Earlier this summer, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation ( NYSDEC) launched the state's new, automated system for selling licenses for fishing, trapping, and hunting. In early August, residents could use this same system to purchase big game licenses and deer management permits (DMP).
The DEC Commissioner, Basil Seggos, reported this week that on opening day, sales of big game, trapping, and DMPs were triple that of prior year's sales, more than double on the second day, and, even two weeks later, nearly double from past years.
At the start of COVID-19, the DEC pivoted the Hunter Education program to offer online certification. That program saw a 105% increase in completed courses. During the Pandemic it seems that plenty of New Yorkers are looking for more ways to enjoy getting outside.
Licenses can still be purchased at any of the DEC's licensing agents, online, or by calling 866-933-2257.
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