Georgia game wardens seeking tips on poachers

SOCIAL CIRCLE — Now that firearms season for deer is underway, the Georgia DNR Law Enforcement Division is requesting additional help from the public to stop poaching and other illegal hunting activities this season by utilizing the agency’s Ranger Hotline.

The Ranger Hotline number for violations in progress is (800) 241-4113, or email [email protected].

The phone number to report violations that are not in progress in Region V, which includes Albany and Southwest Georgia, is (229) 430-4252.

Officials with the Department of Natural Resources say the daily focus of Georgia’s game wardens is to ensure everyone is hunting safely and legally.

Private citizens who appreciate the state’s natural resources and want to stop those who illegally take wildlife are instrumental in that, they say. Every year, a small percentage of observed hunting violations are reported, but DNR Law Enforcement wants that to change.

“We are enlisting all the citizens of Georgia with the Ranger Hotline program,” DNR Law Enforcement Director Col. Eddie Henderson said. “If you see a poacher or any illegal hunting activity in progress, call the hotline number or send an email and report it.

“You can remain anonymous, and if your tip leads to an arrest you get a cash reward for certain violations. It’s as simple as that.”

The program is housed at The Georgia Natural Resources Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization. Anyone who would like to make a tax-deductible donation to support the program can visit gadnrle.org/ranger-hotline or send an email to the [email protected]

For violation tips in other Georgia regions, call:

Region I – Northwest, (770) 529-2424

Region II — Northeast, (770) 535-5499

Region III — East Central, (706) 595-4211

Region IV — West Central, (478) 751-6415

Region VI — Southeast, (912) 685-2145

Region VII — Coastal, (912) 264-7234