justnorth posted on September 19, 2007 00:04 :: 1906 Views
With youth deer hunting season approaching on Sept. 22-23, the Department of Natural Resources is reminding hunters to visit deer information and check stations throughout the state.
The stations are strategically located along major travel arteries. At information centers, hunters can acquire DNR literature and talk to wildlife biologists and conservation officers about deer populations, hunting prospects, regulations and other information related to the hunt. Staff is available at the information centers for a couple days prior to the opening of the firearm deer hunting season.
Hunters who bring their deer to the check stations will have the opportunity to learn about their animal. The DNR examines teeth of deer and records where the deer was taken, its age, sex, total antler points and antler beam diameter. Some check stations, such at the Marquette Operations Service Center, have a scale so hunters can also weigh their deer.
"Hunters are often surprised at how much information they can gain when they visit a check station," said Rodney Clute, DNR big game specialist.
Clute said that information gathered through hunter participation at check stations helps state wildlife biologists evaluate the health and condition of the herd for future management. He added that the check stations also serve a vital role in being watchful for the possible presence of disease in deer.
Those who harvest a deer are asked to bring their deer to any check station. For their effort in helping with the data collection, they will be given a Deer Management Cooperator/Successful Hunter collector's patch.
A complete list of information and check stations and the hours of operation, as well as DMU maps, regulations, frequently asked questions about deer hunting, and much more is available on the DNR Web site at www.michigan.gov/dnr. On our Web site, the check stations can be found under Hunting menu and then by clicking on Big Game.
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