We’re only a few weeks away from September and the start of many hunting seasons in New York. Hunting licenses are on sale now and can be purchased online from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) at www.dec.ny.gov/permits/365.html.

There have been a number of changes made to the state’s outdoor sports licensing. Most notably, the license year is now from September 1 to August 31. This is to ensure sportsmen don’t miss out on the numerous hunting seasons that begin in September. There are also no longer sportsman and super sportsman licenses which permitted multiple hunting privileges in one license. Now, privileges and stamps are separate for purchase. Additionally, fishing licenses now are valid for one year from the date of purchase; they will no longer expire on September 30.

Other changes should prove to make hunting a bit more interesting in New York. The black bear population is robust, and to help responsibly manage the population the DEC is opening up certain wildlife management areas as well as creating an early season in some parts of the state.

This year, we passed a law in the state budget permitting crossbow hunting on small and big game. This change in law will offer another exciting way for New Yorkers and visitors to take part in the outdoor sports in our state.

The management and responsible conservation of our wildlife and open space is tremendously important to our state and economy, especially here in upstate New York. Your participation in the DEC’s outdoor sports licensing programs is an important part of raising funds to continue to care for our abundant natural wonders.

If you have thoughts on outdoor sports, environmental conservation or any other topic, please share them with me. I can be reached at blankenbushk@assembly.state.ny.us or by phone 493-3909.