Applications available for Canada goose reductions at several state parks

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Having attempted various non-lethal methods of managing the Canada goose populations at several state parks with little success, the DNR will conduct controlled goose reductions in coming months. Similar reductions have occurred since 2007.

Large amounts of goose waste at park beaches, picnic areas and bank-fishing locations have raised health concerns, adversely affected visitor enjoyment, increased erosion and resulted in increased operating costs.

The dates chosen coincide with hunting seasons to optimize effectiveness. Other factors considered in determining dates included state and federal law, local flight patterns of geese and goose behavior.

On their hunt days, Potato Creek and Whitewater Memorial state parks will limit public access-certain areas will be open only to participating hunters. On the Ouabache, Chain O'Lakes, Shakamak and Lincoln hunt days, those state parks will be accessible to drawn participants only.

Successfully drawn hunters can participate in multiple two-day reduction hunts at Potato Creek, Chain O'Lakes, Shakamak, and Lincoln state parks or single, one-day reductions at Ouabache and Whitewater Memorial state parks.

Participation will be determined by a drawing similar to other DNR waterfowl draws. Successful applicants can bring up to three individuals along to hunt if they wish. These individuals do not have to be on the applicant's application and must be Indiana residents who will be 18 years of age by Nov. 8.

Groups will be assigned to specific reduction areas. Shooting hours will be one-half hour before sunrise to sunset. A public standby drawing for eligible participants will occur each morning, 90 minutes before local sunrise, to fill spots not claimed by successful applicants by that time. Standby spots are often available-such participants greatly increase the success of the reductions. Questions regarding the standby drawing should be directed to the park of interest.

Hunters who want to participate in the reductions must register for the reserved hunts by completing an online application between Sept. 27 and Oct. 10 at www.IndianaOutdoor.IN.gov. Individuals can apply for any park or set of dates so long as dates do not coincide.

Applicants and standby participants must be Indiana residents and 18 years of age by Nov. 8, and should have their hunting license number ready to enter in the application. Hunters must present a state waterfowl stamp, HIP number, and federal duck stamp on site on the day of the reduction, but do not need them to apply. Apprentice licenses are not applicable. Though Canada geese are the only harvest permitted, all state and federal laws pertaining to waterfowl hunting apply.

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