The Valdosta Daily Times
FOLKSTON —
Permit holders selected for the upcoming Georgia State Alligator Quota Hunt will not be able to hunt in the Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge, in Lanier County, near Lakeland or at the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, in Charlton, Ware and Clinch Counties, it was announced today in a press release from the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
Even though it appears on the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Alligator Hunt Zone Map that the refuges lay within open zones, the refuges are closed to alligator hunting. Refuge biologists believe that the alligator populations are self-regulating on both refuges. The numbers of alligators decline during drought years and then build back up when water levels increase. Alligators also provide habitat for many other animals in the swamp. Visitors come from around the world to see alligators in the Okefenokee. Many visitors enjoy the thrill of seeing alligators while boating on the scenic Banks Lake.
For information about Georgia hunting seasons and regulations, contact the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division, or visit their web site at www.gohuntgeorgia.com <http://www.gohuntgeorgia.com/> .
Refuge information may be obtained by calling (912) 496-7836, or by visiting the Refuge web site at www.fws.gov/Okefenokee or by writing to: Refuge Manager, Okefenokee NWR, 2700 Suwannee Canal Rd., Folkston, GA 31537.
