Contact: Kim Houf, 573-323-4941
NPS Photo VAN BUREN, MO: Ozark National Scenic Riverways will be conducting a managed archery deer hunt December 12-14 at Big Spring. This managed hunt was made available to 80 applicants who will be using compound bows. The Big Spring campground and hiking trails will be temporarily closed to ensure public safety, from 12 p.m. on December 11 until the morning of December 15. The Big Spring, the boat ramp, and the roads through the Big Spring area will remain open throughout the weekend. Managed deer hunts help the National Park Service improve the overall health of the Big Spring deer herd.The Big Spring area has generally been managed as a "no hunting" zone since the days when it was a wildlife refuge within Big Spring State Park. In 2011, park resource management staff implemented a study within the Big Spring area to estimate deer abundance and establish baseline information for population management. Results of this study confirmed the deer population density has grown to a level that could have negative impacts on park resources and the health of the deer. 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.
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Last updated: April 10, 2015