JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — The application period for alligator hunt drawing begins next week.

Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks regulation changes mean hunters need to be prepared.

Wildlife officials say the state has gone from a 2-week application period to a 1-week application period. Hunters must have a valid Mississippi hunting license before the application is made. He says that applies to all limited draw hunts.

Private lands applications are submitted on paper forms, so they are not affected by the delay.

The application period for the Public Waters Season is June 2-9. The season is Aug. 29-Sept. 8.

The application period for the Private Lands Season is June 1-July 1. The season is Aug. 29-Sept. 22.

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Online: Alligator hunt drawings, www.mdwfp.com