News & Alerts

For the latest closures and notices, visit https://www.facebook.com/metroparks.

Applications Now Open for MetroParks of Butler County’s 2026–2027 Controlled Bowhunting Program

Aug 11, 2026, 11:26 AM by Katie Ely-Wood

 

MetroParks of Butler County has opened applications for its 2026–2027 Controlled Bowhunting Program, a key part of its wildlife and habitat management strategy. The bowhunting season will be open from September 26, 2026 – February 7, 2027.  

By helping manage local deer populations, the program reduces overgrazing of native plants, protects forest regeneration, and preserves habitats for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife. It also helps limit deer-vehicle collisions and the spread of tick-borne illnesses.

“This program is a science-based tool that allows us to restore balance to our natural areas,” said Joe Dumyahn, MetroParks’ Director of Natural Resources & Conservation. “When deer populations grow unchecked, the impact on forests, wetlands, and the species that depend on them can be severe. Responsible management helps the entire ecosystem thrive.”

The parks included in the 2026-2027 Controlled Bowhunting season are the Day Farm, Governor Bebb MetroPark, and the Thomas property.

Interested hunters must apply online by September 7th, pay a $20 fee, and complete a marksmanship qualification at the Meadow Ridge MetroPark Archery Range, which is open daily to the public. A lottery will assign hunting opportunities in designated zones, with 18 openings available. Youth hunters ages 10–17 may also participate with an adult sponsor and will be permitted to hunt at the Day Farm.

For full program details and to apply, click here.  

                                                                                                    ###

  • Woodsdale MetroPark Trail Conditions

    Aug 27, 2026, 11:53 AM

    Several of Woodsdale MetroPark's trails are muddy or may be impassible due to standing water.

  • Great Miami River Trail Closures - 9/14 & 9/15

    Aug 26, 2026, 16:25 PM

    The Great Miami River Trail at Rentschler Forest MetroPark will be closed from the park entrance at Reigart Rd to Canal Road September 14 - 15 for blacktop repair work.

  • Portions of GMRT Closed

    Aug 20, 2026, 10:04 AM

    Due to flooding, portions of the GMRT are currently closed. The following GMRT trailheads are closed until water recedes: Flyer lot/trailhead down to the Trenton lot/trailhead terminus to the south

  • Portion of Cascades Trail Closed

    Aug 18, 2026, 10:11 AM

    A portion of the Cascades Trail at Rentschler Forest MetroPark is closed due to fallen limbs.

  • Timberhill MetroPark Camp Trails Closure

    Aug 13, 2026, 13:37 PM

    The Camp Trails at Timberhill MetroPark are closed due to downed limbs.

  • Sycamore Grove Trail

    Apr 24, 2026, 09:57 AM

    The Sycamore Grove Trail at Governor Bebb MetroParks has reopened to the public. The trail is non-ADA accessible until gravel replacement work can be completed.

  • MetroParks Cashless Beginning 1/1/26

    Nov 26, 2025, 10:44 AM

    MetroParks is keeping it cashless beginning 1/1/26. Credit and debit cards are welcome at MetroParks' Administrative Office and Voice of America MetroPark Welcome Center. Cash will still be accepted for on-site program registration.

  • Sebald MetroPark Closures

    May 12, 2025, 09:52 AM

    The Ridge Trail at Sebald MetroParks is closed due to trail rerouting work.

  • Voice of America MetroPark Cross Country Trail Closures

    Nov 12, 2024, 11:08 AM

    Portions of the Voice of America MetroPark Cross Country Trails will be closed for trail rerouting work. Trail closures will be marked with signs and barricades.