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DIVISION TARGETS HUNTER AWARENESS THIS FALL
WITH NEW SAFETY ZONE SIGN & DEER PERMIT APPLICATION PROCEDURES

July 9,1998

For more information contact:
Patrick Carr at 908-735-7088

To increase hunter awareness this fall, the Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife has re-designed its safety zone sign and revised deer permit application procedures. Information regarding these new changes will be contained in the New Jersey Fish and Wildlife Digest, Hunting Season Issue, available at Division offices, sporting goods stores and license agents statewide in early August.

"In such a densely populated state as our own, ethics, safety, responsibility and image are the factors that will enable us to keep the rich tradition of hunting alive in the Garden State," said Division Director Bob McDowell. "New Jersey sportsmen and women can be proud of their excellent hunting safety record and know that these additional awareness measures will help to maintain that standard."

Development and human encroachment on the forests and fields of New Jersey continues to change wildlife habitat and huntable land. Safety zone awareness is and will remain a critical part of modern hunting. To help distinguish areas within 450 feet of a home, school playground or other building, the Division has re-designed its safety zone sign. The new sign is triangular in shape with a visually-striking fluorescent green color to warn hunters that the area is a safety zone which means that no loaded firearms or bows are allowed.

To focus attention on responsible deer hunting practices, a series of six safety questions will be included on the deer permit application. These questions are part of the application and must be answered. The answers can be found by reading the Digest. Failure to complete the entire deer permit application may result in rejection of the application.

"The Division and responsible hunters throughout the state are committed to keeping the sport of hunting a safe, responsible tradition. Remember to Hunt SMART this fall and remind your hunting partners to do the same," said New Jersey Fish and Game Council Chairman Charles Suk.