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Oregon's Simple Solution To A Complex Problem

February 25, 2010.

After many years of relying on an old-fashioned paper-based system, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife finally implemented an online application system. Unfortunately, it suffered multiple system crashes as hunters overwhelmed the system as the 2009 application deadline approached. As a result, Oregon had to extend the application deadline not once, but twice.

This year, Oregon is taking simple steps to address the potentially costly and complex issue of system capacity.

ODFW and the vendor that manages its license sales system are giving away a total of 100 free 2011 "Sports Pac" combo licenses (for Oregon residents only, a $164.75 value) or Non Resident Hunting Licenses (for non-residents, a $140.50 value) to encourage hunters to apply early for their 2010 fall big game hunts.

50 Sports Pacs or Non-Resident Hunting Licenses were given to hunters who applied by February 15th. 50 more will be given away over two separate drawings on March 15 and April 15.

The next drawings will take place March 16 and April 19 and winners will be notified by mail. Hunters unsuccessful in early drawings are re-entered into future drawings. Only one entry per hunter is allowed, meaning hunters that apply for several controlled hunts are still only entered once. 

Remember, to be eligible for the drawing, the controlled hunt application must be issued, not just received, by the drawing deadlines (March 15 and April 15). Controlled hunt applications can be processed and issued immediately online and at license sales agents or ODFW offices.

The deadline to apply for a controlled hunt is May 15 each year. Most applications are received during the last few days. In 2009, only 68,849 of 378,065 total applications received were processed by April 15, 2009.

Will the chance at a free license outweigh people's tendency to procrastinate?

So far this year, ODFW issued 14,154 fall big game controlled hunt applications by Jan. 31, compared to 7,926 at the same time last year.

If you're going to apply in Oregon, apply early for your shot at a free license.


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