OK Bowhunters Wanted As Deer Observers
State agency needs bowhunters’ help
For the first time, Oklahoma’s Department of Wildlife Conservation will conduct a Bowhunter Observation Survey during the upcoming archery seasons. Bowhunters are invited to go online and register as official observers and become citizen scientists this year.
“This is a great opportunity to help the Wildlife Department learn more about our natural environment, and in turn help the wildlife that we are mandated to protect and conserve,” said Corey Jager, responsive management specialist for the Department.
Here’s how the survey will work: Bowhunters will register by filling out an online form before Sept. 30. Participants will receive an informational packet by e-mail before the survey period begins Oct. 1. When in the field or forest from Oct. 1 to Nov. 30, observers will record the number of deer, wild turkeys and furbearers they see, along with the number of hours spent in the field. Observers will submit reports of sightings either at the end of each hunt, or all at once after Nov. 30 using an online form.
After the survey is complete and data are processed, participants will receive a copy of the results.
“We believe this citizen-science survey will provide valuable information to the Wildlife Department for evaluating population demographics and the general health of these wildlife populations,” Jager said. “And it’s just so easy to jot down your observations from your hunting trips, but it really could help our biologists make the best management choices for the animals and hunters alike. This survey allows hunters to play a more active role in bettering the future of their sport.”
—courtesy Oklahoma Dept. of Wildlife Conservation
