1.3 million… That’s how many people in the state of Pennsylvania live beneath the lowest income level and qualify for food assistance annually. In a downed economy, this figure grows even more drastically, forcing hungry citizens to humbly ask for any help they can get.

With so many families struggling to make ends meet, one particular program has stepped forward to answer the call, helping to put fresh, nutritious meat on the table for those less fortunate. This stellar non-profit organization, which has gained national recognition as one of the biggest and best of its kind, is called Hunters Sharing the Harvest.

Hunters Sharing the Harvest, (HSH), is a brilliant concept which ties generous sportsmen, butcher shops, food banks, corporate sponsors, and even non-hunting monetary donors together into a collaborative network of charitable contributors who team up to help fight hunger across the Commonwealth.

How does the program work?
A successful hunter takes his recently harvested deer to an HSH-approved deer processor in his community. He pays a $15 tax-deductible donation and registers the deer so it can be tracked by the program coordinators. Then the butcher processes the deer, grinds the meat into lean burger, packages and freezes the venison.

Next, a volunteer from one of the state’s 21 regional food banks arrives at the butcher shop to pick up the meat and deliver it to one of 4,000 local providers who will distribute the much-appreciated venison to identified families or programs in need. These providers include local missions, churches, homeless shelters, soup kitchens, and Salvation Army facilities.

After the season, HSH then reimburses the participating meat processors for their services and usage of facilities in preparing the meat for distribution. This fee equates to about $190,000 annually, with funds being raised solely through a combination of corporate sponsors and private donations from the public.

The end result is those less-fortunate being provided with highly valued, quality red meat free of charge. According to the HSH webpage, www.sharedeer.org, “an average-sized deer will provide enough highly-nutritious, low-cholesterol meat for 200 meals.” This goes a long way in helping to feed a multitude of people who are in dire need of food assistance.

The venison donation program initially began as the 1991 grassroots brainchild of an interest group called Pennsylvanians for the Responsible Use of Animals, and has since evolved into the well-respected and efficient model of goodwill that it is today.

Pennsylvania’s HSH program has acted as a pioneer for other states to jump on board as well. Since its inception, 39 states across the US have implemented similar donation programs of their own. For all parties involved, it just makes sense.

From a hunter’s perspective, it allows sportsmen a chance to do something charitable for their community while pursuing a beloved hobby. Jeff Mussleman, Boyertown, lives in a high deer density area of WMU 5C, where a hunter can purchase a number of antlerless licenses with ease.  He has donated four deer to the program in recent years.

He says, “I really enjoy the program because it allows me to extend my season. In most cases if I shoot one deer, my freezer is full. Deer aren’t like trout; you can’t catch and release them. Donating deer to food banks allows me to continue my passion, knowing that I’m putting lean, organic meat on someone’s table who otherwise might not actually eat that night had I not donated.”

For meat processors, the added incentives of program participation include free advertising and guaranteed business from those looking to donate a deer. HSH-approved processors located in the greater Lebanon area include both Bur-Pak and Twin Pines in Myerstown, Sadler’s in Richland, Bair’s in Elizabethtown, and Mease’s in Pine Grove.

Nelson Burkholder, from Bur-Pak Family Foods, acknowledged that there is little extra work on the butcher’s end of things and explained that HSH provides very easy protocol for getting involved. However these aren’t the only benefits.

“Hunter participation has been increasing each year,” Burkholder said, “and it is very rewarding to know that the meat is going to a good use. The food banks are always grateful for it.”

Joe Arthur, of the Central Penn Food Bank says that the roughly 10,000 lbs. of donated venison they receive from hunters each year is very popular amongst the pantries they serve, especially since it is such a healthy option.

“Meat is one of the hardest foods to come by, from a donation standpoint, and we really appreciate all that HSH does for us. We especially want to thank the hunters who donate, because we realize that they’re willingly giving up very good meat. People are eager to receive the venison that HSH provides, and the collection process really doesn’t get much easier for us,” Arthur remarked.

But that doesn’t mean that everything about the HSH system is easy. There is a lot of behind-the-scenes administrative work that needs to be done to ensure the continued success of the program. John Plowman has been around since HSH was first established and currently serves as the state director for the program.

“I am always out searching for new butchers, county coordinators, and sponsors to help support this extremely worthwhile program. Without the support of our generous donors, we can’t function as an organization. We rely on these donations so that we can pay our butchers.” Plowman said.

He added that the cancellation of the Eastern Sports and Outdoor Show could have a somewhat detrimental effect on this year’s fundraising for the program.

“In year’s past, HSH was tied to various booths and exhibits at the show. We were involved with the venison processing seminars, and that helped draw a good bit of publicity and awareness to our cause,” Plowman said.

The show also gave corporate sponsors an opportunity to generate money for the HSH program. For example, Woods Creek Grill, Jonestown, sold their famous elk chili, buffalo burgers, and venison franks to show attendees via a stand outside Bass Pro Shops, then donated a portion of their profits to the organization.

As an alternative this year, Woods Creek Grill is donating a dollar from every venison menu item sold in their restaurant to the HSH program’s “buck for the pot” campaign. This initiative offers donors a convenient, printable receipt for tax-deductible monetary contributions, accessible from the HSH website.

What’s great is that anyone can get involved to help support this excellent program. Companies can elect to join the team of major sponsors, earning special recognition on the HSH homepage, and private individuals can make personal donations as well. It is as simple as visiting www.sharedeer.org.

Hunters and non-hunters alike can help HSH reach its annual goal of bringing 100,000 pounds of heart-healthy meat to those who need it most. It’s just a matter of people asking themselves how much they are willing to give to help those in need.

The dedicated HSH volunteers have consistently stepped up to the table, year after year, to ensure that their struggling neighbors will not go hungry. They repeatedly accomplish this task by using an intelligent, organized, transparent system of collaboration, which turns legally harvested deer meat into delicious meals for thankful recipients.

I challenge all readers to consider contributing to Hunters Sharing the Harvest this year if capable. These donations have the amazing potential to help keep 1.3 million people from worrying about where and how they are going to find their next meal.

Thank you to all who have supported and continue to support this very important cause. It makes a huge difference.

To learn more about the author and Natural Pursuit Oudoors, visit: https://sites.google.com/site/naturalpursuitoutdoors/home

Antler restrictions in place this year mirror those from the previous year. For Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B and 2D, hunters need to identify three antler points, not including the brow tine, which is the point immediately above the antler burr. In the remainder of the state, antler restrictions remain a minimum of at least three points on one side.

Statewide, all junior license holders, mentored youth hunters, disabled hunters with a permit to use a vehicle and resident active-duty U.S. Armed Services personnel have a minimum antler restrictions of one antler with at least two points, or one antler three or more inches in length.

For those hunters in 11 WMUs, there is a split-season structure, in which the first five days (Nov. 26-30) are open for antlered deer only and the remaining seven days (Dec. 1-8) are open for antlered and antlerless deer. Those WMUs are 2A, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2G, 3B, 3C, 4B, 4D and 4E. In the other 11 WMUs, antlered and antlerless deer are in season from Nov. 26-Dec. 8.

“In addition to being a rich part of our state’s heritage, deer season is critical in managing Pennsylvania’s whitetails,” Roe said. “The efforts of hunters are far-reaching; they help to keep deer populations in check, and enable the agency to meet deer management goals that benefit those who reside, visit or travel through this state.”

Roe noted that hunters will need to make sure that they have done their pre-season scouting, as fall food conditions, development, posted property and other factors will impact deer movements.

“Deer will respond to food availability and hunter pressure, both of which can vary from year to year, and from one area to another,” Roe said. “Pre-season scouting can improve a hunter’s chance for success this year.

“Recognizing the impacts dramatic changes on the landscape may have on deer movements will be just as important – if not more important – as identifying those locations where deer are feeding regularly. Spending time afield before season often leads to better hunting opportunities.”

Hunters must wear 250 square inches of fluorescent orange material on the head, chest and back combined at all times while afield during the seasons. They also are advised that it’s illegal to hunt, chase or disturb deer within 150 yards of any occupied building without the occupant’s permission if they are using a firearm, or 50 yards if they are using a bow or crossbow.

During the two-week season, hunters may use any legal sporting arm, as outlined on page 45 of the 2012-13 Digest. Rifles are not permitted to be used in Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware or Montgomery counties, however, shotguns and muzzleloaders are legal. Deer hunters in Philadelphia may use only bows or crossbows.

All hunters who take a deer must fill out their harvest tag and attach it to the deer’s ear before moving the carcass. The tag can be secured to the base of the ear with a string drawn very tightly, if the hunter plans to have the deer mounted. Cutting a slit in the ear to attach the tag will require additional work by a taxidermist.

For those hunters who plan to visit both a deer processor and taxidermist, it is important to remember that state law requires the deer harvest carcass tag to remain with the head at the taxidermist, and that a second hand-made tag containing the name, address and license number of the person who harvested the deer and the location of the harvest should remain with the rest of the carcass going to the processor.

Roe noted that properly licensed bear hunters who still possess an unused bear tag come deer season may take a bear during all or portions of the first week of deer season, but only in certain WMUs. Sale of bear licenses will continue through Nov. 16, after which it will close and then reopen briefly Nov. 22 to 25. Specific seasons and reporting requirements for taking bears during deer season are outlined on page 36-38 of the 2012-13 Digest issued with the purchase of a hunting license. The Digest also may be viewed on the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us).

HARVEST REPORTING AVAILABLE VIA POSTCARD, ONLINE OR TELEPHONE

Those participating in the upcoming deer season will be able to file their mandatory harvest reports through the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s online system; the toll-free Interactive Voice Response (IVR) telephone harvest reporting system, which is 1-855-PAHUNT1 (1-855-724-8681); or via postage-paid postcard.

To report a deer harvest online, go to the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us), click on “Report Your Harvest” above the “Quick Clicks” box in the right-hand column, click on “You can link to PALS by clicking here,” check “Harvest Reporting,” scroll down and click on the “Start Here” button at the bottom of the page, choose the method of validating license information, and click on the checkbox for the harvest tag being reported. A series of options will appear for a hunter to report a harvest. After filling in the harvest information, click on the “Continue” button to review the report and then hit the “Submit” button to complete the report. Failing to hit the “Submit” button will result in a harvest report not being completed.

Hunters should have their Customer Identification Number (hunting license number) and field harvest tag information with them when they call, and should speak clearly and distinctly when reporting harvests, especially when providing the Wildlife Management Unit number and letter.

“Hunters may report one or more harvests in a single session,” Roe said. “Responses to all harvest questions are required.

“Hunters who use the toll-free number to submit a harvest report will receive a confirmation number, which they should write down and keep as proof of reporting. Those who report online should print or save a copy of their harvest report submission as proof of reporting.”

Roe noted that hunters still have the option to file harvest report postcards, which are included as tear-out sheets in the current digest.

“We certainly are encouraging hunters to use the online reporting system, which will ensure that their harvest is recorded,” Roe said. “The more important point is that all hunters do their part in deer management and report their harvested deer to the agency.”

HUNTING LICENSES NO LONGER NEED TO BE DISPLAYED

Hunters and trappers are reminded they no longer are required to display their licenses on an outer garment, said Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe.

“The Game Commission supported legislation that was enacted last year and took effect earlier this year to remove the statutory requirement that licenses be displayed,” Roe said. “Hunters now may place their hunting license in their wallet with other ID, as they are required to have a second form of identification with them while hunting.”

HUNTERS CAN CHECK ON TRAFFIC AND ROAD CONDITIONS IN ADVANCE

As road conditions are sometimes “iffy” for deer seasons, hunters can check traffic and road conditions on more than 2,900 miles of roadways by simply calling “511″ or logging onto the state Department of Transportation’s website (www.511pa.com) before heading out to camp this year.

“’511PA’ is Pennsylvania’s official travel information service,” said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. “This service from PennDOT provides travelers with reliable, current traffic and weather information. This site enables hunters to check on the status of road conditions before heading out to camp.”

HUNTERS SHARING THE HARVEST A WORTHY CAUSE

Hunters who are successful in the upcoming deer hunting seasons are encouraged by the Pennsylvania Game Commission to consider participating in the state’s Hunters Sharing the Harvest (HSH) program, which channels donations of venison to local food banks, soup kitchens and needy families. Pennsylvania’s HSH program is recognized as one of the most successful among similar programs in about 40 states.

“Using a network of local volunteer area coordinators and cooperating meat processors to process and distribute venison donated by hunters, HSH has really helped to make a difference for countless needy families and individuals in our state,” said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. “Pennsylvanians who participate in this extremely beneficial program should be proud of the role they play. HSH truly does make a tremendous difference.”

Started in 1991, HSH has developed into a refined support service for organizations that assist the Commonwealth’s needy. Each year, Hunters Sharing the Harvest helps to deliver almost 200,000 meals to food banks, churches and social services feeding programs.

“This program is all about the generosity of hunters and their desire to help make a difference,” Roe said. “It’s a program that many hunters have become committed to and enjoy supporting. After all, what is more gratifying than helping others in need?”

As part of the program, hunters are encouraged to take a deer to a participating meat processor and identify how much of their deer meat – from an entire deer to several pounds – that is to be donated to HSH. If the hunter is donating an entire deer, he or she is asked to make a $15 tax-deductible co-pay, and HSH will cover the remaining processing fees. However, a hunter can cover the entire costs of the processing, which is tax deductible as well.

HSH established a statewide toll-free telephone number – 1-866-474-2141 – which can answer hunters’ questions about where participating meat processors can be found or other general inquiries about the program.

To learn more about the program and obtain a list of participating meat processors and county coordinators, visit the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) and click on “Hunters Sharing the Harvest” in the “Quick Clicks” box in the right-hand column of the homepage, or go to the HSH website (www.sharedeer.org).

Roe noted that these early antlerless deer seasons provide hunters more ways to fit deer hunting into their busy schedules, and offer a more relaxing hunt to those who prefer warmer weather and fewer hunters in the woods.

“Although the October antlerless seasons increase hunting opportunities, their harvests still are controlled by antlerless deer license allocations, which are set to remove a pre-determined number of antlerless deer from a Wildlife Management Unit (WMU),” Roe said.

Hunters heading afield for the October firearms seasons likely will find that deer numbers vary by locality.

To participate in the early muzzleloader season (Oct. 13-20), hunters must have a general hunting license, muzzleloader stamp and a valid antlerless deer license or Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) antlerless deer permit. Hunters may use in-line, percussion and flintlock muzzleloaders during the early muzzleloader season. They also may use scopes, peep-sights and other lawful sighting devices on muzzleloaders during the October hunt.

To participate in the special firearms antlerless season (Oct. 18-20), hunters must have a general hunting license and a valid antlerless deer license, and qualify in one of the following license categories: resident junior or senior license holders; nonresident junior license holder; nonresident adult license holders age 65 or older; hold a disabled person permit to use a vehicle as a blind; be residents who are serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces; or qualify for license and fee exceptions under section 2706. Sporting arms permitted include: manually-operated center-fire rifles, handguns and shotguns; 44-caliber or larger muzzleloading long guns; 50-caliber or larger muzzleloading handguns; long, recurve or compound bows; and crossbows.

Based on a recent change in state law and Game Commission regulations, these two antlerless deer seasons now are open to participants of the Mentored Youth Hunting Program, which was created for those under the age of 12.  Mentored youth must obtain a MYHP permit ($2.70) for the current year, and they may receive only one antlerless deer license by transfer during a license year.  Adult mentors may transfer more than one antlerless deer license, but they must be to different mentored youth.  The transfer is valid only if done in the WMU for which the antlerless deer license was issued. (NOTE: A proposed change in regulations to allow for the transfer of one DMAP antlerless deer permit to a mentored youth won’t take effect until the 2013-14 seasons, as the proposal still requires final adoption by the Board.)

For antlered deer, the mentored youth must use the harvest tag that comes with the MYHP permit.

Hunters are advised that they may take only antlerless deer in the early muzzleloader and special firearms seasons, and that they may hunt only in the WMU or DMAP areas for which they have obtained antlerless deer licenses.  An antlerless deer is defined as a deer without antlers, or a deer with spike antlers less than three inches in length.

Muzzleloader and special firearms season hunters are reminded that when multiple harvests of deer per day are permitted, only one deer at a time may be taken. Before attempting to take an additional deer, the first deer must be lawfully tagged. However, in Special Regulations Area counties of Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia, hunters may shoot multiple deer before tagging. Deer must be tagged immediately after they are harvested and before the carcass is moved. The tag must be attached to the ear and remain attached until the deer is processed for consumption or prepared for mounting.

Any hunter who by accident or mistake kills an illegal deer is required to deliver the carcass – entrails removed – within 24 hours of the kill to any Game Commission officer in the county where the deer was killed. A written statement also must be provided to the officer explaining when, where and how the accident or mistake occurred. The deer must be tagged with the appropriate deer harvest tag.

Hunters may purchase muzzleloader licenses at any time. The license entitles them to hunt in both the fall antlerless muzzleloader season and the traditional flintlock season. Regulations for the after-Christmas muzzleloader season remain unchanged: hunters may use only primitive type muzzleloading long guns 44-caliber or larger with flintlock ignition systems and primitive sighting devices. Fiber-optic inserts are permitted sighting devices.

Hunters in either October firearms season are required to wear 250 square inches of fluorescent orange clothing on the head, chest and back combined at all times. Bowhunters afield during the overlap of the archery and October antlerless firearms seasons also must wear at least 250 square inches of fluorescent orange while moving and display an orange alert band while on stand.

BEAR AND DEER SEASONS TO OVERLAP IN URBAN WMUS

Muzzleloader deer hunters and those participating in the three-day special firearms deer season in Wildlife Management Units 2B, 5B, 5C and 5D will be able to participate in overlapping bear hunting opportunities. This opportunity was approved by the Board of Game Commissioners as a means of achieving the agency’s goal of reducing bear-human conflicts in these urbanized areas of southwestern and southeastern corners of the state.

Deer hunters who also possess a valid bear license will be able harvest a bear in WMUs 2B, 5B, 5C and 5D from Oct. 13-20 during the muzzleloader season, or from Oct. 18-20 during the three special firearms deer season for junior, senior, active duty military and certain disabled hunters.  Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year. Successful bear hunters must attach the bear harvest tag to the bear’s ear and contact the appropriate region office within 24 hours for instructions to have the animals checked. Office telephone numbers are listed on page 5 of the 2012-13 Hunting and Trapping Digest.

“Pennsylvania’s black bear population is larger and more widely distributed than ever, and bear-human incidents are becoming commonplace, especially in more developed areas,” said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. “Continued expansion of residential development into areas occupied by black bears has resulted in more frequent sightings and encounters between people and bears.

“There are low bear densities in WMUs 2B, 5B, 5C and 5D, which all have relatively high human population densities. As part of the Game Commission’s bear management plan, the agency wants to continue to have a minimal number of bears in these areas, and hunters to have more opportunity to take bears there.”

GAME COMMISSION OFFERS WARM-WEATHER VENISON CARE TIPS

Improperly field-dressing a deer and warm weather can impact the quality of venison warns Dr. Walter Cottrell, Pennsylvania Game Commission wildlife veterinarian.

“The first step in making sure that the venison reaches the table in the best possible condition is sighting in and practicing with your sporting arm,” Dr. Cottrell said. “Coupling that with knowledgeable shot placement ensures a clean kill and minimal damage to edible parts of the animal.

“After properly tagging their deer, hunters should wear latex or nitrile gloves to remove the entrails. Care should be taken to remove entrails without rupturing them, and hunters should drain excess blood remaining in the cavity. Do not wash out the deer with water or in a creek.  Wipe down the cavity with a dry cloth or paper towels, being careful to remove all visible blood and hair.”

Once entrails are removed, the deer should be taken from the field and cooled down as soon as possible. The cool-down process begins when you field-dress the deer. To hasten the cool-down process, skin the deer and hang the carcass in the shade, refrigerate it or place a bag of ice in the body cavity. Never place a deer carcass – with or without the hide on it – in direct sunlight.

For those who process the deer themselves, the first step – after tagging and field-dressing the deer – is to remove the hide, which comes off easier if the front legs are cut off at the elbows, and the rear legs are removed just below the knee joint, with a saw. Use a knife to cut the hide from where each leg was sawed off at the elbow, back to the body trunk. Cutting the rear legs just below the joint also makes it easier to hang a carcass on a gambrel or meat hooks. Hang the carcass by the large tendons on the back legs.

Next, the hide is pulled from the carcass, starting at the rear end and working downward toward the head. Peel it from the hind quarters first, then cut the tailbone and pull it down to the shoulders. Work the hide over the shoulders and pull it away from the legs. Finally, pull the hide down the neck as close to the base of the skull as possible, and then cut the head from the carcass with a clean saw. Remove all of the trachea or windpipe.

The remaining hide-free carcass should be wiped off immediately. If you use water to clean the cavity or carcass, dry the meat immediately. Wet or damp meat spoils more quickly and is more prone to nurture bacteria. Rinsing meat with water also can hasten the spread of bacteria. Inspect the carcass again for any blood and hair. It’s also a good idea to remove large fatty deposits to improve the quality of your meat. It helps lessen that “game taste” some people dislike about venison. Please note, though, that fat is removed from the carcass with greater ease after it has cooled.

Following these steps will prepare your carcass for hanging in a meat processor’s refrigerator, or quartering and placing it in your refrigerator. If the air temperature is above 50 degrees, hunters should get their carcass refrigerated as soon as possible.

“The bacterial load of a deer harvested in warm weather will multiply quickly, so it’s important to dress the deer as soon as possible, transport it from the field and remove the hide, wipe it down with a clean, dry towel to remove blood and refrigerate the carcass,” Dr. Cottrell said. “Cooling the carcass will help prevent bacterial growth.”

Hunters who are interested in becoming more self-sufficient also can de-bone the carcass. The cuts are relatively simple and can be made while the deer is hanging or from a plastic sheet-covered table. An inexpensive plastic fluorescent light cover which can be purchased at any home supply store can be used for a cutting board. Deboning ensures the hunter can inspect and trim excess fat and damaged meat from his or her cuts of venison before freezing.

First, remove the shoulders with a filleting knife. This can be done without cutting a bone, by cutting behind the shoulder-blade. Next, remove the meat from the shoulder with a filleting knife.

Hindquarters can be removed from the carcass next by using a saw or by cutting from the underside with a knife. If you plan to have steaks or jerky made from them, don’t make any further cuts.

Inside the body cavity, against the backbone, are the tenderloins, considered the best cut of meat on a deer. Use your hand, and a knife when necessary, to pull them free. Outside the cavity, along the backbone, are the loin muscles or back-straps, which also are outstanding cuts. Again, using a filleting knife and your fingers, slide the blade along the spine to separate each back-strap and then finish each piece by cutting in along the top of the ribs and under the muscle to the first cut you’ve made.

The remainder of the carcass can be de-boned with a filleting knife. Try to trim fat from meat where you can and wipe off blood whenever it is encountered. De-boning can be done relatively quickly, but remember, every ounce of meat you remove increases your trimmings for sausage, bologna, meat sticks or other products. De-boned meat can be taken to a meat processor immediately, or frozen and taken later. Hindquarters may be frozen for processing later as jerky or dried venison. Steaks should be cut fresh.  A link to a video on deboning in the field can be seen on our website (www.pgc.state.pa.us), by putting your cursor over “Wildlife” in the menu bar at the top of the homepage, then putting your cursor over “Wildlife Diseases” in the drop-down menu listing, and then clicking on “Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)” in the next drop-down menu listing.  To view the video link, scroll down to “What precautions should hunters take,” and click on video link to the video.

“It’s always a good idea to become self-sufficient as a hunter, because of the satisfaction you’ll derive from processing a deer all by yourself and the extra care and quality control you’ll provide,” noted Cal DuBrock, Pennsylvania Game Commission Bureau of Wildlife Management director. “It also broadens your hunting experience and makes you more conscious of where you need to place the crosshairs when you shoot.”

The Game Commission offers two free brochures on venison care and field-dressing deer. The first, “To Field Dress a Deer,” offers step-by-step instructions – with illustrations – on how to field-dress a deer. The second, “Venison Needn’t Be Pot Luck,” offers field-dressing instructions and cooking tips.

To assist hunters in getting the most of their wild game harvests, the Game Commission offers a two-disk series, produced by Jerry Chiappetta and featuring Certified Master Chef Milos Cihelka.  These DVDs – “Wild Game Field Care and Cooking” and “Upland Game Birds, Small Game & Waterfowl” – show step-by-step the best care for game animals from the field to the table. The videos are available from the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us).  Put your cursor over “General Store,” then click on “Visit the Outdoor Shop,” choose “Pennsylvania Game Commission Outdoor Shop” in the lower left-hand corner, select “Merchandise,” then choose “Videos” and then scroll down to the DVD video you are interested in and complete the order form.  Both DVDs sells for $18.87 (plus tax and shipping and handling).

Finally, for recipes that will make venison tastier, consider buying the Game Commission’s “Pennsylvania Game Cookbook” for $4.71 plus tax and a $1.25 for shipping and handling. The book and aforementioned free brochures are available by writing: Pennsylvania Game Commission, Dept. MS, 2001 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg, PA 17110-9797.

THREE WAYS AVAILABLE TO REPORT A HARVEST

Those participating in the upcoming October antlerless deer seasons will be able to file their harvest reports through the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s online system, the toll-free Interactive Voice Response (IVR) harvest reporting system telephone number, which is 1-855-PAHUNT1 (1-855-724-8681), or via postage-paid postcard.

To report a deer harvest online, go to the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us), click on “Report Your Harvest” above the “Quick Clicks” box in the right-hand column, check “Harvest Reporting,” scroll down and click on the “Start Here” button at the bottom of the page, choose the method of validating license information, and click on the checkbox for the harvest tag being reported.  A series of options will appear for a hunter to report a harvest. After filling in the harvest information, click on the “Continue” button to review the report and then hit the “Submit” button to complete the report. Failing to hit the “Submit” button will result in a harvest report not being completed.

“Hunters who use the toll-free number to submit a harvest report will receive a confirmation number, which they should write down and keep as proof of reporting.  Those who report online should print or save a copy of their harvest report submission as proof of reporting.”

Roe noted that hunters should have their Customer Identification Number (hunting license number) and field harvest tag information with them when they call, and that multiple harvests can be reported in a single call. He also stressed callers should speak clearly and distinctly when reporting harvests, especially when providing the Wildlife Management Unit number and letter.

“Hunters may report one or more harvests in a single session,” Roe said. “Responses to all harvest questions are required.”

Roe noted that hunters still have the option to file harvest report postcards, which are included as tear-out sheets in the current digest.

“We certainly are encouraging hunters to use the online reporting system, which will ensure that their harvest is recorded,” Roe said.  “Either way, the more important point is that all hunters who harvest a deer report it to the agency.”

HUNTERS SHARING THE HARVEST A WORTHY CAUSE

Hunters who are successful in the upcoming deer hunting seasons are encouraged by the Pennsylvania Game Commission to consider participating in the state’s Hunters Sharing the Harvest (HSH) program, which channels donations of venison to local food banks, soup kitchens and needy families.  Pennsylvania’s HSH program is recognized as one of the most successful among similar programs in about 40 states.

“Using a network of local volunteer area coordinators and cooperating meat processors to process and distribute venison donated by hunters, HSH has really helped to make a difference for countless needy families and individuals in our state,” said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. “Pennsylvanians who participate in this extremely beneficial program should be proud of the role they play. HSH truly does make a tremendous difference.”

Started in 1991, HSH has developed into a refined support service for organizations that assist the Commonwealth’s needy.  Each year, Hunters Sharing the Harvest helps to deliver almost 200,000 meals to food banks, churches and social services feeding programs for meals provided to needy Pennsylvanians.

“This program is all about the generosity of hunters and their desire to help make a difference,” Roe said. “It’s a program that many hunters have become committed to and enjoy supporting. After all, what is more gratifying than providing needed food to families?”

As part of the program, hunters are encouraged to take a deer to a participating meat processor and identify how much of their deer meat – from an entire deer to several pounds – that is to be donated to HSH.  If the hunter is donating an entire deer, they are asked to make a $15 tax-deductible co-pay, and HSH will cover the remaining processing fees.  However, a hunter can cover the entire costs of the processing, which is tax deductible as well.

HSH established a statewide toll-free telephone number – 866-474-2141 – which also can answer hunters’ questions about where participating meat processors can be found or other general inquiries about the program.

To learn more about the program and obtain a list of participating meat processors and county coordinators, visit the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) and click on “Hunters Sharing the Harvest” in the “Quick Clicks” box in the right-hand column of the homepage, or go to the HSH website (www.sharedeer.org).

As soon as the CWD-infected captive deer was found, the Commonwealth’s CWD Interagency Task Force was initiated to address the threat of the disease to captive and wild deer and elk populations in the state.  Task force members include representatives from the departments of Agriculture, Environmental Protection and Health, the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Geological Survey/Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and Penn State University/Cooperative Extension Offices.

The task force will carry out the response plan, which includes education and outreach with public meetings and minimizing risk factors through continued surveillance, testing and management.

“This Executive Order will enable the Game Commission and Task Force members to monitor the state’s wild deer population in the area surrounding where the CWD-infected farmed deer was found,” Roe said. “We are relying on hunters and others concerned about wildlife to work with us as we strive to manage this disease.”;

As part of the Game Commission’s order, which is part of the response plan, Roe used emergency regulatory authority to set in place a variety of actions that will impact hunters. Namely:

1. Hunters within the DMA are prohibited from moving high-risk parts outside of the DMA.  High-risk cervid parts include: the head (including brain, tonsils, eyes and any lymph nodes); spinal cord/backbone; spleen; skull plate with attached antlers, if visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; cape, if visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; upper canine teeth, if root structure or other soft tissue is present; any object or article containing visible brain or spinal cord tissue; unfinished taxidermy mounts; and brain-tanned hides. Parts not considered high-risk include: meat, without the backbone; cleaned skull plate with attached antlers, if no visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; tanned hide or raw hide with no visible brain or spinal cord tissue present; cape, if no visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; upper canine teeth, if no root structure or other soft tissue is present; and finished taxidermy mounts. To accomplish this, the agency will contract with processors to be available at the check station to serve those hunters who plan to move their harvest outside of the DMA without taking high-risk parts with them.

2. Hunters who harvest a deer within the DMA during the two-week firearms deer season (Nov. 26-Dec. 8) are required to bring their deer to a mandatory check station so that samples can be collected for CWD testing. For those participating in any other deer season prior to or after the two-week firearms deer season within the DMA, bringing harvested deer to the check station is voluntary, but encouraged. Deer harvested outside of the DMA will not be eligible for testing at the check station; however, hunters may get their deer checked by the Department of Agriculture’s Veterinary Laboratory, for a fee, by calling 717-787-8808. The check station is the Game Commission maintenance building on State Game Land 249, 1070 Lake Meade Road, East Berlin, Adams County. GPS coordinates for the building are -77.07280 and 39.97018. The check station will begin operation from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 18, through Tuesday, Oct. 23, except for Sunday, when the check station will be closed. Details about check station hours for the remainder of the early archery and the regular firearms deer season, as well as the late archery and flintlock seasons, will be announced at a later date. The benefit to the hunter is two-fold: the Game Commission will cover the cost of having the animal tested, and the hunter will be notified if the harvested deer is found to be infected with CWD.  The benefit to the agency is that it will be able to test a sufficient number of deer within the DMA without having to resort to culling deer simply for testing.

3. Hunters within the DMA are prohibited from using or possessing any cervid urine-based attractants. Such attractants cause deer to congregate in certain areas and increases the likelihood that CWD could spread if it is found in the wild.

Additionally, Roe noted that the order prohibits the rehabilitation of deer within the DMA, as those deer will be euthanized and tested for CWD.

The order also prohibits the feeding of cervids, which causes deer to congregate in certain areas and increases the likelihood that CWD could spread if it is found in the wild.

Finally, those individuals with a menagerie permit from the Game Commission will be prohibited from transporting live deer into or out of the DMA, and no new menagerie permits will be issued for locations within the DMA.

The order does not impact cervid livestock operations, which are under the jurisdiction of the Department of Agriculture.

Roe reiterated that officials from the CWD Task Force, including the Game Commission and Department of Agriculture, will hold a public meeting at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 17, in the Bermudian Springs High School auditorium, 7335 Carlisle Pike, York Springs, Adams County.  Staff from the two agencies will provide background information on CWD, offer an update about deer farming operations and discuss the potential management challenges should CWD be found in wild deer populations.

As noted previously, the physical boundaries of the DMA are: Starting at the intersection of Interstate-76 and the west bank of the Susquehanna River heading south along the River (21.8 miles) to US Highway 30.  Westbound on US Highway 30 (18.3 miles) to Highway 116. Highway 116 towards Hanover (13.7 miles). In Hanover, southwest on State Highway 194 (7 miles) to Littlestown, then northwest on State Highway 97 (9.7 miles) to Gettysburg.  In Gettysburg, north on State Highway 34 (14.3 miles) to the Idaville Road. East on Idaville Road (4.8 miles) to the intersection of State Highway 94.  North State Highway 94 (2 miles) to Latimore Road. East on Latimore Road (1.6 miles) to Mountain Road. North on Mountain Road (6.9 miles) to Dillsburg and the intersection of US Highway 15.  North on US Highway 15 (3.2 miles) to the Yellow Breeches Creek (County Line).  Northeast along the banks of the Yellow Breeches Creek (12.1 miles) to the intersection of I-76.  East along I-76 (6.4 miles) to the intersection of the west bank of Susquehanna River and the starting point.

On Oct. 11, the Department of Agriculture announced that the positive sample was taken from a captive-born and raised white-tailed deer at 1491 New Chester Rd., New Oxford, and tested as part of Pennsylvania’s intensive CWD monitoring efforts. The sample tissue was tested at the Pennsylvania Veterinary Laboratory in Harrisburg and verified at the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa.

In addition to the Adams County location, the Department of Agriculture has quarantined three other farms directly associated with the positive deer at 6464 Jacks Hollow Rd., Williamsport, Lycoming County; 61 Pickett Rd., Dover, York County; and 295 Bremer Rd., Dover, York County. The quarantine prevents movement of any CWD susceptible animals on and off the premises.

CWD attacks the brains of infected deer, elk and moose, producing small lesions that eventually result in death. It is transmitted by direct animal-to-animal contact through saliva, feces and urine.

Signs of the disease include weight loss, excessive salivation, increased drinking and urination, and abnormal behavior such as stumbling, trembling and depression. Infected deer and elk may also allow unusually close approach by humans or natural predators. The disease is fatal and there is no known treatment or vaccine.

CWD was first discovered in Colorado captive mule deer in 1967, and has since been detected in 21 other states and two Canadian provinces, including Pennsylvania’s neighboring states of New York, West Virginia and Maryland. Pennsylvania is the 22nd state to find CWD in a captive or wild deer population and the 13th state to have it only in a captive deer herd.

Surveillance for CWD has been ongoing in Pennsylvania since 1998. The Agriculture Department coordinates a mandatory CWD monitoring program for more than 23,000 captive deer on 1,100 breeding farms, hobby farms and shooting preserves.

In addition, the Game Commission collects samples from hunter-harvested deer and elk and those that appear sick or behave abnormally. Since 1998, the Game Commission has submitted for testing more than 38,000 free-ranging deer and elk for CWD, and all have tested negative.

For more information from the departments of Agriculture and Health and the Pennsylvania Game Commission, visit:

* www.agriculture.state.pa.us (click on the “Chronic Wasting Disease Information” button on the homepage),

* www.pgc.state.pa.us (click on “CWD Info”), and

* www.health.state.pa.us (click on “Diseases and Conditions”).

At the first public meeting about the CWD disease on Wednesday, one of the attendees asked who will be paying for that response, noting that “the hunter is not the one who’s profiting from the deer farms.”

Game Commission Executive Director Carl Roe responded, “It’s our obligation. We are putting together a request for a supplemental budget to pay for it.

“I think the cost is going to be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.”

As part of its response, the commission has instituted a disease management area of nearly 600 square miles in Adams and York counties.

According to the state Department of Agriculture, the deadly disease was confirmed Oct. 8 in a 3.5-year-old doe that died a few days earlier in an enclosure in New Oxford, Adams County.

Prior to arriving in New Oxford, the animal had lived in enclosures near Dover and Strinestown in York County. It apparently was born to a captive doe near Williamsport, Lycoming County.

However, Ag has estimated that the impact could eventually be felt by more than a hundred deer farms because of the frequent transportation of deer between farms.

Deadly to deer, elk and moose, without any means of treatment or prevention, CWD has now been confirmed in 23 states, including Pennsylvania.

The disease, which the Center for Disease Control and Prevention says has shown no ability to jump into humans, has not been found in any wild deer in Pennsylvania.

By creating the DMA, the Game Commission hopes to confine any spread of the disease to the area most likely to have already been contaminated.

The DMA is part of the response being led by the state’s CWD Interagency Task Force, which

includes representatives from the departments of Agriculture, Environmental Protection and Health, the Game Commission, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Geological Survey’s Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and Penn State University’s Cooperative Extension Offices.

Hunters within the DMA are prohibited from moving high-risk deer parts outside of the DMA./p

High-risk cervid parts include the head; spinal cord/backbone; spleen; skull plate with attached antlers, if visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; cape, if visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; upper canine teeth, if root structure or other soft tissue is present; any object or article containing visible brain or spinal cord tissue; unfinished taxidermy mounts; and brain-tanned hides.

Parts not considered high-risk include meat, without the backbone; cleaned skull plate with attached antlers, if no visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; tanned hide or raw hide with no visible brain or spinal cord tissue present; cape, if no visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; upper canine teeth, if no root structure or other soft tissue is present; and finished taxidermy mounts.

A voluntary check station for hunter-harvested deer in the DMA will be in operation at the commission’s maintenance building on State Game Lands 249, 1070 Lake Meade Road, East Berlin, from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. through Tuesday, Oct. 23.

The check station will be mandatory for deer taken within the DMA during the Nov. 26-Dec. 8 firearms deer season.

Details about check station hours for the remainder of the early archery and the regular firearms deer season, as well as the late archery and flintlock seasons, will be announced at some future date.

Within the DMA, hunters also are prohibited from using or having any cervid urine-based attractants, which could cause deer to congregate in certain areas and increases the likelihood that CWD could spread if it is found in the wild.

Feeding deer also is prohibited in the DMA, as is the rehabilitation of deer within the DMA. Those deer will be euthanized and tested for CWD.

In addition, individuals with a menagerie permit from the commission will be prohibited from transporting live deer into or out of the DMA, and no new menagerie permits will be issued for locations within the DMA.

The order does not impact cervid livestock operations, which are under the jurisdiction of the Department of Agriculture.

The boundaries of the DMA are as follows.

Starting at the intersection of I-76 and the west bank of the Susquehanna River heading south along the river 21.8 miles to Rt. 30. Westbound on Rt. 30 18.3 miles to Rt. 116. Rt. 116 towards Hanover 13.7 miles. In Hanover, southwest on Rt. 194 seven miles to Littlestown, then northwest on Rt. 97 9.7 miles to Gettysburg. In Gettysburg, north on Rt. 34 14.3 miles to the Idaville Road. East on Idaville Road 4.8 miles to the intersection of Rt. 94. North on Rt. 94 two miles to Latimore Road. East on Latimore Road 1.6 miles to Mountain Road. North on Mountain Road 6.9 miles to Dillsburg and the intersection of Rt. 15. North on Rt. 15 3.2 miles to the Yellow Breeches Creek (county line). Northeast along the banks of the Yellow Breeches Creek 12.1 miles to the intersection of I-76. East along I-76 6.4 miles to the intersection of the west bank of Susquehanna River and the starting point.

By MARCUS SCHNECK, The Patriot-News