Swift County Considers Shotgun-Only Deer Hunt Ordinance for 2026

Swift County is set to hold a public hearing regarding a proposed ordinance that would designate the county as a shotgun-only zone for the 2026 deer firearm season. This decision follows a narrow vote by the County Board of Commissioners, which passed 3-2 during a meeting on March 14, 2023. The hearing is scheduled for 19:00 on March 16 at the Benson High School Performing Arts Center.

The ordinance’s potential adoption comes as the Minnesota Legislature has lifted the previous shotgun-only restrictions that applied to western and southern regions of the state. Local counties now have the option to enact their own regulations. County Board Chair Eric Rudningen initiated the motion for the public hearing, noting that he has received significant feedback from constituents advocating for the retention of the shotgun-only policy in the northeastern part of his district.

During discussions, Commissioner Edward Pederson expressed the importance of allowing constituents to voice their opinions, stating, “At least people will have an opportunity to express their opinions.” While the hearing does not guarantee the ordinance’s approval, it is a necessary step should the county decide to proceed with the legislation.

Conversely, Commissioners Larry Mahoney and Gary Hendrickx opposed the hearing, with Hendrickx emphasizing that he does not support a shotgun-only restriction. He articulated his belief that elected officials should rely on their judgment rather than holding public hearings for contentious issues.

Community Perspectives on Hunting Practices

A significant number of attendees at the board meeting advocated for the use of rifles in addition to shotguns. Among the 13 participants, eight spoke in favor of allowing rifles, arguing that it would result in a more ethical hunting experience. Neil Henriksen, a former conservation officer with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, highlighted that hunting practices have evolved considerably. Today’s hunters often utilize elevated stands and do not engage in traditional drives to scare deer into open areas.

One attendee, Ray Johnson, described past hunting practices as chaotic, remarking, “It was the wild, wild west.” Johnson, along with others, argued that rifles could enhance safety due to their accuracy. Proponents also mentioned that allowing rifles could help with hunter retention and would not negatively impact the deer population.

Local business owner Mike Bates, from Mike’s Guns and Sporting Goods in Benson, noted that the variety of rifles available today can make hunting more accessible for youth and women, allowing them to use firearms tailored to their physical capabilities. He pointed out that a standard 12-gauge shotgun delivers approximately 50 pounds of recoil, whereas a rifle using .243-caliber ammunition has only about 7 pounds of recoil, making it more manageable for younger hunters.

The public hearing will provide a platform for both supporters and opponents of the proposed ordinance to express their views. Commissioner Edward Pederson stated, “We do need to hear from people who want to be heard from,” reinforcing the idea that community input is crucial in this decision-making process.

Comparative Hunting Regulations in Surrounding Areas

The issue of hunting regulations is not unique to Swift County. While some neighboring counties, such as Pope County, have implemented shotgun-only ordinances, others like Big Stone, Lac qui Parle, and Chippewa Counties permit the use of rifles. Notably, Kandiyohi County will be holding a listening session on March 9 to discuss whether to consider a similar shotgun-only ordinance.

The deadline for counties to notify the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources regarding their decision on adopting a shotgun-only ordinance is May 5, 2023. This timeline underscores the urgency for Swift County to gather public input and assess the desires of its constituents before finalizing its stance on deer hunting regulations.

The upcoming public hearing is not merely a procedural formality; it represents an opportunity for community engagement on an issue that impacts local hunting practices and traditions. As discussions continue, the outcome remains uncertain, reflecting the diverse perspectives within the county regarding hunting methods and wildlife management.