Michigan deer hunters will have a few changes to prepare for this year thanks to COVID-19. Staff and funding shortages, along with the decline in the number of hunters have forced the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to reduce the number of deer check stations.
Hunters will be required to “mask up” and follow social distancing guidelines at all check stations. At many stations, they will not be permitted to leave their vehicles.
Acting DNR Wildlife Division Chief Dan Kennedy said, “It is an unprecedented time in our state’s history, with serious challenges that affect everyone. We ask for your patience and grace as we adapt to meet these challenges. Michigan hunters have a long history of partnering with the DNR for the benefit and health of the state’s deer population.”
Despite these service reductions, the DNR still needs help tracking the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease and tuberculosis in the deer population. St. Clair County is not on the list for checking for either disease, but for hunters traveling to other parts of the state, they will want to check out the DNR’s 2020 Hunting Digest for full details. Visit michigan.gov.
Reporting for WGRT- Jennie McClelland
