The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is urging hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to prioritize safety as hunting seasons continue across the state. Regular deer hunting season in the Northern Zone began on October 25 and will end on December 7, while bowhunting for deer and bear in the Southern Zone runs through November 14. The regular big game season in the Southern Zone starts November 15.
“With nearly 600,000 New Yorkers participating annually, hunting is among the most popular forms of wildlife-related recreation in the state,” said Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “Hunting remains a safe, ecologically important wildlife population management tool, and fosters an understanding and respect for the environment. I encourage everyone enjoying the woods to be aware of their surroundings and follow all outlined safety measures while afield.”
The DEC reports that hunting incidents have reached record lows over the past five years due to its Hunter Education Program, volunteer instructors, and increased awareness among hunters. The agency emphasizes basic firearm safety rules: treat every firearm as if it were loaded; control the muzzle direction; identify your target and what lies beyond; keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire; and wear hunter orange or pink.
Hunters are also advised to inform someone about their location and expected return time, dress appropriately for weather conditions, familiarize themselves with planned hunting areas ahead of time, and carry essential items such as a light source, knife, map, and first aid kit.
Tree stand safety remains a concern. The DEC recommends using a fall-arrest system (FAS) that keeps hunters attached to trees from ascent to descent. An effective FAS includes a full-body harness with multiple straps, tree attachment straps, tether straps connecting harnesses to trees, lifelines for climbing safety, and suspension relief straps for emergencies. Hunters should inspect equipment before use and replace any expired or damaged gear.
To minimize conflicts between different recreational users during hunting season, both hikers and hunters are encouraged to be mindful of each other’s presence on trails. The DEC maintains various trails across Forest Preserve lands in Adirondack and Catskill parks as well as State Forests open to multiple activities including hunting. Through its ‘Love Our New York Lands’ campaign, DEC promotes responsible recreation practices on public lands.
The department also encourages hunters to help address food insecurity by donating venison through partnerships with Feeding New York State. Each year this collaboration results in 50-70,000 pounds of venison being distributed statewide via food pantries and banks. With changes affecting federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits potentially impacting nearly three million residents in November, these donations may become even more critical.
Hunters can donate legally harvested deer at participating processors after confirming availability by phone; processing costs are covered by DEC and Feeding New York State when possible but funding is limited. Financial contributions can also be made directly through links provided by DEC when purchasing licenses or via their Automated Licensing System page.
For more information about hunter education courses or trail options throughout New York’s public lands—including accessibility resources—visit DEC’s official platforms such as Trails Less Traveled or check out instructional content on YouTube playlists dedicated to hiking essentials and hunter safety basics.
