Follow Proper Protocol for Big Game/Vehicle Accidents
GF&P News Release
Drivers who pay attention to safety and do everything right can still find themselves in an automobile accident involving wildlife. Just as there are a variety of safety precautions to take to guard against such an accident, there are also procedures that need to be followed after a mishap.

Often during this time of year, unfortunate motorists may find themselves involved in vehicle-deer accidents. The first thing a motorist should do in the event of any accident involving big game is contact law enforcement.

If a collision occurs that kills the animal, South Dakota law allows the vehicle driver to claim the deer or antelope, if the proper procedures are followed. The first step is to contact a conservation officer. more
 

Holidays Perfect Time for Venison Donations
GF&P News Release
Hunters in South Dakota have a chance this year to brighten the holiday cheer by donating a deer through the Sportsmen Against Hunger program.

Hunters who have antlerless deer tags for the Black Hills, West River and East River deer seasons are eligible to use $30 certificates to help pay for the processing of venison donated through Sportsmen Against Hunger.

“South Dakota has been blessed with bountiful wildlife,” said Jeff Olson, president of South Dakota Sportsmen Against Hunger. “It’s one of the great traditions of hunting to share that bounty with the less fortunate.”  more

Fort Sisseton Frontier Christmas Celebration
GF&P News Release
Prepare for the Christmas holidays as the pioneers did at the 15th Annual Frontier Christmas at Fort Sisseton Historic State Park on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 9 and 10. Activities begin at noon each day and end with a tree lighting ceremony at 3:45 p.m. with many hours of fun throughout the afternoon.

“This is your chance to celebrate a time honored holiday at an authentic 1864 military outpost,” said Dave Daberkow, Park Supervisor. “Join us as we recreate the events of Dakota Territory as preparations are made for the Christmas holidays.”

Throughout the day, visitors can learn how to make numerous holiday decorations including stringing popcorn for garland, and making snowflake and Christmas ornaments in the North Barracks Visitor Center. In the barracks kitchen you can make your own bread creation and have it baked in the fort’s authentic wood burning stove. Visitors can also stop by the barracks mess hall and taste freshly churned butter. Members of the Prairie Fiber Arts Guild will be on hand to demonstrate how wool and other natural fibers are made into clothing.  more

Think S.D. State Parks for Holiday Giving
GF&P News Release
Gift giving provides many opportunities. This year, consider those on your list who might appreciate a year’s worth of visits to South Dakota’s more than 50 state parks and recreations areas.

The 2007 S.D. state parks annual entrance license is on sale now. This license allows entry into designated state parks, recreation areas and lakeside use areas and is valid through May 2008. The S.D. state parks annual entrance license gives that special person on your list countless opportunities for outdoor recreation, from hiking and biking, to bird watching, to fishing and boating.

In addition, there are a number of gift possibilities available for all types of outdoor enthusiasts.   more

 Activities Abound In State Parks This Winter
GF&P News Release
Winter may be almost here, but many visitors to South Dakota state parks are discovering that there is no reason to hibernate. Many opportunities for fun exist in the parks year-round, even after the snow falls.

During the winter season, many summer and fall hikers take up cross-country skiing. Twelve state parks and recreation areas offer cross-country ski trails. Trails are found at: Adams Homestead in North Sioux City, Big Sioux in Brandon, Hartford Beach near Milbank, Lake Herman near Madison, Mickelson Trail in the Black Hills, Newton Hills near Canton, Oakwood Lakes near Volga, Pelican Lake near Watertown, Richmond Lake near Aberdeen, Roy Lake near Lake City, Sica Hollow near Sisseton and West Whitlock near Gettysburg. more

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