A total of 18 DNR properties will be temporarily
closed to the general public, Nov. 13- 14, and Dec. 4-5, for special
deer reduction hunts.
These include Brown County, Chain O’Lakes, Charlestown, Clifty
Falls, Fort Harrison, Harmonie, Indiana Dunes, Lincoln, Ouabache,
Pokagon, Potato Creek, Shades, Summit Lake, Tippecanoe, Turkey Run,
Versailles and Whitewater Memorial state parks, plus Twin Swamps
Nature Preserve.
During the special hunts, volunteers assist the DNR in reducing
the size of the deer herds, which have grown too large to be
supported by the vegetation at these properties.
The goal of the deer herd reduction is to help restore and
maintain the ecological balance in the parks and preserve.
The Indiana DNR first began to reduce the size of the deer herds
occupying Indiana’s state parks in 1993 with a one-day reduction at
Brown County State Park. Since then, deer herd reductions have been
conducted at 20 of Indiana’s 24 state parks. DNR biologists and
naturalists now determine the need for a reduction each year on a
park-by-park basis.
Hunters who have completed the Indiana Hunter Education Course
are given preference to participate in the hunts. The firearm hunts
are limited to shotguns, muzzleloaders and pistols. Bow and arrow,
rather than firearms, are used at the Clifty Falls and Fort Harrison
controlled hunts. Archers who have completed the International
Bowhunter Education Program or hold a Hunter Education certificate
are given preference in the application process.