The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks has extended its application deadline for alligator hunting permits because of a computer glitch.

The technical difficulties on the MDWFP’s web site kept some people from submitting their applications before the initial June 15 deadline. Applications will now be accepted on June 25, from 10 a.m. to midnight, on mdwfp.com/alligator.

Applications will only be accepted for new lottery-based public water alligator permits. Any applications submitted before June 15 are still valid.

A total of 810 permits are available statewide. There are six public water zones, and hunters are allowed to apply for permits in any of them. Warren County straddles the West Central and Southwest zones. The West Central zone covers areas north of Interstate 20 and south of U.S. 82, between Interstate 55 and the Mississippi River. The Southwest zone extends south of I-20, and west of I-55, to the Louisiana state line.

The Pearl River and Ross Barnett Reservoir north of Jackson are in their own zone.

All applicants must be at least 16 years old and pay a $10 fee per application. A credit card or debit card and an email address are required to purchase applications. To purchase and submit applications, visit www.mdwfp.com.

Application open

for youth program

The MDWFP will accept applications for its Youth Participation Initiative beginning July 1 and continuing until Aug. 15.

The program is for state agencies, education institutions, and non-profit organizations to fund projects that focus on recruitment, retention, and education of youth in the fields of hunting, fishing, or conservation.

For information about the YPI Program, visitmdwfp.com/education-outreach/youth/youth-participation-initiative-grants.aspx.