Nebraska Game and Parks Briefs

Safely Enjoy Firearm Deer Hunting Season

LINCOLN – The November firearm deer season is one of the most anticipated times of the year for Nebraska hunters. Despite the many opportunities across the state to harvest a deer this season, hunter safety in the field remains critical.

“Hunting remains one of the safest activities to participate in, but there are always a few key things to consider while afield,” said Nebraska Hunter Education Coordinator Jackson Ellis.

-- Always keep your muzzle pointed in a safe direction, safety on, and finger off the trigger until ready to fire.

-- Properly identify your target and what lies beyond it before pulling the trigger; never shoot at sounds or movement.

-- All deer hunters are required to wear 400 square inches of blaze orange on their head, chest and back during the November firearm season, regardless if they are hunting with a firearm or archery tackle.

-- Be sure to unload firearms before travelling in a motorized vehicle and before crossing obstacles such as barbed-wire fences, creeks or steep embankments.

-- When hunting from a tree stand or elevated platform, always maintain three points of contact when ascending or descending, pull gear up with a haul line, and wear a Fall Arrest System (safety harness).

“The tradition of deer hunting in Nebraska continues to be a fun, safe activity with great opportunities at finding success in all corners of the state,” Ellis said. “Have fun out there, and hunt safe!”

The firearm deer season is Nov. 10-18. Buy permits at OutdoorNebraska.org.

Participate in Deer Exchange to Donate or Receive Venison

LINCOLN – Nebraskans who want to donate or receive harvested deer can participate in the Deer Exchange.

This program is designed to accommodate the additional harvest of deer. It brings together hunters who have a surplus of deer with recipients willing to accept the deer meat.

The Deer Exchange, which is available annually from Sept. 1 through March 1, allows hunters and potential venison recipients to join a database and search for other participating parties in their area. Parties will work out the details of the transfer. While the venison cannot be sold, recipients may pay for the processing or butchering of the meat. Donors and recipients can register online for free.

Recipients will have the choice of accepting whole field dressed deer, skinned and boned deer, wrapped and frozen deer or processed meat. Donors are responsible for properly field dressing and checking deer at a check station before transfer.

When transferring game animals, the hunter must provide the following information on a transfer tag: name, phone number, permit number or seal number, estimated weight of meat (in pounds), species of animal, date taken, signature of donor and name of recipient. A transfer tag is available on page 44 of the 2018 Big Game Guide. Go to Outdoornebraska.gov/guides.

To join the Deer Exchange or view participants, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov/deerexchangeprogram.