Goose Reduction Hunts Planned for Indiana’s Whitewater Memorial SP

Whitewater Memorial State Park will hold goose reduction hunts during regular goose season.

The purpose is to manage the growing population of Canada geese, which threatens the park’s ecosystem and potentially the safety of park patrons.

The park will remain open to visitors during the hunts. Notices will be posted at the office, gatehouse, beach road and boat dock ramp. Visitors are cautioned to be aware of the hunting.

The number of hunts and dates are to be determined.

Whitewater Memorial is in Indiana’s central waterfowl zone, where the regular goose season is Nov. 3 through Dec. 25 and Jan. 7-27.

Hunters should call Brookville/Whitewater wildlife specialist Tom Carr at (765) 647-2657 ext. 216 for exact hunt dates. Carr will also provide a blind location and a permit. If interest is high, hunters may have to enter a drawing for a spot.

Morning shooting hours will start at one-half hour before sunrise and last for two hours. Evening shooting hours will be the two hours before sunset.

All decoys, portable blinds and other hunting equipment must be picked up after the morning and evening hunt sessions. Decoys cannot be set up the day before or abandoned during the hunt.

All federal and state licenses, stamps, regulations and bag limits apply.

Only electric trolling motors and oars are allowed on Whitewater Lake.

Whitewater Memorial State Park is at 1418 S. S.R. 101, Liberty, 47353.

Indiana Department of Natural Resources

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is the agency of the U.S. state of Indiana charged with maintaining natural areas such as state parks, state forests, recreation areas, etc. There are many divisions within the DNR and each has a specific role. The DNR is not only responsible for maintaining resource areas but also manages Indiana's fish and wildlife, reclaims coal mine ground, manages forested areas, aids in the management of wildlife on private lands, enforces Indiana's conservation laws, and many other duties not named here. According to the department's website, their mission is "to protect, enhance, preserve, and wisely use natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education."