Hunting access restricted because of heightened security at military bases

Hunting access restricted because of heightened security at military bases

OLYMPIA - Heightened security at U.S. military bases resulting from the
Sept. 11 terrorist attacks have led to the closure of several hunting
sites, including two on Whidbey Island, according to the Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).

More than 1,300 pheasants were scheduled for release throughout the 10-week
season at two sites on Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, said Mick Cope,
WDFW upland game section manager.

"The birds will be redistributed to other hunting sites and released,
providing additional hunting opportunity throughout the region," Cope said.

Bird releases and hunting will resume on the Navy sites once security
concerns have subsided. Hunters should contact WDFW's Region Four office
for updates on the Whidbey Island closures, (425) 775-1311.

Because of this last-minute change, Cope said WDFW will buy back any
western Washington pheasant hunting permits from purchasers who had
intended on hunting exclusively at the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island
sites. Hunters interested in a refund should call their local WDFW regional
office prior to the beginning of the general westside pheasant hunting
season, which runs from Sept. 29 through Nov. 30.

Eastern Washington hunters have also lost some hunting opportunity and
access. The Mill Creek pheasant release site at Bennington Lake near Walla
Walla has been closed to all public access. This restriction is the result
of enhanced security at a water resource project managed by the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers. Also the U.S. Army's Yakima Training Center could close
to civilian access, including hunters. For current hunting access
information, visit the Yakima Training Center website at
www.lewis.army.mil/yakima.

One bright spot is that the pheasant releases and hunting at Fort Lewis in
Pierce County will continue as scheduled. Hunters interested in accessing
the base's hunting sites must call in advance for a hunting registration
number. Call (253) 967-8260, or (253) 967-8262, or (253) 967-8275 for more
information.

Cope said hunters wishing to access any U.S. government-managed properties
should contact the facility prior to going hunting. Hunters should also
check WDFW's Migratory Waterfowl and Upland Game Seasons pamphlet for
nontoxic shot requirements.

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