PARKERSBURG - The city will begin taking applications for permits to participate in this year's urban deer management program.
Public Works Director Jerry Edman said the program will begin Sept. 15 and run through Dec. 31.
The city will issue 30 permits on a first-come, first-served basis. The permits will cost $20. Before the city issues a permit, prospective participants must meet criteria and pass a proficiency test.
In addition to possessing a valid West Virginia hunting license, participants must obtain a bow-hunting proficiency permit from the city. Edman said the test will consist of shooting five broadhead arrows at a target 20 yards away. Four of the arrows must be in the kill zone of the target.
Proficiency tests will be conducted at the police firing range on Keever Street from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Friday, Aug. 15 and 17. An alternate date has been set aside for Saturday, Aug. 18, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. if needed. Tests must be scheduled by telephone no later than 4:30 p.m. Aug. 17.
Todd Goodwin, a public works official who is overseeing the permit program, said youth participants may participate in the program with an adult operating on only one permit. However, youth also will be required to pass the proficiency test.
Harvesting will only be allowed on the 93-acre Johnson T. Janes Park. Goodwin said officials decided to limit permits to 30, allowing each participant to utilize three to four acres per person.
Participants may harvest two deer under the city's program. Edman said harvested deer will not count toward the state's bag limits.
All rules and requirements of the urban deer management program are outlined in information packets and permit applications. The packet can be obtained on the fourth floor of the city building, in the engineering department during regular business hours.
Inquiries should be directed to Edman at 304-424-8559.
