HILO >> The state Department of Land and Natural Resources will be issuing permits for the hunting of feral goats and sheep in the Puu Waawaa Forest Reserve on the Big Island.

The hunting will be allowed on four weekends starting Saturday.

Only archery will be permitted during the first three weekends. Hunting with muzzleloader firearms will be allowed during the last weekend.

Hunting of feral goats will be allowed on the makai side of the forest reserve below Mamalahoa Highway. Hunting of both feral sheep and goats will be allowed on the mauka side above Mamalahoa Highway.

A valid hunting license is required to apply for a permit.

For further information, contact Division of Forestry and Wildlife offices in Hilo or Waimea.