7/30/2007
Application for Gifford Point Access Permits Ends Aug. 15 - Tom Keith

LINCOLN, Neb. -- Anyone interested in hunting deer at Gifford Point Wildlife Management Area (WMA) this year may apply for access permits through Aug. 15, according to Pat Molini, southeast district wildlife manager for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Molini said 200 authorization permits will be issued to allow deer hunters access to the area, located along the Missouri River adjacent to Bellevue.

To be eligible to apply, hunters must have a valid statewide archery, statewide muzzleloader or Season Choice Area 21 deer permit. Successful applicants will be issued a key for the access gate to the WMA. Only hunters holding a valid access authorization will be allowed on the WMA from Sept. 1 through the end of Nebraskas deer seasons.

Deer hunters may apply as "buddies," which means both or neither will draw an access permit. Only two hunters may apply as buddies and both applications must be submitted in the same envelope. A buddy permit does not allow party hunting. Each hunter must harvest his or her own animal.

Vehicle access will be limited to the rock road adjacent to the 8-foot-high deer fence on Educational Service Unit property. Only foot access to the interior of the WMA is allowed.

Application forms are available at Commission offices in Lincoln, Omaha, the Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium near Gretna and Schilling WMA near Plattsmouth. If more than 200 applications are received, a drawing will be held Aug. 20 at the Commissions Lincoln office.