The Pennsylvania Game Commission has taken significant steps to enhance wildlife management and hunting opportunities during its recent Board of Game Commissioners meeting on April 12, 2025. Among the key decisions made was the final adoption of several amendments aimed at improving hunting regulations and accessibility for participants.

One of the most impactful resolutions was the expansion of the Mentored Hunting Program. This program, which has been growing since its inception in February 2006, will now allow mentored youth and adults to acquire agricultural deer control harvest permits and snow goose conservation permits. This change is expected to provide more opportunities for new hunters to engage in conservation efforts and manage wildlife populations effectively.

Additionally, the Commission approved amendments to the agricultural damage depredation permit program. Notably, the two-year public access enrollment requirement has been eliminated for all applicants, streamlining the process for farmers affected by deer damage. The new regulations will also simplify the application process by allowing applicants to certify their ownership or lease of the affected agricultural interests without the previous deed or lease production requirement.

The Commission also updated hunting hours for the 2025-2026 license year, ensuring that the hunting hours table accurately reflects current regulations. Furthermore, the personal quota for antlerless deer licenses in specific wildlife management units has been increased from six to fifteen, allowing hunters greater flexibility and opportunity in managing deer populations.

These amendments reflect the Commission's commitment to effective wildlife management and the promotion of hunting as a sustainable practice. As these changes take effect, stakeholders and community members can expect a more inclusive and efficient approach to wildlife conservation and hunting in Pennsylvania.