JAY – Ward Lumber Company is hosting the 24th anniversary of the Mark Peduzzi Big Buck Contest.

This is the longest running buck contest in the area and has seen some of the largest game in the North Country. Those who want a little more competition this hunting season are invited to bring their Northern Zone bucks to Ward Lumber in Jay to enter into a free contest. No preregistration is necessary.

There are two ways to win. The highest scoring buck, which will be determined by multiplying the weight by the number of points, will win a $250 Ward Lumber gift certificate. Another prize will be awarded of $100 Ward Lumber gift certificate to a random drawing winner.

Employees will also have a separate pool where the highest scoring employee entry will win a $100 Ward Lumber gift certificate.

All entries will receive a camouflage baseball hat and a picture on the wall of fame.

To enter, bring a buck to Ward Lumber’s Jay store during business hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. or weekends, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.), fill out an entry form, have an employee score the deer, and have a picture taken. Hunters must be licensed in order to enter.

The contest runs for regular season, from today to Dec. 4.

The winner will be announced on Dec. 5.