I haven't heard if it passed but I would hope not. Seems the DNR is trying to get the longer season (23 days) by claiming they will eliminate the early T-Zone and earn a buck in 2005. What they have also stated is that if the longer gun season does not result in the deer kill they feel is needed then they will be FORCED to bring back the earn a buck and T-zone. This will mean by 2006 we will have a longer gun season (which they have been after for years) and the other seasons back.

I have hunted in Wisconsin all my life (I'm 39) and I am both a gun hunter and a bow hunter. Last year 4 of us shot 7 deer on 80 acres of land. Six of these were does and one was an 8 point buck. Only 2 of the deer were shot with a bow. The year before we shot 5 deer (3 doe, 2 buck) all with a gun and all we have gotten for doing what they have asked it continued earn a buck and T-zone.

The WI DNR will never be happy with the deer kill so I am starting to think that maybe I will just take my one doe and then look for the buck. In the past I have always supported the DNR but now I am getting tired of getting it up the rear from them. I do believe the deer are out there because we continue to see them. We were out this past weekend and saw 11 on our property alone. I know we need to kill more but a longer gun season just does not work.

I do not claim to have the answers but to lead us on to think earn a buck and T-zone will go away forever is just not right. I voted no and I know many other who did the same. If anyone out there has any ideas please let the WI DNR know. Maybe they'll listen to you.