Contributed report
Lake Maria State Park will be closed to all visitors for a special muzzleloader hunt December, Friday, Dec. 6 through Sunday, Dec. 8.
The purpose of the hunt is to prevent overpopulation of deer and to protect other resources.
“An overpopulation of a single species can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem,” said Mark Cleveland, Parks and Trails natural resource policy and program coordinator. “When deer numbers become too high in an area, they overgraze on specific trees and native plants. Also, high deer density in an area provides an environment where diseases can spread more rapidly. To help preserve natural resources and maintain the health of the ecosystem, we sometimes hold special deer hunts in state parks and recreation areas.”
Special hunts will take place at other Minnesota state parks and recreation areas this fall, and access to the parks will vary. Park visitors are advised to check the alerts and notices on state park and recreation area websites (mndnr.gov/park-list) to find details about any upcoming special hunts as they make their plans.
The deadlines have passed for youth and adults to apply for the permits to participate in these special hunts, which include regular firearms, muzzleloader and archery options. For a list of parks that are hosting special hunts during the 2024 hunting season, visit the state park hunts webpage (mndnr.gov/parkhunts).