The 2024-25 big game hunting season marked the second consecutive year in which hunters in Oklahoma navigated new challenges following the detection of chronic wasting disease (CWD) within the state’s native wild deer populations. Initially identified in Texas County, and shortly thereafter confirmed in Woodward County, these developments prompted immediate concern among wildlife managers and the hunting community alike, given the serious implications CWD poses for deer health and population sustainability.

Although lands managed by the ODWC — including WMAs and other public properties — make up only about 3% of Oklahoma’s total land area, their contribution to the state’s overall deer harvest is significantly greater than their size might suggest. These public lands serve as vital access points for hunters who may not have private land available, and they are managed with a focus on habitat quality, wildlife conservation, and hunter opportunity.

‘Take a Doe’ takes off in state’s second-best season ever The 2024-25 big game hunting season in Oklahoma showcased another year of remarkable success for hunters across the state. Again, favorable environmental and habitat conditions played crucial roles, creating optimal circumstances for wildlife and the people pursuing them.

Seventeen members of American Farmers & Ranchers (AFR) Cooperative traveled to Washington, D.C., to represent Oklahoma’s agricultural producers as the state’s grain and cotton farmers struggle with high input costs and low commodity prices. The group joined a nationwide coalition of more than 250 farmers and ranchers as part of the National Farmers Union (NFU) Fall Legislative Fly-In Sept. 8-10.

WILBURTON –– Eastern Oklahoma State College has announced the hiring of Rene’ Mc-Cracken as the new Dean of the Division of Agriculture. McCracken brings more than 25 years of experience in agriculture, education and industry leadership to her role at Eastern.

The 2025 Hugo Buffalo Football

• Entrants are eligible to “win only one time” during the regular contest period and may be eligible for the Bowl contest. • Entry blanks are available at all sponsor locations.

Felony 084 – Michael Justin George: Domestic assault and battery by strangulation. 085 – Joey Dewayne White: Cultivation of controlled substance.

The Fort Towson Historic Site will host a Cinnamon Roll Social on Saturday, September 27, from 10 a.m.-noon. The event is free, and everyone is invited.

For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous..