Oak Mountain State Park Archery Deer Hunt

For the fifth consecutive year, the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) will conduct regulated archery hunts to continue reducing deer numbers at Oak Mountain State Park. In an effort to streamline and increase efficiency, four single-day hunts are planned for December 10, 2008, December 17, 2008, January 20, 2009 and January 27, 2009.

In lieu of an online registration and computer selection by ADCNR, a cooperative relationship with Bowhunters of Alabama (BHA) has been formed to provide hunters directly through their organization’s membership base and contacts. Hunters wishing to participate in the scheduled hunts can reach BHA by visiting their Web site at www.alabamabowhunter.com for registration and membership information.

Conservation officials have made several changes to facilitate hunt goals and increase overall deer harvest. Rules for this year's hunts include the following:

• Hunt registration through Bowhunters of Alabama will begin September 24, 2008.
• Hunters may participate in each of the four hunts, but no more than 80 hunters will be selected per hunt.
• A $10 registration fee payable by cash or check will be collected at the hunter check-in station in the park the morning of each hunt. This fee will offset the costs associated with conducting the hunts.
• Hunter maps with regulation information will be provided by BHA prior to the hunt dates.
• Selected hunters must hold a valid Alabama hunting license and complete a proficiency test conducted by BHA prior to the hunts.
• Oak Mountain State Park will be closed during the four hunt days except for the golf course, which will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Persons wishing to play during that time frame may schedule a tee time in advance of the hunt days (first come, first served) by calling 205-620-2522.

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