The Maryland DNR is using the micro-blogging website, Twitter, to reach out to its customers. "MDblackbear" is the name for the account being used to now give messages to black bear hunters and prospective hunters every few days. Those checking out MDblackbear or those "following" the name can find out about the history of black bear hunting in Maryland, read testimonials from hunters in the 2008 hunt, and even get a handy guide to hunting black bear.
"What is new and exciting this year is that the account will be managed by our DNR Black Bear Project Leader just prior to the hunt and during the hunt,” said Gene Deems, eGov and Online Services Manager. “Hunters will be able to receive the messages using their phones and mobile devices."
Harry Spiker, DNR Black Bear Project Leader, will be tweeting tips, status reports and actual hunting results each day directly from the field.
"Even though twitter is a relatively new online service, it has been growing in popularity and we hope that it will help us in our quest to grow business models that allow us to connect with our customers in an efficient and timely way," Deems said.
You can sign up to follow MDblackbear by going to http://twitter.com/mdblackbear
Those wishing to enter the lottery may do so by going to http://blackbear.dnr.state.md.us now through September 1, 2009 until 11:59 p.m. Those applying earn a preference point for the following year, if they are not selected thereby increasing the odds of their receiving a permit in the following years.
A $15 application fee must be submitted via credit card, check, or money order by 12 p.m. on Wednesday, September 2, 2009. Checks and money orders should be made payable to MDDNR Black Bear and mailed to MDDNR Black Bear, P.O. Box 360, Frostburg, MD 21532.
For more information, visit http://www.dnr.state.md.us/huntersguide/BlackBearGuide.asp.
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