfowl season dates, which exclude the Christmas holiday. Many local residents reached out to Rep. Meier, expressing worry that they would lose a longstanding Christmas hunting tradition.

After hearing from constituents, Rep. Meier advocated for reconsideration of the schedule. In response, IDNR acknowledged on Facebook that their earlier public information efforts did not reveal a preference for duck hunting during Christmas in the South Zone but now recognize its importance to many hunters in the region.

“The Department did not receive indication from the public information gathered that a preference existed for duck hunting during the Christmas holiday in the South Zone,” IDNR said in their statement. “We now understand this to be critically important to many hunters in this area.”

Rep. Meier expressed appreciation for IDNR’s willingness to review the decision. “I know so many families throughout Southern Illinois that enjoy hunting waterfowl over Christmas and have done so for many, many years,” said Rep. Meier. “Thank you to Director Natalie Phelps-Finnie and IDNR for being willing to come to the table. Families throughout the region should be able to carry on their hunting traditions.”

IDNR plans to hold public hearings across Southern Illinois on this issue, though specific details have not yet been announced.

Meier was elected as a Republican representative in 2023 for Illinois’ 109th House District, succeeding David Reis.