HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania hunters can apply for a second spring gobbler tag beginning Jan. 1.

Second spring gobbler applications are available on page 38 of the 2006-07 Pennsylvania Digest of Hunting and Trapping Regulations, which is provided to each license buyer, or by going to the agency's website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) and clicking on "Spring Turkey Tag App." in the center of the homepage below "The Outdoor Shop."

Hunters also can apply at any of the Game Commission's six regional offices or its Harrisburg headquarters, however, licenses will be printed and mailed later.

Fees set by state law for the special license are $21 for residents and $41 for nonresidents. Mailed applications for special wild turkey licenses must be sent to: Pennsylvania Game Commission, Special Spring Gobbler License, P.O. Box 61317, Harrisburg, Pa. 17106-1317.

The application period closes on April 1, and the spring gobbler season is set for April 28 through May 26. Hunters are allowed to submit only one application for the special wild turkey license during a license year.

Hunters are able to take one spring gobbler as part of their general hunting privileges. However, the special license will afford those hunters interested in this additional opportunity to take a second spring gobbler.

According to Mary Jo Casalena, Game Commission wild turkey biologist, research has shown that properly timed and implemented multiple-bird spring limits have not caused population declines in other states.

Revenues from the special licenses could be used to implement and fund the Game Commission's turkey management plan and further educate turkey hunters.