Deer Closure in SE Alaska Not Planned, But Heavy Snows Could Change Plans

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game in a recent news release said that it has no plans no to close the deer hunting season in SE Alaska Game Management Units 1 and 4, as some have asked. Deer numbers are down from the heavy snows of the winter of 2006/2007, but the hunt has not been changed.

The news release pointed out that early and heavy snowfalls in October and November could force a re-evaluation of the hunting regulations. If that is the case, the state will make hunters aware through the news media.

Goat Hunting Partially Closed Near Haines

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game has closed mountain goat hunting in a portion of GMU 1D near the city of Haines effective October 16, 2007.

The area closed is a portion of the Takshanuk Mountains from the NW saddle between Mt. Tukgahgo to the city of Haines.

The harvest objective has been reached, the emergency order indicated.

Read the ADFG Emergency Order >>>

SE Alaska Deer Hunt Underway Despite Reduced Deer Numbers

Cold weather and deep snow took a serious toll on SE Alaska deer during the 2006/2007 winter, but the deer season is proceeding, but Alaska Wildlife News says state biologists are keeping a wary eye on the population.

The effect on deer was not as severe in southern SE Alaska, a companion article reported.

SE Alaska Deer Winter Stressed but Season to Open

Last winter's record breaking snowfall was tough on SE Alaska's Sitka black-tailed deer, but the hunting season is opening as usual, according to Alaska Wildlife News. The Department of Fish and Game is asking hunters to concentrate on bucks and fawns to protect the reproductive capacity of the deer.

Not only was snow early and deep, but it persisted longer than usual. Deer are able to find shelter in old growth timber stands where the trees hold much of the snowfall. But if the snow keeps falling, the browse plants they require are eventually covered. When this happens deer move to the beaches where there is little food but the ability to move about.

The agency is asking hunters to target bucks and fawns and to avoid taking does.

Read the entire article in Alaska Wildlife News >>>