For Release: Thursday, November 10, 2011
DEC Announces WNY Deer & Bear Check Station Schedule
Hunter Participation Encouraged
One deer check station in will operate in Western New York this year, which will be located on Route 16, northbound, about one mile south of the Town of Holland, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Region 9 announced today. The check station will operate Saturday, Nov. 19 from noon until 8 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 20 from noon until 7 p.m..
Hunters are encouraged to bring their deer to the check station where DEC staff will determine deer age and collect other important biological and harvest information. With black bear season opening the same day as deer season this year, staff will check harvested bears as well. Participation is voluntary but appreciated, and helps DEC gather valuable data necessary for assessing the status of the area's big game population. Technicians from NYS Department of Health will also be present at the check station to examine deer for ticks and collect samples to test for Lyme disease.
"Hunters will have the option of participating in a research project related to diseases that affect deer again this year," said Tim Spierto, DEC Region 9 Senior Wildlife Biologist. "Although it is a completely voluntary program, hunters are encouraged to take a few extra minutes to help increase our knowledge about diseases in the game population."
As in previous years, hunters wishing to donate their harvest to "Hunters Helping the Hungry" sponsored by the Venison Donation Coalition, may drop off a deer at the Holland check station during days of operation before 7 p.m.
In cooperation with NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, deer checking will also occur in Allegany State Park on opening day, Saturday, Nov. 19.
