Turn in Poachers

Deer season for those who hunt with firearms opens in Georgia on October 18, 2014.  The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Law Enforcement Division (LED)reminds hunters to always put safety first, use courtesy and to respect the property where you hunt.

LED officials urge you to obey hunting laws because many more eyes may be watching this season and more poachers than ever are going to be caught.

“We are essentially enlisting all the citizens of Georgia with our new Ranger Hotline Program,” says Col. Eddie Henderson, director of DNR’s Law Enforcement Division.  “If you see a poacher, call the hotline number, 1-800-241-4113 or send an email to [email protected] and report it.  The call or email is anonymous and if your tip leads to an arrest, you get a cash reward for certain violations.   It’s as simple as that.”

Poaching is: illegal shooting, trapping, or taking of game or fish from private or public property, but in the conservation law enforcement community a poacher is a thief who steals wildlife that belongs to all citizens, robbing them of recreational opportunities, like hunting, fishing or wildlife watching.

“Shooting deer at night or from a public road, hunting out of season or on private property without permission are all illegal activities and we will continue to aggressively enforce the state hunting laws, as always,” said Henderson.  “Our goal is for everyone to enjoy their hunt safely and legally.”

Regarding safety, hunters should never cut corners.  Wear the fluorescent orange, practice firearm safety, always be respectful of other hunters and property owners where you hunt, and use extreme caution when using a tree stand.

“Our Rangers respond to tree stand incidents regularly and most of them are avoidable,” said Henderson.  “Remember to install it correctly, use a haul line to pull gear into the stand, always let someone know your whereabouts and when you will return, have a rescue plan and, by all means, wear a safety harness.”

More Deer Season Hunting Safety Tips

• Stay on established roads – do not operate any vehicle, including ATVs, within stream beds.
• Pack it in, pack it out – take your litter with you.
• Always be sure of your target and the area beyond the target.
• Secure landowner permission before hunting on private property.

Click Here to Report Poachers During Deer Hunting Season