White-Tailed Deer - Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment

News Updates

Growing number of Michigan deer hunters give crossbows a try

Contact: Brent Rudolph, 517-641-4903; Brian Frawley, 517-241-4169; or Ed Golder, 517-335-3014

Agency: Natural Resources

Feb. 19, 2013

Although the overall number of hunters in Michigan has been on a slight decline, the Department of Natural Resources reports that a recent deer hunter survey shows growth in one method of deer hunting - crossbows.

Crossbow hunter afield in tree standIn the past, only hunters with disabilities had the option to hunt with a crossbow. Beginning in 2009, crossbows were allowed in most areas of Michigan during the archery deer season in an attempt to expand hunting opportunities, retain existing hunters and recruit new hunters. Crossbow hunters were required to obtain a free crossbow stamp to determine the number of hunters who took advantage of the new method.

In 2009, the opportunity to use a crossbow was extended only to hunters 50 years of age or older in the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula, while hunters of any age could use crossbows in the southern Lower Peninsula. In 2010 the age restriction was eliminated statewide.

The archery deer season runs statewide on public and private land and is divided into early and late season segments (Oct. 1 through Nov. 14 and Dec. 1 through Jan. 1). In the Upper Peninsula, crossbows are only allowed to be used in the early archery season.

"We have discovered that in 2011, 25 percent of the crossbow users had not hunted in the archery season in previous years," said DNR Deer and Elk Program Leader Brent Rudolph. "These hunters were newly recruited or drawn back to the sport of archery hunting."

The opinion survey also revealed that hunting with a crossbow met most or all of the archers' expectations, and nearly all crossbow hunters planned to use crossbows again in the future.

The number of hunters who obtained the free crossbow stamp by year is:

2009 - 45,692
2010 - 64,340
2011 - 74,120
2012 - 88,565

Although the expanded opportunity increased the number of archery hunters, the amount of deer harvested overall during the archery season did not increase each year. Harvest of deer over all seasons combined declined or was similar to previous years.

"With close to 800,000 hunters in Michigan annually, we know deer hunting is a strong tradition held by many," said DNR Wildlife Division Chief Russ Mason. "The expanded crossbow regulations met all the expectations we hoped for. Our primary goal is to do a good job managing the deer herd, and if new hunting opportunities can also be made, that's a good thing."

To view the entire Crossbow Deer Hunter Survey report, go to www.michigan.gov/hunting and click on Wildlife Surveys and Reports in the left-hand navigation bar.

Hunters are reminded to fill out their 2012 deer harvest survey by going online to https://secure1.state.mi.us/deersurvey.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

DNR now taking applications for deer habitat improvement grants

Contact: Bill Scullon, 906-563-9247 or Debbie Munson Badini, 906-226-1352

Agency: Natural Resources

Feb. 14, 2013

Sportsmen's clubs and other non-government organizations interested in deer habitat improvement on private land in the Upper Peninsula are encouraged to apply for Deer Habitat Improvement Partnership Initiative grants now through Sunday, March 31, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced today.

A total of $50,000 will be available in 2013 through the competitive DHIPI grant process. Project proposals from organizations with a formal mission to promote wildlife conservation and/or hunting seeking between $2,000 and $10,000 in funding are eligible for consideration.

Now in its fifth year, the DHIPI grant program is designed to attract and support proposals from non-government organizations interested in improving deer habitat on non-state-owned land in the Upper Peninsula, including private property and Commercial Forest Act-enrolled land. (Projects that provide foot access to the public are more likely to be successful.)

"There are three primary goals applicants should strive to meet," said DNR private lands wildlife biologist Bill Scullon. "The projects should produce tangible deer habitat improvements, build long-term partnerships with the DNR, and identify ways to showcase the benefits to the public."

Scullon said he encourages representatives of interested organizations to contact their local DNR wildlife biologist for help in developing competitive project proposals.

In 2012, six projects were funded in 11 Upper Peninsula counties, improving deer habitat on a total of 691 acres of private industrial forest and federal land.

The projects completed in 2012 ranged from planting red oak seedlings in Mackinac County to creating or improving wildlife openings in Delta, Menominee and Ontonagon counties. In addition to improving deer habitat, successful projects in Delta and Iron counties also provided improved access for youth and disabled hunters.

The DHIPI grant application packet can be accessed online by visiting www.michigan.gov/dnr-grants and clicking on the "Deer Habitat Improvement Partnership Initiative" link. Application deadline is Sunday, March 31; successful applicants will be notified by Monday, April 15. For more information, contact Bill Scullon at 906-563-9247 or scullonh@michigan.gov.

DHIPI grants are funded by the state's Deer Range Improvement Program (DRIP). Created by legislation in 1971, the DRIP fund is supported by a $1.50 allocation from each deer license sold (except for senior licenses), which equals $2.2 to $2.8 million in funding annually. This restricted funding is for the enhancement, maintenance, and acquisition of deer habitat statewide. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Northern Lower Deer Advisory Team to meet for third time Feb. 16 in Cadillac

Contact: Ashley Autenrieth, 989-732-3541 or Ed Golder, 517-335-3014

Agency: Natural Resources

Feb. 6, 2013

The Department of Natural Resources' Northern Lower Deer Advisory Team (NLDAT) will meet on Saturday, Feb. 16, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at McGuire's Resort in Cadillac (7880 Mackinaw Trail).

With the approval of the Michigan Deer Management Plan in 2010, the Department of Natural Resources committed to establishing Regional Deer Advisory Teams (DAT) for each area of the state. Each DAT corresponds to the boundaries of the DNR hunting and trapping zones - Zone 1 being the Upper Peninsula, Zone 2 the northern Lower Peninsula, and Zone 3 the southern Lower Peninsula.

The NLDAT serves as an advisory team to the DNR Wildlife Division on deer management in the northern Lower Peninsula. The goal of the team is to serve as a conduit between the public and the DNR to better understand the major concerns surrounding white-tailed deer.

The Feb. 16 meeting will focus on:

the 2012 deer season
the antler point restriction proposal process

"Understanding what is most important to the public is a major part of wildlife management, and this group offers an excellent way for us to gain that," said DNR deer program biologist Ashley Autenrieth. "We hope to accomplish a lot with the NLDAT in the future."

The NLDAT is made up entirely of volunteers who have been appointed by the Natural Resources Commission and the DNR, for either two or three years. Team members will attend local open houses, which will be public meetings for sharing information and gathering public input in their region.

"The Deer Advisory Teams are a critical connection between the public and the DNR," said Russ Mason, DNR Wildlife Division chief. "Understanding the public's views on deer management is the only way we can have successful deer management in Michigan."

Members of the public are welcome to attend as observers, although the meeting is not open for public comment. If time permits, the NLDAT will take questions and comments from the public.

Anyone who would like to suggest topics for NLDAT discussion is asked to email Ashley Autenrieth at autenrietha@michigan.gov or to share comments at http://deer.fw.msu.edu/involved/nlteam.php.

U.P. Deer Advisory Team to meet January 19 in Iron Mountain

Contact: Ashley Autenrieth 989-732-3541 or Debbie Munson Badini, 906-226-1352
Agency: Natural Resources

Jan. 15, 2013

The Department of Natural Resources' Upper Peninsula Deer Advisory Team (UPDAT) will meet on Saturday, Jan. 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Central Time at the Country Inn and Suites in Iron Mountain, located at 2005 S. Stephenson Ave.

Topics up for discussion at the UPDAT meeting include:
Buck management in the Upper Peninsula
The 2012 deer season
Multiple-year regulations

"This is a great time of year to have the UPDAT members gather around the table to talk about their impressions of the 2012 deer season and share perspectives with one another," said DNR deer program biologist Ashley Autenrieth.

Deer advisory teams were established to provide direct input to the DNR's Wildlife Division based on the three regions of the state (Upper Peninsula, Northern Lower Peninsula and Southern Lower Peninsula). Each region has a deer advisory team made up of members with a direct connection to issues in the region, either as private individuals affected by deer hunting and management or representatives of organizations with members or constituents in the region. Team members help to communicate with the public and key partners and organizations.

Interested members of the public are encouraged to attend these biannual meetings as observers. Although discussions during the meeting are for the UPDAT members, if time permits, questions or comments from the public will be taken at the end of the meeting.

To learn more about the deer advisory teams, visit www.michigan.gov/deer.

2012 Michigan deer hunting on the rise this firearm season

Contact: Brent Rudolph, 517-641-4903; Ashley Hippler, 989-732-3541; or Ed Golder, 517-335-3014
Agency: Natural Resources

Nov. 20, 2012

The 2012 firearm deer season opened Thursday, Nov. 15, and the Department of Natural Resources has compiled early impressions from the first few days.

As the season opened, deer license sales were about 2 percent higher than at the same time in 2011. A total of nearly 640,000 hunters had purchased one or more Michigan deer licenses. The firearm season remains open through Friday, Nov. 30.

Weather conditions around the state have been good for hunting. Tracking snow is lacking in most areas, and little precipitation of any type has occurred over the first several days of the season. Mornings have offered cool temperatures and the best hunting conditions, and winds have been mostly light. Midday temperatures have been warm for this time of year, which can reduce midday deer activity but has provided comfortable conditions for hunters to remain afield. The weekend saw lower daily high temperatures than the first two days, but morning fog rolled into many areas of the Lower Peninsula. In many locations, though, deer have been on the move, providing enjoyable hunting. Condition of deer harvested throughout the state has been reported as good to excellent.

The following are the early impressions summarized on a regional basis:

Upper Peninsula
In the Upper Peninsula, most hunters have been observing more deer this year. Buck numbers are up, and fawn production appears to have been good this spring and summer. The number of deer checked has been similar to last year in the eastern U.P., while some areas of the central U.P. are seeing their highest numbers of deer checked in several years.

Northern Lower Peninsula
The increase in license sales may be resulting in an increase in hunter numbers in northern regions of the state, particularly on public land in the northern Lower Peninsula. In the eastern and southern portions of this region in particular, hunter numbers appeared higher than they were last year. The number of deer checked compared to last year has varied, though in some cases lower numbers may be due to cool temperatures allowing hunters to hang deer for several days. Hunters have seen a good number of deer, and bucks appear to be in excellent condition.

Southern Lower Peninsula
Deer have often been on the move during the early days of the firearm season in the southern Lower Peninsula, except during warm midday periods. Hunter numbers appear to be similar to recent years, though they have been lower around some areas that have been most heavily affected by outbreaks of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) this summer. However, many hunters have remained upbeat, and have indicated in some of these locations they are pleasantly surprised at the number of deer that they are still seeing. Hunter observations regarding impacts of EHD are being collected at check stations to increase information available to the department to evaluate the extent of the outbreak.

To learn more about Michigan deer hunting seasons, visit www.michigan.gov/deer.

Michigan DNR hosts 'DNR Live: Deer' online video forum, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 13

Nov. 8, 2012

Deer hunters and others interested in deer management in Michigan are invited to join the Department of Natural Resources at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 13, for "DNR Live: Deer" -- a one-hour online forum designed to answer questions from the public about the state's deer population, hunting seasons and regulations.

The video event will stream live on the DNR's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/miDNR. A Facebook account is not required to access the page and watch the livestream event.

The online forum's panel of DNR experts will include the Wildlife Division's deer and elk program leader Brent Rudolph and wildlife veterinarian Steve Schmitt, along with Law Enforcement Division Assistant Chief Dean Molnar.

The public is invited to post questions in advance on the DNR's Facebook page, send via Twitter to @MichiganDNR using the hashtag #DNRlive, or email to dnr-facebook@michigan.gov, no later than 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 12.

"We are excited to use this interactive technology to share information with the public on the cusp of Michigan's firearm deer season opener," said DNR Director Keith Creagh. "Our panel of experts is looking forward to answering a broad range of questions about deer management and hunting. We expect to address deer season prospects and the health of the state's deer herd, including this year's outbreak of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD)."

For more information about how to participate in the "DNR Live: Deer" online forum, email dnr-facebook@michigan.gov or contact DNR Public Information Officer Ed Golder at goldere@michigan.gov. To learn more about deer management and hunting in Michigan, visit www.michigan.gov/deer.

DNR asks for continued assistance in reporting deer die-offs from EHD

Contact: Brent Rudolph, 517-641-4903; Tom Cooley, 517-336-5030; or Ed Golder, 517-335-3014 Agency: Natural Resources

Oct. 22, 2012

The Department of Natural Resources asks hunters and other Michigan residents to continue to report sightings of dead deer to help with the department's efforts to monitor the outbreak of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) in the state this year.

Deer have died in substantial numbers in at least 29 counties this summer and fall due to EHD, and the DNR's Wildlife Division is recording reports of dead deer in these areas in order to answer questions from the public and prepare informed hunting season recommendations for 2013. The department will be taking reports of dead deer that are likely EHD-related until Jan. 1.

"Some people may have the perception that, once we have confirmed the presence of EHD in an area, we are no longer interested in additional reports of dead deer in those areas - that is not true. We want the reports," said Wildlife Division Chief Russ Mason. "Any and all reports, whether the deer seem to have died recently or not so recently, will help ensure we have accurate information about the extent of die-offs."

To report the presence of dead deer, the DNR encourages residents to contact their nearest Wildlife Office (information on Wildlife Offices is available at www.michigan.gov/wildlife, under Contact Information) or fill out the online Report Diseased Wildlife form.

For additional information about EHD and a regularly updated map showing the number of deaths from the disease by county, as well as a link to the report form, see www.michigan.gov/wildlifedisease (under Current Issues).

EHD is caused by a virus that is transmitted by a type of biting fly called a midge. A constant characteristic of the disease is its sudden onset. Deer can suffer extensive internal bleeding, lose their appetite and fear of humans, grow progressively weaker, salivate excessively and finally become unconscious. Due to a high fever, infected deer often are found sick or dead along or in bodies of water.

At present, just over 10,400 dead deer have been reported. The DNR expects more dead deer to be found as hunters take to the field.

"We want to thank the many volunteers and hunters who have helped - and continue to help - monitor the outbreak of this disease," Mason added.

Mason reminded hunters that the current deer season framework remains in place and will go as planned this year. When considering regulations for next year, the DNR will factor in the impact of EHD along with other influences on the deer population. In the meantime, Mason recommends that hunters and landowners assess the deer population in their area and carefully consider the amount of antlerless deer harvest they desire this year. People hunting in areas that were hit hardest by EHD may want to limit or curtail antlerless deer harvest.

EHD does not affect humans, so edibility of the venison is not affected by this disease. There is no evidence that humans can contract the EHD virus either from the midge or from handling and eating venison.

Archery deer season now open statewide

Contact: Brent Rudolph, 517-641-4903; Ashley Autenrieth, 989-732-3541; or Ed Golder, 517-335-3014

Agency: Natural Resources

Oct. 2, 2012

The Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that the archery deer season opened statewide on Monday, Oct. 1. The season runs through Nov. 14, then reopens after the firearm deer season for late archery hunting Dec. 1 through Jan. 1. Autumn is a great time to enjoy the outdoors in Michigan and bow hunting can be done when the weather is mild.

During the archery season, an archery license, combination license regular tag or combination license restricted tag can be used to harvest either an antlerless deer or a qualifying buck. Antlerless-only licenses are also valid during the archery season.

If a hunter chooses to harvest a buck with an archery tag or combination license, the following restrictions apply:

Using an archery tag: bucks must have one antler at least 3 inches long, except in DMUs 117, 135 and 245, where one antler must have at least two points, and in DMUs 045, 115 and 122, where one antler must have at least three points.

Using a combination license regular tag: bucks must have one antler at least 3 inches long, except in DMU 245, where one antler must have at least two points, and in DMUs 045, 115, 487 and the entire Upper Peninsula (U.P.), where one antler must have at least three points.

Using a combination license restricted tag: bucks must have at least four points on one side.

Hunters are limited to purchasing only two kill tags for bucks each year - either an archery tag and a regular firearm tag, or a combination license with two kill tags valid during both the archery and firearm hunting seasons. Regardless of the types of licenses purchased, if two bucks are harvested, one of them must have at least four points on at least one antler. Also, if a buck is harvested in the U.P. or DMU 487 with an archery tag, a second buck cannot be taken from that same hunting unit (U.P. or 487) with a regular firearm license. Hunters are encouraged to be familiar with the antler point restrictions in their chosen DMU before purchasing a license.

All archery and firearm seasons are open to crossbow hunting, except in the U.P., where deer hunters cannot use crossbows after Nov. 30 unless they have a disability permit. The free crossbow stamp is still required for all crossbow hunters.

Hunters are also reminded that the baiting of deer is prohibited in Alcona, Alpena, Montmorency and Oscoda counties, and within the townships of Oscoda, Plainfield, Wilber, Au Sable and Baldwin in Iosco County. Elsewhere, baiting may occur only from Oct. 1 to Jan 1. No more than 2 gallons of bait may be present at any hunting site at a time, and it must be spread out over a minimum 10-foot by 10-foot area. If hunters do choose to use bait, the DNR suggests they not place bait repeatedly at the same point on the ground, and only place bait out when they are actively hunting. This will minimize the chance of transmission of any disease that may be present, either deer-to-deer at bait sites or through contamination of bait.

In addition to bringing the opening of another Michigan deer season, this fall marks the 75th anniversary of the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act (PR), the program that directs funds from federal excise taxes on archery equipment, firearms and ammunition back to state wildlife agencies for wildlife conservation, restoration and hunter education.

"The department is extremely proud of the recreational and economic benefits of bow hunting, and of the important way in which more than 320,000 archers support wildlife management in Michigan," said DNR deer and elk program leader Brent Rudolph.

"The vast majority of all wildlife conservation efforts have been funded by hunters and trappers through the equipment and licenses that they buy," Rudolph said, "and the DNR, Michigan citizens and all who benefit from Michigan's natural resource-based economy are indebted for those contributions."

Detailed information about deer hunting regulations can be found in the Michigan Hunting and Trapping Digest, available at all license vendors, DNR Operations Service Centers and online at www.michigan.gov/hunting.

Northern Lower Deer Advisory Team to hold second meeting Sept. 29 in Roscommon

Contact: Ashley Autenrieth, 989-732-3541

Agency: Natural Resources

Sept. 25, 2012

The second meeting of the Northern Lower Deer Advisory Team (NLDAT) is set for Saturday, Sept. 29, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center, 104 Conservation Drive, in Roscommon, Mich.

With the approval of the Michigan Deer Management Plan on May 6, 2010, the Department of Natural Resources committed to establishing Regional Deer Advisory Teams (RDAT) for each Michigan region. Each RDAT corresponds to the boundaries of the DNR hunting and trapping zones - Zone 1 being the Upper Peninsula, Zone 2 the northern Lower Peninsula, and Zone 3 the southern Lower Peninsula.

The NLDAT serves as an advisory team to the Wildlife Division on deer management in the northern Lower Peninsula. The goal of the team is to serve as a conduit between the public and the DNR to better understand the major concerns surrounding white-tailed deer.

"Understanding what is most important to the public is a major part of wildlife management, and this group offers an excellent way for us to gain that," said DNR Deer Program biologist Ashley Autenrieth. "We hope to accomplish a lot with the NLDAT in the near future, starting with our second meeting this weekend."

"The Regional Deer Advisory Teams are a critical connection between the public and the DNR," said Russ Mason, DNR Wildlife Division chief. "Understanding the public's views on deer management is the only way we can have successful deer management in Michigan."

Members of the public are welcome to attend as observers, although the meeting is not open for public comment. If time permits, the NLDAT will take questions and comments from the public.

If you have topics you would like the NLDAT to discuss, email Ashley Autenrieth at autenrietha@michigan.gov or share your comments online at MSU's Deer Advisory discussion.

DNR announces EHD now found in 24 counties

Contact: Brent Rudolph, 517-641-4903; Tom Cooley, 517-336-5030; or Ed Golder, 517-335-3014

Agency: Natural Resources

Sept. 24, 2012

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Michigan State University Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health announced that epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) has been confirmed in 24 Michigan counties. For a list of all 24 counties, visit www.michigan.gov/emergingdiseases and click on EHD, which is located in the center of the page under Spotlight.

The disease is caused by a virus that is transmitted by a type of biting fly. A constant characteristic of EHD is its sudden onset. Deer can suffer extensive internal bleeding, lose their appetite and fear of humans, grow progressively weaker, salivate excessively and finally become unconscious. Due to a high fever, infected deer often are found sick or dead along or in bodies of water.

At present, just over 4,200 dead deer have been reported in 24 counties. The DNR expects more dead deer to be found as farmers harvest their crops and hunters take to the field.

"Since July, the DNR, in cooperation with many, helpful volunteers, has been monitoring the EHD outbreak," said Brent Rudolph, DNR deer and elk program leader. "This is a horrible disease for hunters, DNR personnel and other wildlife enthusiasts to see affecting deer."

Rudolph explained that the first, hard frost should kill the flies. These insects have thrived this year due to the dry, hot summer. This year has seen a number of major outbreaks across the country, and EHD has been documented in all neighboring states of Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio.

The DNR has received numerous calls from hunters who have asked if deer seasons will be closed this year. They will not be closed; the deer seasons will go as planned this year.

Other callers have voiced concern with harvesting an EHD-infected deer. They have asked if deer infected with EHD are safe to eat. EHD does not affect humans, so edibility of the venison is not affected by this disease. There is no evidence that humans can contract the EHD virus either from the midge or from handling and eating venison.

Hunters in affected townships should anticipate seeing fewer deer this year. However, because EHD die-offs are localized, hunters in adjoining townships may not notice any differences. States that have had similar pronounced outbreaks in the past have consistently seen deer numbers in such localized areas rebound within a few years.

"We will continue to monitor this unfortunate situation," said Russ Mason, DNR Wildlife Division chief. "I understand how important the deer resource is to people. EHD is affecting me and my family as well because we are deer hunters. When we consider regulations for next year, there is no doubt that we will be factoring in the impact of this disease along with other influences on the deer population. Most likely, there will be changes to our management of deer in southern Michigan."

The DNR encourages hunters to stay aware of confirmed outbreak areas and adjust, if appropriate, their hunt and harvest plans.

Anyone discovering concentrations of dead deer or those seeking more information can contact their local wildlife biologist at the nearest DNR office. Office locations can be found at www.michigan.gov/wildlife under Wildlife Offices.

Because dead deer do not harbor EHD and cannot infect other deer, it's fine to leave carcasses where they are found. It's also fine to bury dead deer at a sufficient depth so that no parts are showing above ground. Finally, carcasses will be accepted at landfills that accept household solid waste.

Antlerless Deer License Drawing Results Posted Online Today

Contact: Brent Rudolph, 517-641-4903; Lisa Jackson, 517-373-1263 or Ed Golder, 517-335-3014

Agency: Natural Resources

September 5th, 2012

The Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that antlerless deer license drawing results and leftover antlerless license quantities are now posted on the DNR website at www.michigan.gov/huntdrawings.

Remaining antlerless deer licenses may be purchased on a first-come, first-served basis beginning Sept. 10 at 10 a.m. As of Sept. 5, there are over 605,000 private-land licenses available most of which are in DMU 486 (southern Lower Peninsula) and DMU 487 (northeastern Lower Peninsula) and 40,000 public-land licenses available for specific deer management units across Michigan. Licenses will be sold until the quotas are met. The season purchase limit for private-land antlerless deer licenses is five statewide, except for DMU 486 and DMU 487, which have a season limit of 10.

Baiting and feeding in limited quantities is now allowed from Oct. 1 to Jan. 1 statewide, except for DMU 001 (Alcona), 004 (Alpena), 060 (Montmorency), 068 (Oscoda) and in the townships of Oscoda, Plainfield, Wilber, Au Sable and Baldwin of DMU 035 (Iosco), where a total ban remains in effect due to the presence of bovine tuberculosis among deer in that region. Hunters may place no more than two gallons of bait scattered across a minimum 10-foot by 10-foot area. The DNR requests that hunters not place bait repeatedly at the same point on the ground and only place bait out when actively hunting. This may minimize the chance of direct and indirect exposure of deer to any diseases that may be present.

Hunters have an additional opportunity to receive an antlerless deer license by applying for the 2013 Pure Michigan Hunt drawing. Each application is $4, and hunters may apply as many times as they like. Three lucky winners will receive a hunt package that includes elk, bear, antlerless deer, and spring and fall turkey licenses along with a reserved waterfowl hunt. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/puremichiganhunt.

EHD confirmed in eight Michigan counties: Barry, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Clinton, Eaton, Ionia and Montcalm

Contact: Tom Cooley, 517-336-5030; Brent Rudolph, 517-641-4903; or Ed Golder, 517-335-3014 Agency: Natural Resources

Aug. 16, 2012

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Michigan State University Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health recently confirmed and announced the death of deer in Ionia and Branch counties was due to epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD). Today the two organizations have confirmed EHD in six additional counties: Barry, Calhoun, Cass, Clinton, Eaton and Montcalm. There has been a nationwide increase of EHD outbreaks due to the extended hot and dry conditions.

The often-fatal viral disease, found in wild ruminants, causes extensive internal bleeding within deer and is transmitted by a midge, or type of biting fly. A constant characteristic of the disease is its sudden onset. Deer lose their appetite and fear of humans, grow progressively weaker, salivate excessively and finally become unconscious. Due to a high fever, infected deer often are found sick or dead along or in bodies of water. There is no evidence that humans can contract the EHD virus.

EHD outbreaks killing deer in Michigan have occurred in isolated areas almost every year since 2006. Prior to 2006, EHD outbreaks in Michigan occurred in 1955 and 1974. The estimated mortality has varied from 50 to 1,000 deer per year in the affected areas.

"We are seeing a large die-off of deer in local areas. To date we have over 900 reports of dead deer across all counties," stated Tom Cooley, DNR wildlife biologist and pathologist. "Although it is difficult to see so many dead deer, this is still a localized issue and the regional deer population should not be impacted."

The DNR would like to remind hunters that they may not see as many deer in the areas where EHD is occurring. Deer numbers in the affected areas should rebound within a few years.

There is no known effective treatment for, or control of, EHD. Where EHD is more common, deer have built up antibodies to the disease, and population recovery does not take long. Michigan deer do not have the benefit of these antibodies. Losses may be severe but are typically restricted to localized areas. Population recovery may take longer than has been experienced in other states.

Property owners who discover dead deer or would like to talk to their local wildlife biologist should contact their nearest DNR office. Office locations can be found at www.michigan.gov/wildlifedisease. by clicking on Wildlife Offices.

It is acceptable to allow natural deterioration processes to dispose of deer that die from EHD. Natural deterioration will not spread the disease or cause other disease outbreaks.

Property owners are responsible for the proper disposal of carcasses that they wish to remove from the site. Carcasses should be buried at a sufficient depth so that no parts are showing above ground. Carcasses also can be disposed of at landfills that accept household solid waste.

For more information on EHD, visit www.michigan.gov/wildlifedisease.

DNR, MDARD update Michigan's plan for managing chronic wasting disease

Contact: DNR - Steve Schmitt, 517-336-5040 or Ed Golder, 517-335-3014; MDARD - Bridget Patrick, 517-241-2669 Agency: Natural Resources

Aug. 10, 2012

The Natural Resources Commission adopted changes to chronic wasting disease baiting and feeding regulations, as outlined in the state's newly revised CWD response plan, at its regular monthly meeting Thursday in Lansing.

Department of Natural Resources Director Keith Creagh and Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Director Jamie Clover Adams recently signed the first revision to the CWD plan since it was adopted a decade ago.

The updated plan takes into account the large amount of research and case studies on CWD that have become available since Michigan's original Surveillance and Response Plan for Chronic Wasting Disease of Free-ranging and Privately Owned Cervids was finalized in 2002.

"This plan is critical in guiding our state's response to CWD, as it did when the disease was found here a few years ago," said DNR Wildlife Division Chief Russ Mason. "Much of the 2002 plan is still valid and sound, but we now know a lot more about what causes CWD, how it is spread, what the public thinks about how the disease should be addressed, and the results of CWD management efforts in other states. In light of this, we decided that some modifications to the plan were in order."

"CWD is a reportable disease, so if the disease is detected in free-ranging cervids or a Michigan Privately Owned Cervid facility, we will define a surveillance zone around the positive case," said State Veterinarian Steven Halstead. "This plan should protect Michigan's cervid industry as well as Michigan's free-ranging deer population while meeting our ultimate goal of safeguarding animal health."

The principal changes to the plan are:

The plan will be implemented if a CWD-positive animal is found within 10 miles of the Michigan border, rather than 50 miles as in the original plan.

Baiting and feeding will be banned in any county within a 10-mile radius of where CWD is detected.

All Privately Owned Cervid facilities within that zone will be required to complete increased disease testing of their herds to monitor for signs of CWD.

If the disease is diagnosed in a Privately Owned Cervid facility, all facilities that have had contact (through purchases, sales or immediate contact) will undergo increased disease surveillance testing, and exposed animals will be removed from contact herds.

These changes eliminate the peninsula-wide management provisions for dealing with a CWD occurrence.

Actions that remain in effect from the original response plan include: immediate baiting and feeding bans; a restriction on removing anything more than the boned meat, hide, and antlers of a deer or elk taken within the CWD management zone; and mandatory CWD testing of animals.

Michigan's Regional Deer Advisory Teams and a variety of hunting groups have reviewed the modified plan.

The updated plan, and more information about CWD, is available online at www.michigan.gov/cwd.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is committed to assuring the food safety, agricultural, environmental, and economic interests of the people of the State of Michigan are met through service, partnership and collaboration.

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EHD outbreak confirmed in deer in Ionia and Branch counties

Contact: Tom Cooley, 517-336-5030; Brent Rudolph, 517-641-4903; or Ed Golder, 517-335-3014 Agency: Natural Resources

July 31, 2012

Epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) has been confirmed as the cause of death in deer found in eastern Ionia and northern Branch counties, the Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Disease Lab and the Michigan State University Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health announced today.

The often-fatal viral disease, found in wild ruminants, causes extensive internal bleeding within deer and is transmitted by a midge, or type of biting fly. A constant characteristic of the disease is its sudden onset. Deer lose their appetite and fear of humans, grow progressively weaker, salivate excessively, and finally become unconscious. Due to a high fever, infected deer often are found sick or dead along or in bodies of water. There is no evidence that humans can contract the EHD virus.

"Due to the prolonged, dry, hot weather this year, we are not surprised to see EHD emerge again," said Tom Cooley, DNR wildlife biologist and pathologist. "Mortality numbers will depend on how widespread the disease is -- die-offs usually occur within one watershed area. If multiple watersheds are involved, the total mortality is higher."

There is no known effective treatment for, or control of, EHD. The disease has been seen for decades in most areas of the United States, especially the southeast states and Texas. It has been less commonly observed in Great Lakes and New England states, although it has now been detected in Michigan in six of the last seven years.

Where EHD is more common, deer have built up antibodies to the disease and population recovery does not take long. Michigan deer do not have the benefit of these antibodies. Losses may be severe but are typically restricted to localized areas. Population recovery may take longer than has been experienced in other states.

Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division staff members are developing plans for assessing the extent and impact of losses in the affected areas. Property owners who discover dead deer they suspect died of EHD in the vicinity of Branch County should call the Crane Pond field office at 269-244-5928, and in Ionia County contact the Flat River field office at 616-794-2658. In other areas of the state, reports of suspected EHD outbreaks should be made to the nearest DNR office.

It is acceptable to allow natural deterioration processes to dispose of deer that die from EHD. Natural deterioration will not spread the disease or cause other disease outbreaks. Property owners are responsible for the proper disposal of carcasses that they wish to remove from the site. Carcasses should be buried at a sufficient depth so that no parts are showing above ground. Carcasses also can be disposed of at landfills that accept household solid waste.

For more information on EHD, visit www.michigan.gov/wildlifedisease.

Local organization will host meeting on proposed deer antler point restrictions in Petoskey July 28

Contact: Ashley Hippler, 989-732-3541 or Ed Golder, 517-335-3014 Agency: Natural Resources

July 19, 2012

The Northwest Michigan chapter of the Quality Deer Management Association (QDMA), in partnership with Leelanau Whitetails, has proposed new antler point restrictions (APR) for the following 12 counties: Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Lake, Manistee, Mason, Missaukee, Osceola and Wexford.

This proposal seeks to require that all antlered deer harvested in the area have at least three antler points on one side. The statewide requirement that hunters taking two bucks must ensure at least one of those bucks has four or more antler points on one side would remain in place. The proposed regulations would be consistent with the current restriction in Deer Management Unit (DMU) 045, which is Leelanau County. The restriction will be considered for implementation starting with the 2013 deer season. Antlerless deer regulations within the proposed area would continue to be determined by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

The DNR supports the voluntary implementation of APR on private land. Under guidelines adopted by the Natural Resources Commission (NRC), mandatory regulations proposed by sponsoring organizations will be implemented only where a clear majority of 66 percent support among hunters in the proposed area is documented. Support will be determined by a DNR survey mailed to a sample of hunters who indicated on the 2011 DNR deer harvest survey that they hunted deer in one of the 12 counties. Surveys will be mailed starting in August.

"The Northwest Michigan chapter of the QDMA proposal is our first since the moratorium has been lifted," said DNR deer biologist Ashley Hippler. "We are looking forward to seeing how the majority of northwestern Michigan deer hunters feel about antler point restrictions."

The Northwest Michigan chapter of the QDMA is hosting local meetings to answer questions and provide explanation. The next meeting is scheduled for July 28 at 4 p.m. in the Petoskey High School Auditorium in Petoskey. Meetings have already been held in Benzie, Kalkaska, Manistee, Mason and Wexford counties. Landowners in any of the 12 proposed counties who would like to offer input on the proposal may email comments to DNR-wildlife@michigan.gov.

This is the last scheduled meeting the Northwest Michigan chapter of the QDMA will be hosting.

Payment by the Northwest Michigan chapter of the QDMA will offset survey costs incurred by this proposal.

The NRC had placed a moratorium on accepting APR proposals in 2006, to allow the DNR to assess experiences with initial guidelines which were implemented in 1999. The NRC assembled a stakeholder workgroup late in 2010 to provide recommendations regarding revisions to the process. The DNR is now evaluating proposals based on recommendations from this workgroup and other modifications to increase efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The NRC retains full authority over decisions to implement APR and other harvest regulations, but the proposal review process provides valuable information to inform those decisions.

NRC approves antlerless deer license quotas

Contact: Brent Rudolph, 517-641-4903, ext. 248 or Ed Golder, 517-335-3014 Agency: Natural Resources

July 18, 2012

The Department of Natural Resources will offer a total of 708,650 antlerless deer licenses for the upcoming season after the Natural Resources Commission (NRC) adopted quotas at its regular monthly meeting last Thursday at Harsens Island.

The NRC approved a total of 70,750 public-land antlerless deer licenses and a total of 637,900 private-land antlerless deer licenses. The changes result in a decrease of 47,550 licenses from 2011.

The quotas represent an increase of 450 private-land licenses and an increase of 1,900 public-land licenses available in the Upper Peninsula. Deer numbers in the region are continuing a short-term increasing trend following mild conditions for three straight winters. The department recommended increased quotas to provide additional recreational opportunity, not to reduce deer numbers in the areas where licenses were added.

In the northern Lower Peninsula, the number of private-land licenses available has been decreased by 23,500, while public-land licenses have been decreased by 1,300. Recent trends in deer populations have been variable across the region, but the decreases are primarily intended to match quotas more closely with past demand for antlerless licenses. Though this means fewer leftover licenses ultimately may be available in the region, all northern Lower Peninsula deer management units (DMU) will offer at least some licenses this year. Six DMUs in the region did not offer any antlerless licenses in 2011.

In the southern Lower Peninsula, 4,150 fewer private-land antlerless licenses will be available in 2012, and the total public-land quota was decreased by 2,350. Deer populations remain above goal throughout much of the region, though numbers do appear to be approaching desired levels in some areas.

"Although antlerless license quotas were reduced overall this year, we still had the opportunity to give hunters ample chances to take antlerless deer across the state," said DNR Deer and Elk Program Leader Brent Rudolph. "Interest in seeing more bucks and bigger bucks is increasing among Michigan hunters, so we encourage those individuals to pass a buck and harvest a doe instead."

Additional information regarding deer hunting regulations, results of the 2011 deer harvest survey and Michigan's deer management plan are available at www.michigan.gov/deer.

You may see a fawn alone, but don’t worry – mother isn’t far away

June 1, 2012

Presently, deer fawns are being born all over Michigan. The Department of Natural Resources reminds Michigan residents to resist the instinct to try to “help” seemingly abandoned fawns, because this can be more harmful than helpful to the fawn. Many fawns are found curled up alone in fields or forest floors – this is normal.

"The truth is, even if a fawn appears to be abandoned, its mother is almost always nearby," said DNR wildlife biologist Bruce Barlow. "We appreciate the good intentions of those who want to help, but a fawn is much better off left alone in the wild."

Barlow said it's not uncommon for a mother to leave her young unattended for up to eight hours at a time. The mother will only visit the fawn for short periods, in order to minimize the odor left behind. Newborn fawns do not have a strong odor, and they lay still most of the time, making predators less likely to locate them. As a result of this behavior, which is a survival mechanism, many people think the fawn has been abandoned because they do not see the mother with the fawn for hours.

The DNR advises that:

Fawns may die if removed from their natural environment.
"Rescued" fawns that do survive frequently become habituated to people and are unable to revert back to life in the wild.
It is illegal to possess a wild deer in Michigan, and every day a deer spends with humans makes it that much less likely to be able to survive in the wild.

Eventually, habituated animals pose additional problems as they mature and develop adult animal behaviors. Habituated deer, especially bucks, can become aggressive toward people as they mature.

Barlow advises that if you see a fawn alone, do not approach, move or touch it. “Instead, enjoy the moment and leave it be for all to see!”

Local organization to host meeting on proposed deer antler point restrictions May 17 in Kalkaska

May 10, 2012

The Northwest Michigan Chapter of the Quality Deer Management Association, in partnership with Leelanau Whitetails, has proposed new antler point restrictions (APR) for the following 12 counties: Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Lake, Manistee, Missaukee, Mason, Osceola and Wexford.

The DNR supports the voluntary implementation of APR on private land. Under guidelines adopted by the Natural Resources Commission (NRC), mandatory regulations proposed by sponsoring organizations will only be implemented where a clear majority of 66 percent support among hunters in the proposed area is documented. Support will be determined by a DNR survey mailed to a sample of hunters who indicated on the 2011 DNR deer harvest survey that they hunted deer in one of the 12 counties. Surveys will be mailed starting in August.

“This proposal is our first since the moratorium has been lifted,” said DNR deer biologist Ashley Hippler. “We are looking forward to seeing how the majority of northwestern Michigan deer hunters feel about antler point restrictions.”

The Northwest Michigan Chapter of the QDMA will host meetings in each county to answer questions and provide explanation. The next meeting is scheduled for May 17 at 7 p.m. in Kalkaska at the Kaliseum, located at 1900 Fairground Road. More than 70 people attended the first meeting, held April 26 at the Benzie Central High School. Additional meetings will be announced as they are scheduled.

Landowners in one of the 12 proposed counties who would like to offer input about the proposal may email their comments to DNR-wildlife@michigan.gov.

Payment by the Northwest Michigan Chapter of the QDMA will offset survey costs incurred by this proposal.

The NRC had placed a moratorium on accepting APR proposals in 2006, to allow the DNR to assess experiences with initial guidelines, which were implemented in 1999. The NRC assembled a stakeholder workgroup late in 2010 to provide recommendations regarding revisions to the process. The DNR is now evaluating proposals based on recommendations from this workgroup and other modifications to increase efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The NRC retains full authority over decisions to implement APR and other harvest regulations, but the proposal review process provides valuable information to inform those decisions.

Deer Habitat Improvement Partnership Grant Application Deadline March 31

Feb. 10, 2012

Contact: Bill Scullon, 906-563-9247 or Debbie Munson Badini, 906-226-1352

Sportsmen’s clubs and other interested parties are reminded that the Deer Habitat Improvement Partnership Initiative (DHIPI) application deadline is March 31, the Department of Natural Resources announced today. The DHIPI is a cooperative grant program designed to support private-land deer habitat improvement projects in the Upper Peninsula.

Now in its fourth year, the DHIPI fosters cooperative projects between non-government organizations and the DNR that will enhance habitat for white-tailed deer. The initiative is funded by the state's Deer Range Improvement Program (DRIP). In 2012, a total of $50,000 will be made available through a competitive grant process. Proposals for deer habitat improvement projects in the Upper Peninsula seeking from $2,000 to $10,000 in cooperative funding will be considered.

Organizations, either independent or affiliated with larger groups, with a formal mission to promote wildlife conservation and/or hunting will be eligible to apply for the cooperative grants. The habitat improvement projects can take place on privately owned land, Commercial Forest Act-enrolled land, or other non-state-owned land. Projects that provide public access through foot traffic will be prioritized. Representatives of sportsmen's groups or conservation organizations are encouraged to contact their local DNR wildlife biologist for help in developing acceptable projects.

"There are three primary goals applicants should strive to meet," said DNR Private Lands Wildlife Biologist Bill Scullon. "The projects should produce tangible deer habitat improvements, build long-term partnerships between the DNR and sportsmen's clubs or other groups, and identify ways to showcase the work to the public."

In 2011, three deer habitat improvement projects were funded – the planting of red oak seedlings in Mackinac County, wildlife orchard plantings in Dickinson County and the rehabilitation of historic wildlife opening with clovers and other forage in Ontonagon County.

"These deer habitat improvement projects are good examples of how sportsmen's clubs and other organizations can partner with DNR wildlife biologists to help improve or create vital deer habitat in their local area," Scullon said.

Project applications are due by March 31, and successful applicants will be notified by April 14. Proposed projects will be evaluated and competitively scored on a range of criteria by a multi-disciplinary selection committee. For an application package, contact Bill Scullon by phone at 906-563-9247, by fax at 906-563-5802, by email at scullonh@michigan.gov, or at the DNR Norway Field Office, located at 520 U.S. Highway 2 West in Norway.

Created by legislation in 1971, DRIP is funded with a $1.50 allocation from each deer license sold, except for senior licenses, equaling $2.2 to $2.8 million in funding annually. For more information about deer management in Michigan, go online to www.michigan.gov/deer.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

DNR Ushers in a New Era of Deer Management: Southern Lower Deer Advisory Team to Meet for the First Time

Feb. 9, 2012

Contact: Brent Rudolph, (517) 641-4903, ext. 248

With the approval of the Michigan Deer Management Plan on May 6, 2010, the Department of Natural Resources committed to establishing a Deer Advisory Team (DAT) for each Michigan region. Each DAT corresponds to the boundaries of the DNR Hunting and Trapping Zones -- Zone 1 being the Upper Peninsula, Zone 2 the Northern Lower Peninsula and Zone 3 the Southern Lower Peninsula.

“The regional Deer Advisory Teams are a critical connection between the public and the DNR,” said Russ Mason, DNR Wildlife Division chief. “Informed input and improved communications are essential for successful deer management in Michigan.”

The inaugural meeting of Southern Lower Michigan’s Deer Advisory Team (SLDAT) is set for Friday, Feb. 17. The meeting will be held at the University Quality Inn, 3121 East Grand River, Lansing, M 48912, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The SLDAT will serve as an advisory team to the DNR’s Wildlife Division on deer management issues unique to the Southern Lower Peninsula. The goal of the team is to serve as a conduit between the public and the Wildlife Division to develop mutual understanding regarding major opportunities and challenges facing white-tailed deer management.

The DATs are made up entirely of volunteers who have a direct connection with deer management issues, either as private citizens or as representatives of organizations with constituents in the region that are affected by hunting and deer management. All members were selected by the Wildlife Division with consent of the Natural Resources Commission, and will serve for either two or three years. Team members will attend local open houses, which will be opportunities to share information and gather public input in their regions.

“We are really excited to see these teams come together and meet for the first time.” stated Brent Rudolph, Deer and Elk Program leader for the DNR. “This ushers in a new era of co-managing Michigan’s deer with the public, and provides us with an opportunity to focus in on regional issues.”

Members of the public are welcome to attend the meeting as observers, although the meeting is not open for public comment. Questions and comments from the public will only be taken if time permits.

If you have topics you would like the SLDAT to discuss, email Brent Rudolph at rudolphb@michigan.gov or share your comments at http://deer.fw.msu.edu/involved/slteam.php/.

DNR Eastern Upper Peninsula Citizens' Advisory Council to Meet Feb. 16 in Newberry

Feb. 8, 2012

Contacts: Stacy Welling, 906-228-6561 or Debbie Munson Badini, 906-226-1352

The Department of Natural Resources’ Eastern Upper Peninsula Citizens' Advisory Council (CAC) will meet Thursday, Feb. 16, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., at the Comfort Inn in Newberry, located at 13954 State Highway M-28. The meeting will take place in the motel’s conference room.

The council will hear division reports from DNR staff, in addition to updates on the following topics:

Wolf delisting and management
UP Regional Deer Advisory Team
Biodiversity Stewardship Areas/Living Legacies
Forest Management Division restructuring
Recreation Passport

Other agenda items will include:

East UP Deer Camp Survey results
Commercial Forest Act/Administrative Rules revision process
Hunting and Trapping Digest and Fishing Guide improvement survey

The Eastern Upper Peninsula and Western Upper Peninsula CACs are designed to advise the DNR on regional programs and policies; identify areas in which the department can be more effective and responsive; and offer insight and guidance from members’ own experiences and constituencies. The council members represent a wide variety of natural resource and recreation stakeholders and interest groups. Agenda items are set by the council members, and council recommendations are forwarded to the DNR for consideration.

CAC meetings are open to the public. If you would like to be considered as a future CAC member, please fill out the nomination form found on the DNR website at www.michigan.gov.upcac. For more information, contact DNR Upper Peninsula Regional Coordinator Stacy Welling at 906-228-6561.

Northern Lower Regional Deer Advisory Team Will Meet For the First Time Feb. 11

Feb. 3, 2012

Contact: Ashley Hippler, 989-732-3541, ext. 5044

The inaugural meeting of the Northern Lower Regional Deer Advisory Team (NLRDAT) is set for Saturday, Feb. 11. The meeting will be held at the Ramada Inn Conference Center, 2650 I-75 Business Loop, Grayling, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

With the approval of the Michigan Deer Management Plan on May 6, 2010, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) committed to establishing Regional Deer Advisory Teams (RDAT) for each Michigan region. Each RDAT corresponds to the boundaries of the DNR Hunting and Trapping Zones – Zone 1 being the Upper Peninsula, Zone 2 the Northern Lower Peninsula, and Zone 3 the Southern Lower Peninsula.

The NLRDAT will serve as an advisory team to the DNR on deer management in the Northern Lower Peninsula. The goal of the team is to serve as a conduit between the public and the DNR to better understand the major concerns surrounding white-tailed deer.

“This is a great opportunity to engage members of the public about deer-related issues,” said DNR Deer Biologist Ashley Hippler. “We are looking forward to working closely with this group.”

The NLRDAT is made up entirely of volunteers who have been appointed by the Natural Resources Commission and the DNR, for either two or three years; team members will attend local open houses, which will be public meetings for sharing information and gathering public input in their region.

“The Regional Deer Advisory Teams are a critical connection between the public and the DNR,” said DNR Wildlife Division Chief Russ Mason. “Understanding the public’s views on deer management is the only way we can have successful deer management in Michigan.”

Members of the public are welcome to attend as observers, although the meeting is not open for public comment. If time permits, the NLRDAT will take questions and comments from the public.

If you have topics you would like the NLRDAT to discuss, email Ashley Hippler at hipplera@michigan.gov, or share your comments at http://deer.fw.msu.edu/involved/nlteam.php.

2011 Firearm Deer Season Started Slow, Picked up Speed
Dec. 9, 2011

Contact: Brent Rudolph 517-641-4903; Ashley Hippler 989-732-3541; or Mary Dettloff 517-335-3014

The Department of Natural Resources has indicated the 2011 firearm deer season harvest appears to have increased slightly compared to the 2010 season. Southern Michigan is the only region where final firearm harvest figures are expected to decrease. Preliminary estimates are based on cumulative reports from the field, license sales figures, and check station activity, and are later replaced by the final harvest figures generated using the annual mail survey.

Experiences can differ widely even within regions, but DNR biologists estimate the harvest compared to 2010 was unchanged to up perhaps 10 percent across the Upper Peninsula, likely increased in the Northern Lower Peninsula by as much as 10 percent, and the southern Lower Peninsula appeared down 5 to 10 percent.

License sales through opening day of the firearm season showed a 2 to 3 percent decrease compared to 2010. “That typically reflects expected final license sales figures and hunting activity through the end of the full hunting season,” said DNR Deer Program Leader Brent Rudolph, “but we saw more than the usual number of hunters purchasing a license after opening day. Perhaps a somewhat slow start to the season encouraged more hunters to try their hand later on.”

Check station activity was also initially less than last year, but increased traffic saw some locations meet or exceed their marks from 2010 as the season progressed.

As expected, with the mild conditions experienced in the previous two winters, deer numbers in both the Upper Peninsula and Northern Lower Peninsula look to be slowly increasing following prior declines. Ashley Hippler, DNR Deer Program biologist for the northern regions, noted, “deer in these regions are not as abundant as they were in the 1990s, but deer sightings were generally up even though hunter numbers appeared down compared to 2010.”

Deer from throughout the state were reported to be in good condition, as indicated by overall observations and measurements of antler development collected at check stations.

“We greatly appreciate the efforts our hunters make to bring deer to our check stations located throughout the state,” said Russ Mason, chief of the DNR Wildlife Division. “These data are important to our deer program, but check station visits also provide valuable opportunities to gather hunter impressions and feedback and even celebrate the annual traditions built around Michigan deer hunting.”

Rudolph emphasized the annual mail survey completed once all deer seasons are concluded provides the final estimates of harvest and participation over all deer seasons, including the firearm season. Preliminary estimates last year projected the firearm harvest ranged from a 15 percent decrease to 10 percent increase by region, while the final mail survey indicated a slightly less than 6 percent drop in deer taken during firearm season statewide.

For more information about hunting opportunities in Michigan, to fill out your 2011 deer hunting survey, or for additional information about deer, go online to www.michigan.gov/deer.

2011 Firearm Deer Season Underway in Michigan; Early Reports Available

Nov. 21, 2011

Contacts: Brent Rudolph 517-641-4903, Ashley Hippler 989-732-3541 or Mary Dettloff 517-335-3014

The 2011 firearm deer season opened Tuesday, Nov. 15, and impressions regarding deer observations, hunting activity, and check station operations from the first few days of the season have been compiled by the Department of Natural Resources. Overall, hunting activity started slow but appeared to increase later in the week and over the weekend. Deer condition throughout the state has been reported as good to excellent. The following are the early impressions summarized on a regional basis:

Upper Peninsula – Conditions have been fair for hunting, though opening day temperatures were above freezing, moderate to strong winds and winter storm conditions moved through portions of the region on Nov. 16. Hunter numbers across the region appear the same or lower than during the early days of the 2010 firearm season. Most hunters are reporting seeing more deer than last year, and that deer are in good condition. The excellent condition of deer at check stations supports hunter observations. Initially slow activity at check stations picked up near the end of last week to now include similar or increased numbers of deer checked compared to last year.

Northern Lower Peninsula – Opening morning was cool, but temperatures warmed by late morning with a mix of clouds and sun. Nov. 16 saw a mix of flurries and accumulating snow in locations with high and gusty winds moving into some areas. Hunting activity last week was reported as fairly light compared to previous years. The northeast portion of the region noted an increase in number of deer checked, but the western and southern portions have noted similar to fewer deer brought in compared to last year. Early reports on weekend check station activity suggest check station and harvest numbers may now have caught up to or exceeded numbers from last year. Deer condition has been described as very good with several exceptional bucks observed at a number of check stations around the region.

Southern Michigan – Hunting conditions were fair in southern Michigan. Dense fog throughout much of the region on opening morning affected hunters’ abilities to see deer. With temperatures climbing into the upper 50s by late morning to early afternoon, both deer and hunter activity was slowed. Cooler temperatures prevailed the next few days accompanied by wind and scattered snow flurries. About 71 percent of corn was picked by opening day, which matches the five-year average but was less than last year, when 97 percent was picked. Hunting activity varied somewhat around the region, but appeared the same or lower than last year; shots heard were consistently lower than last year throughout the region over the first few days of the season. Fewer deer have been checked compared to last year, but deer are in good condition. Some check stations noted an increase in 3 ½ and even 4 ½ year-old bucks compared to recent years.

Each year, DNR Wildlife Division staff working at check stations around the state submit their impressions and a summary of comments provided by hunters from the first few days of the firearm season. These impressions provide an early view of how the firearm season is faring. Deer populations in both northern regions have come through two relatively mild winters in a row, on the heels of two relatively severe winters of 2007 and 2008. Deer numbers appear to be recovering, but more notable is the good to excellent condition being observed by hunters and confirmed by data collected at check stations. License sales through opening day were about 2.5 percent lower than in 2010, which supports the observations of generally lighter hunting pressure in most areas of the state.

Firearm deer season continues through Nov. 30 with archery season resuming Dec. 1. Updated field observations and check station summaries will be posted on the collaborative DNR Wildlife Division and Michigan State University Department of Fisheries and Wildlife website at www.deer.fw.msu.edu.

NRC Votes to Remove Baiting Ban from Presque Isle County and Southern Iosco County

Contact: Mary Dettloff, 517-335-3014
Agency: Natural Resources

Nov. 10, 2011

Deer hunters will be allowed to use bait in Presque Isle County and southern Iosco County in Deer Management Unit (DMU) 487, after the Natural Resources Commission changed regulations at its meeting in East Lansing today (Nov. 10). Recreational feeding of deer in DMU 487 remains prohibited.

The NRC - which has authority for determining acceptable means and methods of take for hunting in Michigan - had previously reversed a three-year ban on baiting deer in the Lower Peninsula, but maintained the prohibition in the six-county DMU 487 in the northeastern Lower Peninsula. DMU 487 is the area where biologists are most concerned about bovine tuberculosis in the deer herd.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, however, recently changed the status of Presque Isle and Iosco counties, regarding tuberculosis in the cattle herd. As a result, only the four core counties of DMU 487 - Montmorency, Alpena, Alcona and Oscoda - remain in the Modified Accredited Zone, which require additional tuberculosis testing for cattle shipped from the area.

In the interest of maintaining consistency between baiting regulations and TB-testing requirements in the area of concern, the NRC decided to lift the bait ban in parts of DMU 487. Effective immediately, hunters may use up to two gallons of bait in Presque Isle County and in southern Iosco County. Baiting remains illegal in the northern tier of townships - Oscoda, Plainfield, Wilber, Au Sable and Baldwin - in Iosco County and in Montmorency, Alpena, Alcona and Oscoda counties.

Hunters are reminded that they may use no more than two gallons of bait per hunting site and bait must be distributed over a 100-square-foot area. Bait is defined as any substance - including mineral blocks or salt licks - that is intended to be ingested.

The Department of Natural Resources prefers that hunters not use bait. Baiting regulations are designed to minimize both nose-to-nose contact, as well as indirect contact, among animals. Hunters who use bait are asked to move their bait sites periodically to prevent repeatedly drawing animals to the same location.
An informational video has been produced by the DNR and Michigan United Conservation Clubs about the legal way to bait deer in Michigan. A link to the video can be found on the DNR's website at www.michigan.gov/dnr.

New State Law Allows 10-Year-Olds to Hunt Deer, Elk or Bear With a Firearm

Contact: Dean Molnar, 517-373-1230 or Mary Dettloff, 517-335-3014
Agency: Natural Resources

Sept. 14, 2011

A change in state law that took effect Sept. 1 makes it legal for 10- and 11-year olds to hunt deer, bear or elk with firearms in Michigan, the Department of Natural Resources announced.

The change is not reflected in the 2011 Hunting and Trapping Digest as the publication went to press before the law was changed.

The regulations change was part of the Hunter Heritage Act, which creates a new mentored hunting program and eliminates the minimum age requirements for hunting in 2012.

This year, hunters less than 14 years of age may hunt on private land with either a firearm deer license or junior combination deer license - if they have successfully completed hunter education training - or an apprentice hunting license. In either case, the youngster must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or other adult designated by the parent or guardian.

Hunters less than 14 years of age may hunt with firearms on private land only. A youngster hunting deer must be in possession of either a firearms deer license or an antlerless deer license. A youth hunter ages 10 and 11 may use a combination deer license. If the youth has been hunter-safety certified, the accompanying adult must be at least 18 years of age. If the youngster is hunting with an apprentice license, the accompanying adult must be at least 21 years of age.

Beginning in 2012, the Mentored Youth Hunting Program, currently under development by a workgroup convened by the Natural Resources Commission will provide additional hunting opportunities for youngsters less than 10 years of age.

For more information on hunting opportunities in Michigan, go to www.michigan.gov/hunting.

DNR Reminds Hunters of Deer Check Station Locations for 2011 Season

Contact: Brent Rudolph, 517-641-4903 or Mary Dettloff, 517-335-3014
Agency: Natural Resources

Sept. 14, 2011

As the 2011 Michigan deer hunting season gets underway, the Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that the DNR would like to check as many deer as possible during all the deer seasons to continue gathering critical data on Michigan's deer herd. The data is important for monitoring the herd's health and determining population size.

For a list of the 2011 deer check stations that will be open Nov. 15-30, during the regular firearm deer season, please look on the deer home page under "Check Stations." During all other deer seasons, deer can be checked at DNR Operations Service Centers from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday (except state holidays). The last day to check your deer will be Jan. 6, 2012.

The DNR will test any deer that is identified as "suspect" for chronic wasting disease (CWD) and bovine tuberculosis (TB). The DNR will also collect samples of deer from areas where disease concerns have been identified, which include the five counties in the Northeastern Lower Peninsula within the TB area, as well as Iosco, Shiawassee, Cheboygan, and Emmet counties.

Antlerless Deer License Applications Go on Sale July 15

Contact: Brent Rudolph, 517-641-4903 or Mary Dettloff, 517-335-3014
Agency: Natural Resources

July 14, 2011
Applications for antlerless deer licenses go on sale Friday, July 15, at all license agents or online at www.michigan.gov/huntdrawings. Private land licenses for southern Michigan and Deer Management Unit (DMU) 487 in the Northeastern Lower Peninsula are sold without application, however, and may be purchased beginning Sept. 6 at 10 a.m.

In all, 756,200 antlerless deer licenses will be available in 2011, a decrease from 776,500 available last year. Statewide, public land licenses increased slightly while private land licenses decreased.

Hunters will find more antlerless licenses available in the Upper Peninsula. In 2011, 16 Upper Peninsula DMUs will not have antlerless deer licenses available, compared to 17 DMUs in 2010.

In the Northern Lower Peninsula, antlerless permits have decreased somewhat, largely due to fewer licenses available on private land. Six DMUs will not offer antlerless licenses, compared to five in 2010. All private land licenses for DMU 487 - which includes Alpena, Alcona, Iosco, Montmorency, Oscoda, and Presque Isle counties - may be used throughout the DMU. As another option for taking antlerless deer only within DMU 487, hunters in the unit may use a firearm or combination license for antlerless deer within the Nov. 15-30 firearm season or the Dec. 9-18 muzzleloader season.

In southern Michigan, the number of available antlerless licenses has been decreased and Kent County (DMU 041) is now part of the larger multi-county DMU 486. All private-land licenses for DMU 486 - which includes all but four counties in southern Michigan - may be used within any county in the DMU.

Applications, which remain on sale through Aug. 15, are $4. Hunters may apply for just one antlerless license - public land or private land. After the drawing, remaining antlerless licenses may be purchased beginning Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. Licenses will be sold until the quotas are met. The season purchase limit for antlerless deer licenses has increased to five statewide, except for DMU 486 and DMU 487 which have no season limit.

Baiting and feeding in limited quantities is now allowed statewide, except for DMU 487, where a total ban remains in effect due to the presence of bovine tuberculosis among deer in that region. Baiting is allowed from Oct. 1 to Jan. 1. Hunters may place no more than two gallons of bait scattered across a minimum 10-foot by 10-foot area. The DNR requests that hunters not place bait repeatedly at the same point on the ground and only place bait out when actively hunting. This may minimize the chance of direct and indirect exposure of deer to any diseases that may be present.

2010 Deer Hunting Survey Report Out

Hunters Harvest Slightly Fewer Deer, Report Higher Satisfaction in 2010
Contact: Brian Frawley, 517-373-1263 or Mary Dettloff, 517-335-3014
Agency: Natural Resources

June 14, 2011

Michigan deer hunters harvested 6 percent fewer whitetails in 2010 than in 2009, but they said they found the season more enjoyable than the previous year, according to the Department of Natural Resources annual mail survey.

An estimated 656,500 hunters spent 9.6 million days afield, taking nearly 418,000 deer. Overall, 44 percent of hunters harvested at least one deer.

The survey was sent to more than 50,000 deer-license buyers.

The survey showed a 4 percent decrease from 2009 in the number of individuals buying deer licenses in 2010 and a 4 percent decrease in the number of licenses sold.

Hunters killed 1 percent fewer antlered bucks and 10 percent fewer antlerless deer than in 2009. However, hunters reported increased satisfaction with the season in terms of number of deer seen, deer harvested and overall hunting experience.

Please click here for the 2010 Deer Harvest Survey Report! Thank you to all you hunters who reported your harvest and hunting experience.

Natural Resources Commission Votes to Lift Deer Baiting Ban

Contact: Mary Dettloff, 517-335-3014
Agency: Natural Resources

June 10, 2011

The Michigan Natural Resources Commission on Thursday voted 4-3 to lift the current deer baiting and feeding ban in the state's Lower Peninsula. The ban had been in place since 2008, when Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) was detected in a deer at a private deer breeding facility in Kent County.

Baiting will still be prohibited in Deer Management Unit (DMU) 487, the six-county Bovine Tuberculosis zone in northeastern Lower Michigan. The counties where baiting will continue to be prohibited are Alcona, Alpena, Iosco, Montmorency, Oscoda and Presque Isle.

The NRC approved a proposal to allow baiting in limited quantities from Oct. 1 to Jan. 1. Hunters may place any type of bait, no more than two gallons at a time, across a 10-foot by 10-foot area per hunting location.

The NRC also reinstated recreational feeding of deer in the Lower Peninsula, with the exception of DMU 487. Property owners may place two gallons of bait on their property within 100 yards of their residence year-round.

The NRC also placed a three-year sunset on the regulations, which means it will reconsider the baiting issue again in 2014.

In 2008, the Department of Natural Resources announced it had detected the state's first case of CWD in a three year-old female deer at a private deer breeding facility in Kent County. At the time, the Department followed protocol as outlined in the state's emergency response plan for CWD and immediately banned baiting and feeding of white-tailed deer in the Lower Peninsula. The NRC then passed regulations making the ban permanent, but said it would reconsider the ban in three years, giving the DNR adequate time to perform disease testing and surveillance in the state for CWD.

In the three-year period, the DNR tested thousands of white-tailed deer for CWD, but did not detect another case.

The NRC also directed the department to work with the Legislature to strengthen the penalties for baiting violations. A potential bill sponsor has been identified who supports establishing an escalating scale of penalties for repeat offenders, which would include mandatory hunting license revocation.

If hunters do use bait, the DNR requests they not place bait repeatedly at the same point on the ground, and only place bait out when they are actively hunting. This may minimize the chance of direct and indirect exposure of deer to any unknown disease that may be present.

For more information about CWD, go to www.michigan.gov/emergingdiseases.

DNR Deer Habitat Improvement Partnership Applications Now Available

Contact: Bill Scullon, 906-353-6651 or Debbie Munson Badini, 906-226-1352

Feb. 1, 2011 (See the "DRIP Page" for more details and forms.)

The Department of Natural Resources will once again offer a cooperative funding program designed to support deer habitat improvement projects in the Upper Peninsula, DNR officials announced today.

Now in its third year, the Deer Habitat Improvement Partnership Initiative fosters cooperative projects between non-government organizations and the DNR that will enhance habitat for white-tailed deer. The initiative is funded by the state's Deer Range Improvement Program (DRIP), and in 2011, a total of $50,000 will be made available through a competitive application process. Proposals for deer habitat improvement projects in the Upper Peninsula seeking from $2,000 to $10,000 in cooperative funding will be considered.

Organizations, either independent or affiliated with larger groups, with a formal mission to promote wildlife conservation and/or hunting, will be eligible to apply for the cooperative funding. While the habitat improvement projects can take place on privately-owned land, Commercial Forest Act-enrolled land, or other non-state-owned land, projects that provide public access through foot traffic will be prioritized. Representatives of sportsmen's groups or conservation organizations are encouraged to contact their local DNR wildlife biologist for help in developing acceptable projects.

There are three primary goals applicants should strive to meet, said DNR wildlife biologist and DHIPI coordinator Bill Scullon. The projects should produce tangible deer habitat improvements, build long-term partnerships between the DNR and sportsmen's clubs or other groups, and be good candidates for publicity and showcasing to the public.

In 2010, six deer habitat improvement projects were funded in the Upper Peninsula. The projects included the planting of red oak seedlings in Gogebic and Mackinac counties; small clover plot plantings on 50 acres in Delta and Menominee counties; wildlife orchard plantings in Dickinson County; rehabilitation of an historic wildlife opening with clovers and other forage in Ontonagon County; and 300 acres planted with 50,000 red oak seedlings in Alger and Schoolcraft Counties.

These deer habitat improvement projects are good examples of how sportsmen's clubs and other organizations can help improve or create vital deer habitat in their local area, while working with the DNR's wildlife biologists to make sure the best available science is utilized, Scullon said.

Project applications are due by March 31, and successful applicants will be notified by April 15. Proposed projects will be evaluated and competitively scored on a range of criteria by a multi-disciplinary selection committee. For an application package click here, and for further information contact Scullon at 906-353-6651, by email at scullonh@michigan.gov, or at the DNR Baraga Operations Service Center, 427 US Hwy 41, Baraga, MI, 49908.

The DRIP, begun in 1971, is funded with a $1.50 allocation from each deer license sold, except for senior licenses, equaling $2.2 to $2.8 million in funding annually. For more information about deer management in Michigan, go online to www.michigan.gov/deer.

News Updates

Growing number of Michigan deer hunters give crossbows a try

DNR now taking applications for deer habitat improvement grants

Northern Lower Deer Advisory Team to meet for third time Feb. 16 in Cadillac

U.P. Deer Advisory Team to meet January 19 in Iron Mountain

2012 Michigan deer hunting on the rise this firearm season

Michigan DNR hosts 'DNR Live: Deer' online video forum, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 13

DNR asks for continued assistance in reporting deer die-offs from EHD

Archery deer season now open statewide

Northern Lower Deer Advisory Team to hold second meeting Sept. 29 in Roscommon

DNR announces EHD now found in 24 counties

Antlerless Deer License Drawing Results Posted Online Today

EHD confirmed in eight Michigan counties: Barry, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Clinton, Eaton, Ionia and Montcalm

DNR, MDARD update Michigan's plan for managing chronic wasting disease

EHD outbreak confirmed in deer in Ionia and Branch counties

Local organization will host meeting on proposed deer antler point restrictions in Petoskey July 28

NRC approves antlerless deer license quotas

You may see a fawn alone, but don’t worry – mother isn’t far away

Local organization to host meeting on proposed deer antler point restrictions May 17 in Kalkaska

Deer Habitat Improvement Partnership Grant Application Deadline March 31

DNR Ushers in a New Era of Deer Management: Southern Lower Deer Advisory Team to Meet for the First Time

DNR Eastern Upper Peninsula Citizens' Advisory Council to Meet Feb. 16 in Newberry

Northern Lower Regional Deer Advisory Team Will Meet For the First Time Feb. 11

2011 Firearm Deer Season Started Slow, Picked up SpeedDec. 9, 2011

NRC Votes to Remove Baiting Ban from Presque Isle County and Southern Iosco County

New State Law Allows 10-Year-Olds to Hunt Deer, Elk or Bear With a Firearm

DNR Reminds Hunters of Deer Check Station Locations for 2011 Season

Antlerless Deer License Applications Go on Sale July 15

2010 Deer Hunting Survey Report Out

Natural Resources Commission Votes to Lift Deer Baiting Ban

DNR Deer Habitat Improvement Partnership Applications Now Available

2011 Firearm Deer Season Started Slow, Picked up Speed
Dec. 9, 2011