Geist Duck-Hunting Battle Simmers

INDIANAPOLIS -- Aside from the occasional sound of gunfire, all was quiet Sunday at Geist Reservoir, but a dispute between duck and goose hunters and residents simmered under the surface.

Residents who live in upscale homes on the Marion County side of Geist have complained that a duck-hunting ordinance that took effect last year is not being regulated, 6News' Sarah Cornell reported.

Hunting is permitted on the Hamilton County side of the reservoir, and that fact seems to add to the confusion about what is and isn't permitted and where.

"There were some hunters that were legally hunting out here just on the Hamilton County side of the reservoir, but the same (Marion County) residents could hear gunfire," said Scott McDaniel, a conservation officer. "Obviously, there is not a magical line in the water for them to know exactly where they are at. So, they have called in … to make sure that they don't go where they are not supposed to be."

Some residents have complained that their houses have been chipped by shots, but hunters said that claim is bogus, and the Department of Natural Resources said there have been no official reports of problems related to duck hunting.

Ron Evans, who sells duck hunting supplies at his shop near Geist, said the ammunition used doesn't pose a safety concern.

"If you're out on a main lake, you would be lucky if you could get to shore with a shot if you are shooting up in the air," Evans said.

While the legitimacy of the complaints remains in question, as long as hunters stay on the Hamilton County side of the reservoir, they are fully within their rights to hunt.

Residents who wish to report illegal hunting in Marion County should call Indianapolis police.