Internet Response By Hunters To Game Harvest Surveys
Corey M. Huxoll, 523 E Capitol Ave, Division of Wildlife, Department of Game, Fish & Parks, Pierre, SD 57501; (605) 773-4195; FAX (605) 773-6245; corey.huxoll@state.sd.us
The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks implemented an Internet response system for their game harvest surveys beginning in 2002. The harvest survey system is utilized to assess the game harvest in approximately 40 different small and big game seasons each year. Hunters, who are randomly selected to receive a survey, have the option to return their postage-paid card through the mail or they can enter their information directly through an Internet site (www.sdgfp.info/surveys.htm). Over 78,000 hunters responded to harvest surveys in 2003 for a response rate of 85%, and nearly 24% of those used the Internet system. So far, hunters who have taken advantage of the convenience of the system have saved the Department over $14,000 in return-mail postage alone, and have reduced the workload associated with data entry.