New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
Media contact: Dan Williams, (505) 476-8004
Public contact: (505) 476-8000
dan.williams@state.nm.us

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, AUG. 24, 2010:

EAGER HUNTERS PREPARE FOR SEASON OPENINGS
APPLY BY SEPT. 8 FOR SANDHILL CRANE, BERNARDO YOUTH WATERFOWL HUNTS

EAGER HUNTERS PREPARE FOR SEASON OPENINGS

Few people welcome the end of a long, hot New Mexico summer more than the hunters. Across the state, they are practicing with their bows, sighting-in firearms and double-checking equipment in preparation for the traditional season-openings for dove, grouse, deer and elk. Some already may be afield for early bear and pronghorn antelope hunts.

It’s an ideal time of year to be outside enjoying the state’s abundant wildlife, and the Department of Game and Fish is reminding everyone, whether they are hunting or not, to be prepared, safe and legal. Nonhunters should be aware that they are sharing the field with hunters carrying weapons, and should consider wearing bright-colored clothing. Hunters should make sure they have all required licenses and stamps before going afield, and always be certain of their target and everything behind it before firing a shot.

Hunting seasons for doves, blue grouse, band-tailed pigeons and squirrels open Sept. 1 in the northern areas of the state. Many archery seasons for deer, bear and elk also open Sept. 1. Pronghorn antelope seasons run from late August through mid-September.

Details about seasons, bag limits, license requirements and other information can be found in the Big-game and Trapper and Small Game and Waterfowl information booklets, available on the Department Web site, www.wildlife.state.nm.us. The booklet will be available soon at license vendors statewide, and at Department offices in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Raton, Roswell and Las Cruces.

APPLY BY SEPT. 8 FOR SANDHILL CRANE, BERNARDO YOUTH WATERFOWL HUNTS

Applications are due Wednesday, Sept. 8, for 2010-2011 youth waterfowl hunts at Bernardo Wildlife Area and for special-permit sandhill crane hunts. More than 200 youth waterfowl hunts are available at Bernardo and hundreds of special crane permits are available in various areas around the state.

Online applications must be received no later than 5 p.m. Sept. 8. Paper applications must be postmarked no later than Sept. 8. For more information about season dates, areas, and how to apply, please see the Small Game and Waterfowl Rules and Information Booklet online at www.wildlife.state.nm.us. The booklet will be available soon at Department offices and license vendors statewide.

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