GAME AND FISH ANNOUNCES ONLINE HUNTING APPLICATION PROCESS

CHEYENNE – Beginning January 2007, hunters can put down their pens and pick up a mouse to apply for Wyoming big game and turkey licenses.

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department will launch its online application process on Jan. 2, 2007, allowing resident and non-resident hunters to apply online or by mail for limited quota licenses for deer, antelope, elk, moose, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, bison and turkey.

“We are excited to offer the new online application process as a benefit to our customers,” said Julie Arp, Electronic License Program Coordinator with the Game and Fish.  “Hunters can log-in using their Sportsman ID number, apply as an individual or as a party, purchase preference points and pay  licenses and application fees using a credit card.”

The information collected through the online application is identical to that of the paper application, and the draw process will remain the same.  Online applications will be entered into the established system, and the draw conducted as in previous years. Deadlines for online applications will also remain the same, with the online portal closing at 5 p.m. MST on application deadline day. Online applicants unsuccessful in the draw will be mailed refund warrants.

Those applying online must certify their residency using an electronic oath form and pay their fees using a Visa or Mastercard.  Hunters can also donate to Access Yes and the search and rescue at checkout. 

“Once the application is submitted, because of the credit card payment process, it’s very difficult to adjust fees.  Applicants must withdraw completely, and start over,” says Arp.  She advises hunters to collect all the necessary information before beginning the online application process to ensure the process is a smooth one.  “Double check your draw and hunt area choices, and collect all party information before logging in to the system.”

“The system is a win for sportsmen and the Game and Fish,” explains Arp.  “It eliminates the need for data entry and paper handling, making the application process more accurate and efficient.”

The Game and Fish created the online application system in response to customer requests.  The system is for limited quota licenses only.  The system does not offer conservation stamps, fishing, bird or small game licenses.  Customers must still purchase those at a license selling agent or Wyoming Game and Fish office.

The online application system will be available on the Game and Fish Web site beginning Jan. 2, at http://gf.state.wy.us.

(Contact: Julie Arp, (307) 777-4644)

-WGFD-