Indiana deer harvest numbers can now be viewed daily, thanks to the Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) CheckIN Game System. Hunters are required to check in their deer using the system, either online, by phone or at an on-site check station.

All data are put directly into the CheckIN game database, and allow the DNR to report harvest numbers on a daily basis. The harvest total is updated every 24 hours at midnight and posted at www.deer.dnr.IN.gov

All numbers are raw data and unofficial until DNR Fish & Wildlife biologists verify the data after the deer hunting season ends.

In other deer news, Indiana hunters can donate deer meat to individuals in need or to members of their communities through two DNR programs. The Sportsmen’s Benevolence Fund and GiveIN Game program allow hunters to share their bounty with others who would like local, low-fat and high-protein meat.

The Sportsmen’s Benevolence Fund benefits Indiana’s food pantries. It was created in 2008 to help offset deer processing costs.

Harvested deer are dropped off at deer processors throughout the state.

Last year, more than 70,000 pounds of ground deer meat went to food pantries. Hunters can find a processor in their area by searching at www.dnr.IN.gov/lawenfor/3987.htm

The GiveIN Game program was created in 2010 to help connect hunters to community members who want deer meat. The program works like an online telephone directory allowing hunters and community members to contact each other directly to donate or request deer meat.

Last year, more than 715 people participated, with the need for deer meat outweighing the offers. Hunters are encouraged to sign up and donate deer meat online at www.dnr.IN.gov/fishwild/7240.htm

 

Earlier this month, Gov. Mike Pence joined members of the Bicentennial Commission and the Knox County Parks & Recreation Department to officially dedicate the recently acquired Fox Ridge Nature Park northeast of Vincennes.

The 95-acre former golf course property includes more than two miles of paved cart paths soon to be developed into walking and biking trails. Pence announced the DNR has awarded a $200,000 Land & Water Conservation Fund grant to expand trails, install native tree and prairie plantings and develop public fishing facilities for two ponds at the new park.

The Parks Department completed the purchase of the property in April.

The county provided half the purchase price with matching funds from the Bicentennial Nature Trust (BNT).

The Parks Department owns and manages the property while the DNR holds a conservation easement ensuring public access and permanent protection.

“Fox Ridge adds a unique mix of amenities for residents to use and enjoy,” said Rama Sobhani, Knox County Parks director. “We are grateful to the Bicentennial Nature Trust and members of the community who helped make this day a reality.”

The BNT is a project of the Bicentennial Commission, co-chaired by former Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman and former U.S. Rep. Lee Hamilton. The statewide program is aimed at expanding trails, conservation areas and recreation sites to help celebrate Indiana’s 200 years of statehood in 2016.

The state parks system was created during Indiana’s Centennial celebration in 1916, and BNT projects will provide a similar legacy for generations of Hoosiers.

An initial $20 million in state funding was obligated for BNT projects, and the Lilly Endowment donated another $10 million to the effort.

Money from the fund is matched no less than 1:1 with the local community sponsor. To date, the Bicentennial Commission has approved 156 projects, and 90 have been completed for a total of 6,646 acres.

 

The annual off-road cycling permit is available now for mountain bike trails on state park, reservoir and state forest properties.

The $20 permit will be required beginning Jan. 1 for most off-road cyclists on state properties, with some exceptions. Permits are not required for trails rated as “Beginner.”

Also, trail volunteers who contribute at least 125 recorded hours of service in a year may receive a permit for free. A daily off-road cycling permit will also be available for $5. Permits may be purchased at all state park, reservoir and forest property offices and gatehouses during regular business hours. They are also available online at Mother Nature’s Mercantile, http://stores.innsgifts.com

Mountain bike trails are available at 18 state park, reservoir and forest properties. Currently, all trails at Potato Creek State Park in North Liberty are rated as “Beginner.” This means no permits are required to ride trails at Potato Creek. A permit is not required for cyclists on property roadways or paved bicycle paths.

Funds from permit sales will help offset operating costs at state parks, reservoirs and forests. Off-road cycling permit holders still must pay standard gate fees when property gatehouses are staffed.

The views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and not necessarily those of Farm World. Readers with questions or comments may contact Jack Spaulding by email at jackspaulding@hughes.net or by writing to him in care of this publication.