PRESS RELEASE

Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks

1505 Eastover Drive, Jackson, Mississippi 39211 – 601-432-2400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 30, 2009

Bowhunters We Need Your Help!

The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) is distributing Bowhunter Observation Books for the fifth consecutive archery season. The observation data collected in these books is used by MDWFP biologists to generate a statewide buck:doe ratio and fawn crop estimate.  Bowhunter Observation Books will be available online and by direct request.  Books can be downloaded on our website (www.mdwfp.com/deer).  To request a Bowhunter Observation Book email williamm@mdwfp.state.ms.us or call 601-432-2199 and provide a mailing address.  

All books returned to the MDWFP by the Dec. 1^st deadline will be entered into a random drawing for one of four prizes.  These prizes include a Millennium Hang-On stand and Stick Ladder donated by Mississippi Bowhunters Association, a Ridgeline 1-man box stand from Sportsman’s Condo, Millennium Hang-On Stand from Hunting Solutions, and a suit of camouflage from Longleaf Camo.  Winners will be notified by mail. 

Over 2,000 books were distributed during the 2008 – 2009 season and 155 books were returned by the December 1^st deadline.  Participating bowhunters observed 7,343 total deer yielding 1.14 deer per hour.  Bowhunters recorded 6,425.25 hours in 67 counties.

Bowhunter Observation Results 2005 – 2008