Field reports from Ohio Division of Wildlife Officers

Central Ohio – Wildlife District One

While on patrol in Pickaway County, State Wildlife Officer Brady Stevens, assigned at-large in central Ohio, contacted three waterfowl hunters at Elmon Richards Wildlife Area. Officer Stevens checked the group for valid hunting licenses, Ohio Wetlands Habitat Stamps, and federal Duck Stamps. One hunter did not have a valid Ohio Wetlands Habitat Stamp. The hunter was issued a summons for hunting waterfowl without an annual Ohio Wetlands Habitat Stamp endorsement and paid $130 in fines and court costs to Circleville Municipal Court.

State Wildlife Officer Maurice Irish, assigned to Delaware County, assisted Ohio Division of Wildlife staff with a venison cooking course at Delaware Wildlife Area Shooting Range and Education Center. The free hands-on class covered topics including safety, necessary equipment, and techniques. Attendees made venison snack sticks and enjoyed plenty of samples. Those interested in attending future courses held by the Ohio Division of Wildlife can refer to the calendar of events at wildohio.gov.

Northwest Ohio – Wildlife District Two

During the 2024 early teal and goose hunting season, State Wildlife Officer Ethan Bingham, assigned to Williams County, responded to a call about an individual hunting waterfowl species that were not yet in season. In addition to that violation, Officer Bingham found that another individual in the same group was in possession of lead shot. Only approved nontoxic shot may be used when hunting waterfowl. Both hunters were issued the appropriate summonses and paid a total of $400 in fines and court costs. One duck was forfeited.