Application deadline nears for state park deer reduction hunts

The deadline for hunters to apply for this year's state park deer reduction hunts is Aug. 25.

Hunters must apply online by visiting Hunting.IN.gov and clicking on the "Reserved Hunt Info" link. Paper applications are not available.

Deer reduction hunts reduce the ecological damage that deer herds cause in state parks by helping to maintain deer browsing at a sustainable level. Biologists determine which parks require a reduction each year based on plant recovery and previous hunter success.

Properties requiring a reduction in 2013 are:

-- Firearms-only properties (any firearm legal to take deer in Indiana) are: Shades, Turkey Run, McCormick's Creek, Brown County, Chain O'Lakes, Charlestown, Harmonie, Indiana Dunes, Lincoln, Ouabache, Pokagon, Potato Creek, Prophetstown, Shakamak, Spring Mill, Summit Lake, Tippecanoe River, Versailles and Whitewater Memorial state parks.

-- Archery-only properties (any archery equipment legal to take deer in Indiana) are: Fort Harrison and Clifty Falls state parks.

Applicants must be Indiana residents and be 18 years old by Nov. 18, 2013, and possess at least one valid Indiana deer license to apply.

Each person may apply only once for each state park deer reduction effort, regardless of primary or buddy status. All applications sharing duplicate names will be disqualified.