The Arizona Game and Fish Commission on April 20 gave its blessing for a department request to discontinue the costly practice of mailing postcards to all applicants advising them whether or not they have been drawn for big game. Richard Rico, assistant director for the Special Services Division, explained to the Commission that the vast majority of people find out whether they have been drawn through the Department's interactive phone service.

"Starting with the spring draw, we upgraded the interactive phone system so it can handle a lot more calls than in the past," Rico said. In addition, the Commission approved a project so that applicants can access the drawing results through the Department's Internet Home Page at www.azgfd.com. There is also a 1-800 number applicants can call to find out if they have been drawn.

The process has evolved over the years and currently there are only a few weeks between the time the drawing occurs and applicants either have a tag in their hand or a refund. "The postcards don't really accomplish anything any more. Yet discontinuing the postcards will save the Department almost $40,000 annually, based on last year's mailing costs," Rico advised.

Visit www.azgfd.com to Apply For Big Game Hunts. If you want to apply for a fall big game hunt in Arizona, visit the Arizona Game and Fish Department's Internet Home Page at www.azgfd.com.

The Arizona Game and Fish Commission on April 21 adopted the 2000-2001 hunt package. However, it will take time to print and then distribute the regulations (they will be shipped to license dealers May 18). Anyone wanting to get ahead of the power curve can visit the Game and Fish Home Page, read or download a copy of the regulations, and even download an application. You can even buy a hunting and fishing license on-line. Keep in mind that there is a grace period for those who apply prior to June 1 — if you apply before that time and make a mistake on your application, the Department will attempt to contact you and give you a chance to correct the error.

"With a record number of elk permits available this year, applying during the grace period might be a wise thing to do," said Information Branch Chief Joe Janisch.

The deadline for submitting applications is 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 12. Postmarks don't count. All seven Game and Fish offices in the state will be open until 7 p.m. that day to accept hand-delivered applications.