You asked if the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has approved "HeviShot" and "Kent Tungsten-Matrix" shot for waterfowl hunting in Connecticut, and when the Regulations Review Committee is expected to consider the issue.

On December 17, 2002, the Regulations Review Committee approved a DEP proposal to amend § 26-66-4(t) of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies to expand the types of shot that wildfowl hunters may use. The amended regulations will allow wildfowl hunters to use shot made of tungsten-nickel-iron and tungsten-matrix (defined as 95. 9% tungsten and 4. 1% polymer) alloys.

The amendment specifically permits the use of HeviShot, a brand of tungsten-nickel-iron alloy shot. It does not specifically mention the Kent brand of Tungsten Matrix shot, but this will presumably be allowed under the tungsten-matrix category. The new regulations will take effect upon submittal to the Secretary of the State's office, which should take place within a few days.

Wildfowl hunters are already permitted to use (1) non-toxic steel shot no larger than BB-size (. 18 inches diameter), and (2) bismuth-tin alloy (97% bismuth and 3% tin); tungsten polymer; or tungsten iron shot no larger than #2 shot (. 15 inches diameter). The amended regulations limit tungsten-nickel-iron and tungsten-matrix shot to no larger than #2 shot.

State wildfowl regulations require the use of non-toxic shot to prevent the poisoning of animals from either ingesting lead pellets directly or eating carcasses containing lead shot.

PF: eh