As deer season rolls on in New York State, many hunters are taking advantage of a program to help their neighbors in need. Recently, the New York State Department of Conservation caught up with a local sportsman to hear why they were inspired to participate.
The yearly program sees the NYS DEC partnering with Feeding New York State, an organization dedicated to fighting hunger by helping fund local food banks, supporting education outreach, and working closely with government organizations like the DEC. The results from their hunting season initiative are particularly impressive.
Getty/EEI_Tony
Getty/EEI_TonyDeer Donation Program from NYS DEC and Feeding New York State
Each year, the NYS DEC helps coordinate donations of up to 70,000 pounds of venison from local hunters who opt to share their deer harvest. Recently, a first-time donor shared what inspired him to share his harvest with the community.
Read More: How Hudson Valley Hunters Can Donate Their Deer Harvest for Free
New York Hunter Shares Why They Donated Harvested Deer
At the start of the season, the NYS DEC interviewed a hunter in Holland, NY in Erie county after he brought a harvested buck to be donated (below). “I really think there’s a lot of people out there that can benefit”, he said. “I have a good job, I can go to the grocery store, so if we can help somebody out, I think that’s what we all should be doing”.
Increased Focus on Food Insecurity This Month in New York State
This year, there has been a heightened focus on food insecurity in New York State with the uncertainty of funding of the federal SNAP program. Similar to the many local Hudson Valley businesses that have offered assistance to their neighbors, the NYS DEC has recognized the increased impact that a food donation could have this season in particular.
Processing fees for harvested deer are covered by the NYS DEC when the animal is brought to a Feeding New York State affiliated processor (find them here). The NYS DEC reported that more than $11 million in processing fees have been covered by the program. Check out a New York trail camera below, and keep scrolling to find tips for a different kind of hunting.
New York State Whitetail Deer Trail Cam Photos
Gallery Credit: Clay Moden
Tips For Hunting Morel Mushrooms In New York
Here are some tips for finding these highly coveted fungi in your neck of the woods.
Gallery Credit: Lauren Gordon