MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) — The Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife says excess deer populations in parts of the state means more hunting permits for muzzle loaders will be issued this year.
Deer project leader Nick Fortin says deer populations in 10 of Vermont’s wildlife management units will be above their population objectives.
The goal of the additional muzzleloading permits is to reduce deer populations in those areas while stabilizing populations in other areas.
“Yearling antler beam diameters, fawn weights and other physical condition measures are declining or are below optimal levels in many areas, indicating that deer have exceeded the level their habitat can support long-term,” said Fortin.
Applications for the muzzle loading permits and the rules are available on the department’s website.
The deadline to apply for a muzzleloader antlerless deer permit is August 12.
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