The sites are the future Don Carter State Park and Allen Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA).
"While hunting will no longer be available on these particular lands,
there still are ample public hunting opportunities in the area," said
Region Supervisor Ken Riddleberger. "some great nearby examples are
Wilson Shoals WMA near Lula and Dawson Forest WMA in Dawsonville."
Development is beginning on turning the Don Carter site into a long-planned state park... Don Carter State Park.
The initial 994-acre tract was purchased in 1996 with plans to develop a
state park on Lake Lanier that would provide lake access, RV hookups,
camping, picnicking and other uses. Additional acquisitions have
increased the park size to 2,200 acres.
Until recently, development of the Don Carter State Park was delayed
due to a lack of funds for planning and construction. However, in the
2009 legislative session, the Georgia General Assembly approved a $14
million dollar bond for developing the park. While hunting will not be
allowed during the development phase, there is a possibility that it may
be considered for management purposes after the park opens.
As for the Allen Creek WMA, the lease for that property, which is owned by the City of Gainesville, will not be renewed this year. Allen Creek WMA was
first leased by the state in July 1998, and the 1,600-acre area
provided archery-hunting opportunities. The City has removed all
signage referring to the WMA and is in the process of placing posted
signs at all property access points, as hunting will no longer be
allowed.
For more information on other public hunting opportunities in northeast
Georgia, visit www.gohuntgeorgia.com or call the Northeast Georgia
Wildlife Resources Division, Game Management office at 770-535-5700.
Don Carter State Park Master Plan
http://accesswdun.com/article/2009/7/222141