The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is asking residents to take an online survey regarding acreage requirements needed to receive free landowner deer and turkey hunting permits, as well as free small-game hunting and trapping privileges.
According to a news release, the information gathered from the online survey will be used by MDC as it considers potential changes to those acreage requirements.
MDC currently issues free landowner permits for deer and turkey hunting to qualifying landowners with at least five acres. In addition, those individuals are not required to have permits to hunt small game or trap on their properties. MDC offers the free landowner permits and privileges to show appreciation to landowners for wildlife habitat work provided on their properties.
The possible change in requirements is due to current research showing that about 20-25 acres of habitat are needed to support one deer in the state.
Area landowners can submit their feedback by taking the online survey at mdc.mo.gov/landownerinput. The survey will be available until March 18.