The state is asking the public for input on possible restrictions of hunting and other activities on newly-purchased state land.

Wisconsin's recent extension of the stewardship land buying program included requirements from lawmakers that all purchased lands must be open to activities like hunting, fishing, hiking and trapping.

The law allows the Department of Natural Resources to restrict or ban those activities, and others, if the purpose is to protect public safety, plant life or animals, or accommodate how people use the land.

Now a subcommittee of the DNR board will hold listening sessions so the public can give input.

DNR Lands Bureau Director Steve Miller says he expects to hear lots of testimony on where hunting should be restricted.

The first listening session was Tuesday in Waukesha. More are scheduled in Eau Claire and Green Bay.