The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency started collecting deer biological data on the opening day of muzzleloader season that began Saturday and will do the same on opening day of rifle season on Nov. 21 at various locations across Tennessee.
Data to be collected will include deer age estimates, antler measurements and Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) surveillance samples at select locations.
With the addition of the Internet check-in in 2009 and the TWRA “on the go” mobile application, fewer hunters are physically bringing deer to the traditional check stations.
Less than half of deer harvested are brought to a check station and the trend is continuing as technology is increasing.
The newer methods for big game checking have made the process easier for hunters, but in return more difficult for TWRA agents to collect much-needed data from harvested animals.
The data collected is very important to aid the TWRA in managing deer populations across the state.
Many times, deer management recommendations and decisions are made using this data collected from hunters.
It is particularly important when any buck restrictions are being considered. This year if you harvest a deer on either opening day of the muzzleloaders or rifle season, bring your deer by one of the check stations or locations. Champions Deer Processing in Hillsboro, AEDC 427 Jess Duncan Rd. in Estill Springs, Barton Springs Grocery and Bait in Normandy, Mrs Brown’s Country Store in Beechgrove, Marathon Market on the Woodbury Hwy in Manchester and 41 Market on the Murfreesboro Hwy in Manchester.
Not only will you be able to learn the age of your deer, but you will also be greatly aiding the TWRA with deer management in Tennessee.
TWRA Needing Deer Data
