Hunters frustrated over weak November deer hunt - WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and Sports

MADISON (WKOW) -- Frustrated hunters gathered at the capitol, demanding answers about last month's dismal deer hunt.

The major concern at today's public hearing was that the Department of Natural Resources herd reduction regulations might be destroying the deer population.

Hunters killed nearly 30 percent fewer deer in November compared to last year.

Senator Neal Kedzie pointed fingers at the DNR.

He said their policies are ruining hunting and the agency is ignoring the voices and concerns of hunters.

"What is happening here, is if we lose the Wisconsin deer hunter, you've lost the program," Kedzie says.

"I know there is frustration with hunters, but if the suggestion is made that we are not listening at all, I take issue with that." said DNR Secretary Matt Frank.

He said other factors also impact the deer population like forestry and agriculture damage and car collisions.

He adds the agency ended the 'earn a buck' program and tabled an idea to extend the deer hunt to 16 days.

The DNR says they will take all the public comment into consideration as they draw up new plans for deer population management.

They hope to have a plan in by April 1st.

Deer harvests in neighboring states are also down. According to the DNR, Minnesota is down 10 percent and Michigan dropped by 30 percent.