By the Minnesota DNR
Deer hunters invited to share wildlife observations
Minnesota deer hunters can use an online log (mndnr.gov/mammals/deer/management/hunter-field-log.html) to report wildlife they see while hunting. Data from the observation logs help the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources estimate population level trends for deer and track wildlife distribution for other species across the state.
Using a mobile device or desktop computer, hunters can enter information on the Minnesota DNR website (mndnr.gov/mammals/deer/management/hunter-field-log.html) about wildlife they see each day of hunting, including deer, turkeys, bears, fishers and other species. They’ll also be able to report specific information about any deer they harvest. Hunters are encouraged to fill out a report after each hunt, even if they don’t see any deer that day. The online questionnaire will be available until Jan. 15, 2024.
How to get deer sampled for CWD during archery season
Minnesota’s archery deer season opens Saturday, Sept. 16, and deer hunters have multiple options for getting their deer tested for chronic wasting disease.
CWD sampling options (mndnr.gov/cwd/cwd-testing.html) include requesting a mail-in kit (mndnr.gov/cwd/cwd-kits.html) before hunting or utilizing kits obtained but not used last year. Hunters may participate in the partner sampling program (mndnr.gov/cwd/cwd-partners.html). Hunters can also make an appointment to have their deer sampled at Minnesota Department of Natural Resources area wildlife offices, and contact information is available on the Minnesota DNR website (mndnr.gov/areas/wildlife). Additionally, deer hunters are required to have their deer 1 year or older sampled for CWD in all CWD management and surveillance zones during the opening weekend of the firearms A season (Nov. 4-5).
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