SALEM Hunters who purchased 2012 deer and elk tags need to report their hunt results on time by Jan. 31, 2013 for most tags or they will be penalized $25 when they purchase a 2014 hunting license.

Hunters are required to report on each deer, elk, cougar, bear, pronghorn and turkey tag purchasedeven when they were not successful or did not hunt. The number of unsuccessful hunters is used to determine hunting pressure and success rates, which is important information for wildlife biologists during the tag setting process.

The penalty will initially be implemented for not reporting on deer and elk tags as these are some of the most under-reported tags and provide critical information due to the large number of deer and elk hunts in Oregon.

Reporting deadlines are:

Jan. 31, 2013 for all 2012 big game and turkey hunts that end by Dec. 31, 2012

April 15, 2013 for all 2012 hunts that end between Jan. 1-March 31, 2013

The penalty does not take effect until the purchase of 2014 licenses because 2013 licenses go on sale before reporting deadlines.

The penalty fee is $25 per hunter per year, regardless of the number of unreported tags.

Hunters have two ways to report: online via www.dfw.state.or.us or reportmyhunt.com, or by calling 1-866-947-6339 to talk to a customer service representative between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. seven days a week.

To report, hunters must have their hunter/angler ID number; the two-digit Wildlife Management Unit number; the total number of days hunted; and the number of days hunted in the WMU hunted most often.

Hunters that report on time are entered into a drawing to win a special big game tag. ODFW selects three names each year and the winners chosen can get a deer, elk or pronghorn tag that allows them to hunt an expanded hunt area and extended season, similar to auction and raffle tags.