VAN BUREN, Mo. - Ozark National Scenic Riverways reminds visitors that annual firearms deer season in Missouri is November 13 to 23. Hunting is allowed in most areas of the park in accordance with state and federal regulations, and everyone is encouraged to hunt and recreate safely and legally this deer season.
Fall is a special time in the Ozarks and along the Current and Jacks Fork rivers. Visitors flock to the area to enjoy autumn colors, cooler temperatures, and a wide variety of outdoor recreational activities. Hunting is a longstanding tradition for local residents and a popular sport for hunters who travel to the Ozarks to enjoy many acres of public land in pursuit of their favorite game.
As many head into the outdoors to enjoy their favorite fall pastimes over the next couple of weeks, the National Park Service offers a few reminders when hunting or visiting during deer season:
* Hunter orange is required for all hunters, but other visitors are encouraged to wear hunter orange if hiking, horseback riding, or floating in backcountry areas of the park.
* All state hunting regulations are enforced within Ozark National Scenic Riverways. All hunters must comply with the Missouri Wildlife Code. Specific regulations for deer hunting can be found at https://mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/regulations.
* Hunting is allowed in most areas of Ozark National Scenic Riverways with the exception of private property or within 300 yards of developed zones. Developed zones include buildings, administrative compounds, camping areas, hiking trails, and public use facilities. Hunting is not allowed within the former Big Spring State Park wildlife refuge. Be observant of signs posting additional restrictions.
* With other visitors enjoying the rivers during this time, hunters are encouraged to clearly identify their target prior to shooting.
* Tree stands cannot be permanently affixed to trees or structures, must be labeled with owner’s name, address, and conservation number, and must be removed by February 15. Ground blinds are allowed but must be removed after each hunt. Game cameras are not allowed.
* To report a suspected wildlife violation, please contact Operation Game Thief at 1-800-392-1111.
The following practices are in violation of the Missouri Wildlife Code and are strictly prohibited:
• Taking or attempting to take wildlife from or across a public roadway
• Pursuing wildlife by motor-driven air, land, or water conveyances
• Taking or attempting to take deer from motor-driven boats or from waters of the state
• Taking or attempting to take deer with dogs (in use or in possession)
• Taking or attempting to take deer with artificial light or night vision equipment (“spot lighting")
• Taking or attempting to take deer with bait
• Failure to void (notch) deer permit or failure to attach permit to deer
“While hunting is not allowed in many national parks, when Ozark National Scenic Riverways was established the importance of traditional activities like hunting was recognized and included in the park’s enabling legislation," said Superintendent Jason Lott. “We welcome everyone to safely enjoy the park during firearms season, and we want everyone to be successful while hunting legally. Hunting regulations will be strictly enforced."
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.
www.nps.gov/ozar
Ozark National Scenic Riverways preserves 134 miles of the free-flowing Current and Jacks Fork rivers, the surrounding resources, and the unique cultural heritage of the Ozark people.
Learn more at www.nps.gov/ozar. Find us on Facebook @ozarkriverways and on Instagram @ozarkriverwaysnps.
Tags: ozar hunting reminders
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
