The deer population in my area (4W) is still off of the high water marks of years past but for the first time in 4 years I actually saw deer on each outing. Was actually fortunate enough to get a nice 8 on the second morning. My Father passed on a few small bucks opening day and one of our neighborsnailed a big 11 on the day after Thanksgiving. I think in our area we are seeing a slowrecovery of the deer pop. Most of this is as a result of the zero issue of DMP'sover the last 2 years plus the light winters, not to mention the area was logged 3 years ago and is now loaded with browes.
From my perspective,I would actually like tosee the DEC expand theAR in my area. I thinka solid QDM strategy (this is different from the current AR pilot)would actually add togreater hunter satisfaction and increased licenses sales in the long run. Yeah, some would complain the first couple of years as they do not the opp to shoot a deer but which one of you would pass on a 8 or 10 pointerto takea small buck or doe? DEC needs to decide if they will manage for the long or the short term.I realize this statementmay not be popular with all but thats my opinion.