Forty archery deer hunters will have a chance to hunt whitetail deer in Albert Lea green spaces this year as part of an effort to reduce the growing deer population It will be the eleventh year that the city of Albert Lea has allowed archery hunting in designated city green spaces.

The former city landfill area and portions of the airport area will be open to hunting beginning Sept. 13, and portions of Bancroft Park will be open to hunting beginning Nov. 1. The bow hunting season will end Dec. 31.

Hunters will be selected through a lottery drawing conducted by the city of Albert Lea. The city is promoting this hunt as a population control mechanism in an effort to reduce deer numbers in the airport and Plaza Street areas.

Applications must be submitted to the City Engineer’s office by 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5. There is a $10 application fee. Hunters may apply individually or in parties of up to four. Duplicate entries will result in disqualification of the entire party or individual. For more information call 377-4325.