Mich. to reduce check stations during deer season

By AP

LANSING, MI – Michigan wildlife officials will operate fewer check stations to monitor deer hunting this fall.

It's another sign of state government's budget problems. The Department of Natural Resources said Thursday it doesn't have the money to run as many check stations as it has in the past.

The department plans to close more than half of its 125 check stations and operate the remaining stations only during the Nov. 15-30 firearms season. A final list of open stations and hours will be established in the coming months.

Hunters will have to take their deer to DNR operation service centers during archery, youth and muzzleloader seasons.

The reduced staffing and hours of operation are expected to save more than $500,000.