For those wondering about the issues with spring turkey hunting permits in Illinois, here is the word from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
There will be a formal notice posed on the site, but here is a more extended explanation from IDNR spokesman Chris McCloud.
We will still hold regular lotteries but they have been delayed while we allow new licensing staff to catch up. Here is the notice we are posting on the website and I appreciate your help in getting the word out. Notice to Spring Wild Turkey Permit First Lottery Applicants: The IDNR Spring Wild Turkey Permit Application online inquiry system web link will be available on Jan. 24. Hunters who applied in the first lottery and are interested in applying for multiple permits may submit applications prior to the second lottery application deadline on Jan. 13. Hunters applying in the first and second lotteries who receive a permit through the first lottery drawing will have their later permit application automatically moved to the third lottery. Notice to Property Only Hunting Spring Wild Turkey Permit Holders: Property Only Hunting Spring Wild Turkey Permit holders will be receiving their permit(s) or recertification application forms within the next three weeks from the IDNR. Hunters who receive Property Only Hunting Permits must wait to apply for additional permits beginning with the third lottery.
He also added this note:
We will also be emailing our registered turkey hunters to make them aware of these changes and delays. We apologize for the inconvenience while we transition new staff.
