The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is urging those who hunt public lands around Clearwater Lake to review the rules and take all the necessary safety precautions

With summer over and fall in full swing, many hunters are spending more time outdoors enjoying the many opportunities found at Clearwater Lake.

"The majority of the Clearwater Lake Project is open to hunting under statewide regulations but there are some areas that are off limits to hunting", said Fred Esser, Clearwater Lake operations project manager. "These no hunting areas include the developed campgrounds, the dam and spillway, and the 335-acre Watchable Wildlife Area located on the south side of the Lower Black River. The remainder of the project is open for hunting and there are numerous parking lots spread throughout the primitive areas for your convenience. With 16,000 acres of managed natural resources, hunters are sure to find unlimited opportunities".

The use of temporary ladder stands, climbing stands and popup blinds are allowed for hunting on project lands but the construction of permanent stands is not allowed.  Also, cutting trees to create shooting lanes is prohibited.

As a reminder, the use of ATV's or UTV's is strictly prohibited on USACE owned lands.  Only state registered and licensed vehicles can be operated on project property.  Violators are subject to enforcement under Code of Federal Regulations Title 36 part 327.

Come out and enjoy the hunt but remember to follow all state and federal hunting regulations. Hunters can find the Missouri Department of Conservation's rules and regulations at www.mdc.mo.gov <http://www.mdc.mo.gov> .

"Remember to think about safety during your hunt, Esser said. "The public lands around Clearwater Lake will be full of excited hunters who are watching and waiting for the perfect shot. Make sure you're wearing the correct protective equipment and that you're wearing orange when it's required. Be sure to let someone know where your going in the event of an accident".

For more information on the rules and regulations at Clearwater Lake, contact the Clearwater Lake Project Office at 573-223-7777.

            Recreation information can be found on the Internet at www.swl.usace.army.mil , on Facebook at www.facebook.com/littlerock, and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/usacelittlerock .