(a) Before establishing the open season for ducks, except sea ducks, geese, and swan as required by subsection (b) of this section, the Department shall conduct public hearings on the proposed season, at least 1 of which shall be held, on an alternating basis, in Wicomico, Somerset, Worcester or Dorchester counties.

(b) The Department annually shall establish and publish the open season, excepting Sundays, for doves, mergansers, woodcock, and wetland game birds, including wild waterfowl, in conformity with the federal migratory bird rules and regulations adopted annually by the Secretary of Interior of the United States.