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MDNR Report
Michigan Announces Big Changes in Deer Check Stations
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources advises deer hunters to be prepared for big changes to DNR deer check stations this fall.
Staffing and financial shortages, due to both funding associated with long-term declines in the hunter base and the COVID-19 pandemic, will result in reductions in check station and drop-box locations, dates and hours operated, and the number of deer heads that will be accepted for chronic wasting disease testing (CWD).
Additionally, to protect hunters and DNR staff, some procedures will be changed to make deer check stations safer for all. Hunters are required to wear masks and follow social distancing guidelines, staying 6 feet away from other people, at DNR deer check stations. At many check stations, hunters will be required to stay in their vehicles while their deer is checked.
“It is an unprecedented time in our state’s history, with serious challenges that affect everyone. We ask for your patience and grace as we adapt to meet these challenges,” said acting DNR Wildlife Division Chief Dan Kennedy.
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MDNR Report
Michigan deer hunting regulations for 2020 were finalized in July, and it is already time to start thinking about those for 2021.
Hunters and others interested in deer hunting regulations are invited to attend and give input during two virtual open house events next week.
The sessions will be held virtually from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20 and†from 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Aug. 21.
The content will be the same at both meetings.
Participants will hear from DNR experts about deer population dynamics, disease and harvest and hunter trends. Attendees will be given a look at, and an opportunity to weigh in on, the DNR-proposed 2021 deer hunting regulations.
The potential changes are meant to simplify deer hunting regulations and remove barriers to participation in deer hunting. Once public input has been gathered, it will be sent to the Michigan Natural Resources Commission for review before the commission votes on the proposed regulations in December.
To participate in the Aug. 20 meeting, click here.
For the Aug. 21 meeting, click here.
A video recording of the virtual open houses and a survey link will be available at Michigan.gov/Deer once the sessions have concluded. Hunters can provide feedback on the proposed regulations via the survey through Aug. 28.
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MDNR Report
Michigan Modifies Deer Hunting Regulations for This Fall
The Michigan Natural Resources Commission approved a new package of deer regulations last week.
Michigan DNR deer program experts say the regulations, which will be in effect for the 2020 deer hunting season, will provide additional opportunities and cost savings for hunters and offer flexibility in how hunters pursue deer. The DNR uses existing and projected data to gauge the impact of proposed regulations. The data shows that the projected changes will not have a significant negative effect on the deer herd or the quality of deer hunting.
“These recommendations are aimed at making it easier for hunters of all ages and experience levels to enjoy a Michigan outdoor tradition, while at the same time facing the present and future challenges of managing the state’s abundant deer population,” said Chad Stewart, the DNR’s deer, elk and moose program leader.
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IDNR Report
Hunters can apply online for state park deer management draw hunts at on.IN.gov/reservedhunt. The online method is the only way to apply.
Northern Indiana properties included this year include Chain O’Lakes, Pokagon, Potato Creek and Trine State Recreation Area (archery only). Other state areas are Brown County, Charlestown, Fort Harrison (archery only), Harmonie, Lincoln, McCormick’s Creek, Ouabache, Prophetstown, Shades, Spring Mill, Turkey Run, Versailles, and Whitewater Memorial state parks.
Early hunts are Nov. 16-17, and late hunts are Nov. 30-Dec. 1.
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MDNR Report
ichigan Seeks Hunter Feedback on Deer Hunting Regulation Proposals
A new package of deer hunting regulations designed to simplify rules and remove barriers to participation was introduced to the Michigan Natural Resources Commission at the commission’s regular monthly meeting. The regulations, proposed for the 2020 deer hunting season, are scheduled for an NRC vote in June.
Hunters are encouraged to review the proposed regulations and share their feedback either through an anonymous survey or by email to NRC@Michigan.gov. All comments must be received by June 5 and will be shared with members of the Michigan Natural Resources Commission.