Nelson has a message for out-of-area hunters
By Terry Murry on Tuesday, September 23rd, 2025 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories
MORROW COUNTY – Archery season is underway and rifle season begins soon. Morrow County District Attorney Justin Nelson has a warning for hunters who come from out of the area. He says area hunters are careful not to hunt on private property, and the same holds true for those from outside the area.
“It is your obligation to know where you are and whose property you’re on,” he said. “Are you on private property? Are you still on public property? That’s on you to know that.”
Nelson said Morrow County law enforcement works closely with the Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division to make sure hunters don’t trespass on private property.
“Technology makes this so easy now with the mapping on GPS or cell phones,” he said. “Maps are downloaded so not having cell phone reception is not an excuse.”
Nelson added that he prosecutes trespass cases because he believes private property rights are very important to county residents. He cautions hunters from outside the area that while trespassing may be a misdemeanor, there’s a lot to lose if they are found guilty.
“Besides the normal potential penalties of probation, jail, and community service, you also lose your hunting privileges for years,” he said.
There are also fines based on the animal that is taken on private property. The lowest fine is $1,000. And it can go as high as $50,000 for a moose with antlers.
“Trust me, it is just not worth it to take the chance during hunting season,” Nelson said. “These are crimes that the local prosecution urges me to prosecute. Since they follow the rules, everyone else should.”
