DEC: Environmental Conservation Officers have so far written nearly 150 hunting tickets since Northern Zone rifle opener

New York’s rifle opener for its Northern Zone was October 22 and according to the State DEC, Environmental Conservation Officers have, so far, written nearly 150 hunting related tickets.

With the first weekend of Southern Tier rifle season now in the books, the DEC is reminding hunters to abide by the law. "DEC's ECOs will be out in force this season to ensure compliance, engage with new and experienced hunters, and continue their important work promoting public safety in our communities and protecting our natural resources,” Commissioner Seggos said.

DEC Law Enforcement is also reminding hunters they are key partners in protecting New York deer from Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD).

Chronic Wasting Disease continues to spread in other states, and hunters are key to preventing CWD introduction to New York. The DEC says CWD is always fatal to deer.

If introduced, it could spread rapidly and be practically impossible to eliminate once established.

Hunters can help protect New York's deer herd from CWD by following these tips:

• If hunting any type of deer, elk, moose, or caribou outside of New York, it must be deboned before bringing it back. See CWD Regulations for Hunters. DEC will confiscate and destroy illegally imported carcasses and parts, including whole deer and deer heads;
• Do not use deer urine-based lures or attractant scents, as these could contain infectious material;
• Dispose of carcass waste in a landfill, not just on the landscape;
• Report any deer that appears sick or is acting abnormally; and
• Hunt only wild deer and support fair chase hunting principles.

Image courtesy via the New York State DEC.