The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has introduced new regulations for the 2024-2025 hunting season, including updated rules on drone usage for tracking wounded game. These changes, reported by the MDC, aim to improve hunter efficiency while maintaining safety and ethical practices.

Drones Now Allowed for Game Recovery

In a significant shift, hunters can now use drones to locate and recover wounded deer and turkeys. This tech-forward approach comes with some caveats:

Permission required: Hunters must get approval from their county’s conservation agent before using drones on conservation areas.
Weapon restrictions: Drones can’t be flown if hunters are carrying firearms, bows, or crossbows (except for concealed firearms allowed under Chapter 571).

Maddie Fennewald, MDC media Specialist, explained the rationale: “The decision to allow drones came from a suggestion to make things easier for hunters.”

Safety First: Education Courses Available

To ensure safe adoption of new tech and practices, the MDC offers comprehensive hunter Education courses. These cover:

Firearm safety
Ethical hunting practices
Hands-on skills training

“Since the introduction of hunter education in 1987, we’ve seen a 70% reduction in hunting accidents and deaths,” Fennewald noted.

Chronic Wasting Disease Management Expands

Several mid-Missouri counties are now part of the mandatory sampling program for chronic wasting disease (CWD). Hunters in Boone, Audrain, and Randolph counties must have their deer tested during the firearms season opening weekend (November 16-17).

Resources for Hunters

The MDC provides a free fall deer and Turkey booklet with detailed info on:

Season dates
Hunting methods
Safety requirements

“We really encourage folks to Review the regulations, especially if they’re hunting in different counties,” Fennewald advised.

DroneXL’s Take

The integration of Drone Technology in Missouri’s hunting regulations reflects a growing trend we’ve seen in drone technology applications. This move aligns with recent developments in using drones for Wildlife management and conservation efforts.

As we’ve reported on DroneXL, drones are increasingly being used for tasks like wildlife surveys and habitat monitoring. The MDC’s decision to allow drones for game recovery is a prime example of how UAV technology can be responsibly integrated into traditional outdoor activities, potentially reducing the time animals suffer and improving recovery rates.

What are your thoughts on using drones in hunting? Share your opinion in the comments below.

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