Asheville, NC - The U.S. Forest Service reminds hunters and non-hunters visiting the Nantahala, Pisgah, Uwharrie, and Croatan National Forests to practice safety during deer hunting season.

The deer season for archery starts Monday (Sept. 10) in western North Carolina and Saturday (Sept. 8) in other parts of the state.

Hunters and non-hunters should follow simple steps to ensure they return home safely during hunting season. The Forest Service's safety tips are available online at:
http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/nfsnc/home?cid=stelprdb5329317

Maps showing when and where deer can be hunted in North Carolina are available online at:
http://www.ncwildlife.org/Portals/0/Regs/Documents/Current/Deer_Season_Map.pdf

Hunters must have the proper licenses and know the regulations when recreating in the national forests. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website, http://www.ncwildlife.org/Hunting/LawsSafety.aspx, gives hunters the information they need to hunt legally.

Media contact: Stevin Westcott, public affairs officer, National Forests in North Carolina, 828-257-4215.

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