Syracuse.com - DEC announces temporary 'blackout' for buying licences, reporting game

[HuntingNY-News]

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Martens said DEC will undergo a change from the current computerized licensing system to a newly developed system, and the blackout is expected to last about one to two weeks.

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<p><br />State Department of Environmmental Conservation Comissioner Joe Martens today announced a "temporary blackout period" beginning Dec. 26 at which time the public will not be able to purchase hunting, fishing or trapping licenses, or secure a recreational marine fishing registration or report their harvested game.</p>

<p>Martens said DEC will undergo a change from the current computerized licensing system to a newly developed system and that the blackout is expected to last about one to two weeks. </p>

<p>"In order to transfer the most current data and transition to the new system, we need to completely shut down license sales and game harvest reporting," said Commissioner Martens. "The ability to purchase a sporting license, associated stamp or permit, or report a harvested deer or bear will be temporary (shut off).</p>

<p>"The public will be notified as soon the new system is accessible," he said.</p>

<p>Deer and bear season in Westchester County and deer season in Suffolk County will be open during at least a portion of the blackout period. Small game and waterfowl hunting seasons and many fishing seasons will also remain open during this time.</p>

<p>Hunters are required, by law, to report deer, bear, and turkey harvested pursuant to a hunting license within seven days of taking the animal. </p>

<p>During the blackout period, hunters will not be able to report their harvest; however, they will be given a seven-day grace period to report their harvest once the new system is up and running, Martens said.<br /></p>

View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog