Withdrawal of a Proposed Antler Restriction Expansion, 2009
In April 2009, DEC proposed a regulation change that would have expanded the antler restriction program to include eight additional wildlife management units (WMUs) in the northern and western Catskills.
During the required 45 day public comment period, DEC received many comments both in favor of and opposed to the proposal.
Hunters opposing the change stated that they are mostly interested in "meat, not antlers," and are concerned about decreased harvest opportunity, particularly in light of relatively low deer management permit (antlerless deer tags) availability. They also expressed frustration with a loss of freedom to select the type of buck they wish to harvest, and contend that antler point restrictions will negatively affect hunter sentiment and participation and associated economic benefits. Hunters also expressed concern that the penalties for mistakenly shooting a deer with too few antler points include a potential misdemeanor criminal charge.
Hunters supporting the antler restriction proposal cited their interest in taking older, larger deer and contended that this program will enhance deer management in New York, including economic and social benefits associated with the excitement of seeing and taking older, larger deer. They believe that antler restrictions will help create a healthier deer herd.
At the present time, DEC biologists see no specific management benefit associated with the antler restriction program and do not consider antler restrictions as necessary to improve herd condition. Deer populations throughout New York currently have healthy breeding patterns and adult sex ratios that ensure virtually all does are bred, conditions that indicate our deer herd is in good condition.
DEC believes that interest in antler restrictions is primarily an issue of hunter preference, and it is clear that hunters are divided. There is no biological urgency to implement a mandatory antler restriction program in the proposed deer management units, and hunters who wish to adopt an antler restriction policy or practice may already do so on a voluntary basis.
DEC will pursue further dialogue with hunters to promote greater awareness of the potential outcomes of antler restriction programs. Deer management and potential changes to hunting laws and regulations are serious matters, and DEC will continue to monitor the status of deer populations and the interests of stakeholders to recommend or enact changes that are in the best interests of sound game management and the ability of people to use and enjoy this important resource.
A summary of the comments received on the proposed regulation and DEC's response is available at An Assessment of Public Comment for Proposed Antler Restriction Expansion (PDF, 54 Kb ).
