Maryland Black Bear Lottery is Open

Hunting Limited to Allegany and Garrett Counties

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is accepting applications for this year’s lottery for black bear hunting permits. Successful applicants will receive a permit valid for the four-day black bear hunting season, taking place October 26-29, 2015 in Garrett and Allegany counties. DNR will issue 500 permits.

The annual bear hunt is an important management tool used to slow the growth of Maryland’s black bear population as it expands eastward.

Hunters may apply in one of the following ways: online through COMPASS; by phone at 1-855-855-3906 (weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.); by visiting a DNR Service Center; or at one of more than 250 Sport License Agents across the state.

All entries must be completed by 11:59 p.m. on August 31, 2015 and accompanied by a $15 nonrefundable application fee. DNR will only accept one application per person, with duplicates resulting in disqualification and forfeiture of all fees. All applicants please note: Your DNR ID number is your lottery number, which will remain the same every year.

Hunters will again have the option of voluntarily contributing to the Black Bear Damage Reimbursement Fund when they apply for a permit. The fund directly reimburses Maryland farmers who have suffered agricultural damage caused by black bears. Established in 1996, the fund has paid out more than $100,000 in eligible claims to Maryland farmers.

For more information, visit the 2015 Bear Hunters’ Guide or follow @MDBlackBear on Twitter. Keep up to date with DNR’s Wildlife and Heritage Service on Facebook and Twitter @MDDNRWildlife.