ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. - For many at APG the transition from the summer to fall season is marked by brisk morning air, tree leaves that mimic brilliant sunsets, and the afternoon chatter of children making their way home from school.
However, to the 500 or so registered hunters at Aberdeen Proving Ground the arrival of autumn is signified through the sounds and sights of Mother Nature. To some it is the bellow of Canada geese parading through the air en route to their southerly homes. For others it is the sight of the velvet hangings from the antlers of the male whitetail deer; like tinsel hanging from a Christmas tree. These are the sights and sounds that lure APG hunters to muddy marshes and white-oak timbers in search of lasting memories and nature's purest meats.
During last year's 2011-2012 season, the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (FMWR) Hunting Program sold more than 500 APG hunting permits and accommodated more than 8,000 individual hunting excursions. The 2012-2013 Hunting Program has picked up where last year's left off and has already sold more hunting permits and has greater participation. During the fall, APG offers hunters the opportunity to pursue whitetail deer, waterfowl, rabbit, squirrel, and dove. Deer hunting with a bow draws the most participation followed by hunting deer with shotgun/muzzleloader and waterfowl hunting.
To be eligible to participate in the program, an individual must be active duty or retired military, a civilian employee or a civilian contractor assigned to APG. Family members and guests of these individuals are also welcome to participate. Eligible hunters must have the following before they can purchase an APG permit: Maryland State Hunting License, Hunter's Safety Education Class Card, Unexploded Ordinance Video Training Card, and APG Security Documentation. Hunters interested in pursuing deer must also complete an additional training course and prove proficiency with necessary firearms.
Currently, the Hunting Program utilizes 30-40 volunteers who ensure participant safety by making sure each party returns safely from their outing, posting directional signs in hunting areas, and mentoring new hunters in the program. Providing a safe and enjoyable program are the primary goals of FMWR.
Dennis Overbay, a project manager with the Directorate of Public Works and a hunting program participant for 27 years, said, "It's nice to see the participation in the program rising again. I know a lot of hunters really appreciate what the FMWR is doing for them."
For more information about the APG Hunting Program, visit www.apgmwr.com or call MWR Outdoor Recreation at 410-278-4124 or the Hunting Management Facility at 410-278-4843.
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