Deadline Approaches for Antlerless Deer Draw Applications

NATURAL RESOURCES--Deadline Approaches for Antlerless Deer Draw Applications

Natural Resources Minister Tim Olive is reminding hunters that the deadline is fast approaching to apply for permits to hunt antlerless deer.

Those who want to hunt antlerless deer this fall must apply for a permit by midnight Friday, Aug. 30.

"Interest has been increasing steadily in the last week," said Mr. Olive. "The number of applications continues to grow as the deadline approaches. As of August 26th, over 20,000 applications had been received."

Last year, a total of 31,897 applications were received for 13,200 stamps. There are 12,200 stamps available for the 2002 deer hunting season.

When a stamp is attached to the general deer hunting licence, it allows the licence holder to hunt does and fawns, as well as antlered bucks, in a designated deer management zone. Hunters who do not have an antlerless deer stamp may hunt only antlered bucks and may do so throughout the province where hunting is permitted.

The application line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To apply, hunters can call 1-900-565-DEER (3337). A non-refundable application fee of $6.90 will be charged to the bill of the phone that is used. Callers must hold a valid Firearm or Bow Hunting Certificate and have it on hand when calling the application line. In addition, applicants can apply only once and in only one deer management zone.

After Aug. 30, a computerized random draw will take place. Successful applicants will be notified by mail during the week of Sept. 2. The results will be available between Sept. 7 and 13 by calling 1-877-535-1234, or 493-1412 in the Halifax area. Results will also be available on the Internet at www.deerdraw.hmcgroup.ca until the end of hunting season.

Detailed information on the antlerless deer draw can be found where hunting and angling licences are sold.