Environmental Conservation Officers (ECOs) in Saratoga County report the donation of two deer seized during separate illegal hunting investigations. The first incident occurred when officers discovered a buck shot without the proper tags on a property in Stillwater. The second case involved a deer shot from a vehicle in Edinburg, leading to multiple charges against the suspects. Both deer were donated to the Venison for Veterans and Seniors program, a vital initiative that provides nutritious meat to local veterans and their families.
In 2024 alone, nearly 4,200 pounds of venison were distributed through this program, showcasing the impact of responsible hunting practices and community support. As illegal hunting continues to be a concern, the DEC responded to over 18,934 complaints last year, leading to more than 9,000 tickets and arrests. The swift response from ECOs in these recent cases highlights the importance of wildlife conservation efforts and the community’s role in fostering a safe environment for both hunters and the broader ecosystem.
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