 Reserved deer hunting opportunity for those with health challenges at Sharonville State Game Area
Hunters with qualifying disabilities are encouraged to take advantage of reserved deer hunting opportunities at the Pierce Road Hunt Unit of the Sharonville State Game Area (in Jackson and Washtenaw counties). As part of the DNR’s Michigan Operation Freedom Outdoors initiative, this 600-acre unit was designated as a restricted access hunt area to provide special hunt opportunities.
Remaining reserved deer hunting permits are available from any license agent, DNR Customer Service Center or online at mdnr-elicense.com. The following reserved hunts are available on a first-come, first-served basis:
- Hunt 0405 (Nov. 18-20)
- Hunt 0406 (Nov. 21-23)
- Hunt 0407 (Nov. 24-26)
- Hunt 0408 (Nov. 27-30)
Participants must meet at least one of the following qualifications:
- Documentation as a veteran with 100 percent disability as defined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Documentation, as a resident, by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as individually unemployable.
- Declaration as legally blind, as defined by section 1 of 1978 PA 260, MCL 393.351.
- Possession of a DNR-issued permit to hunt using a laser sighting device.
- Possession of a DNR-issued permit to hunt from a standing vehicle.
During dedicated hunting days, the hunt area will be open only to eligible individuals who have obtained a reserved deer hunting access permit (permittees) along with their accompanying companions (referred to as "operators").
Permittees may designate up to three operators to accompany them on the hunt. At least one designated operator must be at least 18 years of age and possess a hunting license other than an apprentice license, or a certificate of completion for training in hunter safety. The operator(s) is not permitted to harvest a deer in the hunt area during dedicated hunting days and must be able to come to the immediate aid of the permittee and maintain uninterrupted, unaided visual contact.
Michigan Operation Freedom Outdoors is a cooperative partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Eisenhower Center, the Brain Injury Association of Michigan, Passing Along the Heritage Foundation, Safari Club International Foundation, Michigan Building and Construction Trades Council, Michigan United Conservation Clubs, the Disabled American Veterans, and more. Its mission is to provide improved outdoor recreation opportunities for wounded veterans and individuals with health challenges and, to coordinate a support network that facilitates their recovery through connecting with nature.
For more information, contact Dennis Tison at 517-522-4097.
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