Courtesy Photo by Michigan DNR Deer graze in an unidentified field in this file photo.

Beginning Friday, the opening day of archery deer season, Up North hunters can report their deer harvest online.

Optional reporting helps the Michigan Department of Natural Resources manage deer populations, the DNR said, encouraging hunters to share data about their hunt.

Reporting hunters will share their hunting license number, date of birth, deer season (archery, firearm, etc.), date of harvest, number of antler points, and location of harvest.

Location information is kept private and used for statistical purposes only, according to the DNR.

A video explaining the online reporting process can be found at Michigan.gov/DNRHarvestReport.