The next step is for the state and federal resource agencies to develop a course of action for restoration.

This year's deer harvest demonstrates the overall success of deer herd reduction efforts implemented in counties exceeding their population objectives. We have made significant progress toward balancing the state's deer population with available habitat.

There is a lot of interest in coyote hunting in West Virginia. However, the majority of our hunters are unfamiliar with the techniques and regulations that are involved. Because of this lack of knowledge, DNR has been hosting seminars around the state to provide our hunters a chance to meet firsthand with experts on coyotes and coyote hunting. This will ultimately allow our hunters to become more successful. The last seminar we held a couple of weeks ago in Fairmont had nearly 600 in attendance and I expect the seminars in Mineral Wells and Beckley will receive just as much interest.

There is a lot of interest in coyote hunting in West Virginia. However, the majority of our hunters are unfamiliar with the techniques and regulations that are involved. Because of this lack of knowledge, DNR will be hosting these seminars to provide our hunters a chance to meet firsthand with experts on coyotes and coyote hunting, which will ultimately allow our hunters to become more successful.

I hope hunters take advantage of these seminars and attend. I can assure them that the information provided will be very beneficial and will allow them to be more efficient in hunting the coyote.

Stay alive, stay active, and get as much practice as you can.