Deer Task Force Sets Training Session, Applications Available
Posted
Jennifer Peryam-jperyam@timesuniononline.com
Warsaw Deer Task Force is seeking archers for this year's deer-reduction efforts.
Archers selected by the task force will hunt in declared nuisance zones within the city limits.The task force will be overseen by a management committee of Mayor Ernie Wiggins, Deer Task Force Chair Jeff Grose, Police Chief Steve Foster and task force members Matt Dick and Joe Thallemer.
Last year was the first year for trained archers to hunt in declared nuisance zones.
Trained hunters will hunt in the same nuisance zones as last year, including the entire area around Spring Hill, Oakwood Cemetery, Kosciusko Community Hospital and U.S. 30.
"The task force believes regulated bow hunting for these declared nuisance zones is the most safe, practical and cost-effective program for the citizens of Warsaw," Grose said.
The Warsaw City Council approved a resolution and declared nuisance zone at its June 18 meeting to allow trained archers to hunt in the declared nuisance zones.
There were 18 deer harvested during the reduction efforts by the 15 archers that participated in last year's reduction efforts from Dec. 18 through Jan. 8.
This year's reduction effort will begin Oct. 1 and run through Jan. 6. Hunting only will take place during weekdays. Archers will not hunt on holidays.
Grose said he was pleased with last year's hunters who participated in the reduction efforts. He said he hopes they will reapply to be considered for the task force and help other hunters who are selected.
Those interested in participating in this year's reduction effort are required to complete an application form and Warsaw Police Department criminal history release form. The forms are available now at WPD, and the deadline to submit the forms is Aug. 25 by 6 p.m.
Those interested in participating in this year's reduction efforts also will be required to attend a training session Aug. 25 at the WPD from 1 to 6 p.m.
The session will be led by Dick, who will teach potential archers about hunting safety and the goals of the reduction effort. Archers also will be required to bring their archery equipment and hit a practice target. They will be notified by phone if they are selected into the program.
Foster said the purpose of the training is to assure the hunters have an understanding of the sport and realize they are representing the community.
"I was pleased with the attitude and skill of the hunters who hunted during last year's efforts and hope those hunters will apply again," Foster said.
People who want to attain an application can pick one up at WPD, 2191 E. Fort Wayne St., or call 574-372-9515.
People with questions may call Grose at 574-269-7927.
