NRA Contributions Recognized by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation

by
posted on December 9, 2024
LEDE NRA Contributions Recognized By The Oklahoma Department Of Wildlife Conservation

The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) highlighted the aid it continues to receive from the NRA, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Oklahoma Hunters and Anglers during an Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission meeting on Dec. 2. During the gathering the Commission accepted a $25,000 donation from the NRA for construction of the shooting range planned for Copan Wildlife Management Area.

NRA was also recognized for its partnership in providing an online hunter education course that allows ODWC to receive millions of dollars in federal hunter education grants. Lance Meek, ODWC hunter education coordinator, said the partnership has resulted in more than 29,000 people taking the online hunter education course in about two and a half years. “We never have any problems, it’s just so smooth,” Meek said. “It’s been a great partnership.”

The Commission also accepted a $1,000 donation from nonprofit Oklahoma Hunters and Anglers for the archery range planned for the Arcadia Conservation Education Area. The donation unlocks $9,000 in federal grant funds to be used during the archery range project.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Biologist Jason Person was recognized by the commission for his assistance in the advancement of shooting range projects.

ODWC Director Wade Free reported that Oklahoma’s youth deer gun harvest increased to about 5,000 this year, compared to 3,500 in 2023. The bear harvest was 77, roughly what was forecast for the year. However, the deer muzzleloader harvest was about 9,800, down significantly from 2023’s total of 15,000.

“If you muzzleloader hunted this year, you know why,” Free said. “Thirty-five mile an hour winds, and it was hot as August, so that always hurts participation.”

ODWC Chief of Wildlife Bill Dinkines said the total deer harvest for the current season was about 93,000, down around 12 percent from 105,000 this time last year. Holiday antlerless season began Dec. 18 and runs through New Year’s Evet. Deer archery season continues through Jan. 15, 2025.

The Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission is the eight-member governing board of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation that establishes state hunting and fishing regulations, sets policy for the Wildlife Department, and indirectly oversees all state fish and wildlife conservation activities. Members are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Oklahoma Senate.

Latest

Herman Shooting NULA Model 20
Herman Shooting NULA Model 20

#SundayGunday: Wilson Combat NULA Model 20

On this week's #SunsdayGunday, we take a look at the Wilson Combat NULA Model 20. A descendant of the New Ultralight Arms rifles designed by Melvin Forbes, the Model 20 carries on Melvin's legacy of lightweight accuracy in a way only Wilson Combat can. For more information, check out this exclusive video.

New for 2025: Gritr 47-Inch Hard Rifle Case

Gritr has launched its 47-inch Hard Rifle Case, for shooters looking for portable security and protection for their firearm. 

Know How: Walking-Up Winter Rabbits

Bryce Towsley offers his readers some tips and tricks on wintertime rabbit hunting.

Member's Hunt: "The Big Rifle," Winchester Model 1895

This latest Member's Hunt comes from Ken Eason of Bethany, Okla.

First Look: Blocker Outdoors’ Finisher Pro II Turkey Vest

Blocker Outdoors has introduced its Finisher Pro II Turkey Vest, to help hunters concisely and comfortably manage essential hunting tools.

Recipe: Hunter's Onion Soup

Follow along as Brad Fenson explains the ancient origins and his specific take on this hearty dish.



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.