Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: MONDAY, November 13, 1995 TAG: 9511140034
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-3 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: RICHMOND LENGTH: Medium
About three dozen hunters will try to thin the deer population at Chippokes Plantation State Park this month after taking part in a series of pre-hunt activities reminiscent of the pre-Civil War South.
The Southern heritage deer hunt is part of the state Conservation and Recreation Department's program of outdoor adventures aimed at enthusiasts with an appreciation for history and deep pockets to match.
As many as 35 hunters will pay $250 to be part of the hunt Nov. 24. The fee covers a meal beforehand, horses and horse-drawn wagons for transportation, a formal blessing from a local clergyman, deer hounds to flush out the game and a hot lunch at midday.
The hunt will be the first allowed at Chippokes in 30 years. Officials decided to sponsor it to help reduce the overpopulation of deer, and state officials figured the unusual twist might attract new people to the parks.
``It's a case of a government agency trying to look at its offerings and develop new services for the people of Virginia,'' said department spokesman Gary Waugh. ``What we've been trying to do in looking at the state parks is make them more attractive to a wider base of users.''
Other programs in the state's outdoor adventure series include a black bear hunting school ($250), a nature photography workshop ($175) and wild turkey and fly fishing schools planned for next spring.
Waugh said the programs are the work of G. Scott Travers, a professional hunting and fishing guide hired by the state as outdoor adventures manager.
Travers patterned the Southern heritage hunt after the tradition of Colonial days, when hunting was social as well as productive.
According to a news release promoting the hunt, Colonial hunters would gather at the end of the day to enjoy a traditional Southern dinner and swap stories about their day in the field.
The deer hunting program will offer many of the trappings of the old days, but Waugh said the participants will wear modern clothes, use modern weapons and follow all state game laws and regulations.
All hunters also are required to have completed the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries' hunter education course.
by CNB