VAN BUREN, MO: Two managed deer hunts will be conducted in October and November 2017 at Big Spring. These hunting opportunities are being extended to special groups of the nation's population, our youth and military service members with service-related injuries.
The youth hunt will be held October 7 and 8. Anyone interested in applying for this hunt must apply online through the Missouri Department of Conservation at www.mdc.mo.gov/managedhunt. The Managed Deer Hunt application period for this hunt is July 1 through July 31. A total of 10 randomly selected youth will be allowed to harvest 2 antlerless deer with a center-fire rifle.
The Big Spring Mobility Impaired Managed Deer Hunt in partnership with the Foundation for Exceptional Warriors (The FEW) will be held November 4 and 5. This hunt is open to all current or honorably discharged military members with permanent mobility impairments. The physical condition must severely impair movement, such that assistance of a wheelchair, braces, crutches, or similar mobility aids may be required. Ten hunters will be randomly selected to participate in each hunt. Center-fire rifles will be the only weapons allowed and must be in accordance with Missouri hunting regulations. Each hunter may take two deer, including one antlered deer, during the hunt. Hunters are asked to provide their own personal assistant, or one will be provided.
Applications for the Mobility Impaired hunt can be found on-line at: www.nps.gov/ozar/planyourvisit/hunting-fishing.htm. Applications must be completely filled out and include a letter from a physician verifying the applicant’s physical condition. Completed application packets must be received by close of business, Friday, October 6, at Park Headquarters at 404 Watercress Drive in Van Buren. Mailing address is as follows: Ozark National Scenic Riverways, ATTN: Kim Houf, P.O. Box 490, Van Buren, MO 63965.
According to Superintendent Larry Johnson, "We are pleased to once again offer these unique recreational opportunities. Last year’s managed hunts were a huge success, both in supporting our youth and disabled veterans. We are grateful to our partners who so graciously help us provide these opportunities."
The Foundation for Exceptional Warriors (The FEW) is an adventure-based outreach program designed to “reach" Exceptional Warriors. For more information on The FEW, visit their website at www.exceptionalwarriors.org, or phone (918) 824-1094.
For more information, visit the park’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter, visit the park website at www.nps.gov/ozar, or phone (573) 323-4236.
Ozark National Scenic Riverways preserves the free-flowing Current and Jacks Fork Rivers, the surrounding resources, and the unique cultural heritage of the Ozark people.
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Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
