Applications are now available for the 2023 Laketown Township Archery Deer Hunting Program at Huyser Farm Park, 4188 64th St.
Applications are available at Graafschap Hardware, 4578 60th St., and must be returned to the hardware store with signed consent sheet no later than 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15.
The forms are also available on the township website here.
“Given that so much local property is privately owned, Laketown Township is happy to offer deer hunters the opportunity to participate in the long-standing tradition of archery hunting at Huyser Farm Park,” said Karen Simmons of the parks commission. Simmons coordinates the event each year.
Fifteen hunters in total will be selected for five different time periods from Oct. 1 through Nov. 14 and Dec. 1 through Jan. 1, 2024.
After the application deadline, a lottery drawing will be used to select the hunters. Results will be announced no later than Sept. 21.
The packet includes a list of rules and regulations.
The park property will remain open for hiking, fishing and other recreational activities during hunting times. Signs will be in place in the parking area notifying people that hunting is underway.
For more information, call the township at (616) 335-3050.
Hunters are required to fill out a questionnaire about the hunt.
Last year’s respondents said they were grateful for the chance to use the park. Respondents spent an average of 4.4 days hunting during their about two-week window. Two hunters got deer last season. Many reported seeing deer, coyotes, skunks, squirrels and a variety of birds.
The hunting program began in 2008.