Hunting remains one of the most popular forms of outdoor wildlife recreation in New York State, with more than 565,000 licensed hunters generating approximately $1.5 billion in economic activity each year. In this episode, hosts Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald are joined by Timothy Pyszczynski and Brendan Quirion—Wildlife Biologists with DEC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife—to discuss the importance of hunter education and safety programs to recruit the next generation of hunters and help prevent hunting-related accidents, preview the deer and bear harvest for 2024-2025, and explore the role of big game hunting in wildlife management and conservation, including maintaining healthy deer and bear populations. Tim and Brendan also reflect on how their passion for science and the outdoors led to careers with DEC and share their favorite venison meals and how local harvests help reduce our environmental footprint and feed New Yorkers in need.

Episode Notes:

• DEC Reminds Outdoor Enthusiasts to Share the Woods Safely This Season