Chanda: So far, it's been working fine. However, a few bugs have to be worked out. Since regulations are made for two years at a time, everything has to be planned out well in advance. And once the regulations are set, they're in place for two years.

A recent problem with some deer management zones (DMZs) in the southern part of the state involved a downturn in the harvest in certain zones, which proved there needs to be more flexibility in the system.

G&F: Has there been any Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) or other health problems detected within the deer herd?

Chanda: Since the 1970s, the state has tested hundreds of deer samples annually and found no health issues.

G&F: Has the recent addition of a second buck permit had any effect on the number of deer hunters?

Chanda: It was decided that with the state dropping the Earn A Buck Program, a second buck permit would help make up for the loss in revenues.

While some hunters did not like the additional permit, it has not cut into the numbers of sportsmen hunting.

Waterfowl
G&F: What shape is the waterfowl population in? How many waterfowl hunters are there in the state?

Chanda: Waterfowl populations in the state are in very good shape.

New Jersey is an important stopover on the eastern migration route, so populations in the state will vary depending on the overall population along the flyway. There are about 12,000 hunters in the state, and their numbers have remained pretty much steady for the last several years.

G&F: What is the number of resident geese in the state?

Chanda: The population is estimated at around 100,000 birds. However, last year's mild winter kept a larger than normal number of migratory birds in the state. Large numbers of birds did not fly as far south last year as they usually do.

G&F: How is the access for waterfowl hunters?

Chanda: The state has been working with Ducks Unlimited and the New Jersey Waterfowlers, who have helped secure a lot of access in recent years. Many of the wildlife management areas along the coast and the Delaware River and bay offer excellent access for waterfowl hunters.

G&F: Any problems with the black duck populations?

Chanda: Their numbers are good, and no problems have been detected with the duck or geese populations.