Starting January 1, 2026, Minnesota has implemented several new laws including stricter absentee ballot application requirements, specific work break and meal break regulations, a repeal of hunting restrictions in the south, and the activation of a paid leave program. These changes aim to enhance election security, worker rights, and hunting regulations across the state.
Originally Published 20 days ago — by Maryland.gov
Maryland hunters harvested 27,620 deer during the two-week firearm season, a 10.4% decrease from last year but close to the five-year average, with variations across regions and deer types, reflecting typical fluctuations influenced by environmental factors.
Georgia officials are urging hunters in Lanier, Berrien, and Lowndes counties to test harvested deer for chronic wasting disease, which has been detected in the state, to monitor and manage the disease's spread, despite no current evidence of transmission to humans.
The October Harvest Moon, a supermoon and the first of three this year, may enhance deer hunting in New York by influencing deer behavior and breeding cycles, making early October an advantageous time for hunters during the rut period.
A buck harvested near Wheaton, Minnesota, tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD), marking the first detection of CWD in Deer Permit Area 271, which includes Traverse County and parts of Big Stone and Wilkin counties. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources plans to implement a three-year testing plan to assess the disease's prevalence and will coordinate with South Dakota and North Dakota wildlife agencies. Management actions may include carcass movement restrictions and bans on deer feeding to prevent the spread of CWD.
In Michigan, three deer hunters have died from heart attacks shortly after the start of the firearm hunting season, highlighting the physical demands and health risks associated with the sport. The hunters, aged 57, 65, and 83, experienced heart attacks while engaging in strenuous activities like hauling heavy deer. Experts suggest that the combination of physical exertion, cold exposure, and adrenaline spikes can increase the risk of cardiac events. Hunters are advised to maintain physical fitness, prepare for weather conditions, and ensure safety measures are in place.
In Michigan, three deer hunters have died from heart attacks shortly after the hunting season began, highlighting the health risks associated with the activity. Experts warn that the combination of cold exposure, adrenaline, and physical exertion can increase the risk of heart issues, such as blood clots and arrhythmias. Hunters are advised to undergo health check-ups before the season and take precautions like not hunting alone and using communication devices. The state's hunting season is crucial for controlling the deer population and preventing disease spread.
At least three Michigan deer hunters have died of heart attacks during the current 16-day hunting season, with two of the incidents occurring while the hunters were hauling heavy deer. Dr. William Morrone, a medical examiner, emphasized the need for hunters to prepare physically for the demanding activity, suggesting that the Department of Natural Resources require hunters to undergo physical exams. The regular firearm deer season, which began on November 15, ends on Saturday.
Three Michigan hunters have died from heart attacks during the current deer hunting season, prompting medical examiner Dr. William Morrone to suggest that the Department of Natural Resources require hunters to provide proof of a physical. The deceased, aged 57, 65, and 83, were participating in the physically demanding activity of hauling deer, highlighting the need for better preparation and fitness among hunters.
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a neurological disease affecting deer, elk, and moose, has been detected in Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas. The disease, caused by misfolded prion proteins, is incurable and leads to severe symptoms and death in infected animals. While there are no reported human cases, CWD poses a theoretical risk if humans consume infected meat. Michigan's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is conducting CWD testing in specific counties, with various submission options available for hunters. Testing is voluntary but encouraged, and proper disposal of deer carcasses is advised.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission confirmed a deer in Stone County tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD), a fatal neurological disease affecting deer and other cervids. The deer was harvested on private land near Sylamore WMA, within the existing CWD Management Zone. No immediate changes to deer hunting regulations are planned, but the AGFC will assess the need for adjustments post-season. Hunters are encouraged to utilize free testing facilities to help monitor the disease's spread.
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has confirmed the state's first case of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in a white-tailed deer in LaGrange County, prompting comprehensive reforms to deer hunting practices. The DNR is considering statewide bag limits and changes to crossbow licenses, and urges the public to report sightings of sick or dead deer and submit harvested deer for testing. While there have been no reported cases of CWD infection in humans, the CDC recommends testing harvested deer before consumption and taking precautions when hunting in areas with CWD.
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) has been spreading in Ohio, with 22 infected deer reported in southern Wyandot and northern Marion counties by March 2023. The disease, caused by prions, poses a potential risk to humans who consume infected venison. While no definitive evidence of human transmission exists, research has shown potential transmission to animals with human genes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises preventing human exposure to CWD, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and caution in affected areas.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission has introduced new regulations to combat the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a deadly disease affecting deer. Hunters in regions with CWD must now be cautious in handling deer carcasses, either taking them to approved meat processing locations, processing them at home and disposing of carcasses properly, or processing them at the harvest location. Testing is recommended before consuming the meat. Blair and Huntingdon counties are among the most contaminated areas for CWD in the state.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission has introduced new regulations to combat the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a deadly disease affecting deer. Hunters in regions with CWD must now be cautious in handling deer carcasses, either taking them to approved locations for processing, processing them at home and disposing of carcasses properly, or processing them at the kill site. Testing is recommended before consuming the meat. Blair and Huntingdon counties are among the most contaminated areas for CWD in the state. The Game Commission provides resources for finding approved processors and collection bins for testing.