Hunters race for a buck

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Amanda Morris
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  Dozens of eager hunters raced for a spot in line to call dibs on deer hunting locations during new stand registration, Sept. 15, 2015, at the 2nd Civil Engineer Squadron natural resources center, here.

Military members can register up to three stands, dependents can register one and guests may hunt if they are accompanied by a sponsor with registered stands. 

On the first day of new stand registration, newcomers can register for a deer hunting location and people who hunted on base last year can move their stands to new locations. Hunters are helped on a first come first serve basis.

"In the past we have had people camp out up to ten days prior to get a prime location," said Mark Gates, 2nd CES base wildlife biologist. "We wanted to cut back on such extreme camping and for the last three years we implemented rules that require people to stay in line the entire time. They can't even leave to go to the bathroom. Once you're in line, you stay in line."

Hunters who have to change stations, don't claim their stand or decide not to hunt this year have to give up their locations. With a 30 to 35 percent turnover on deer stands each year, many new locations become available to hunters.

"Most individuals who really want to camp out know someone moved to a new base and had to leave their food plot or pipeline behind," said Matthew Stroupe 2nd CES natural resource manager. "It's a race to see who is going to get the most desirable locations."

A food plot is an area where the natural resource center grows plants that attract deer. A pipeline is a linear space with no vegetation where a hunter can set up a stand and have clear sight of any animals in the area. While food plots attract deer and pipelines allow clear viewing, some hunters spend the time to find a location in the woods.

"Most people won't exert the energy to find a spot in the woods," Gates said. "If you are a newcomer, I highly suggest you take the time to get familiar with the land before committing to a location."

After registering, hunters have up to 48 hours to mark their locations. If someone goes to the reservation to find a hunting location and they cannot find any markings claiming the area, they may be able to register that location. The natural resource center will notify any registered owners allowing them another 48-hour time period to mark their location before giving it to someone else.

"Barksdale is a great place to hunt," Stroupe said. "Come out and ask questions. We will be here to answer them."

To learn more about the program contact the 2nd CES natural resources at 456-3353.