SMITHVILLE, Mo. — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Smithville Lake will host a special deer hunt for disabled hunters Nov. 19 and 20. All hiking and biking trails at Smithville Lake and Smithsfork Park will be closed during the two-day event.
This is the 27th anniversary of the Annual Managed Deer Hunt consisting of 65 blinds accessible by truck in and around designated park areas and Waterfowl Refuge. This hunt is a success year after year for many hunters who otherwise would not have the ability to enjoy deer season.
"The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Smithville Lake provide an incredible opportunity for disabled hunters to get back to nature. Since starting this event in 1990, 1,375 disabled hunters have harvested 1,352 deer; averaging nearly one deer per participant," said Derek Dorsey, Smithville Lake park manager. "Hunters apply nationwide hoping to secure a spot. We provide 65 blinds making this the world’s largest managed deer hunt. This event would not be possible without our large group of dedicated volunteers."
Participants for managed hunts submit applications and are selected based on their disability. Hunters who use a wheelchair for their primary source of mobility have priority in the drawing. Those selected were notified in October and must purchase all required deer permits.
For more information, call the Jerry L. Litton Visitor Center at (816) 532-0174.
Release no. PA-2016-54