State park deer reduction applications available

Indiana DNR Release:

Applications for participation in state park deer reductions are available at www.indianaoutdoor.in.gov. Two reduction efforts will be held—Nov. 16-17 and Nov. 30-Dec. 1. Application deadline for both is Aug. 28.

State park deer reductions are held specifically to reduce the ecological impact from white-tailed deer in certain state parks. Details are available in the 2009-2010 Indiana Hunting and Trapping Guide, available at retail stores and at www.IN.gov/dnr/fishwild/2343.htm/. Potential applicants should review details in the guide before applying.

Biologists evaluate which parks require a reduction each year based on floral recovery and previous hunter success. The state parks are home to more than 32 state-endangered plants. The reductions help maintain browsing by deer to a level that helps ecosystems recover throughout the state parks.

State parks conducting reductions with firearms are Chain O’Lakes, Charlestown, Harmonie, Lincoln, Ouabache, Pokagon, Potato Creek, Prophetstown, Shades, Shakamak, Spring Mill, Tippecanoe River, Turkey Run, Versailles and Whitewater Memorial.

State parks conducting reductions with archery are Fort Harrison and Clifty Falls.