The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is now accepting applications for persons to hunt deer on the National Conservation Training Center property in Shepherdstown.

This fall season will mark the thirteenth year this managed hunt has been held. In order to manage the deer population on the property, the use of archery, muzzleloader rifles and shotguns with rifled slugs will again be allowed during the appropriate West Virginia hunting seasons. Hunters will be randomly selected from those who apply for a given date and assigned to a designated location from which to hunt. Hunters may apply for multiple dates.

Hunters interested in participating are encouraged to complete the online orientation and application at training.fws.gov/courses/olt/olt0003/content . A paper application may be obtained by calling 304-876-7272.

This managed hunt is open to out-of-state applicants as well as West Virginia residents. Before their first hunt day, the hunter must be licensed in West Virginia and have received a hunter safety education certification. Hunters with disabilities are welcome to participate, and accommodations will be made as needed.

The use of lead-free ammunition will be continued. This prevents lead poisoning of birds and animals that might ingest lead particles or fragments from deer entrails or carcasses. Crossbow hunting will be allowed for all archery hunting without the need to obtain a special permit.

The hunt dates are Oct. 17, Oct. 31, Nov. 28, Dec. 5, Dec. 12, Dec. 19, Dec. 28 and Dec. 30.

For further information or to apply, visit the NCTC website at training.fws.gov/campus/deer-hunt/. Inquiries may be sent by email to nctcdeerhunt@fws.gov , or call Susan Collins 304-876-7272

Applications for the hunt must be received by Friday, August 28.