Wildlife Conservation Order Amendment No. 4 of 2022 will now require you to report your deer harvests in Michigan. Other states that I have hunted in including Iowa and Wisconsin provide a phone number so you are able to call in your harvest but the Michigan DNR says that is not an option. A large number of people still do not use smartphones or have internet access.

The DNR response is below.

“Hunters that do not have a way of reporting their harvest due to a lack of internet access, may seek assistance from a family member or friend who does and provide them with their license number, date of birth and harvest location to report on their behalf. Reporting by phone to the DNR is not possible because of the need for accurate harvest location data, which is provided by selecting the location on a digital map.”

The shift from voluntary registration to registering your deer and having to provide an exact location is a major overcorrection. The new amendment states “In Michigan, failure to report harvest will be a misdemeanor with potential educational opportunities.” I do agree with the DNR that Michigan needs a deer registration but it should be modeled after successful states like those listed above.

I’ve been speaking with many hunters throughout the community who are seemingly unaware of the new rule change. The DNR is still “in the process of building out guidance and communications that should be released on our website and press outlets soon.” The first deer seasons open next month so hopefully the DNR will get their press release out before the seasons open.

ZACHARY MUNN,

Rogers City