DNR proposes expanding Michigan elk hunting season to 45 days

The Department of Natural Resources wants to expand the total elk harvest time to 45 days, up from the current 21 days.

Currently, the hunting season spans three short four-day periods in late summer.

Under the new plan, the first hunt would last 30 days, running from mid-September to mid-October.

The second hunt would be 15 days long and take place in December.

The DNR said the change would provide hunters with more favorable weather conditions and reduce the pressure to make a quick kill.

The current elk herd in the management area is estimated at 1,146 animals.

The DNR’s goal is to reduce that number to between 500 and 900.