The annual City of Bridgeport Urban Deer Hunt begins next month, but individuals who want to get involved may want to start planning now.

 

Bridgeport Police Sgt. C.S. “Scott” Carpenter, who is now overseeing the program, has released the dates for the information and proficiency tests, as well as announced that applications for the program are available. The first of those events was held Wednesday and the second of five total is set for Saturday.

 

“We consider it successful and we hope that it continues to be a success,” said Carpenter.

 

The urban hunt last year had 59 hunters that harvested 49 deer. In 2017, the numbers were higher with 66 hunters registered and 64 deer harvested. Carpenter said the majority of the deer taken were does. He’s hopeful numbers are good again this year for the hunt that begins September 14 and runs through Dec. 31.

 

What do you need to do to take part?

 

Everyone has to fill out the necessary paperwork, which can be obtained at the city police department during regular business hours of 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Those new to the program are required to take a proficiency test at one of the dates listed below. Carpenter also is asking those involved for years in the program to consider taking it again.

 

“If you’re brand new it’s required. If it’s been more than five years since you’ve taken it, we would like to see you take the test again,” said Carpenter.

 

These are the only dates and times to get your urban hunting license. Everyone that wants to participate must come to one of these remaining four meetings.

 

Saturday, August 24, 2019 – 8am-9am - Bridgeport City Hall

Tuesday, August 27, 2019 – 6pm-7pm - Bridgeport City Hall

Saturday, August 31, 2019 – 8am-9am - Bridgeport City Hall

Thursday, September 5, 2019 – 6pm- 7pm – Bridgeport City Hall

 

Individuals will need to acquire their hunting permits during one of the sessions. For those wanting to hunt on approved city tracts of land, the above sessions are where those permission slips will be signed. Carpenter also said it’s also the time to turn in permission slips on the approved tracts of lands in the city that are part of the annual hunt.

 

Carpenter said there are two tracts on city property. One is off of Platinum Drive in the area of the water tank, while another is off Lodgeville Road behind the new apartments toward Bridgeport City Park.

 

“It’s in that direction, but not near the park. We provide a general map of the property so there is no confusion,” said Carpenter.

 

There is a change this year. Carpenter said those with permission slips for the city tracts can now hunt on Sunday. Private property approved for the hunt can also see Sunday hunting, but it has to be done at the discretion of the private property owners.

 

Carpenter wanted to remind individuals that they also have to have a West Virginia hunting license. He also said property owners who want their land considered for inclusion in the hunt can also pick up the necessary forms at the police department at the days and hours listed above. Previously approved property owners need to once again submit the forms as it’s not automatically renewed.

 

Questions regarding the rules of the hunt can be found by reading the city’s Deer Hunt Ordinance by clicking HERE. Other questions can be directed to Carpenter at 304-842-8260 ext. 117.