For Release: Friday, February 17, 2023
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the dates for the first-ever spring Long Island wild turkey hunting season. The opening of this new season is the result of wild turkey reintroduction efforts DEC initiated in the mid-1990s.
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DEC Announces 2022 Hunting Season Ties Record for Safest-Ever Year
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos announced the 2022 hunting seasons tied 2021 for the safest-ever year, with the lowest number of hunting-related shooting incidents since record-keeping began. DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs) investigated nine hunting-related shooting incidents (HRSIs) in 2022, including one fatality.
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The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today reminded New Yorkers to take down bird feeders and secure garbage to avoid potential conflicts with black bears.
Bears are emerging from their dens, and now is the time to take steps to reduce potential conflicts through the spring and summer. Bird feeders, unsecured garbage, and outdoor pet and livestock feed can attract bears and lead to potential conflicts for homeowners. Repeated access to bird feeders and garbage can make bears bolder, seeking additional sources of human-related foods inside vehicles or buildings, particularly when natural foods are scarce.
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Senator Rath Highlights Safest Hunting Season
The DEC recently released data noting that 2021 was the safest hunting season for New Yorkers. The report also noted that there were no incidents involving the expansion of youth hunting.
“Yet another record-breaking year for Hunting safety. Last season we added the Mentored Youth Big Game Hunting Program and the change in legal hunting hours, this is further evidence that our “First in the Nation” Hunter safety programs excellent training program and individual sportsman’s diligence to safety afield, is a great combination,” said Jeff Jondle, President, Erie County Sportsmen’s Club Inc.
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Closure Takes Effect Feb. 1
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced that beginning Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022, target shooting will be prohibited at Tonawanda Wildlife Management Area (WMA), located in DEC’s Regions 8 and 9. The closure will bring the WMA into compliance with recently adopted regulations for WMAs statewide that prohibit target shooting.
DEC adopted statewide regulations following a public comment period last year and is exploring additional options to provide safe and ecologically sound target shooting at alternative locations throughout the state.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE DEC WEBSITE