"High Grading" is a potentially destructive practice of any natrual resource (Whitetail Deer, trees, etc.) where only the biggest, best or largest of that resource are harvested. Sometimes it's referred to as "taking the best and leaving the rest".

With respect to New Yorks deer herd I really don't see how it applies.

I fully support a young hunterhaving the right to harvest any buck that he has the opportunity to harvest.In fact in theunits where the AR's are being tested hunters under 18 can take "any" buck with at least one antler of 3" length. Clearly the DEC has considered this.I also support management in so far as harvesting does with the goal of reaching a decent buck/doe ratio. The fact is that most hunters willNOT abstain from shooting the 18 month old buck that they see on opening day and in order for more bucks to survive a mandate may need to be implemented. This is NOT for the production of "Trophy"bucksBUT rathera device that may assist in bringing the buck/doe ratiocloser to what it should be for a truly healthy herd.A secondary benefit of this IS more Mature Bucks. The alternative would be to keep killing does atan accelerated rate, to catch up to the buck kill, and we know that doesn't work!

s6