Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Overlooked wildlife will be the focus of the 2012 Ohio Wildlife Diversity Conference, which is scheduled for Wednesday, March 7, at the Aladdin Shrine Center in Columbus.

The conference, titled “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly,” is sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife and is open to the public.

“We hope many people are able to attend this conference to learn more about the interesting wildlife we have in Ohio,” said Director Jim Zehringer, director of ODNR.

The Wildlife Diversity Conference has steadily grown in popularity. The first conference, held in 1985, drew 40 people. Last year, 975 people attended the day-long gathering.

The keynote speaker this year, Cindy Hale of the University of Minnesota, will discuss earthworms and their impact to the environment in her presentation, “Dances with Worms: The Great Lakes Worm Watch.”

Other conference topics include discussions of freshwater mussel restoration, aquatic invasive species, a Lake Erie pelagic bird survey, terrestrial crayfish, wildlife orphans, wetland restoration, as well as beavers, porcupines and fishers in Ohio.

The third Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp, which features the spotted salamander, will be available to conference attendees.

Proceeds from the sale of the stamp will be used to support:

• endangered and threatened native species;
• habitat restoration, land purchases and conservation easements; and
• educational products for students and wildlife enthusiasts.

Anyone who pre-registers online for the conference may purchase this collectable stamp at a discounted price of $12, which is a 20 percent savings. Details about the Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp are available at wildohiostamp.com.

Representatives from a range of conservation and natural resource organizations, such as the Black Swamp Bird Observatory, Columbus Audubon and Ohio Biological Survey, will present displays and be available to answer questions.

Doors open at 8 a.m. for registration on March 7. The conference begins at 9 a.m. and lasts until 3:30 p.m.

For more information or to register for the conference online, go to http://bit.ly/WildlifeDiversityConference or call 800-WILDLIFE. The registration cost prior to Feb. 26 is $25. After that date, the admission cost is $35.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. For more information, visit the ODNR website at www.ohiodnr.com.

Oregon Cougar Hunting Closed In Coast & North Cascade Region For Rest Of Year

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

SALEM, Ore --(Ammoland.com)- ODFW is closing cougar hunting through the end of this year in the Coast/North Cascades region, after reaching the zone’s quota of 120 cougars.

Since Jan. 1, 2011, 120 cougars have been killed by sporthunters or in response to damage or public safety concerns in Zone A (Coast/North Cascade). ODFW closes sport hunting if a zone’s quota is reached.

The closure only applies to sport hunting. Cougars may still be killed if they are threatening livestock, pets or human safety.

This is only the third year that cougar sport hunting has been closed in Oregon. Previous closures occurred in 2001, with one zone closed, and 2002, when two zones closed.

Most of the increased take of cougars in Zone A this year is from “non-hunter” kill, or cougars taken due to damage, public safety concerns, roadkill or other reasons. So far, 59 cougars were killed in this category in 2011, compared to 48 in 2010 and 38 in 2009. Sporthunter harvest of cougars was 61 in 2011, 55 in 2010 and 61 in 2009.

ODFW closely tracks the take of cougars. Sporthunters and any landowner that kills a cougar due to damage or public safety issues must check in the cougar’s skull and hide (with proof of sex) at an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest. During the check-in, ODFW collects data to estimate the cougar’s age.

The data is used to estimate the overall cougar population in Oregon, which is about 5,700 cougars today. To keep the cougar population healthy, ODFW closes sporthunting zones when a certain quota is reached as it was today in the Coast/North Cascades.

Cougar sport hunting in the Coast/North Cascade region will resume on Jan. 1, 2012, when the 2012 season begins with the same quota for the new year.

Find a map of zones and each zone’s quota at the link below: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/big_game/cougar/quota.asp

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Ohio hunters took 90,282 white-tailed deer during the state’s popular, week-long deer-gun season, which ran November 28 through December 4, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife. In 2010, hunters checked a total of 105,034 deer during the same time period.

“Hunters clearly took advantage of the weather as the week progressed. They trimmed the deficit from last season from 39% on opening day, to 14% by the close of the season on Sunday, “said Mike Tonkovich, ODNR, Division of Wildlife deer project leader. “While other factors may have been at work, it is clear that extreme weather – good or bad – on key harvest days can have a significant impact on the bottom line.”

Counties reporting the highest numbers of deer brought to Ohio check stations last week included Coshocton-3,690, Muskingum-3,223, Tuscarawas-3,180, Guernsey-2,982, Harrison-2,772, Licking-2,678, Knox-2,480, Belmont-2,431, Carroll-2,252, and Washington-2,225.

Hunters must still report their deer harvest, but they are no longer required to take their deer to a check station for physical inspection. Instead, hunters have three options to complete the new automated game check:

On the Internet at wildohio.com.
By telephone at 1-877-TAG-ITOH (1-877-824-4864). This option is only available to those who are required to have a deer permit to hunt deer.
At all license agents. A list of these agents can be found at wildohio.com or by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE.

All three check-in methods are being used during the deer-gun season, with 41 percent of hunters using the phone method. Hunters checking in via the Internet are second at 36 percent followed by those traveling to a license agent’s location (23 percent) to check in their game.

Hunters still have one weekend of deer-gun hunting, December 17-18, and nine weeks of archery hunting in Ohio. Archery season remains open until February 5, 2012. The statewide muzzleloader deer-hunting season will be held January 7-10, 2012.

Donations of extra venison are encouraged and will be accepted through the entire deer season, ending on February 5, 2012, to organizations assisting Ohioans in need. The division of Wildlife is collaborating with Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry to help pay the processing cost as long as the deer are taken to a participating processor. Counties being served by this program can be found online at www.fhfh.org.

Hunters who wish to share their success can submit a photo of themselves and the deer they killed this year to www.wildohio.com.

The white-tailed deer is the most popular game animal in Ohio, frequently pursued by generations of hunters. Ohio ranks 8th nationally in annual hunting-related sales and 10th in the number of jobs associated with the hunting-related industry. Each year, hunting has a $859 million economic impact in Ohio through the sale of equipment, fuel, food, lodging and more.

Ohio’s first modern day deer-gun season opened in 1943 in three counties, when hunters harvested 168 deer. In 1956, deer hunting was allowed in all 88 counties and hunters killed 3,911 deer during that one-week season.

A detailed listing of deer-hunting rules is contained in the 2011-2012 Ohio Hunting Regulations, available where licenses are sold. It may also be viewed online at www.wildohio.com.

EDITORS NOTE: THE FOLLOWING IS A LIST OF DEER CHECKED AND TAGGED BY HUNTERS DURING THE 2011 DEER-GUN HUNTING SEASON. THE NUMBER TAKEN DURING THE 2010 SEASON IS MARKED IN ( ): 2011 (2010)

Adams –1,727(1,639); Allen –293(440); Ashland –1,096(1,350); Ashtabula –1,777(2,400); Athens –2,059(2,147); Auglaize –192(245); Belmont –2,431(2,736); Brown –1,229(1,423); Butler –345(401); Carroll –2,252(2,952); Champaign –554(613); Clark –276(295); Clermont –980(1,215); Clinton –373(391); Columbiana –1,738(2,391); Coshocton –3,690(4,288); Crawford –441(568); Cuyahoga –37(38); Darke –223(265); Defiance –725(910); Delaware –594(696); Erie –137(157); Fairfield –1,152(1,258); Fayette –104(114); Franklin –170(142); Fulton –302(438); Gallia –1,844(1,899); Geauga –623(738); Greene –287(293); Guernsey –2,982(3,309); Hamilton –298(306); Hancock –402(576); Hardin –354(567); Harrison –2,772(3,547); Henry –279(505); Highland –1,432(1,527); Hocking –2,184(2,138); Holmes –2,013(2,529); Huron –925(1,007); Jackson –1,515(1,742); Jefferson –2,044(2,564); Knox –2,480(3,141); Lake –185(178); Lawrence –1,574(1,449); Licking –2,678(3,003); Logan –760(845); Lorain –739(863); Lucas –129(164); Madison –167(185); Mahoning –563(672); Marion –320(428); Medina –556(633); Meigs –1,974(1,941); Mercer –203(248); Miami –194(212); Monroe –1,960(2,180); Montgomery –144(117); Morgan –1,804(1,962); Morrow –851(1,007); Muskingum –3,223(3,683); Noble –2,028(2,229); Ottawa –81(88); Paulding –416(610); Perry –1,832 (2,126); Pickaway –466(570); Pike –1,077(1,102); Portage –644(740); Preble –267(253); Putnam –238(364); Richland –1,714(2,169); Ross –1,723(1,792); Sandusky –195(214); Scioto –1,224(1,250); Seneca –603(849); Shelby –305(376); Stark –661(744); Summit –151(198); Trumbull –1,060(1,305); Tuscarawas –3,180(4,038); Union –354(391); Van Wert –194(358); Vinton –1,577(1,579); Warren –412(451); Washington –2,225(2,555); Wayne –644(869); Williams –787(1,001); Wood –208(305); Wyandot –661(838); Total –90,282(105,034)

Ohio Hunter - Mitchell Baker County - Shelby Taken with Shotgun Date Taken - October, 2011

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Ohio’s fall wild turkey season ended November 27 with hunters bagging 1,375 during the seven-week season. Ashtabula County led the state with 67 birds taken, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife. Last year’s harvest total was 1,425.

The 2011 fall turkey season ran from October 8 through November 27 allowing hunters to pursue a wild turkey of either sex using a shotgun, muzzleloading shotgun, bow or crossbow in 48 counties in the state.

Prior to the start of this fall’s hunting season, Ohio’s estimated wild turkey population was around 180,000. As many as 15,000 people, not counting private landowners hunting on their own property, enjoyed Ohio’s fall wild turkey season.

The top 10 counties for fall turkey harvest were: Ashtabula-67, Knox-55, Guernsey and Tuscarawas-53, Noble-50, Monroe-45, Coshocton-44, Holmes-42, Licking-40, and Carroll and Richland-39.

Hunters who wish to share their success may submit a photo to wildohio.com.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

EDITORS NOTE: The following is a list of wild turkeys checked and tagged through November 27. The number taken during the 2010 fall turkey season is marked in ( ): 2011 (2010).

Adams –35 (29); Ashland –17 (38); Ashtabula –67 (77); Athens –27 (18); Belmont –32 (11); Brown –26 (28); Carroll –39 (28); Clermont –32 (44); Columbiana –37 (35); Coshocton –44 (68); Cuyahoga –0 (2); Defiance-13 (25); Gallia –36 (34); Geauga –31 (53); Guernsey –53 (39); Harrison –38 (34); Highland –37 (51); Hocking –20 (17); Holmes –42 (29); Jackson –17 (22); Jefferson –20 (25); Knox –55 (62); Lake –7 (4); Lawrence –21 (16); Licking –40 (53); Lorain –29 (15); Mahoning –24 (27); Medina –17 (24); Meigs –15 (33); Monroe –45 (15); Morgan –23 (20); Morrow –11 (13); Muskingum-36 (32); Noble –50 (34); Perry –26 (25); Pike –21 (10); Portage –18 (23); Richland –39 (31); Ross –19 (32); Scioto –22(12); Stark –23 (19); Summit –3 (8); Trumbull –31 (60); Tuscarawas –53 (56); Vinton –21 (19); Washington –24 (25); Wayne –9 (8) and Williams-27 (22). Preliminary totals –1,375 (1,425).

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Ohio’s popular deer-gun season opens statewide on Monday, November 28, offering hunters a full week to harvest a whitetail.

The upcoming season will again include an extra weekend of gun hunting on December 17-18, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

Deer can be hunted with a legal muzzleloader, handgun or shotgun from one half-hour before sunrise to sunset through December 4 and December 17-18. With a pre-hunting season population estimate of 750,000 white-tailed deer, the ODNR Division of Wildlife anticipates 115,000 to 125,000 deer will be killed during the nine-day season. Approximately 420,000 hunters are expected to participate in this year’s season, including many out-of-state hunters.

The white-tailed deer is the most popular game animal in Ohio, frequently pursued by generations of hunters. Ohio ranks 8th nationally in annual hunting-related sales and 10th in the number of jobs associated with the hunting-related industry. Each year, hunting has a $859 million economic impact in Ohio through the sale of equipment, fuel, food, lodging and more.

Hunters may take only one antlered deer, regardless of zone, hunting method or season. A deer permit is required in addition to a valid Ohio hunting license. Any time a hunter is allowed to take more than one deer, they must purchase an additional permit.

Ohio is divided into three deer hunting zones. Beginning on the opening day of gun season and continuing through December 4, a limit of one deer may be taken in Zone A (12 counties) and two deer in Zone B (38 counties). A total of six deer may be harvested in eastern and southeastern Ohio’s Zone C (38 counties) through the week long gun season.

Antlerless deer permits are not valid in Deer Zones A and B after November 27. The antlerless deer permit will be valid until December 4 only in Zone C.

Beginning on December 5, the bag limit is three deer in Zone C and antlerless deer permits are no longer valid.

Those hunting in urban units and at Division of Wildlife-authorized controlled hunts will have a six-deer bag limit, and those deer will not count against the hunter’s zone bag limit. Antlerless deer permits can be used for the entire season in urban deer units or Division of Wildlife-authorized controlled hunts. Antlerless deer permits must be purchased by November 27.

Hunters may take only one antlered deer, regardless of zone, hunting method or season. A deer permit is required in addition to a valid Ohio hunting license.

Hunters are encouraged to kill more does this season using the reduced-priced antlerless deer permit where valid.

They are also encouraged to donate any extra venison to organizations assisting Ohioans in need. The division is collaborating with Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry to help pay for the processing of donated venison. Hunters who donate their deer are not required to pay the processing cost as long as the deer are taken to a participating processor. Counties being served by this program can be found online at fhfh.org.

Additional hunting regulations and maps of the state’s deer zones are contained in the 2011-2012 Ohio Hunting & Trapping Regulations. This free publication is available wherever hunting licenses are sold, online at wildohio.com or by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE.

The 2011-2012 licenses will not be printed on weatherproof paper. Sportsmen and women should protect their licenses and permits from the elements by carrying them in a protective pouch or wallet.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources Extends Hotline Hours During Deer-Gun Hunting Season

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Individuals seeking information about the upcoming youth gun and white-tailed deer hunting seasons, or to report violations of state wildlife laws, can take advantage of extended call center hours from November 19 to December 4, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

The 1-800-WILDLIFE (945-3543) general hunting information hotline will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.on Saturday, November 19 and Sunday, November 20, for the ninth annual youth deer-gun season.

Staff will also be available to answer calls prior to and during the regular deer-gun season, which begins Monday, November 28, and ends Sunday, December 4.

Special call center hours prior to and during the state’s popular deer-gun season are as follows:

• 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, November 25
• 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, November 26-27
• 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, November 28-December 2
• 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, December 3-4
• 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, December 17-18
• The hotline will be closed on Thanksgiving Day

The extremely popular deer gun season is a period when many of Ohio’s hunters have last-minute questions and the Division of Wildlife will be ready and available to assist them. Hunters are encouraged to contact the division with any question that may arise.

Ohioans also are encouraged to help enforce state wildlife laws by reporting violations to the division’s Turn-in-a-Poacher (TIP) hotline at 1-800-POACHER (762-2437). Established in 1982, the TIP program allows individuals to anonymously call toll free from anywhere in the state to report wildlife violations. The 1-800-POACHER hotline is open for calls 365 days a year, 24 hours a day.

Tipsters may be eligible to receive a cash award and are urged to leave a message during closed hours with as much information about the suspected violation as can be provided. Tips can also be submitted online at wildohio.com.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Ohio hunters and trappers preparing to pursue furbearers will find good populations of these animals during the 2011-2012 season.

The season begins for most furbearing species on November 10, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

“Food sources and habitat conditions for furbearers remain good this year across Ohio,” said Division of Wildlife biologist Suzie Prange. “Fur takers can expect another good season for most species.”

For the seventh year, 43 counties will be open for river otter trapping from December 26 to February 29. River otters were reintroduced into four Ohio watersheds between 1986 and 1993 and have increased their range in the state. They were removed from the state endangered species list in 2002. Full details of open counties, checking and permit requirements can be found in the Ohio River-Otter Trapping Regulations.

In most regions of Ohio, hunting and trapping seasons for fox, raccoon, opossum, skunk and weasel open November 10 and close January 31. The trapping season for mink and muskrat is open November 10 through February 29. Exceptions are Erie, Ottawa and Sandusky counties, and in Lucas County east of the Maumee River where raccoon, opossum, skunk, weasel, mink and muskrat trapping seasons will remain open through March 15,

Ohio’s beaver-trapping season opens statewide December 26 and ends February 29.

There are no daily bag limits or restrictions on hours for hunting and trapping furbearers, with the exception of river otters, where bag limits are dependent on the county where the trapping occurs. Special hunting regulations for coyotes apply during the one-week, statewide deer-gun season, November 28-December 4, and the deer-gun weekend of December 17-18.

A fur-taker permit is required in addition to a valid Ohio hunting license to hunt or trap furbearing animals, except for coyotes, which may be hunted or trapped year round without a fur-taker permit. A special ODNR Division of Wildlife permit is required to trap beaver and otters on state public hunting areas.

Otters that are accidentally captured, either in excess of bag limits or in closed counties, must be released unharmed. Otters that cannot be released must be turned over to the Division of Wildlife.

Beaver trappers in particular are advised to watch for otter sign and modify set placements where necessary. The Ohio State Trappers Association and the Division of Wildlife have published a guide on how to recognize otter sign and use various otter avoidance techniques while trapping for beaver in areas closed to otter trapping. A copy of the publication and reports about observing otters in Ohio can be ordered by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE.

Ohio is among the nation’s leading producers of raw furs. Currently, there are 70 licensed fur dealers and more than 11,000 licensed fur takers in the state.

Additional hunting information is contained in the 2011-2012 Ohio Hunting Regulations brochure, available where Ohio hunting licenses are sold, on the Internet at wildohio.com or by calling toll-free 1-800-WILDLIFE.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- More than 24,000 white-tailed deer have been checked through Ohio’s new automated game check system, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

Hunters must still report their deer harvest, but they are no longer required to take their deer to a check station for physical inspection. Instead, hunters have three options to complete the new automated game check:

On the Internet at wildohio.com.
By telephone at 1-877-TAG-ITOH (1-877-824-4864). This option is only available to those who are required to have a deer permit to hunt deer.
At all license agents. A list of these agents can be found at wildohio.com or by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE.

All three check-in methods are being used, with 50 percent of hunters using the phone method. Hunters checking in via the Internet are second at 35 percent followed by those traveling to a license agent’s location (15 percent) to check in their game.

“The response to these new game check options has been really positive in both numbers and feedback we hear from the field,” said Dave Lane, chief of the Division of Wildlife. “Our goal is to offer hunters both traditional and convenient methods of checking deer and turkey, so they could choose the option that is best for them.”

Those hunters checking their deer on the Internet need to make sure they have access to a working printer so the game check receipt can be printed. Game check requires the hunter to print a receipt. If printing fails, the game check receipt is available at wildohio.com under the “Manage Your Customer Account” link. Hunters can use their customer identification numbers found at the top of hunting licenses and permits to access their account.

Hunters need to be aware that checking game on the Internet with a smart phone is available, but those hunters will eventually need to print out a game check receipt with a permanent tag number printed on it. The game check receipt is available at wildohio.com under the “Manage Your Customer Account” link.

Since the new automated game check system was built on a web-based platform making needed modifications to the system can be accomplished. Modifications were made prior to this fall’s hunting seasons. The Division of Wildlife will continue to monitor the game check system and make changes as needed for customer convenience.

Game-check transactions are available online and by telephone seven days a week and during holidays. License agents’ locations are available for turkey check-in during normal business hours. Please call the license agent for specific hours of operation. All deer must be checked in by 11:30 p.m. the day of harvest.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Hunters harvested 362 wild turkeys during the first week of Ohio’s fall wild turkey hunting season, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

The fall wild turkey season opened on October 8 and will run through November 27. Hunting hours are a half-hour before sunrise to sunset. The bag limit is one turkey of either sex per hunter for the fall season. A fall turkey permit is required in addition to a current Ohio hunting license.

Last year, hunters killed 417 birds in the same time period. The top 10 counties for wild turkeys killed to date are: Noble-18, Knox-17, Guernsey-15, Monroe-14, Coshocton, Holmes, and Richland-13, Ashtabula and Highland-12, and Tuscarawas-11.

Wild turkeys can be hunted in 48 counties during the fall season. More than 20,000 hunters pursued wild turkeys in Ohio last fall.

Turkeys must be checked by 11:30 p.m. the day of harvest. Hunters can complete the automated game check and permanent tagging process in one of three ways:

• Call 1.877.TAGITOH (1.877.824.4864)
• Visit wildohio.com. Click on “Wild Ohio Customer Center” and then click on “Game Check: Report a Deer or Turkey Harvest.” To game check a harvest online, make sure to use a computer hooked to a printer. A game check receipt will be issued and should be printed. When using a smartphone for game check you must write down the 18-digit permanent tag number provided at the end of the transaction on the permanent tag in the spaces provided.
• Visit any authorized license sales agent. A list of sales agents can be found at wildohio.com or by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE (1-800-945-3543). Authorized license sales agents will be available for game check during normal business hours, call for exact hours of business operation before you go.

Hunters can find their completed game check transactions by accessing their customer account at wildohio.com by clicking the Wild Ohio Customer Center button and then selecting “Manage Your Customer Account.”

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at www.ohiodnr.com.

(EDITORS NOTE: The following is a breakdown by county of wild turkeys killed through October 16. The number taken during the 2010 fall turkey season is marked in (_): 2011 (2010). A final tally will be provided at the close of the season.)

Adams -9 (6); Ashland –3 (13); Ashtabula –12 (28); Athens –7 (4); Belmont –10 (1); Brown –9 (8); Carroll –8 (6); Clermont – 5(14); Columbiana –10 (11); Coshocton –13 (28); Cuyahoga -0 (0); Defiance –4 (5); Gallia –10 (15); Geauga –10 (12); Guernsey –15 (13); Harrison –8 (14); Highland –12 (14); Hocking –3 (4); Holmes –13 (7); Jackson –9 (8); Jefferson –3 (4); Knox –17 (22); Lake –3 (0); Lawrence –4 (5); Licking –7 (12); Lorain –7 (3); Mahoning –4 (5); Medina –1 (8); Meigs –6 (14); Monroe –14 (5); Morgan –6 (5); Morrow –1 (3); Muskingum –7 (9); Noble –18 (10); Perry –7 (6); Pike –4 (4); Portage –6 (9); Richland –13 (9); Ross –5 (8); Scioto –6 (6); Stark –5 (7); Summit -2 (4); Trumbull –10 (15); Tuscarawas –11 (10); Vinton –9 (8); Washington – 6 (10); Wayne -2 (2) and Williams -8 (3). Preliminary total –362 (417).

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Two tick species of public health importance are becoming more common and expanding their range in Ohio – the blacklegged tick and the lone star tick, according to the Ohio Department of Health, Zoonotic Disease Program.

Lone star ticks are common in southern Ohio where they can be found in shady areas along roads, meadows, and woods, and are active from May to the end of summer. These ticks can transmit a bacterial disease called ehrlichiosis.

Blacklegged ticks were once considered rare in Ohio, but now account for about 5 percent of annual tick submissions, primarily from eastern Ohio counties. These ticks are known transmitters of Lyme disease and other, less common human diseases.

Last year, researchers from The Ohio State University (OSU) confirmed an established population of blacklegged ticks in Coshocton County. Ashtabula County was just added to the list and other counties are likely to be included, according to OSU extension entomologist Dr. Glen Needham. Ticks and white-footed mice collected from Coshocton County were positive for the Lyme disease bacterium based on tests done by scientists at OSU College of Veterinary Medicine.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), reported cases of Lyme have been steadily rising across the country since national surveillance began in 1982. In 2010, there were more than 30,000 reported cases in the U.S. and more than 8,500 probable cases. An average of 53 Lyme disease cases are reported in Ohio each year, with about half of these acquired during travel outside the state.

Adult blacklegged ticks are actively looking for hosts, such as people, pets or deer, not only in the fall, but on warm winter days as well. This is very different behavior from the lone star ticks or the more common American dog ticks, which are not active from September through March.

Unlike pets and humans, wild animals such as deer are not affected by the blacklegged tick and suffer no ill effects from Lyme disease. Additionally, Lyme disease cannot be transmitted by the consumption of venison. Hunters should keep in mind, however, that hunting and dressing deer may bring them into close contact with infected ticks.

Everyone, especially hunters, should be aware of this new threat and take precautions to prevent tick attachment. Outer clothing should be sprayed with a permethrin-based repellent according to label directions the day before hunting and allowed to air dry. Pants should be tucked into socks or boots and shirts into pants to keep ticks on the outside of clothing. These ticks will be difficult to spot on camouflage clothing. All clothing should be carefully inspected for small, dark crawling ticks before entering vehicles and going indoors. Once inside, thoroughly check for small, attached ticks.

Remove attached ticks as soon as they are discovered to reduce the risk of contracting tick-borne diseases. To safely remove ticks from yourself, hunting dogs, or deer, use tweezers or your fingers protected by paper towel or tissue. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull straight out with steady, even pressure. Do not use petroleum jelly, fingernail polish, alcohol, cigarettes or matches to try to kill or stimulate the tick to move out because those methods do not work and may be dangerous.

The Ohio Department of Health’s web site has helpful information and images about tick identification and tick-borne diseases. To learn more visit www.odh.ohio.gov and search the A-Z index using the word “tick.” The CDC web site has further details on Lyme disease nationally at www.cdc.gov/lyme.

If you believe the tick you found is a lone star or blacklegged tick, or if you are unable to indentify the tick, you may take the tick to your local health department or mail the tick to Ohio Tick Survey, Zoonotic Disease Program, 8995 East Main Street, Building 22, Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068.

To have the tick identified, it should be saved in a hard container such as a pill bottle or film canister. Place a few blades of grass in the container with the tick. Containers should be mailed as soon as possible. If needed, the ticks may be safely refrigerated for several days until mailed. Be sure to include the following contact information: name, address and phone number; date tick was collected; Ohio county where it was collected, and indicate whether or not the tick was attached to a person or animal.

The first sign of Lyme disease is usually an expanding large circular rash that appears from three to 30 days after attachment and lasts for days or weeks. This rash may be followed by fatigue, chills, fever, headache, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes. Seek medical attention immediately if any combination of symptoms occurs, and mention the possibility of Lyme disease. Antibiotics are very effective when the disease is detected early.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

ATHENS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- American Electric Power (AEP) is a long-standing partner in the effort to provide hunters with more access to lands on which they can pursue their pastime.

While approximately 90,000 acres of land are currently open to sportsmen and women, not all AEP properties are open to the public, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

“The name AEP has become synonymous with public land in southeastern Ohio, but not all the land they own is open for public hunting,” stated District Four Law Enforcement Supervisor Tom Donnelly. “Hunters need to confirm that the AEP property they plan to hunt is open. Hunting without permission on AEP’s private properties has rarely been enforced, but that will change this year.”

Many hunters have been using the private AEP properties for years with no repercussions, but that will no longer be the case. As a result of increased illegal activity on these private properties, AEP’s land management section has asked the Division of Wildlife to begin enforcing hunting without permission. Many of these private properties are in lease agreements with private hunting clubs, or with farmers for agricultural practices.

“AEP requires their lease holders to purchase liability insurance and enter into a written contract,” stated Brian Cox, a forester with AEP’s land management section. “This is a relatively new process, and local sportsmen who have accessed these properties in the past should consider them equivalent to any other piece of privately-owned property.”

None of the public AEP properties are affected by this increase in enforcement, and sportsmen and women who have been legally hunting these areas will not see any change. All persons interested in recreational activities on any public AEP properties must still obtain a free lifetime permit which can be found at various locations including the ODNR Division of Wildlife District 4 Office in Athens, or at www.aep.com/environmental/recreation. The AEP permit is valid at the following areas: The ReCreation Lands, Poston Plant lands, Avondale Wildlife Area, Gavin Wildlife Area, and Conesville Coal Lands. These properties total approximately 90,000 acres and spread through Athens, Coshocton, Gallia, Meigs, Morgan, Muskingum, Noble, and Perry Counties. ATV’s are not allowed on the areas, and many of the same rules apply as when hunting on ODNR owned lands.

In Ohio, hunting without permission is a misdemeanor of the third degree on the first offense, with a maximum penalty of a $500 fine and up to 60 days in jail. Any subsequent hunting without permission offenses would be charged as misdemeanors of the second degree with a maximum penalty of a $750 fine and up to 90 days in jail.

Anyone observing or suspecting that wildlife violations are occurring may report illegal activity by calling the Turn-In-A-Poacher (TIP) hotline toll free at 1-800-POACHER.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- While successful deer and turkey hunters must still report their harvests, they are no longer required to take their game to a check station for physical inspection and tagging, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

Hunters have three options to complete the new automated game check:

• On the Internet at wildohio.com or ohiogamecheck.com
• By telephone at 1-877-TAG-ITOH (1-877-824-4864). This option is only available to those who are required to have a deer or turkey permit.
• At all license agent locations (find agent locations at wildohio.com)

Internet and telephone game-check is available seven days a week and during holidays. License agents’ locations are available for deer and turkey check-in during normal business hours. Please call the license agent for specific hours of operation. All deer and turkeys must be checked in by 11:30 p.m. on the day of kill.

“Ohio’s game-check system performed well during the spring turkey season, the Division of Wildlife,” said Korey Brown, license manager for the Division of Wildlife. “We will continue to monitor the game check and licensing systems and make changes as needed for customer convenience.”

Landowner hunters who are not required to purchase a deer or fall turkey permit must use the Internet or an authorized license agent to check their game. Hunters who tag their game as a landowner harvest cannot use the phone-in method.

Immediately upon harvest, the hunter must detach the temporary tag from the permit, fill in the necessary information using a pen, and attach it to the animal. Landowner hunters must create their own temporary tag and attach it to the deer or turkey immediately upon harvest. The game can be legally transported once the temporary tag is attached. It is recommended that hunters use a plastic bag or license holder to protect their temporary tag in the field.

Hunters who choose to use the phone to check their game are encouraged to complete the process in a quiet, sheltered area. Hunters will need to be able to hear the permanent tag number provided over the phone and be ready to write that number on the permanent tag.

When a hunter checks in a deer or turkey on the Internet or by an agent, they will receive a game-check receipt with a permanent tag number printed on it. Landowner hunters will receive their permanent tag at this time. Hunters using the phone-in method will receive the number over the phone. This number must be written on the permanent tag by all hunters, including landowners, which is attached to the deer or turkey permit. Hunters must then fill in the date and time of kill and sign the permanent tag. Next, the permanent tag is detached from the permit and attached to the animal. The temporary tag can be discarded after a permanent tag is attached to the animal.

The permanent paper tag must stay with the deer or turkey as long as any part of the animal is held. The permanent paper tag replaces the metal tag of years past. Hunters should also be aware that the license and permit paper is not waterproof and should be protected in a plastic bag or license holder. Carry an empty plastic bag or protective pouch to be used upon harvest of the deer or turkey. Hunters must tie the temporary tag to the animal and make sure it is secured and protected from the elements during transport.

When purchased at a license agent location, licenses and permits will appear on the green, left hand side of the document, and the remaining space will be printed with information relevant to the license or permit purchased. Cut along the vertical dotted line and then fold down to credit card size for easy carrying.

Those hunters purchasing over the Internet may print their licenses and permits on plain white or other color of paper. Licenses and permits purchased on the Internet may be cut along the solid black line and folded on the dotted lines for easy carrying.

A customer identification number will be assigned to everyone using the Division of Wildlife’s automated license sales and game check system. This number will be issued to the hunter after they provide the required information for a customer account and will be printed on the top of his or her license and permits. This number will be the hunter’s unique customer identification number for as long as he or she obtains licenses, permits, stamps, or Wild Ohio magazine, or applies for a controlled hunt or fishing lottery. Hunters can print and laminate a customer card with their name and customer ID number for future use by logging onto wildohio.com and choosing the “Manage Your Customer Account” link.

Hunting and trapping season dates and rules can be found at wildohio.com.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Ohio’s youth hunters will have several opportunities to learn and sharpen their hunting skills this fall.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife offers many ways for families to hunt together and create lasting traditions in the state’s outdoors.

WATERFOWL: Youngsters age 15 and under wanting to pursue waterfowl may do so, statewide, on Saturday and Sunday, October 1-2.

SMALL GAME: Hunters age 17 and younger may hunt statewide for rabbit, pheasant and all other legal game in season during two designated weekends, October 22-23 and October 29-30. Quail also may be taken in 16 designated open counties.

Pheasant releases for young hunters will occur prior to these dates on the following state wildlife areas: Resthaven, Oxbow, Berlin, Killdeer Plains, Camp Belden, Grand River, Spencer, Wellington, Delaware, Dillon, Caesar Creek, Rush Run, Fallsville, Tiffin River, and Darke, as well as Charlemont Metropark in Lorain County and Ring Neck Ridge in Sandusky County. A permit is required to hunt the Ring Neck Ridge area. The free permit can be obtained from the Sandusky County Park Office by calling 419.334.4495 or the Sandusky County Park District Office at 419.637.2900

WHITE-TAILED DEER: A youth deer-gun season will be open statewide, November 19-20. Hunters age 17 and younger who are accompanied by a non-hunting adult may take one deer of either sex during this season in accordance with existing bag and deer-zone limits.

WILD TURKEY: It is not too early to begin planning for the spring youth wild turkey hunting season for 2012. A statewide spring youth wild turkey season will be offered on Saturday and Sunday, April 21-22. This hunt is open to youths age 17 and younger.

CONTROLLED HUNTS: The Division of Wildlife also offers several controlled hunts for young hunters throughout the season. Applications to participate in these hunts are accepted June 1 through July 31. Applications are available at the division’s five district offices and on the division’s web site, and may be completed by mail or online. There are controlled youth hunts for white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and waterfowl.

To participate in the upcoming youth hunts, all young hunters must be accompanied by a non-hunting adult, and must abide by all regular hunting hours and bag limits. A valid 2011-12 youth hunting license, along with the appropriate permits, are required. For complete details on all of Ohio’s youth hunting seasons, refer to 2011-2012 Ohio Hunting and Trapping Regulations booklet, call 1-800-WILDLIFE (1-800-945-3543) or go online to wildohio.com.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Approximately 345,000 bowhunters, representing more than half of all Ohioans who hunt deer, are expected to participate in the statewide archery deer hunting season that opens September 24, according the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

During last year’s four-month archery season, bowhunters killed 85,012 deer, a decrease of seven percent from the previous year. Crossbow hunters took 44,123 of that number and longbow hunters took 40,889 deer. Overall, archers accounted for 35 percent of 239,475 deer taken during Ohio’s combined 2010-11 archery, muzzleloader and gun seasons.

Licking County led the state in both the vertical bow and crossbow harvest. Coshocton, Tuscarawas, Ashtabula, and Holmes rounded out the top five counties in crossbow harvest, while Coshocton, Tuscarawas, Muskingum, and Knox completed the list of top five counties in vertical bow harvest.

“I expect both the pre-hunt deer population and the harvest to be near their three-year averages of 750,000 and 250,000 deer, respectively,” said Mike Tonkovich, Division of Wildlife deer project leader.

All hunters must still report their harvest of deer, but they are no longer required to take their deer to a check station for physical inspection. Hunters will have three options to complete the automated game check:

On the Internet at www.wildohio.com or www.ohiogamecheck.com
By telephone at 1-877-TAG-ITOH(1-877-824-4864). This option is only available to those who are required to purchase a turkey permit to hunt turkeys.
At all license agents

Game-check transactions will be available online and by telephone seven days a week and during holidays. Landowner hunters who are not required to purchase a deer permit must use the Internet or any license agent to check their deer. Hunters who tag their deer as a landowner harvest cannot use the phone-in method. All authorized license sales agents will also check in your game. A list of these agents can be found at www.ohiodnr.com/wildlife/dow/regulations/vendor.aspx or by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE.

The Division of Wildlife remains committed to reducing populations where needed. Through a combination of both regulatory and programmatic changes, progress toward reducing locally abundant herds can be expected.

Ohio hunters are also encouraged to kill more does again this season, using the reduced-priced antlerless deer permit to help the needy in their area. The Division of Wildlife is collaborating with Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry (FHFH) to help pay for the processing of donated venison. Hunters who donate their deer to a food bank are not required to pay the processing cost as long as funding for the effort lasts. More information about this program can be found online at www.fhfh.org.

All deer hunters are required to have a valid Ohio hunting license and a valid deer permit. The $15 antlerless deer permit will be valid September 24 through November 27 in Zones A and B. The $15 antlerless deer permit will be valid through December 4 in Zone C only. However, the $15 antlerless permit may be purchased only until November 27, 2011.

This year’s statewide archery season remains open from September 24 through February 5, 2012, including the week of deer-gun season November 28 through December 4. Deer-gun hunters will also be able to enjoy an additional weekend of hunting December 17 and 18. Archers may hunt one half-hour before sunrise to one half-hour after sunset, except during the statewide gun, youth and muzzleloader seasons when they are one half-hour before sunrise to sunset. Archers hunting during the statewide gun, youth or muzzleloader seasons must meet the hunter orange requirements of those seasons.

To hunt deer in Ohio, hunters must possess a deer permit in addition to a valid hunting license. State law allows hunters to take only one antlered buck per year, regardless the type of deer season, deer permit or weapon used for deer hunting.

A detailed listing of deer hunting rules is contained in the 2011-2012 Ohio Hunting Regulations, available where licenses are sold, or may be viewed online at wildohio.com.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Nominations are now being accepted for the Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

For the past 45 years, the Hall of Fame has been the state’s top honor for individuals who have improved the quality of life in Ohio through natural resources management, environmental education or scientific achievement.

Selection criteria and a nomination form are available at www.ohiodnr.com or by calling 614-265-6842. Nomination forms must be returned no later than August 26 to ODNR Communications, 2045 Morse Road, Building D-3, Columbus, OH 43229.

Created by ODNR in 1966, the Ohio Natural Resources Hall of Fame has proudly honored 155 individuals to date, including John Chapman (Johnny Appleseed), explorer John Wesley Powell, conservationist/novelist Louis Bromfield, pioneering botanist Lucy Braun, and farming conservation advocate Bob Evans.

Successful nominators of this year’s Hall of Fame selections will be notified by September 12. Award presentations will be made this fall with a date and location to be announced.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Young peregrine falcons across Ohio have fledged, marking the end of the 2011 nesting season.

There were 39 sites with territorial pairs, of which 34 nests produced eggs. There were an additional five sites with single peregrines present.

This year there were 34 nest sites where an estimated 111 eggs were produced; 26 of those nests hatched young falcons and 24 sites fledged 67 juveniles successfully. The 2011 hatch rate was 70 percent, up slightly from 2010 (67 percent). Additionally, there were two new sites with territorial pairs across the state this year from the 37 pairs in 2010.

The first pair of peregrines nested in Ohio in 1988 at the Commodore Perry Hotel in Toledo. From 1989-1993, along with several other Midwestern states, the Ohio Division of Wildlife hacked 46 birds throughout the state. Peregrine falcons were delisted as a federal endangered species in 1999, and down-listed in Ohio to state threatened in 2008. Peregrines remain on the state threatened list and the Division of Wildlife continues to monitor the population.

Ohio’s peregrine falcon program is supported by the state income tax check-off program, donations to the Wildlife Diversity and Endangered Species Fund, and sales of the Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp, and the cardinal license plate. Individuals wanting to donate can also make an online contribution at wildohio.com.

Matching federal funds are provided through the State Wildlife Grant Program for this project and other wildlife diversity efforts of the Division of Wildlife that target species of greatest conservation need.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Magee Marsh Wildlife Area Waterfowl Hunt Cancelled

Ohio Department Natural Resources

OAK HARBOR, OH --(Ammoland.com)- An extensive restoration and enhancement project at the Magee Marsh Wildlife Area will necessitate cancellation of the area’s controlled waterfowl hunt for the 2011-2012 waterfowl hunting season according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

The temporary closure of the area will result in decades of improved wetland management capabilities on Magee Marsh and enhanced waterfowl hunting opportunities in the future. However, completing the restoration work will require the drawdown of water from the eastern and southern wetland units on a temporary basis. This project affects 392 acres of coastal wetlands on Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, securing the main water supply to 282 acres of hemi-marsh and semi-permanent wetlands by restoring the structural integrity of the main water supply channel levee. Another benefit of the effort is the restoration of wetland hydrology to three wetlands including a 60 acre forested wetland and 50 acres of emergent marsh habitats adjacent to the forested wetland.

This project is a cooperative effort between the Ohio Division of Wildlife and Ducks Unlimited, and is funded through a Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Joint Venture Habitat Restoration and Protection Grant and funds generated from the sale of the Ohio Wetland Habitat Stamp.

Opportunities for sportsmen and women will still be available during the special teal and early Canada goose season in September. A drawing for these seasons is scheduled for Saturday, August 20, 2011 at the Lake Erie Waterfowler’s Festival.

Daily drawings for waterfowl hunting opportunities for the remainder of the 2011-2012 waterfowl hunting season will be held when the project is completed, but a completion date for this project has not been determined.

For information about Ohio’s wildlife, visit wildohio.com, find the Division of Wildlife on Facebook, or follow updates on Twitter.

The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Close to 10,000 wild turkeys have been checked through Ohio’s new automated game check system, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

Hunters must still report their turkey harvest, but they are no longer required to take their turkey to a check station for physical inspection. Instead, hunters have three options to complete the new automated game check:

• On the Internet at wildohio.com
• By telephone at 1-877-TAG-ITOH (1-877-824-4864). This option is only available to those who are required to have a turkey permit to hunt turkeys.
• At all license agents. A list of these agents can be found at wildohio.com

All three check-in methods are being used, with 42-percent of hunters using the phone method. Hunters checking at a license agent location are second at 31-percent, followed closely by those using the Internet at 27-percent.

Those hunters checking their turkey on the Internet need to make sure they have access to a working printer so the game check receipt can be printed. Game check requires the hunter to open and print a receipt from a PDF file. Adobe Acrobat Reader version 5.2 or better is required. Adobe’s Acrobat Reader is a free download.

Hunters need to be aware that checking game on the Internet with their smart phone is available, but those hunters will eventually need to print out a game check receipt with a permanent tag number printed on it. So hunters must save the game check receipt PDF file provided at the end of the transaction for later printing.

A new option available to hunters is the ability to access your customer account. Log onto wildohio.com and choose the “Manage Your Customer Account” link. The hunter can use his or her customer identification number to log in. Customer identification numbers can be found at the top of hunting licenses and permits. Information available through the customer account includes licenses and permits purchased, game check transactions, hunting and fishing lottery results and Wild Ohio Magazine subscriptions.

Since the new automated game check system is built on a web-based platform making needed modifications to the system can be accomplished. Last fall, a pilot test of the game check system was completed and a few modifications were made for this year’s spring turkey season. The Division of Wildlife will continue to monitor the game check system and make changes as need for customer convenience.

Game-check transactions are available online and by telephone seven days a week and during holidays. License agents’ locations are available for turkey check-in during normal business hours. Please call the license agent for specific hours of operation. All turkeys must be checked in by 11 p.m. the day of kill.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Blue Rock State Forest Hosts Special Turkey Hunt from left to right: Frank Wells, Brad Tollen, Doug Purdum)

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Twenty-one disabled hunters participated in a special hunt for wild turkeys at Blue Rock State Forest in Muskingum County on Saturday, April 9.

“This pre-season hunt provided an opportunity for disabled hunters to participate in a guided hunt,” said Robert Boyles, state forester and chief of the ODNR Division of Forestry. “Blue Rock State Forest provides an excellent venue for hunting wild turkeys because of harvesting practices and forest management techniques that have created an ideal habitat for the birds.”

The event was sponsored by the National Wild Turkey Federation’s (NWTF) Wheelin’ Sportsmen program, which provides people with disabilities opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The ODNR Divisions of Forestry and Wildlife worked with the Y-Bridge Longbeards and other chapters of the NWTF to coordinate the event with donations and volunteer efforts from many local individuals and businesses.

Two or more guides were provided for each hunter. Hunters provided their own shotguns and ammunition, as well as the necessary licenses and permits.

Four turkeys were taken during the event, which had participants ranging in age from 20 to 80. Some of the hunters were in wheel chairs, while others walked with the assistance of canes or braces.

Ohio grows more acres of trees than corn and soybeans combined. The ODNR Division of Forestry works to promote the wise use and sustainable management of Ohio’s public and private woodlands. To learn more about Ohio’s woodlands, visit the Division of Forestry’s Web site at www.ohiodnr.com/forestry.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Ohio hunters harvested a preliminary total of 2,646 bearded wild turkeys on the first day of the spring turkey-hunting season, which is open statewide through May 15, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

Top counties for wild turkeys killed on Monday were: Guernsey – 94; Adams – 88; Tuscarawas – 85; Muskingum – 81; Coshocton and Knox – 79; Belmont – 73; Washington – 72; Brown – 71; and Ashtabula – 70.

The Division of Wildlife estimates that more than 70,000 people will hunt turkeys during the four-week season. Legal hunting hours are one-half hour before sunrise until noon from April 18 to May 1, 2011. Hunting hours May 2-15 will be a half hour before sunrise to sunset. Ohio’s wild turkey population was estimated at 200,000 prior to the start of the spring season.

A special youth-only hunt for hunters age 17 and younger was held statewide on Saturday and Sunday, April 16-17. Young hunters killed 1,455 birds statewide. Top reporting counties were: Ashtabula – 49; Brown and Tuscarawas – 47; Highland – 46; Licking – 45; Muskingum – 44; Carroll – 42; Jackson – 40; and Adams and Washington – 38.

Only bearded wild turkeys may be taken during the spring hunting season. A hunter is required to check in their turkey by 11 p.m. on the day of harvest. Hunters with the proper permits may take a limit of two bearded gobblers during the four-week season, but not more than one wild turkey per day.

Hunters must still report their turkey harvest, but they are no longer required to take their turkey to a check station for physical inspection. Instead, hunters have three options to complete the new automated game check:

* On the Internet at wildohio.com or ohiogamecheck.com
* By telephone at 1-877-TAG-ITOH (1-877-824-4864). This option is only available to those who are required to have a turkey permit to hunt turkeys.
* At all license agents. A list of these agents can be found at wildohio.com

Game-check transactions will be available online and by telephone seven days a week and during holidays. License agents’ locations will be available for turkey check-in during normal business hours. Please call the license agent for specific hours of operation. All turkeys must be checked in by 11 p.m. the day of kill.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

EDITORS NOTE – Below is a list of preliminary wild turkey harvest results for the 2011 spring season opening day:

Adams – 88; Allen – 7; Ashland – 24; Ashtabula – 70; Athens – 69; Auglaize – 4; Belmont – 73; Brown – 71; Butler – 30; Carroll – 41; Champaign – 14; Clark – 4; Clermont – 54; Clinton – 9; Columbiana – 56; Coshocton – 79; Crawford – 15; Cuyahoga – 1; Darke – 3; Defiance – 19; Delaware – 20; Erie – 8; Fairfield – 21; Fayette – 0; Franklin – 4; Fulton – 9; Gallia – 64; Geauga – 42; Greene – 6; Guernsey – 94; Hamilton – 30; Hancock – 5; Hardin – 8; Harrison – 67; Henry – 4; Highland – 59; Hocking – 44; Holmes – 30; Huron – 31; Jackson – 43; Jefferson – 62; Knox – 79; Lake – 11; Lawrence – 29; Licking – 67; Logan – 24; Lorain – 15; Lucas – 3; Madison – 0; Mahoning – 24; Marion – 4; Medina – 11; Meigs – 69; Mercer – 3; Miami – 5; Monroe – 55; Montgomery – 1; Morgan – 54; Morrow – 31; Muskingum – 81; Noble – 31; Ottawa – 0; Paulding – 7; Perry – 38; Pickaway – 4; Pike – 46; Portage – 29; Preble – 10; Putnam – 3; Richland – 53; Ross – 58; Sandusky – 3; Scioto – 36; Seneca – 22; Shelby – 6; Stark – 27; Summit – 4; Trumbull – 47; Tuscarawas – 85; Union – 7; Van Wert – 3; Vinton – 33; Warren – 17; Washington – 72; Wayne – 15; Williams – 24; Wood – 4; Wyandot – 14. Total – 2,646.

This Mallard pair was the winning print by Tom Morgan Crain of Branson, Missouri

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- The artwork of Tom Morgan Crain of Branson, Missouri, won first place in this year’s Ohio Wetlands Habitat Stamp Design Competition, sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife. Crain’s painting will appear on the Ohio wetlands habitat stamp issued in fall 2012.

The winning entry was selected from a field of 20 original paintings submitted by artists from 12 states including seven entries from Ohio. The competition was held on February 19 at the Ohio Ducks Unlimited annual banquet in Sandusky.

“I haven’t painted a mallard in over six years, but I just had a feeling that that species might do well in Ohio,” said Crain.

Second place honors go to Douglas Walpus from Tennessee with his painting of snow geese and the third place entry was by Phillip Brevick from Ohio with his painting of mallards.

Last year’s winner, Ohioan Joel Rogers, will see his painting of a red-breasted merganser appear on the 2011 wetlands habitat stamp.

Approximately 25,000 Ohio wetland habitat stamps were purchased last year, according to the Division of Wildlife. Proceeds from stamp sales help fund vital wetland habitat restoration projects in Ohio. Such habitats are important to many resident wildlife species including state-endangered trumpeter swans, wetland birds, amphibians and numerous migratory species.

The judges for this year’s event included Sharon Cummings, a professional wildlife photographer; Sandy Burris, the president of Friends of Magee Marsh; co-publisher of Birdwatcher’s Digest Andy Thompson; executive director of the Black Swamp Bird Observatory Kim Kaufman; and John Simpson, the manager of Winous Point Shooting Club. Rebecca Hinkle, who is employed at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, was the alternate judge.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- One change was proposed to the deer hunting regulations for 2011-12, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife. The proposed change is to move Fayette County from Deer Zone B to Zone A.

The maximum number of deer that a hunter may take in Deer Zone A is two. Prior to November 28, hunters may take up to two deer in Zone A, one of which may be on a $15 antlerless deer permit. Beginning November 28, hunters may take only one deer in Zone A and antlerless permits may not be used.

The maximum number of deer that a hunter may take in Deer Zone B is four. Prior to November 28, hunters may take up to four deer in Zone B, two of which may be on $15 antlerless deer permits. Beginning November 28, hunters may take only two deer in Zone B and antlerless permits may not be used.

The maximum number of deer that a hunter may take in Deer Zone C is six. Prior to December 5, hunters may take up to six deer in Zone C, three of which may be on $15 antlerless deer permits. Beginning December 5, hunters may take only three deer in Zone C and antlerless permits may not be used.

Those hunting in urban zones and at Division of Wildlife-authorized controlled hunts would again have a six-deer bag limit, and those deer would not count against the hunter’s zone bag limit.

Either a $15 antlerless deer permit or $24 deer permit and a valid hunting license are required to hunt deer in Ohio. A hunter may take only one buck in Ohio, regardless of zone, hunting method or season.

Seasons and Dates

• Archery season – September 24 through February 5, 2012
• Special area muzzleloader hunts – October 17-22
• Youth deer-gun season – November 19-20
• Statewide deer-gun season – November 28 through December 4 and December 17-18
• Statewide muzzleloader season – January 7-10, 2012

During the 2010-2011 season, which concluded February 6, it is estimated that hunters harvested a total of about 237,000 deer. Approximately 475,000 people hunted white-tailed deer in Ohio this year.

Open houses will be held on Saturday, March 5 in each of the state’s five wildlife districts to provide the public an opportunity to view and discuss proposed hunting and trapping regulations with state wildlife officials. For directions to the open houses, please call 1-800-WILDLIFE or visit wildohio.com .

A statewide hearing on all the proposed rules will be held at 9 a.m. on Thursday, March 10 at the Division of Wildlife’s District One office, located at 1500 Dublin Road in Columbus. After considering public input, the Ohio Wildlife Council will vote on the proposed rules and season dates during its April 6 meeting.

Proposed Deer Hunting Zones – (For the 2011-11 Season: One county proposed to move from Deer Zone B to Zone A; bolded)

• Zone A – The zone includes 14 counties: Allen, Auglaize, Darke, Erie, Fayette, Mercer, Miami, Montgomery, Ottawa, Preble, Putnam, Sandusky, Shelby and Wood.
• Zone B – The zone includes 36 counties: Ashland, Ashtabula, Butler, Champaign, Clark, Clinton, Crawford, Cuyahoga, Defiance, Fulton, Geauga, Greene, Hancock, Hardin, Henry, Huron, Lake, Logan, Lorain, Lucas, Madison, Mahoning, Marion, Medina, Paulding, Portage, Seneca, Stark, Summit, Trumbull, Union, Van Wert, Warren, Wayne, Williams and Wyandot.
• Zone C – The zone includes 38 counties: Adams, Athens, Belmont, Brown, Carroll, Clermont, Columbiana, Coshocton, Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Gallia, Guernsey, Hamilton, Harrison, Highland, Hocking, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Knox, Lawrence, Licking, Meigs, Monroe, Morgan, Morrow, Muskingum, Noble, Perry, Pickaway, Pike, Richland, Ross, Scioto, Tuscarawas, Vinton and Washington.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Eight Ohioans recently received a combined $2,420 in rewards for reporting wildlife violations to the Turn-In-a-Poacher (TIP) hotline, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

As a result of these calls, 31 people were convicted of poaching wildlife, including white-tailed deer and wild turkeys, and fined a total of $20,621 by Ohio courts.

The TIP program encourages individuals to anonymously report wildlife violations by calling 1-800-POACHER (800-762-2437). This number is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Tips can also be sent via the Internet at ohiotip.com.

Since the program began in 1982, more than $128,993 has been awarded to callers who provided vital information about state wildlife violations. Those calls helped lead to the arrest and conviction of 1,560 poachers and the collection of $623,381 in fines and an additional $169,654 in restitution.

The average TIP call results in the conviction of two wildlife violators and a fine of $674 for those convicted, according to Division of Wildlife records. For each dollar paid in rewards, $6.20 has been returned to the Division of Wildlife for management and enforcement.

Turn In a Poacher Inc. is a private, non-profit corporation that oversees the payment of rewards from calls generated from the public to 1-800 POACHER, which is administered through the Division of Wildlife. Program volunteers, representing the state’s five wildlife districts, meet on a regular basis to review tips received and determine award amounts based on the corporation’s bylaws.

Ohio’s TIP program continues to help curtail wildlife violations across the state. Citizens can help, not only by providing tips, but also by making a donation to the reward fund. Donations can be addressed to: TIP Headquarters, ODNR Division of Wildlife, 2045 Morse Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229-6693.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- For the ninth straight year, testing of Ohio’s deer herd has found no evidence of chronic wasting disease (CWD), a degenerative brain disease that affects elk, mule deer and white-tailed deer.

According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife, state and federal agriculture and wildlife officials collected 588 samples last year from hunter-harvested deer from 44 counties, primarily during the deer-gun season that ran November 29 – December 5.

All CWD testing is performed at the Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory of the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA). Additional CWD samples are being taken from road-killed deer, but those test results are not yet available. Sampling continues through April.

In addition to CWD, all 588 samples of the hunter-harvested deer samples were also tested for bovine tuberculosis. Results found no evidence of this disease in Ohio deer.

Since 2002, the Division of Wildlife, in conjunction with ODA’s Division of Animal Industry and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife and Veterinary Services, has been conducting surveillance throughout the state for CWD and bovine tuberculosis. While CWD has never been found in Ohio’s deer herd, it had been diagnosed in wild and captive deer, moose or elk in 16 other states and two Canadian provinces. Since CWD was discovered in the western United States in the late 1960s, there has been no evidence that the disease can be transmitted to humans.

The Division of Wildlife continues to carefully monitor the health of Ohio’s wild deer herd throughout the year. For the latest information on CWD, visit wildohio.com or the Chronic Wasting Disease Alliance at cwd-info.org . To view individual test results, visit the ODA’s Web site at www.agri.ohio.gov.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- The 2011-12 hunting and trapping regulations proposals were presented January 19 to the Ohio Wildlife Council by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

September 1 is again proposed as the kick-off date for the state’s fall hunting seasons—with the opening of squirrel and dove hunting. Other proposed hunting and trapping rules and season dates will be similar to those now in effect, with only slight changes to fall and spring hunting dates.

Young hunters age 17 and under should again be able to hunt statewide for rabbit, pheasant and all other legal game in season during two designated weekends, October 22-23 and 29-30. Spring youth turkey season is proposed for April 21–22, 2012.

The remainder of the proposals concerning Ohio’s white-tailed deer hunting will be heard during a separate Wildlife Council meeting on February 16.

Open houses will be held on Saturday, March 5 in each of the state’s five wildlife districts to provide the public an opportunity to view and discuss proposed hunting and trapping regulations with state wildlife officials. Directions to the open houses can be obtained by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE or visiting wildohio.com.

A statewide hearing on all of the proposed rules will be held at the Division of Wildlife’s District One office on Thursday, March 10 at 9 a.m. The office is located at 1500 Dublin Road in Columbus.

After considering public input, the Ohio Wildlife Council will vote on the proposed rules and season dates during its April 6 meeting.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com- Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director David Mustine today announced the appointments of two new chiefs and the department’s legislative liaison, as well as five acting division chiefs.

“I am pleased to begin building a team of natural resource professionals who will work with me and Assistant Director Scott Zody to support Governor Kasich’s plan of bringing jobs to Ohio, while serving as dedicated stewards of our environment,” said Director Mustine.

David Payne will oversee the Division of Parks & Recreation. Mustine noted Payne’s solid experience in state government, which includes working in the offices of the Governor, Auditor of State, and Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Payne has a diverse management background and excels at marketing and strategic development. Payne said he prides himself on bringing people together and working productively with a broad base of constituents.

He is a graduate of The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science. Payne is committed to the governor’s plan for getting Ohioback on track, which includes strengthening the Division of Parks & Recreation. He has a passion for Ohio’s award-winning state parks system and enjoys camping, hiking, and ice fishing. Payne lives in Franklin County with his wife and two daughters.

Laura Jones was appointed Chief of the Office of Communications. She brings to the position more than 25 years of experience in the media and public relations industry, said Mustine. Most recently, Jones was audio-visual production manager and Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp program administrator for the ODNR Division of Wildlife. Previously, she served seven years in ODNR Director Sam Speck’s communications office, two years with Governor Bob Taft, and nearly 14 years with the Cleveland Plain Dealer’s Statehouse bureau. A resident of Franklin County, Jones is an avid outdoors woman who likes to fish, hunt, hike, and camp.

Ben Pendery joins the ODNR administrative staff as its legislative liaison. Pendery most recently served with the Ohio Legislative Service Commission. Pendery lives in Franklin County and personal interests include fishing, boating and hunting.

Other appointments announced today by Director Mustine include:

• Bob Boyles as acting chief for the Division of Forestry. Boyles has been with the department for 28 years. For the past 11 years he has served as Southern District Forest Manager out of Chillicothe.
• Ted Lozier as acting chief for the Division of Soil & Water Resources. Lozier has been with the department for more than 24 years, and has served on several core management teams for division.
• Vicki Mountz as acting chief for the Division of Wildlife. Mountz began her career at ODNR as the department’s first commissioned female watercraft officer. As Wildlife’s executive administrator for Information and Education, she has a total of 25 years with the department.
• Carla Camp as acting chief for the Office of Budget & Finance. Camp spent her first 21 years of state service in the fiscal section of the Department of Youth services, and has been the assistant chief for ODNR.
• Assistant Director Scott Zody will temporarily oversee the Office of Human Resources.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Muzzleloader Hunting Season

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Ohio’s popular muzzleloader deer season is set to open statewide January 8-11 according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife.

Last year, hunters checked 24,078 white-tailed deer during the statewide hunt.

A total of 210,361 deer have been harvested so far this season when combining the adult and youth gun seasons, early muzzleloader season, gun weekend, and the first nine weeks of the archery season.

That compares to a total of 227,748 killed last year during the same time period. Hunters took a total of 261,314 deer during all of last year’s hunting seasons.

Prior to the start of the hunting season, Ohio’s deer population was estimated at 750,000. The Division of Wildlife expects as many as 210,000 hunters will hunt deer during the muzzleloader season.

Ohio deer hunters must possess the proper permits. Regardless of zone, method of taking or season, hunters may take only one antlered deer during the 2010-2011 deer hunting season.

Legal hunting hours during the statewide muzzleloader deer season are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset. Deer must be checked by 8 p.m.on the day after harvest, except those killed on January 11, which must be brought to a deer check station by 8 p.m.that day.

Ohio’s small game, furbearer and waterfowl seasons also will be open during the muzzleloader season. During those overlapping four days, small game hunters and deer hunters must visibly wear a coat, jacket, vest or coveralls that are either solid hunter orange or camouflage hunter orange in color.

Hunters have been encouraged to kill more does this season and donate extra venison to organizations assisting Ohioans in need. The division is collaborating with Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry to help pay for the processing of donated venison. Hunters who give their deer to a food bank are not required to pay the processing cost as long as the deer are taken to a participating processor and funding for the effort lasts. Counties being served by this program can be found online at www.fhfh.org.

The white-tailed deer is the most popular game animal in Ohio, frequently pursued by generations of hunters. Ohio ranks 8th nationally in annual hunting-related sales and 10th in the number of jobs associated with the hunting-related industry. Each year, hunting has an $859 million economic impact in Ohio through the sale of equipment, fuel, food, lodging and more.

Additional hunting regulations and maps of deer zones are contained in the 2010-2011 Ohio Hunting Regulations. This free publication is available where hunting licenses are sold and from the Division of Wildlife by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE or on the internet at wildohio.com.

The 2010-2011 licenses will not be printed on weatherproof paper. Sportsmen and women should protect their licenses and permits from the elements by carrying them in a protective pouch or wallet.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- COLUMBUS, OH- Ohio’s popular deer-gun season will run an additional weekend, Saturday and Sunday, December 18-19, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

The extra weekend days were added beginning in 2006 in response to comments received from hunters for more weekend time to hunt. Deer can be hunted with a legal muzzleloader, handgun or shotgun from one half-hour before sunrise until sunset on December 18-19. Ohio’s pre-hunting season population was estimated at 750,000 white-tailed deer.

So far this season, 189,297 deer have been taken. A total of 75,319 deer were killed during the first nine weeks of the statewide archery season, which began September 25 and continues through February 6, 2011. The special youth season, held November 20-21, resulted in young hunters bagging 9,024 deer. Hunters checked 104,442 deer during the statewide deer-gun season, November 29 – December 5. Another 512 deer were taken during the early muzzleloader deer season held in October at Shawnee, Salt Fork and Wolf Creek state wildlife areas.

The white-tailed deer is the most popular game animal in Ohio, frequently pursued by generations of hunters. Ohio ranks 8th nationally in annual hunting-related sales and 10th in the number of jobs associated with the hunting-related industry. Each year, hunting has a $859 million economic impact in Ohio through the sale of equipment, fuel, food, lodging and more.

Ohio is divided into three deer hunting zones. After November 28, a limit of one deer may be taken in Zone A (11 counties) and two deer in Zone B (39 counties). Beginning on December 6, the bag limit is three deer in Zone C and antlerless deer permits are no longer valid. Any time a hunter is allowed to take more than one deer, they must purchase an additional permit.

Those hunting in urban units and at Division of Wildlife-authorized controlled hunts will have a six-deer bag limit, and those deer will not count against the hunter’s zone bag limit. Antlerless deer permits can be used for the entire season in urban deer units or Division of Wildlife-authorized controlled hunts. Antlerless deer permits are no longer available and must have been purchased prior to November 28.

Hunters may take only one antlered deer, regardless of zone, hunting method or season. A deer permit is required in addition to a valid Ohio hunting license. Hunter orange is required. Only deer, coyote and waterfowl can be hunted during the extra deer-gun weekend.

Donations of extra deer will be accepted through the entire deer season which ends on February 6, 2011. Hunters who give their deer to a food bank are not required to pay the processing cost as long as the deer are taken to a participating processor and funding for the effort lasts. Counties being served by this program can be found online at www.fhfh.org.

Additional hunting regulations and maps of the state’s deer zones are listed in the 2010-2011 Ohio Hunting Regulations. This free publication is available wherever hunting licenses are sold, online at wildohio.com or by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE.

Ohio hunters and birdwatchers are reminded that they will need to be aware of one another as they pursue deer and birds on this shared weekend. Hunters need to remember that there may be other people—both hunters and non-hunters— in the woods. Birders are also reminded that hunters are allowed to hunt wherever they have written permission to hunt. And, while hunters are required to wear hunter orange in the field, birders should consider wearing a hunter orange vest or hat during the deer-gun weekend.

The 2010-2011 licenses will not be printed on weatherproof paper. Sportsmen and women should protect their licenses and permits from the elements by carrying them in a protective pouch or wallet.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

2011 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- The gift of conservation has never been easier or closer to home, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife. Impress the wildlife enthusiasts in your life with an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp this holiday season.

When you purchase this attractive “made in Ohio” gift, $14 of each $15 stamp sold supports:

• habitat restoration, land purchases and conservation easements;
• keeping common species common;
• endangered and threatened native species;
• wildlife and habitat research projects; and
• educational product for students and wildlife enthusiasts, such as our popular field guides and CDs.

“The diversity of native plants and animals found in Ohio are part of the natural heritage that enriches all of our lives,” said Division of Wildlife Chief David M. Graham. “Giving an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp – or buying one for yourself – is another way to help ensure the future of our state’s wildlife and the habitat they call home.”

Each Legacy packet includes a collectible stamp, an attractive commemorative card suitable for framing and a window cling for the car or truck. You can buy the stamp online at wildohio.com or by mail.

Do something wild this holiday season, invest in an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp and help “Keep the Wild in Ohio.” Learn more at wildohiostamp.com.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Fall Turkey Hunting Season Concludes

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Ohio’s fall wild turkey season ended November 28 with 1,336 birds killed during the seven-week season. Ashtabula County led the state with 75 birds taken, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife. Last year, 2,180 birds were taken.

“The decline in the fall turkey harvest we observed from 2009 to 2010 was not unexpected. Acorn mast crop failures like we observed in 2009 typically result in increased hunter success and higher fall turkey harvests because turkeys feed in open areas, such as agricultural fields and pastures,” said Wildlife Biologist Mike Reynolds.

“Bumper acorn crops like we’ve experienced in 2010 often lead to reduced hunting success and harvests because turkeys are feeding on acorns in the forest, and are often widely scattered and difficult for hunters to locate.”

The fall turkey season which ran October 9 through November 28, allowed hunters the choice of pursuing a bird with a shotgun, muzzleloading shotgun, bow or crossbow. Hunters had 48 counties in which to pursue a wild turkey of either sex.

Before the start of this fall’s hunting season, Ohio’s estimated wild turkey population was around 230,000. As many as 20,000 people, not counting private landowners hunting on their own property, enjoyed Ohio’s fall wild turkey season.

The top 10 counties for fall turkey harvest were: Ashtabula-75, Licking-57, Trumbull-56, Knox-55, Coshocton-54, Highland-52, Tuscarawas-49, Clermont-48, Ashland-46 and Geauga-45.

Hunters who wish to share their success can submit a photo of themselves and the turkey they killed this year to wildohio.com.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

EDITORS NOTE: The following is a list of wild turkeys checked and tagged through November 28. The number taken during the 2009 fall turkey season is marked in ( )– 2010 (2009).]

Adams –30(56); Ashland –46(41); Ashtabula –75(127); Athens –25(42); Belmont –10(22); Brown –26(59); Carroll –29(25); Clermont –48(56); Columbiana –27(53); Coshocton – 54(70); Cuyahoga –0(1); Defiance-20(51); Gallia – 25(29); Geauga –45(58); Guernsey –44(72); Harrison –34(57); Highland –52(18); Hocking – 16(68); Holmes –28(23); Jackson – 30(91); Jefferson – 23(25); Knox –55(63); Lake –8(23); Lawrence – 11(40); Licking –57(53); Lorain –14(39); Mahoning –33(33); Medina –27(67); Meigs – 29(42); Monroe – 7(34); Morgan –21(24); Morrow –16(20); Muskingum- 28(23); Noble – 23(32); Perry – 24(57); Pike – 11(17); Portage –18(24); Richland –25(29); Ross – 29(65); Scioto – 12(46); Stark –12(43); Summit –16(17); Trumbull –56(73); Tuscarawas –49(135); Vinton – 22(40); Washington – 30(61); Wayne –5(5) and Williams-14(31). Preliminary totals –1,336 (2,180).

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Ohio hunters took 104,442 white-tailed deer during the state’s popular, week-long deer-gun season, which ran November 29 through December 5, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

In 2009, hunters killed a preliminary total of 114,633 deer during the same time period.

Counties reporting the highest numbers of deer brought to Ohio check stations last week included Tuscarawas-5,513, Harrison-3,721, Guernsey-3,455, Licking-3,351, Coshocton-3,320, Washington-2,935, Knox-2,843, Holmes-2,800, Muskingum-2,447 and Athens-2,395.

A total of 163,362 deer have been harvested so far this season when combining the adult and youth gun seasons, early muzzleloader season, and the first six weeks of the archery season. That compares to a total of 178,397 killed last year during the same time period. Hunters took a record total of 261,314 deer during all of last year’s hunting seasons.

Ohio's Brock Albaugh with a Nice 10 Point Buck

The statewide deer population was estimated to be 750,000 in late September, prior to the start of the hunting season. Approximately 420,000 hunters were expected to participate in the statewide deer-gun season.

Hunters still have a weekend of deer-gun hunting, December 18-19, and nine weeks of archery hunting in Ohio. Archery season remains open until February 6, 2011. The statewide muzzleloader deer-hunting season will be held January 8 -11, 2011.

Saturday, December 4 was designated as Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry Day. Totals for deer donated though the FHFH program will be available next week. Donations of extra deer will be accepted through the entire deer season which ends on February 6, 2011. Hunters who give their deer to a food bank are not required to pay the processing cost as long as the deer are taken to a participating processor and funding for the effort lasts. Counties being served by this program can be found online at www.fhfh.org.

Hunters who wish to share their success can submit a photo of themselves and the deer they killed this year to www.wildohio.com.

The white-tailed deer is the most popular game animal in Ohio, frequently pursued by generations of hunters. Ohio ranks 8th nationally in annual hunting-related sales and 10th in the number of jobs associated with the hunting-related industry. Each year, hunting has a $859 million economic impact in Ohio through the sale of equipment, fuel, food, lodging and more.

Ohio’s first modern day deer-gun season opened in 1943 in three counties, when hunters harvested 168 deer. In 1956, deer hunting was allowed in all 88 counties and hunters killed 3,911 deer during that one-week season.

A detailed listing of deer-hunting rules is contained in the 2010-2011 Ohio Hunting Regulations, available where licenses are sold. It may also be viewed online at www.wildohio.com.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

EDITORS NOTE: The following is a list of deer checked and tagged by hunters during the 2010 deer-gun hunting season. The number taken during the 2009 season is marked in ( )– 2010 (2009)]

Adams –1,617(1,790); Allen –314(567); Ashland –2,210(2,239); Ashtabula –2,310(2,084); Athens –2,395(3,049); Auglaize –221(221); Belmont –2,074(3,238); Brown –1,070(1,096); Butler –415(411); Carroll –1,824(1,715); Champaign –440(737); Clark –322(338); Clermont –1,315(1,166); Clinton –627(558); Columbiana –2,393(2,186); Coshocton –3,320(3,680); Crawford –943(1,002); Cuyahoga –128(107); Darke –174(309); Defiance –957(762); Delaware –602(652); Erie –253(332); Fairfield –1,605(1,964); Fayette –83(221); Franklin –247(263); Fulton –450(377); Gallia –1,549(1,766); Geauga –641(509); Greene –274(221); Guernsey –3,455(4,289); Hamilton –355(377); Hancock –375(449); Hardin –586(655); Harrison –3,721(4,310); Henry –401(264); Highland –1,436(1,695); Hocking –1,874(2,594); Holmes –2,800(3,265); Huron –1,151(1,142); Jackson –1,869(2,577); Jefferson –2,113(2,699); Knox –2,843(3,046); Lake –300(282); Lawrence –1,446(1,510); Licking –3,351(3,734); Logan –902(815); Lorain –823(808); Lucas –235(273); Madison –186(193); Mahoning –877(694); Marion –321(308); Medina –685(639); Meigs –1,932(2,203); Mercer –240(231); Miami –145(126); Monroe –2,040(2,521); Montgomery –228(177); Morgan –1,602(1,887); Morrow –961(957); Muskingum –2,447(2,829); Noble –2,235(2,561); Ottawa –74(65); Paulding –809(472); Perry –1,979 (2,046); Pickaway –504(635); Pike –937(1,254); Portage –718(544); Preble –230(229); Putnam –607(624); Richland –1,297(1,438); Ross –2,129(2,355); Sandusky –145(217); Scioto –1,339(1,420); Seneca –910(1,012); Shelby –488(448); Stark –1,948(1,615); Summit –415(381); Trumbull –1,514(1,474); Tuscarawas –5,513(5,901); Union –519(478); Van Wert –449(245); Vinton –1,412(1,829); Warren –473(462); Washington –2,935(3,589); Wayne –624(618); Williams –730(615); Wood –410(402); Wyandot –626(595); Total –104,442(114,633)

WhiteTail Deer Hunters Increase Kill on Opening Day of Gun Season

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- COLUMBUS, OH – Ohio hunters had near ideal weather for the opening day of deer-gun season. Hunters took 37,805 white-tailed deer on Monday, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife.

The deer-gun season remains open through Sunday, December 5, and then reopens for two days on Saturday and Sunday, December 18-19.

The preliminary figures from deer check stations throughout the state show an increase of 12.5 percent from last year’s opening day total of 33,607.

Counties reporting the highest numbers of deer checked on Monday included: Tuscarawas – 1,806; Coshocton – 1,536; Harrison – 1,439; Guernsey – 1,406; Holmes – 1,312; Licking – 1,259; Washington – 1,192; Ashtabula – 983; Muskingum – 930; and Athens – 886.

Combining the results of Monday’s harvest with those from the early muzzleloader season, the first six weeks of archery season and the recent youth deer-gun season, a preliminary total of 97,371 deer have been killed so far this deer hunting season. That number compares to 97,371 harvested last year at this time. In all, hunters took a total of 261,314 deer during all of last year’s hunting seasons.

Approximately 420,000 hunters are expected to participate in the statewide deer-gun season. Ohio’s deer population was estimated to be 750,000 prior to the start of the fall hunting seasons.

The white-tailed deer is the most popular game animal in Ohio, frequently pursued by generations of hunters. Ohio ranks 8th nationally in annual hunting-related sales and 10th in the number of jobs associated with the hunting-related industry. Each year, hunting has an $859 million economic impact in Ohio through the sale of equipment, fuel, food, lodging and more.

Division of Wildlife Chief Dave Graham challenges all deer hunters to make this year special for Ohio’s hungry by labeling Saturday, December 4, as Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry (FHFH) Day. Last year, hunters showed they cared by donating nearly 467,000 meals to Ohioans in need.

Hunters who give their deer to a food bank are not required to pay the processing cost as long as the deer are taken to a participating processor and funding for the effort lasts. Counties being served by this program can be found online at www.fhfh.org.

Hunters who wish to share their success can submit a photo of themselves and the deer they killed this year for publication on the Division of Wildlife’s Web page.

A detailed listing of deer-hunting rules is contained in the 2010-2011 Ohio Hunting Regulations, available wherever licenses are sold, and online at wildohio.com.

The 2010-2011 licenses will not be printed on weatherproof paper. Sportsmen and women should protect their licenses and permits from the elements by carrying them in a protective pouch or wallet.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

NOTE: THE FOLLOWING IS A LIST OF THE NUMBER OF DEER CHECKED AND TAGGED BY HUNTERS DURING THE FIRST DAY OF DEER-GUN HUNTING SEASON. THE NUMBER TAKEN DURING THE 2009 SEASON IS MARKED IN ( ): 2010 (2009)

Adams –502(481); Allen –90(118); Ashland –793(619); Ashtabula –983(836); Athens –886(925); Auglaize –87(80); Belmont –844(640); Brown –364(240); Butler –121(89); Carroll –680(691); Champaign –150 (232); Clark –100(87); Clermont –420(297); Clinton –191(186); Columbiana –851(628); Coshocton –1,536(1,353); Crawford –306(288); Cuyahoga –30(25); Darke –68(55); Defiance –425(293); Delaware –199(179); Erie –96(112); Fairfield –499(609); Fayette –37(74); Franklin –62(68); Fulton –188(123); Gallia –607(455); Geauga –268(188); Greene –64(63); Guernsey –1,406(1,284); Hamilton –99(72); Hancock –119(153); Hardin –198(169); Harrison –1,439(1,374); Henry –203(88); Highland –490(543); Hocking –703(793); Holmes –1,312(1,165); Huron –477(367); Jackson –720(776); Jefferson –774(767); Knox –700(761); Lake –83(63); Lawrence –406(320); Licking –1,259(1,182); Logan –333(255); Lorain –233(210); Lucas –72(76); Madison –55(42); Mahoning –307(238); Marion –114(96); Medina –200(146); Meigs –717(569); Mercer –98(79); Miami –37(35); Monroe –638(670); Montgomery –52(37); Morgan –610(579); Morrow –354 (260); Muskingum –930(799); Noble –741(745); Ottawa –19(12); Paulding –322(140); Perry –681(631); Pickaway –149(188); Pike –211(300); Portage –177(122); Preble –60(39); Putnam –242(196); Richland –449(404); Ross –734(638); Sandusky –43(67); Scioto –450(249); Seneca –341(255); Shelby –165(141); Stark –602(487); Summit –88(62); Trumbull –639(572); Tuscarawas –1,806(1,763); Union –165(125); Van Wert –125(55); Vinton –629(548); Warren –172(117); Washington –1,192(1,010); Wayne –285(220); Williams –364(253); Wood –138(99); Wyandot –231(167); TOTAL: 37,805(33,607)

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- COLUMBUS, OH – Ohio waterfowl hunters should have good opportunities to take some of the most popular species of waterfowl, based on the findings of biologists at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The spring pond index for the prairie pothole region of North America (Kansas to central Saskatchewan) and breeding duck surveys indicate an above average reproduction year for most duck species. Ponds are housing above average numbers and good production has been noted from most of the primary breeding range. Duck numbers are slightly lower than 2009, but they are still 21 percent above the long-term average.

Closer to home, the Upper Great Lakes states showed average habitat conditions and similar production of mallards as last year. The Upper Great Lakes are the primary breeding range for mallards harvested in Ohio. Mallards are Ohio’s number one harvested duck and can be found throughout the state.

Wood ducks, the second most important duck to Ohio hunters and the state’s number one breeding duck, appear to have had a fair production year. Late summer dry conditions may concentrate birds, but a variety of hunting locations should be available for Ohio hunters.

Canada geese are the most harvested waterfowl in Ohio and can be found in good numbers everywhere. Locally raised giant Canada geese had the fourth highest population estimate this spring and all indications are there was fair to good production across Ohio. Migrant interior populations (Southern James Bay and Mississippi Valley) of Canada geese have also had good production. With proper weather, the hunting outlook is good to very good.

With good habitat conditions, Ohio hunters will enjoy a liberal 60-day hunting season once again this year. Pintail again showed an increase in population which will allow a two-bird bag this year. Scaup showed a slight increase in population, so there will be a two-bird bag for the whole season. The canvasback population decreased slightly, but there will still be a full season in 2010.

The success of Ohio waterfowl hunters has more to do with weather conditions and choice of hunting location than available ducks. Hunters should be scouting their territories now and securing landowner permission where needed. State wildlife areas are in good condition with excellent fall food potential. Heavy rains early in the summer followed by an extended drought permitted considerable growth in moist-soil plants in many traditional wetlands. A flooding of those areas by early fall rains should provide additional waterfowl habitat. Hunters should not only check their traditional spots, but also more marginal haunts for food production and water quantity.

Details of the waterfowl and all other hunting seasons can be found in the Ohio Hunting and Trapping Regulations and in Ohio Waterfowl Hunting Seasons. Hunters can also review seasons and regulations online at wildohio.com

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ringneck Phesasant Stocking

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- More than 15,000 ring-necked pheasants will be released on 28 public hunting areas across the state this fall, as part of a seasonal effort by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife to enhance hunting opportunities for this popular game bird.

Ring-necked pheasants will be released on the evenings (after shooting hours) of October 22 and 29 in anticipation of the weekend’s small-game season for youth hunters. Releases will also take place on the evenings of November 4 and 12. The final release of the fall is scheduled for the evening of Wednesday, November 24, to increase pheasant hunting opportunities during the Thanksgiving weekend.

Although not listed in the 2010-2011 hunting regulations, pheasants will be released for the youth hunts on October 22 and 29 on Ringneck Ridge and Tiffin River wildlife areas. Hunters interested in hunting the Ringneck Ridge Area in Sandusky County will require a free permit from the Sandusky County Park District. For more information regarding the issuance of these free hunting permits, contact the Sandusky County Park Office at (419) 334-4495 or the Sandusky County Park District Ranger Office at (419) 637-2900.

Pheasant hunting season opens Friday, November 5 and remains open through January 9, 2011, with a daily bag limit of two rooster (male) birds. Statewide hunting hours are sunrise to sunset.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

(Editor’s Note – A list of pheasant release dates follows)

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife has collaborated with Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry (FHFH) in an effort to assist with the processing costs associated with donating venison to Ohio food banks.

“Last year’s effort in Ohio was great, with 44 of Ohio’s 88 counties receiving part of the 122,221 pounds of donated meat,” said Josh Wilson, operations director for FHFH.

“Our volunteer organization can still use your help as part of the state is without coordinators or meat processors.”

Anyone interested in becoming a local Ohio FHFH coordinator or a participating meat processor should visit the “Local FHFH” page at fhfh.org. The current list of coordinators along with their program names and the counties they are serving can be found there.

Prospective volunteers or meat processors can contact one of the existing coordinators to discuss time commitment or any other questions they might have about becoming a FHFH coordinator or meat processor.

Responsibilities of a local coordinator:

• Organizing a network of at least one inspected, insured meat processor to cut, package and freeze the donated deer and one food bank or feeding ministry to distribute the meat to the hungry.
• Developing a fundraising plan to raise the money needed to cover the meat processing and other local program expenses. FHFH will help you select some fundraising events and projects to work on and you can also approach individuals, businesses, churches, clubs and other organizations directly for support.
• Promoting the program so that people can learn about FHFH and become involved as supporters and/or volunteers.

FHFH.org

FHFH began in Maryland in 1997 after founder Rick Wilson encountered a woman along a Virginia highway looking for help loading a road-killed deer into her car to feed her children. Inspired to give hunters the opportunity to help feed the hungry, Wilson formed a program that would raise money to pay the butchering bills for hunters that donate deer.

More than 10 years later, FHFH has grown to include 130 local coordinators in 25 different states. Annual meat donation totals have topped 429,800 pounds—enough to provide meat for more than 1.72 million meals—and are expected to increase even further in the coming years.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Beaver Trapping Season

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Beaver and river otter trapping on public land will still require a special permit, but the method of acquiring the permit and permission to trap a particular public land area for beaver and river otters has changed, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

For the 2010-11 trapping season, controlled beaver and/or river otter trapping opportunities on 73 wildlife areas, state parks and other publicly managed lands statewide will be awarded through a new system of computer-generated random drawings, similar to the system used currently for controlled waterfowl and deer hunts in Ohio.

The application period will be September 15 through October 15. Applications will be accepted online only; there is a $3 charge associated with applying for each public land area or group of areas as will be noted on the application form. In most areas, permits will allow beaver and river otter trapping (in counties currently open to otter trapping); however, some permits may be limited to beaver trapping only.

Drawing results will be available in late October at wildohio.com, with permits and instructions being mailed in November to successful applicants. All controlled trapping permits will be transferable; they will be issued to an adult trapper with instructions for use of the permit on a particular public land area.

This revised system for awarding controlled beaver and/or river otter trapping opportunities on select public lands in Ohio will allow area managers to set specific limits and restrictions based on the trapping opportunities and needs for their areas.

“Our mission is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats, while promoting their use and appreciation by the public,” said Suzie Prange, furbearer biologist for the Division of Wildlife.

“We feel providing fewer trapping restrictions, where warranted, will allow us to better manage beaver populations and provide a more fair system for all trappers with an interest in these recreational opportunities.”

For the wildlife refuge portions of Killbuck Marsh and Mosquito Creek wildlife areas, the current system will not change – they are not part of the online lottery system – instead, sealed bids will be accepted in September for all furbearer trapping opportunities at these areas.

For official bid proposal forms and other information, contact the Division of Wildlife District 3 Office in early September at (330) 644-2293. Also, beaver trapping within American Electric Power’s recreation area, known as ReCreation Land, Avondale Wildlife Area, and Conesville Coal Lands will continue to require a special beaver trapping permit which is in addition to the normal user’s permit. This special beaver trapping permit is issued from the AEP Land Management office in McConnelsville, Ohio.

For more specific information, please visit wildohio.com or call your nearest Wildlife district office.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

For more information, contact:

• Suzie Prange, ODNR Division of Wildlife
  740. 589. 9930
• Gary Ludwig, ODNR Division of Wildlife, Central Ohio
  614. 644. 3925
• Scott Butterworth, ODNR Division of Wildlife, Northwest Ohio
  419. 424. 5000
• Dan Kramer, ODNR Division of Wildlife, Northeast Ohio
  330. 644. 2293
• Jim Hill, ODNR Division of Wildlife, Southeast Ohio
  740. 589. 9930
• Dave Kohler, ODNR Division of Wildlife, Southwest Ohio
  937. 372. 9261

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)-   Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ (ODNR) Director Sean Logan will be joined by officials from The Trust for Public Land and Goodyear Global Communications to celebrate the opening of ODNR’s newest state park and wildlife area at Wingfoot Lake on Thursday, August 26 at 6 p.m. The public is invited to attend the ceremony.

Following the ceremony, staff from Ohio State Parks and ODNR Division of Wildlife will host guided wetland hikes, disc golf, mini golf, archery and other outdoor activities. Light refreshments will be provided courtesy of Pepsi Cola and Hersheys Ice Cream Company.

WHAT: Wingfoot Lake State Park & Wildlife Area Dedication

WHO: Sean Logan, ODNR Director

• Bill Carroll, Ohio State Office Director, The Trust for Public Land
• Chuck Sinclair, Senior Vice President, Goodyear Global Communications
• John Hunter, Acting Chief, Ohio State Parks
• Jim Marshall, Acting Chief, Division of Wildlife

WHEN: Thursday, August 26, 6 p.m.

WHERE: Wingfoot Lake State Park & Wildlife Area, Portage County

Wingfoot Lake State Park and Wildlife Area is located off Waterloo Road at 993 Goodyear Park Boulevard near the community of Suffield in Portage County.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

Ohio Wildlife Council has approved the state's early migratory bird hunting seasons for this fall with September 1 kicking off with the opening of dove, Canada goose, rail, moorhen and snipe...

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- The Ohio Wildlife Council has approved the state’s early migratory bird hunting seasons for this fall with September 1 kicking off the state’s hunting seasons with the opening of dove, Canada goose, rail, moorhen and snipe, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

Ohio’s dove hunting season runs September 1 through October 24 and December 6-21, with a daily limit of 15 birds and a possession limit of 30 birds.

Controlled dove hunts will be offered at Fallsville, Rush Run, Spring Valley, Indian Creek and Bott state wildlife areas. These controlled hunts will take place Wednesday, September 1 and Thursday, September 2; hunting hours will be noon to sunset. Controlled dove hunts will also be offered at St. Marys Fish Hatchery on September 1, 4, 7, 11, 14 and 18. Youth will be given priority on September 1, 4 and 7.

Opening day drawings for all of these hunts will take place at noon, Saturday, August 28, at the respective public area headquarters. Drawings for the other hunts will be held the day of the hunt at noon. Maps and details are available at wildohio.com. Questions about any of these hunts should be directed to the Division of Wildlife’s Southwest District office at (937) 372-9261.

Canada geese may be hunted statewide September 1-15, during the special early season, with a daily limit of four birds and possession limit of eight birds after the first day. The Mercer Goose Zone will not be open during the early Canada goose season.

The early teal hunting season will open September 4 and end September 19, with a daily bag limit of four birds and possession limit of eight after the first day.

Waterfowl hunters must have a valid hunting license in addition to a state wetlands habitat stamp endorsement, a federal duck stamp and a Harvest Information Program (HIP) certification. Anyone who intends to hunt migratory game birds must obtain a new HIP certification each year.

Sora rails, Virginia rails and moorhens can be hunted September 1 through November 9, with a daily limit of 25 rails and 15 moorhens. Hunting season for snipe will be September 1 through November 28 and December 6-23, with a daily bag limit of eight. The woodcock hunting season is open October 9 through November 22, with a daily bag limit of three birds and a possession limit of six birds.

Hunting hours during the seasons for rails, moorhens, snipe, woodcock, teal, doves and Canada geese are sunrise to sunset. The only exceptions will be on wildlife areas that have specially posted hunting times for doves.

The 2010-11 Ohio Hunting and Trapping Regulations and the 2010 Migratory Game Bird Hunting Seasons brochure can be found on line at wildohio.com. The 2010 Migratory Game Bird Hunting Seasons brochure will be available by late August at license outlets, Division of Wildlife district offices, or by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com

ODNR to Open State Nature Preserves to Archery Hunts

Ohio Division of Wildlife

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- An increasing deer population, resulting in negative impacts to native plant communities, has led the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Natural Areas and Preserves to coordinate special archery deer hunts at 16 state nature preserves across the state.

High quality habitats at these state nature preserves including Blackhand Gorge, Fowler Woods, Goll Woods and Lawrence Woods, have been negatively impacted by over-browsing deer. For example, large flowered trillium — Ohio’s state wildflower — has nearly disappeared from several sites because of foraging deer.

“Conducting special management hunts enables the division to protect native plant communities in Ohio’s best natural areas,” said Gary Obermiller, Division of Natural Areas and Preserves’ program administrator.

“An added benefit is that Ohio’s hunters are given an opportunity to explore high-quality areas and assist ODNR with critical land management activities.”

There will be four (4) two-week archery hunt sessions and one (1) week-long archery hunt session beginning September 25 through November 27, 2010. Each special archery hunt permit will be good for two hunters for two weeks, with the exception of the last one week session. Hunters will be required to harvest an antlerless deer first.

Participating hunters in Zone A will be allowed to harvest two deer under state hunting rules—one on a $15 antlerless tag and one on a $24 either-sex tag. The Zone B limit is two on the antlerless tag and two on the either-sex tag. Similarly, the Zone C limit is six, three on antlerless tag and three on either-sex tag.

To apply for the special archery hunt lotteries, applicants must send in a 3×5 card with their name, address, daytime phone number and the hunt name (such as Goll Woods Archery Hunt), along with a $5 processing fee for each entry. You may apply for multiple sites, however, you will only be drawn once per site.

Please mark each entry card with the appropriate hunt location. Do not send multiple payments—one check equaling $5 per card is sufficient. Do not send cash—checks and money orders must be made out to Ohio Division of Natural Areas and Preserves. Processing fees are non-refundable. Mail entries to the Ohio Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, 2045 Morse Road, Bldg. C-2, Columbus, OH 43229. Lottery entries must be received by August 15, 2010.

The archery drawing will be held on August 16 at 10 a.m. at the ODNR Fountain Square Complex located at 2045 Morse Road, Building E-1 West, Columbus, Ohio 43229. Applicants do not need to be present at the drawing to be awarded a permit.

Successful archery hunt applicants will be notified by phone, and are required to attend one of two orientation meetings set for September 11 and 12 at various locations. Visit ohiodnr.com/dnap for a full listing of lottery rules and special hunt details.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

(Editor’s Note – A list of all special preserve archery hunts is below)

ODNR News Release – ODNR to Open 16 State Nature Preserves to Special Archery Hunts

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- The Ohio Wildlife Council’s summer and fall meeting dates will be rescheduled, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

All council meetings are set for 6:30 p.m. at the Division of Wildlife’s District One office, located at 1500 Dublin Road in Columbus. The new dates are July 14, August 11, September 8 and October 13, 2010. There are no meetings scheduled for November and December.

Ohio Wildlife Council meetings are open to public attendance, but there is no opportunity for public comment. Questions will be allowed and responded to once the meeting has adjourned.

Current Ohio Wildlife Council members include: Kim R. Davis – Carrollton, Charles E. Franks – Newark (Secretary), Lee C. Howley – Vermilion (Chairman), Horace W. Karr – Pomeroy, James R. Lynch – Upper Arlington, Dominic Marchese – Farmdale, Larry B. Mixon, Sr. – Columbus (Vice Chairman), and Timothy W. Ratliff – Winchester.

A statewide hearing on all the proposed rules will be held at 9 a.m., Thursday, September 9 at the Division of Wildlife’s District One office, located at 1500 Dublin Road in Columbus. This hearing is open to the public and input is permitted within specific time limits.

After considering public input, the Ohio Wildlife Council will vote on the proposed rules and season dates during its October 13 meeting. Directions to the council meeting and state hearing can be obtained by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE or visiting the division’s Web site at wildohio.com .

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.