CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WV News) — The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources announced Friday that the early black bear firearms season will open Aug. 30 in Logan, McDowell, Mingo and Wyoming counties.

The season provides an opportunity for hunters to get ahead of the fall schedule, according to WVDNR Director Brett McMillion.

"With bears still active across their full range, hunters have a better opportunity for success while also helping us keep populations in balance," McMillion said in a statement.

Counties open for the early season are above their management objective and need additional harvests to achieve their goal. Hunters are encouraged to purchase a hunting license and stamps at authorized agents or online.

Hunters who harvest a bear are required to submit a premolar tooth

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