The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Mon., Nov. 16, announced the start of the 2020-21 regular firearms season for deer and bear hunting in New York's Southern District on Sat., Nov. 21. DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos encouraged hunters to be safe, have fun, pass up shots on young bucks, and take steps to protect the state's deer from Chronic Wasting Disease, according to a press release. "Regulated hunting is one of the most important conservation efforts New Yorkers engage in each year,” Seggos said. “Hunters help balance deer and bear populations with local habitats and land uses, ...” The season begins at sunrise on the 21st, and continues through Sun., Dec. 13. The Southern Zone regular season is the state's most popular hunting season, with participation from about 85 percent of New York's 550,000 licensed hunters. Following the regular deer and bear seasons, late bowhunting, and muzzleloading seasons will run from Dec. 14 to 22. Information about getting outdoors safely and responsibly during the state's response to COVID-19, is available at the DEC's website. Read more at dec [dot] ny [dot] gov.