Fall is upon us, and with it brings one of the most anticipated times of the year for many of my constituents here upstate – hunting season. I think it is appropriate to recognize the many contributions that hunters make to New York’s environment. It is hunters who assist the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) in educating newcomers to the sport and instill in them a respect for our wildlife and our precious outdoors.

It is hunters, including fishermen and trappers, whose license fees and taxes on equipment in large part finance the New York State Conservation Fund, which pays for trail maintenance, roadside access to trails and streams, and Environmental Conservation Officers to police them. Individually and through organizations such as Ducks Unlimited, hunters have taken a lead role in the preservation of wildlife habitat that all New Yorkers can enjoy.

I value my constituents and all New Yorkers, and I want everyone to maintain another New York tradition, namely, safe hunting. Last year was among the safest hunting seasons on record. Increasing education and diligence from New York’s hunters make our state among the safest in the nation. It is always good to remember a few basic safety tips:

• Be sure to wear some form of blaze orange. I know many of you dress in camouflage, but during big game season, an orange hat or vest goes a long way toward ensuring your safety. Remember, we have hunters who come to our region who may not be as experienced as you; blaze orange lets them know you are there.
• Weather changes quickly, if you are hiking into a remote area prepare for the worst.
• If you hunt alone, let someone know where you will be hunting.
• None of us are getting younger; if you get the big buck of your dreams, take your time getting him out. Studies show that hunters can be under terrific cardiac stress.
• Remember basic gun handling safety. Assume a gun is loaded, keep your barrel downrange and be sure of your target.

To my non-hunting constituents who enjoy the beauty of autumn’s outdoors, remember, there will be people with guns and bows in the woods. You probably won’t see them because deer and bear seldom walk the trails you are on. It is smart to wear some blaze orange to make your presence known. Also, be cognizant that hunters pay for the upkeep of the trails you walk and the access area for your canoe or kayak. We all can enjoy the beauty of our magnificent region together.

As always, if you have any questions, please call me at (315) 493-3909 or email me at blankenbushk@assembly.state.ny.us.