By Rob Hoff and Chris Hannaford

Enid Lake Park Rangers

It’s here “Fall”, and the cool weather north Mississippi has been experiencing is getting many outdoor enthusiasts exchanging their rods and reels for camouflage, firearms, bows and arrows.

October kicked off the 2008-2009 hunting season with the opening of Archery season for whitetail deer and squirrel season. However, hunters are not the only ones enjoying this pleasant weather.

Many hikers, campers, and anyone who just likes being outdoors is taking advantage of the nice days that fall between Mississippi’s blistering summer heat and the bitter cold sure to come.

This means that there will be an increase in the number of people in the woods at the same time, but possibly participating in different activities. With this being said, everyone should take the initiative and practice safety first.

While in the woods, especially in late evening or early morning, wear bright colored clothing and make your presence known to others who may be in the area. Hunters need to be fully aware of their targets, and remember that everyone has a right to enjoy the great outdoors in their own way.

Hunters who may be competing for the same area on public lands need to be respectful and courteous to one another if their paths cross, and remember that public land is for everyone.

Outdoor enthusiasts should remember that biting insects are still very active this time of year, and if you are planning on spending any length of time outdoors, be sure to apply insect repellant on all exposed skin.

Also, wear appropriate clothing when in the woods to avoid mosquitoes, biting flies and even poison ivy. Snakes, too, are still very active and they may be sunning themselves in roads and on trails, so be sure to always watch your step.

Last but not least, watch out for the yellow jacket hornets. They are extremely active this time of year as they are gathering and storing carbohydrates and proteins that will last them through the winter.

Outdoors men and women should also remember to take extra clothing if planning on being out after sunset. Even though the weather may be pleasant during the day, after the sun goes down the temperature can drop drastically.

The Enid Lake Field Office would like to remind all deer hunters that applications are now being accepted for the upcoming Springdale Wildlife Management Area Special Deer Hunt.

Applications for the hunt may be obtained from the Enid Lake Field Office or from public service announcements published in the area newspapers.  All applications must be returned to the Enid Lake Field Office and received no later than 9 a.m., October 20.

For more information on hunting safety or the Springdale Wildlife Management Area Special Deer Hunt please contact the Enid Lake Field Office at 662-563-4571.