"the more the merrier", I agree. We seem to forget that hunters are a fraternity, albeit an aging one whose membership is also declining each year. If the introduction of crossbows increases the number of hunters amongst our ranks and more importantly serves as a necessary tool to manage deer populations,preserve wildlife habitat and protect the public let us give it a try.

The introduction of compound bows and their associated technological improvemnets have not had a major impact on deer populations within the state. Gun season will always be the DEC's most valuable tool in controlling deer populations.