HUNTING BRINGS IN THE BUCKS

WATERBURY, VT -- Hunters always look forward to fall with hopes of bringing home a big buck, but Vermont business owners are learning to capitalize on the upcoming hunting seasons too, and with good reason.

Vermont hunting seasons bring significant revenue into Vermont's economy, it happens at an opportune time, and hunter expenditures are well distributed throughout the state.

Between overnight stays, gasoline, food, clothing, licenses, and miscellaneous equipment and services, hunters spend more than $71 million each year, according to a survey conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

"Hunters spend a lot of money in a relatively short amount of time," said John Hall, Information Manager for the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. "Just as importantly, however, many of them make their purchases at a time of year when tourism is at a lull -- after the leaves are off and before the skis are on -- and they make their purchases throughout the state, including our most rural communities."

More than ever before, Vermont lodging facilities are contacting us for information on the upcoming hunting seasons to share with prospective customers, said Hall. At the same time, nonresident hunters are planning their hunts well ahead and want to know how to contact Vermont hotels, motels and campgrounds to make reservations.

More than 86,000 people purchased Vermont hunting licenses last year (73,558 residents and 12,466 nonresidents).

Vermonts rifle deer season is November 12  27. The second part of archery deer season and the muzzleloader season occur at the same time: December 3  11.

Hunting licenses and rules are available from license agents statewide and from the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. You can also purchase a hunting license on the departments web site (www.vtfishandwildlife.com). Contact the department at 103 South Main Street, Waterbury, VT 05671-0501. Their telephone is 802-241-3700.

Two websites are helpful for hunters who want to find a place to stay: (www.vermontvacation.com) and (www.voga.org).

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For Further Information please contact: John Hall at 802-241-3700 or email to john.hall@state.vt.us