During the special youth deer hunt Oct. 29-30, St. Croix State Park will remain open, but visitors are advised to wear blaze orange if they visit while the hunt is in progress. Visitors should also check for hunt-related information at the park office when they arrive.

Hunts will take place at several other Minnesota state parks and recreation areas this fall, and access to the parks will vary. Some will remain open to all visitors, some will have limited public access and some will be open only to hunters with special permits. The deadlines have passed for youth and adults to apply for a special permit to participate in the hunts, which include regular firearms, muzzleloader and archery options.

“The DNR allows these annual hunts as a way to help control the deer population at state parks,” said Ed Quinn, resource management coordinator for the DNR’s Division of Parks and Trails. “When there are too many deer in one area, the native plants and animals can be negatively affected. Our goal is to ensure healthy natural communities.”

DNR staff said they appreciate visitors’ patience and understanding at parks where access will be limited during the hunts.