About HuntOhioFarms.com
About the Program
Welcome to HuntOhioFarms.com — Ohio's web-based deer hunter access program, designed to connect Ohio farmers with deer damage problems and responsible hunters looking for a place to hunt.
The Ohio Division of Wildlife (ODNR/DOW) and the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation (OFBF) have teamed on this pilot program in efforts to combat wildlife crop damage on Ohio farms. High deer populations in some areas have led to problems for farmers — and now through this program — opportunities for hunters.
Because 95% of Ohio's land base is held in private ownership, hunters have been having an increasingly difficult time in finding places to hunt. Access to private property is vital to the success of Ohio's deer management program, and access to private property is a privilege that cannot be legislated. For that reason it is essential that hunters and landowners work cooperatively to develop positive relationships that facilitate the harvest of deer, specifically does, from private property.
Connecting farmers with deer damage problems and responsible hunters looking for a place to hunt could be the best way to reduce deer numbers in targeted areas. OFBF and ODNR/DOW have launched this web site is part of a two-year pilot project focused in Harrison, Jefferson, Tuscarawas and Carroll counties, and if successful, it will be expanded to include the entire state.
Interested hunters can log on to the Web site and develop a profile of themselves that would include years hunting experience, preferred method of harvest (e.g., archery, gun, muzzleloader), available dates and counties they would like to hunt. Farmers, in one of the four pilot counties, will then search the hunter database and contact those hunters directly that meet the landowner's criteria. There is no charge to participate or hunt enrolled properties.
The sponsors of this program encourage hunters to help fight hunger by donating a portion or all of their venison to folks who need it. Learn more about sharing the bounty.
Farmers can learn more about managing the deer population on their farms by clicking here.
About the Sponsors
Ohio Division of Wildlife
The Ohio Division of Wildlife is dedicated to conserving and improving the fish and wildlife resources and their habitats, and promoting their use and appreciation by the people so that these resources continue to enhance the quality of life for all Ohioans.
Learn more about the Ohio Division of Wildlife at www.wildohio.com.
Ohio Farm Bureau Federation
The Ohio Farm Bureau's mission is to forge a partnership between farmers and consumers that meets consumer needs and ensures agricultural prosperity in a global marketplace.
Learn more about the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation at www.ofbf.org.
Quality Deer Management Association
The QDMA is dedicated to promoting sustainable, high-quality, white-tailed deer populations, wildlife habitats and ethical hunting experiences through education, research and management in partnership with hunters, landowners, natural resource professionals and the public.
Learn more about the Quality Deer Management Association at www.qdma.com.
Whitetails Unlimited
Founded in 1982, Whitetails Unlimited is a national non-profit conservation organization that has remained true to its mission and has made great strides in the field of conservation. We have gained the reputation of being the nation's premier organization dedicating our resources to the betterment of the white-tailed deer and its environment.
Learn more about Whitetails Unlimited at www.whitetailsunlimited.com.