DNR reports 2024 deer season growth and record safety achievements in Wisconsin

The recent Natural Resources Board meeting held on February 26, 2025, highlighted significant developments in Wisconsin's deer hunting season, showcasing a blend of increased participation, safety, and community engagement.

One of the most notable outcomes was the overall 1% increase in license sales, totaling 793,880 for the year. While archery sales saw a slight decline of 3%, crossbow sales surged by 6%, contributing to the overall growth. The majority of licenses—68%—were sold online, with the remaining 32% purchased at agent locations across the state. This year, Wisconsin welcomed hunters from all 50 states and 27 countries, with Minnesota, Illinois, and Michigan leading in non-resident sales.

The meeting also celebrated a remarkable achievement in safety, reporting only one nonfatal hunting incident during the nine-day gun deer season, marking the safest season in over 40 years. This success is attributed to the diligent efforts of conservation wardens and hunter safety instructors, who have been instrumental in educating the public about safe hunting practices.

In addition to safety, the meeting addressed the importance of community engagement through various outreach programs. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reported a significant increase in media coverage and social media engagement, with 32 news releases and 158 media interviews conducted, resulting in over 19 million views of related stories. This outreach is crucial for fostering a positive relationship between the DNR and the public, ensuring that hunters are well-informed and engaged.

The meeting also touched on the elk population management, with updates on the 2024 elk harvest season and projections for 2025. The Clam Lake and Black River elk herds continue to thrive, with successful hunts reported and a commitment to managing the population sustainably. The DNR is actively working to address agricultural damage caused by elk through various strategies, including trap and relocate programs and the establishment of diversion crop fields.

As the meeting concluded, board members expressed gratitude for the hard work of DNR staff and emphasized the importance of continuing to engage with the community to ensure the future success of Wisconsin's natural resources. The outcomes of this meeting reflect a commitment to balancing wildlife management with public safety and community involvement, setting a positive tone for the upcoming seasons.