OLYMPIA – Hunters may now purchase and submit applications for a 2010 spring black bear hunting permit, applicable to specific areas of western and eastern Washington.

To be eligible for a permit, hunters must purchase and submit an application to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) by midnight March 12.

A drawing will be held in mid-March for 345 permits in western Washington and 185 permits for hunts east of the Cascades. Permit winners will receive notification in the mail by March 31. Applicants may also check the results of the drawing at http://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting on the WDFW website.

To apply for a permit, hunters must purchase a special permit application and a 2010 hunting license that includes bear as a species option. Hunting licenses, bear transport tags and bear permit applications may be purchased online at fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov, by calling (866) 246-9453, or at any license vendor in the state.

Special permit applications, which require a correct hunt choice number, may be submitted online at fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov, or by calling (877) 945-3492.

Hunters interested in hunting on the Kapowsin Tree Farm should contact the tree farm before submitting an application to find out what areas are open. Those selected for the Kapowsin Tree Farm hunt must then purchase an access permit from Hancock Forest Management by calling (800) 782-1493.

Hunters selected for the Copalis hunt must obtain a Recreational Use Permit and should contact Rayonier at (360) 533-7000 during regular business hours.

More information on hunts scheduled on both sides of the state is available on page 49 in the 2009 Big Game Hunting Rules pamphlet at wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/game/hunter/hunter.htm.

Any legal weapon used during the modern firearm, archery or muzzleloader seasons can be used for spring black bear hunts. Bait or hounds are not allowed for bear hunting.