A few mild winters have lead to a deer population that's 20-percent above goal in several northern regions. As a result, the DNR's Mike Zeckmeister says hunters need to be very active this year.
Two northern areas are currently under the Earn-A-Buck status, but Zeckmeister says those numbers could climb quickly in 2008 if the antler-less deer population is not significantly reduced. He says what happens this season will have a major impact on how many areas face EAB requirements next year.
There are 45 Deer Management Units in the 18 County Northern District. Zeckmeister says most of those will be under a close watch this hunting season. He says 32 are subject to hear control regulations this year.
The DNR is making unlimited antler-less permits available in several of those areas to encourage hunters to harvest more deer.
