DNR Bowhunter Survey

Bowhunters wanted! DNR needs volunteers for Bowhunter Survey

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – With the opening of archery seasons for deer and bear over a month ago (Sept. 27, 2014), West Virginia bowhunters are encouraged to participate in the West Virginia Bowhunter Survey. The Bowhunter Survey was initiated in 1995 as a cooperative effort between the West Virginia Bowhunters Association and the DNR to monitor wildlife populations.

"The Bowhunter Survey supplies a wealth of information to the DNR and hunters about wildlife population trends, deer habitats and hunters' opinions in West Virginia," said Chris Ryan, Supervisor of Game Management Services for the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR).

"Bowhunters typically sit in one spot for long periods of time and are natural wildlife observers.


DNR uses their observations to monitor species such as fox and gray squirrels, black bears, bobcats and coyotes. In addition, DNR analyzes data and supplies bowhunters with useful information such as rutting patterns, hunting trends and harvest rates. The Bowhunter Survey also serves as a direct forum for hunters to communicate with DNR biologists about white-tailed deer populations or hunting regulation," Ryan said.         

Cooperators will get a printed copy of the results before next year's hunting season with all of this useful information. Hunters wishing to participate in this survey should contact Tammie Thompson (phone 304-637-0245 or email Tammie.E.Thompson@wv.gov) to obtain a survey form.

**DNR**