NATCHEZ — Miss-Lou residents and their canine pals that enjoy hunting at Homochitto National Forest will need to take heed to a new regulation issued by The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.

From Nov. 1 – Jan. 31, all dog hunting groups or individuals hunting with dogs must obtain a permit to use dogs to hunt any animal or to train dogs on areas open to deer hunting with dogs on Homochitto National Forest. A copy of this public notice of rule can be obtained at www.mdwfp.com.

“This is a pilot project intended to help provide order and improve safety for hunters, landowners and all forest visitors,” Homochitto District Ranger Bruce Prud’homme said. “We hope this initial step will help all visitors to have a safe and enjoyable experience on the National Forest. At the same time, we want to be a ‘good neighbor’ to nearby landowners and community residents.”

To apply and receive a permit the following steps should be taken:

1) Go to www.mdwfp.com to submit an application for a permit. There is no cost for the permit. Questions regarding the application process should be directed to the MDWFP at 601-432-2199.

2) Starting Tuesday, the Forest Service will begin issuing permits through the mail. If applicants prefer, permits may be picked up in person from the Meadville Office by calling 601-384-5876 to set up an appointment. Permits will be issued in the order that they were received.

The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks and the Homochitto National Forest want to make the permit process as simple and quick as possible. “This is the first year of this regulation,” said Chad Dacus, MDWFP Wildlife Bureau Assistant Director. “Information sharing is essential. Our organizations want to make sure hunters are aware of the new regulation.”