The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources hopes hunters have a safe and successful hunting season while helping manage local deer populations.

So far, hunters have harvested 299 deer, including 160 antlered deer, in Kewaunee County and 499 deer, including 186 antlered deer, in Door County since the deer hunting season began Sept. 12.

Based on recommendations from county deer advisory councils, hunters are eligible for additional free antlerless deer tags, including up to 10 in Door County if they purchase licenses for both the archery/crossbow and gun seasons.

DNR Warden Chris Kratcha says deer populations in Door and Kewaunee counties are extremely high. He encourages hunters to use as many of their available tags as possible to help control the population.

Hunters who have run out of freezer space can also help those in need through the DNR's deer donation program. Meat processors across the state, including three in Door and Kewaunee counties, accept Wisconsin-harvested deer free of charge so the venison can be donated to area food pantries.

Since the program began in 2000, hunters have donated more than 100,000 deer, providing over 4 million pounds of ground venison to community members in need.

Area Lions Clubs are also once again accepting deer hides to raise money for programs, including the Lions Camp in Rosholt.