JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- In a move the agency said is unrelated, the Missouri Department of Conservation today announced it would begin requiring a $2 Alligator, Crocodile and Caiman Permit.

A highly-paid spokesman said the new license is necessary, based on skyrocketing interest in hunting and fishing for gators, particularly during the Spring Reptile Conservation Order Season.

A growing number of outfitters now offer the spring gator hunting during peak northward migration periods. Hundreds and sometimes thousands of gator decoys and recorded gator bellowing are key features in bringing the reptiles into the range of unplugged gator guns.

Revenues from the permits will pay for MDC gator research, and to help fund new bike trails around Jefferson City.

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