Reward offered after poachers shoot, abandon three dead deer in Carter County

Monday, November 30, 2020

VAN BUREN, Mo. – A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for information concerning a recent poaching incident in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways in Carter County.

On Nov. 23, park rangers were notified about three dead deer south of Big Spring. Two of the deer were located within the park, one near Chubb Hollow and the other south of Cataract Landing. The third deer was observed on private property neighboring the park near Big Tree. All three were determined to have been shot from roadways with high powered rifles at some time on Nov. 22 or 23.

Although many national park sites prohibit hunting, Ozark National Scenic Riverways allows hunting in compliance with the Missouri Wildlife Code and welcomes hunters who use legal means to pursue and take game. It is a violation of the Missouri Wildlife Code to take or attempt to take any wildlife from or across a public roadway with a firearm, bow, or crossbow [3 CSR 10-7.405 (3)]. In addition, no person who takes or possesses any wildlife shall wantonly leave or abandon any portion of such wildlife commonly used as human food [3 CSR 10-4.110 (7)].

Ozark National Scenic Riverways is seeking assistance to identify the person or persons suspected of recent deer poaching violations.
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The National Park Service is offering up to $5,000 for information that leads to convictions in these poaching cases. If you have information that can help, please provide as much information as you can about the suspected poaching, including:

• Description of vehicles or persons observed at the scene

• Name of persons responsible or involved

• Any other pertinent information

• Caller’s contact information for compensation purposes

Use one the following methods to relay your information:

• Call or text the Investigative Services Branch Tip line at 888-653-0009

• Report online at www.nps.gov/ISB and click “Submit a Tip”

• Email to nps_isb@nps.gov

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