Wildlife officials discuss shifting to TeleCheck for deer hunting after check station challenges

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) is considering a significant shift in how hunters report their deer harvests, moving towards a fully electronic system known as TeleCheck. This change, discussed during the Virtual Big Game Meeting on January 1, 2025, aims to address challenges faced by hunters and check stations across the state.

Currently, many hunters are required to visit physical check stations to report their harvests. However, a GIS analysis revealed that a substantial number of residents live over half an hour away from these stations, with some areas, like the Sandhills, experiencing even longer travel times. This distance has led to concerns that many deer are not being reported, as hunters may find it inconvenient to make the trip.

The transition to TeleCheck, which has been successfully used by archery and muzzleloader hunters for nearly 15 years, gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, when in-person check stations were temporarily closed, hunters quickly adapted to the TeleCheck system, resulting in higher reporting numbers than in previous years. The NGPC noted that this method has been well-received and is seen as a more efficient way to manage deer harvest reporting.

Another factor driving this change is the increasing turnover of check station operators. Many convenience stores, which often host these stations, are struggling to find staff, leading to a decline in available check stations. The NGPC has faced challenges in maintaining these stations, with a significant rise in turnover rates over the past few years.

While the TeleCheck system is expected to streamline the reporting process, the NGPC acknowledges that some form of physical check stations may still be necessary for disease sampling and other regulatory needs. However, the overall trend indicates a move towards a more technology-driven approach to wildlife management, aligning Nebraska with practices already adopted by neighboring states.

As the NGPC continues to explore this transition, the focus remains on improving accessibility for hunters while ensuring accurate data collection for wildlife management. The outcomes of this meeting signal a potential shift in how hunting regulations are implemented, with the aim of better serving the community's needs.