LANSING, MI (AP)-- The Department of Natural Resources says canceling the deer hunting season in the Upper Peninsula is one of many options to consider in response to a smaller deer population.
Deer management specialist Chad Stewart doubts the fall season will be scratched. But it's one of six options to be presented to the Natural Resources Commission at its May 7 meeting. No immediate decision is expected.
Harsh winters have had a severe impact on deer. Stewart tells WPBN-WTOM that the number of deer killed in the Upper Peninsula during the 2014 season was one of the lowest in 30 years.
Hunting gives a big lift to the economy north of the Mackinac Bridge. St. Ignace Visitors Bureau President James Dekeyser says canceling the season would have a "huge impact."