The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency says alcohol will be banned in all state wildlife management areas starting this Monday (April 15, 2024).

Officials said alcohol possession and consumption will be prohibited statewide in wildlife management areas (WMA) except for designated areas, which are TWRA campgrounds and public waters bordering or within a WMA.

Officials said the rule change applies to all user groups, including off-highway vehicle drivers and passengers who ride on WMA units.

TWRA wildlife officers will be issuing citations for alcohol possession and use that is not in compliance with the regulations.

Officials said the rule change comes after high rates of intoxicated driving on WMAs and frequent accidents where alcohol was a contributing factor.