Letter from the Chief By Chief Richard Pietrzak

Hunting Information for the 2008-2009 Season.

            The 2008-09 hunting season has begun.  The City of Dayton does still allow hunting in some areas and the Police Department is working to keep hunters informed on where those areas are and of the rules of hunting in Dayton.  We have also been working with our local Conservation Officer to make sure hunters are following the rules.  

            This year the Dayton Public Safety Commission began looking at the weapons ordinance currently in place.  The commission was looking to clarify and update the language used.  The commission is currently reviewing the draft ordinance and preparing to send it to the City Council for approval.  The goal was to make the ordinance better define the hunting regulations in the City of Dayton.  One new addition will be the requirement of a permit.  The draft ordinance recommends hunters be required to obtain a permit from the City.  The purpose of this is for the Police Department to first be able to make hunters aware of where they are allowed to hunt and to clarify the hunting regulations in Dayton;  Second, to allow the Police Department to know who is hunting in a particular area in the event of a compliant.  The draft should be sent to the City council sometime around the first of the year.

            In the meantime, we are asking hunters to call or come in and speak with me about where they are planning to hunt.  This is especially important for those wishing to hunt on the river.  The areas available to hunt are limited and we are requesting you meet with me so I can show you on the map where you are allowed to hunt.  The best way to ensure hunting in Dayton is allowed for as long as possible is for the hunters to practice good hunting etiquette.  

            Three Rivers Park District is holding a shotgun deer hunt in the Elm Creek Park Reserve.  The hunt is scheduled for the weekend of November 22-23.  Eastman Nature Center will be the check station for the hunt.  If you are interested in the hunt and would like more information visit their web site at ThreeRiversParkDistrict.org or call 763-559-9000.