The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will host meetings in John Day and across the state to take public comment on proposals for this fall’s big-game hunting seasons and 2008 big game hunting regulations.

At the meetings, ODFW staff will review proposed 2008 big game regulations and season dates, provide information about herd health and populations, and propose the number of controlled big game hunting tags to issue for this fall’s hunts.

Oregon offers both general seasons and controlled hunts for big game. For controlled hunts, the number of tags is limited and hunters must apply for them by May 15. There is no limit to the number of general season tags sold.

The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission will consider ODFW recommendations and set the number of tags available for this fall’s controlled hunts at its June 8 meeting in Salem. It will consider 2008 big game regulations at its Oct. 12 meeting in Salem.

?Interested individuals may also provide input on ODFW proposals during public testimony at the June 8 or Oct. 12 meetings in Salem. Written comments can be sent to ODFW Wildlife Division, 3406 Cherry Ave NE, Salem, OR 97303 or e-mailed to odfw.comments@state.or.us

?The regional meetings include a 4 to 7 p.m. May 9 session in John Day at the Grant County Health Department, 528 E. Main.