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MDC seeks comment on black bear season in 2021

(Photo: MDC)

The Missouri Department of Conservation is asking Missourians to weigh in on a plan to possibly open a hunting season on black bears in the fall of 2021.

According to an MDC news release, the limited black bear season would only be open to Missouri residents age 11 or older, with a $25 permit required. The department is seeking public comments through June 5.

Missouri has never had an official bear hunting season, though bear hunting is legal in Arkansas.

Today, Missouri is home to between 540-840 black bears, according to MDC.