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Moose, deer tag applications available online

Mail-in paper applications for big-game draws are no longer available, the province has stated. The province has changed up the draw system, used to randomly distribute validations tags throughout the province.
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Hunters can now apply for deer, moose and elk validation tags online. File photo.
Mail-in paper applications for big-game draws are no longer available, the province has stated.

The province has changed up the draw system, used to randomly distribute validations tags throughout the province. For the first time, hunters can now enter the draws online. Draws can also be entered over the phone or by filling out and submitting a paper application at one of 69 Service Ontario centres across the province.

Hunters who want to purchase their moose and deer licences at the same time they enter draws can do so in a single transaction online or by telephone.

The number of validation tags available each year is based on sustaining the species. For instance, if the population is high in any given area, the number of validation tags can be increased to help manage the herd, according the a news release from the province.

Hunters' chances of getting a validation tag are the same regardless of how they apply. The random draw is computerized, without preference for the method of entry.

Validation tags will be mailed to successful hunters - or to group leaders for successful group applications – as was the practice in previous years.

The province said it is making the changes to make it easier for hunters to enter big-game draws for moose, deer and elk.

“Ontario's vast landscape provides great opportunities to get out and enjoy the many activities we have to offer," Minister of Natural Resources Michael Gravelle said, in the press release. “By adding an online option for entering draws, we're making it easier for hunters to get out and enjoy Ontario's outdoors.”

For more information, go to www.mnr.gov.on.ca.

Quick Facts

- Applicants will be able to phone or go online after draw results are finalized to find out if they were successful.
- Anglers and hunters also have more ways to apply for their licences - online, over the phone, at outside licence issuers or at ServiceOntario centres.
- On average, Ontario issues approximately 580,000 hunting licences each year.
- Each year, the sale of hunting and fishing licences adds $60 million to the economy.

Draw deadlines 

- Antlerless deer draw: open from March 1 to July 3. Results of the antlerless deer validation tag draw will be available starting Aug. 8.
- Moose draw: open April 18 to May 31. Results of the moose validation tag draw will be available Aug. 1.
- Elk draw: open May 1 to June 11. Results of the elk validation tag draw will be available Aug. 2.
- Controlled deer hunt draw: open Aug. 1-31. Results of the controlled deer hunt draw will be available Oct. 10.
- Draw results will be available by phone at 1-800-288-1155 and online at ontario.ca/outdoorscard.

Posted by Arron Pickard 

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