The National Deer Association (NDA) supports New York Senate Bill 9462 (S9462), legislation that would restore the authority of the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (NYDEC) to issue Deer Management Permits (DMPs) throughout the Northern Zone. NDA stands firmly with state wildlife agencies in maintaining their ability to responsibly and effectively manage wildlife—especially New York’s deer herd.
In parts of the Empire State, deer populations are abundant to overabundant, requiring regionally appropriate management to reduce human-wildlife conflicts, protect ecosystem health, and limit the spread of disease within the herd.
Why This Matters
In the 1970s, NYDEC’s authority to issue DMPs across portions of the state was restricted, with only a partial restoration by the legislature in the 1990s. Today, NYDEC can issue DMPs in select western areas of the Adirondacks but remains prohibited from doing so in the central and eastern regions.
Wildlife professionals must have access to the full suite of science-based management tools to fulfill the agency’s mission: “to conserve, improve and protect New York’s natural resources and environment.” Restoring DMP authority would allow NYDEC to address overabundant deer populations by issuing additional antlerless tags where needed. Importantly, this legislation does not mandate increased harvest in low-density areas—it simply provides flexibility for biologists to make region-specific decisions based on current conditions.
Historically, harsh winters helped limit deer populations in northern New York. However, as severe winters become less frequent, deer numbers are expected to rise—along with associated impacts such as habitat degradation and increased human-wildlife conflicts. With limited tools currently available, NYDEC faces growing challenges in managing these populations effectively.
Restoring DMP authority would provide a critical, adaptable tool to help wildlife managers respond to changing conditions and better steward New York’s deer herd across all public lands.
Take Action Now
Contact your state legislator today and urge them to vote YES on S9462. Restoring NYDEC’s authority will ensure wildlife professionals have the tools they need to responsibly manage deer populations and protect New York’s natural resources for future generations.