The state Department of of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos announced August 4, that hunting and trapping licenses and Deer Management Permits for the 2021-2022 seasons are now on sale. The DEC also announced expanded hunting seasons this year and added an opportunity for youth to hunt deer with a firearm or crossbow in upstate counties that have opted in to participate. Columbia, Greene, Dutchess, Rensselaer and Ulster counties all passed local laws to allow 12- and 13-year-olds to participate in the hunt. Seggos said in a press release, “As always, DEC encourages hunters to plan ahead, get outdoors responsibly, and follow the principles of hunter safety." Licenses and permits can be purchased online, at any one of DEC's license-issuing agents, or by telephone at 866-933-2257. New hunting and trapping licenses are valid from Sept. 1, 2021, through Aug. 31, 2022; annual fishing licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase. Information is available at dec [dot] ny [dot] gov.