- By Tommy Braswell Special to The Post and Courier
- 14 hrs ago
- SCDNR holding meetings on deer hunting with dogs
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources announced three public meetings to gather public input on the practice of using dogs to hunt deer, a longstanding but controversial method of hunting in the Palmetto State.
In a news release, SCDNR said it has received feedback from hunters, landowners and other members of the public expressing a wide range of perspectives, including concerns and complaints, related to hunting deer with dogs. Using dogs to drive deer is a hunting method practiced primarily in the state’s coastal plain (Game Zones 3 and 4 only).
The meetings will give the public a chance to share their views and experiences. SCDNR will also offer an online comment option for those unable to attend the meetings. A link to submit comments can be found on the SCDNR website (dnr.sc.gov), and more information will be available on SCDNR’s social media outlets.
Changes to the laws governing deer hunting with dogs would require action from the South Carolina General Assembly, and SCDNR notes that no legislation has been introduced or recommended. The meetings are being held solely to gather information and better understand the perspectives of those affected by or interested in the issue. SCDNR encourages participation from individuals representing all viewpoints to help inform any future recommendations should legislation be considered.
All meetings are open to the public and will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• July 22: Clemson Pee Dee Recreation Auditorium 2200 Pocket Road Florence, SC 29506
• July 27: Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College Auditorium 3250 St. Matthews Road Orangeburg, SC 29118
• Aug. 10: Hampton Street Auditorium 494 Hampton Street Walterboro, SC 29488