DOWNINGTOWN, PA — Pennsylvania conservation officials will conduct the first mentored deer archery hunt at Marsh Creek State Park on January 15 and 16, 2027, introducing a wildlife management program intended to control deer populations while providing supervised hunting opportunities for inexperienced participants.
The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) will coordinate the two-day event with the Pennsylvania Game Commission. The park will remain open for other recreational activities during the hunts.
The program is designed to help maintain deer populations and protect natural habitats while introducing new hunters to wildlife conservation and safe hunting practices.
Although Marsh Creek has not previously hosted a mentored deer archery hunt, similar events have taken place at other Pennsylvania state parks, including Benjamin Rush State Park.
Participation is limited to selected applicants, and the application period has closed.
Those selected must complete a mandatory hands-on orientation covering hunting’s role in conservation, deer biology, habitat management, crossbow operation, hunting safety and ethics, field care of harvested deer and meat processing.
Participants must also obtain a valid Pennsylvania hunting license or mentored hunting permit. Each hunter will be paired with an experienced, properly licensed mentor.
The controlled hunts introduce a new approach to deer management at Marsh Creek, combining population management with training for residents who have little or no hunting experience.
DCNR has not indicated that the scheduled hunts will require the closure of other park facilities or recreational areas.
Residents seeking additional information about the January hunts can contact Marsh Creek State Park at MarshCreekSP@pa.gov.
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