MANY, La. — The Many Police Department is urging hunters and others using firearms near the community ballpark to be aware of their surroundings after two animals that had been shot were recently found in an area frequently used by the public.

According to the department, a deer and a hog were found on separate occasions near the ballpark, an area regularly used by walkers, youth sports participants, children using the playground and families gathering for picnics.

Police reminded anyone shooting in the surrounding area that the recreation complex could be downrange and stressed the importance of knowing what lies beyond a target before firing.

The department also reminded residents about requirements for properly disposing of dead animals. Under Louisiana law, livestock and other large animal carcasses must be disposed of in a sanitary manner.

Public health regulations also require dead animals and fowl to be handled in a way that does not create a public nuisance or health risk.

The department is asking residents to keep public safety in mind when hunting or shooting near the Many recreation area and to properly dispose of animal carcasses.