Hunters at Midewin can now go directly to trailhead parking areas and sign in

Hunters can now go directly to the trailheads and sign in near where they park. Additionally, there is no longer an introductory video.

This updated process was introduced in 2019 and will remain in place at Midewin NTP for forthcoming hunting seasons until further notice.

Licenses for shotgun and muzzleloader hunting are awarded through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (I-DNR) lottery system. The I-DNR lottery is already complete for the 2020-21 hunting season.

Hunting at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is available on all lands open to the public, with some exceptions.

Midewin NTP is managed by the USDA Forest Service and is a federal facility. State hunting laws as outlined in the Illinois Digest of Hunting and Trapping Regulations are enforced at Midewin NTP with the additions specified in the Special Hunt Area Rules.

Additional rules have been developed for all hunting at Midewin NTP consistent with USDA-FS policies and guidelines for recreation, public access and use.

Hunters must be at least 150 yards away from parking lots and trails while hunting.

For more information about hunting at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, visit fs.usda.gov/activity/midewin/recreation/hunting.

Midewin offered the following safety tips for both hunters and non-hunters visiting Midewin.

Safety tips for hunters:

• Check weather reports before your visit.

• Tell someone where you will be hunting and when you will return.

• Be familiar with the area.

• Dress properly and be prepared for the worst possible conditions.

• Check hunting equipment before and after each outing and maintain it properly. Familiarize yourself with its operation before using it in the field.

• Carry a spare set of dry clothing. Use layering techniques to prevent moisture while retaining body warmth. Always bring rain gear.

• Carry a first aid kit.

• Clearly identify your target before shooting.

• Put hunting plans in writing (dates, times, location and expected time of return).

• Be alert when hunting near developed areas and trails.

• Wear hunter orange or another highly visible color. If accompanied by a dog, the dog should also wear hunter orange or a very visible color on a vest, leash, coat or bandana.

Safety tips for non-hunters:

• Make yourself more visible: Wear colors that stand out, like red or orange, and avoid white, black, brown, earth-toned green and animal-colored clothing.

• Don’t forget to protect “Fido.” Get an orange vest for dogs.

• Make noise. Whistle, sing or carry on a conversation as you walk to alert hunters to your presence.

• Hunters should be listening for any sounds of animal movement.

• Be courteous. Once a hunter is aware of your presence, don’t make unnecessary noise to disturb wildlife. Avoid confrontations.

• Make yourself known. If you do hear shooting, raise your voice and let hunters know that you are in the vicinity.

• Know when hunting seasons are. Continue to hike, but learn about where and when hunting is taking place.