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National Park Service Ozark National P.O. Box 490 U.S. Department of the Interior Scenic Riverways Van Buren Missouri 63965-0490

573-323-4236 phone 573-323-4140 fax Ozark National Scenic Riverways News Release October 17, 2006 For Immediate Release Contact: Patty Dorris 573-323-4236, ext. 225

Weapon regulations within Ozark National Scenic Riverways

The weather is cooling down and big crowds of floaters are gone. However, Ozark National Scenic Riverways still has many opportunities to offer outdoor enthusiasts, such as hunting. The Riverways is a unit of the National Park Service and activities within its boundaries are subject to Missouri State laws and regulations as well as Federal laws and regulations. State law prohibits attempting to take game or shoot from any motor vehicle or public roadway. Federal regulation requires that all weapons in motor vehicles be unloaded and cased or disassembled. The following definitions apply:

 Weapon: Any firearm, compressed gas or spring-powered pistol or rifle, bow and arrow, crossbow, spear, slingshot, irritant gas device, explosive device, or any other implement designed to discharge missiles.  Motor vehicle: Every device in, upon or by which a person or property is or may be transported or drawn on land including cars, trucks, motorcycles, ATVs.  Unloaded: Firearm: There is no unexpended shell, cartridge, or projectile in any chamber or cylinder of a firearm or in a clip or magazine inserted in or attached to the firearm. Muzzle loader: A muzzle loading weapon does not contain gun powder in the pan, or the percussion cap is not in place. Bows: Bows, crossbows and spear guns or any implement capable of discharging a missile or similar device by means of a loading or discharging mechanism when that loading or discharging mechanism is not charged or drawn.  Cased: Inserted into a sleeve, case or other container that completely covers the weapon and inhibits its ready use.  Disassembled: Disassembled to a point that the weapon is not readily functional. (E.g., the bolt is removed from a bolt action rifle, the barrel(s) removed from a shotgun, the cylinder is removed from a revolver, etc.) Target practice is prohibited within the Riverways and weapons may only be used for the lawful taking of game. Law Enforcement Rangers are responsible for enforcing these regulations and may seize as evidence any weapons or other items related to the violation(s) of any regulations and laws. Hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the Riverways, to be safe and enjoy what nature has to offer. Please remember to be respectful of other park users. Questions may be directed to Acting Chief Ranger Jodi Towery or any NPS Law Enforcement Ranger.

E X P E R I E N C E Y O U R A M E R I C A The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.