FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
Recreational hunting for white-tailed deer, waterfowl and small game at Fort Eustis is available to active-duty personnel and their family members, retirees, civilian employees and the general public. However, changes to the hunting and fishing program are on the horizon.
In an effort to enhance the program, the 733rd Force Support Division is in the process of seeking out individuals interested in forming a hunting and fishing club program as a possible private organization. The 733rd FSD will work closely with any potential individuals or group that may be interested.
Once a private organization is formed, the program will then transition to the private organization and become self sufficient. This will allow the group to promote the activity, as well as be creative, innovative and meet the needs of avid participants.
"In these times of limited resources and limitations, the establishment of a hunting and fishing club will certainly ensure the sustainment and continuity of an great program for our community," said John Volkers, 733rd FSD director. "For now, hunting will continue to operate as normal under the supervision of the Force Support Outdoor Recreation, and in coordination with the Civil Engineers Environmental Element and Security Forces. "
By establishing a private organization in accordance with Air Force Instruction 34-223, a recreational hunting and fishing program can continue to exist under the voluntary development and management of a private organization to operate it in the interest of the general public.
The organization must be self sufficient, obtain funding primarily through dues, contributions, service charges, fees or special assessments of their members, and receive no government funding. Examples of private organizations are the Spouses Club of Fort Eustis, the Consignment Shop and the Army Transportation Museum Foundation.
"I encourage anyone interested in starting a private organization to please contact Joseph Dumas, at 878-2090, or Joan Coleman, at 878-3010, for further information and assistance," said Volkers.
Approximately 4,000 acres of land is available for hunting on post. Deer hunters may utilize archery, crossbows, muzzle loaders and shotguns with slugs to harvest deer during appropriate seasons, and must hunt from elevated platforms.
All eligible hunters must have a state certified Hunter Education Course certificate of completion, or National Rifle Association Hunter Education Course that is recognized by Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.
Annually, approximately 110 deer are harvested by recreational hunters. The hunting program is also the primary tool of wildlife managers to maintain sustainable deer populations and game species population monitoring.
Anglers at Fort Eustis have the opportunity to fish on both Lake Eustis and the James River. All fishing on Lake Eustis is catch-and-release only. There is no issue with catching fish on the James River, but interested anglers should review the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries regulations and guidelines before throwing a line into the James River. All fishing requires a Virginia license.
For more information about these and other recreational activities on post, such as boating or camping, check out
http://eustismwr.com.