Army and Interior Pause Reservoir Land Rules by a Month

2026-12955 — Process for Authorizing Seasonal Migratory Game Bird Hunting

The Fish and Wildlife Service is changing how it approves seasonal migratory game bird hunting. Instead of making new rules every year, they’ll issue a hunting plan every three years, updating it sooner if needed. This will save time and money, help States, Tribes, and hunters, and keep bird populations safe.

2026-12951 — Process for Authorizing Seasonal Migratory Game Bird Hunting

The Fish and Wildlife Service is changing how it approves seasonal migratory game bird hunting. Instead of yearly rules, they’ll issue a hunting plan every three years but still decide harvest levels annually. This new process saves time and money, helps States and Tribes, and kicks in August 25, 2026—unless big objections come in by July 27.

2026-12738 — Royalty for Oil and Gas Lost From Onshore Federal and Indian Leases

The Bureau of Land Management is updating rules about royalties on oil and gas lost from onshore Federal and Indian leases. These changes make it easier for operators to follow the rules and speed up how royalties are figured out. If you’re involved, get your comments in by August 24, 2026, because this could affect how much money is paid or saved.

2026-12734 — Oil and Gas Leasing

The Bureau of Land Management is updating its oil and gas leasing rules to make sure public lands are well cared for while supporting American energy. These changes affect companies leasing land for oil and gas, adjusting bond amounts and royalty rules, and aim to simplify the leasing process. You’ve got until August 24, 2026, to share your thoughts before the new rules take shape!

2026-10846 — Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical Habitat for the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is officially protecting over 1.5 million acres of land across six states to save the rusty patched bumble bee, a once-common pollinator now endangered. Starting July 1, 2026, this critical habitat designation will help keep these bees buzzing by limiting harmful activities in these areas. Landowners and communities in 33 counties should get ready for new rules that support bee recovery without heavy costs.

2026-10160 — Practices Before the Department of the Interior

The Department of the Interior just made final updates to the rules about how people work with its Office of Hearings and Appeals. These changes clear up confusing parts, fix typos, and respond to public feedback. The new rules officially start on May 21, 2026, and anyone dealing with the department should get ready for smoother, clearer procedures—no extra costs announced.

Previous: 2025-08741 — Fisheries Off West Coast States; West Coast Salmon Fisheries; 2025 Specifications and Management Measures

Starting May 16, 2025, new rules will guide salmon fishing off Washington, Oregon, and California through May 15, 2026. These changes set where, when, and how much salmon can be caught to keep fish healthy, protect tribal fishing rights, and share the catch fairly between commercial and recreational fishers. Everyone who fishes salmon in these waters should get ready for updated seasons, limits, and gear rules that help save salmon for the future.

Next: 2025-08764 — Special Local Regulation, East River, Mathews, Virginia

The Coast Guard is setting up a special rule on the East River in Mathews, VA, to keep everyone safe during the annual Mathews Wharf to Wharf Swim. Boats and people can’t enter the swim area unless they get permission from the Coast Guard. This temporary change helps protect swimmers without costing anyone extra money.