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Patuxent Research Refuge and Meade Natural
Heritage Association
Refuge Hunting Opportunities
Hunting for upland game, waterfowl and white-tail deer (bow, muzzleloader and shotgun) is managed by refuge officials and the Meade Natural Heritage Association (MNHA) through a permit system. MNHA is a cooperating association with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Hunting is permitted from September through January, based on Maryland state hunting seasons. Refuge Hunting Regulations are here (PDF file - 120 KBytes).
The varied hunting opportunities at Patuxent Research Refuge are due to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and MNHA efforts to effectively manage refuge wildlife resources. Close cooperation in this partnership has established a model program for other refuges.
By using a daily sign-in system, weapon qualifications for deer hunters, hunter density limits in each hunting area, refuge officials and MNHA strive to provide safe, quality opportunities for the outdoor sportsman.
Hunting activities are controlled by the MNHA Hunting Control Station on Bald Eagle Drive. Permit sales, daily sign-in and harvest recording (deer checking) are performed at the HCS.
MNHA begins permit sales in August each year and continues through the hunting season. Permit purchasers need a current Maryland hunting license, hunter safety course card (from any state) and a check or money order for $50.
HOW MNHA MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
SPORTSMEN AND WILDLIFE
The Meade Natural Heritage Association is an incorporated, non-profit
organization that is dedicated to the purposes of wildlife conservation,
management, and to promote and support outdoor sporting activities at
Patuxent Research Refuge. As part of this program MNHA manages hunting
activities on the refuge, with the distinction of having one of the largest
federal public-use hunting programs in the United States in regard to
season length and number of hunters. MNHA's membership is active throughout
the year in support of these activities.
Through a wide variety of activities and services, MNHA offers benefits
to its members, refuge hunters, the refuge, and our wildlife.
Most importantly, MNHA offers the opportunity to GET INVOLVED. Habitat
restoration, refuge clean ups and other organized projects allow sportsmen
to give back for the improvement of the refuge and the hunting program.
As a volunteer organization, MNHA depends on the contributions of its
members.
MNHA membership benefits include:
- Bi-monthly MNHA newsletter -- detailing Patuxent Research Refuge North Tract hunting information and MNHA activities.
- MNHA range days (March - December)- maintain firearms proficiency throughout the year.
- MNHA membership card - enjoy discounts on sporting goods merchandise at some local area retailers.
- Voting status - Be a voice in determining your organization and your hunter program.
Membership is just $10 per year. To join, stop by the Patuxent Research Refuge Hunting Control Station or North Tract Visitor Contact Station to pick up a MNHA brochure. The hunting control station is located on Bald Eagle Drive, approximately 1/4 mile from the Rt. 198 entrance to North Tract.
Become part of the organization dedicated to hunting sportsmen and the
Patuxent Research Refuge wildlife they enjoy...join MNHA today.
MNHA Telephone Numbers
Hunting Control Station: 301-317-3819
MNHA Information Line: 301-317-3825