Thoughts on deer season

I have been a hunter in this Commonwealth for 32 years. While I hold no degree in wildlife management, I do consider myself an accomplished hunter and outdoors man. A successful day afield is not measured by the weight of the game bag. I was lucky enough to partake in the waning period of the glory years of small game hunting here in York County where I have lived all of my life. While I miss those days immensely, there was always deer season to look forward to. Now, that too has seemed to vanish. I understand the proper balance of wild animals and their habitats is important. I even understand the theories used to justify antler restrictions. What I can not understand, is this agency's unwavering stance of ignoring folks such as me, who live to be in our woods and fields. Folks, the deer herd is decimated. I am seriously considering not purchasing a 2006 hunting license. This probably will go unnoticed to the Game Commission, which, by the way, I have always supported. Hunting is what I live for, and I have introduced two new hunters to the sport recently. It is so disheartening to see the disappointment on their face when not one single deer is spotted while afield. Do you know how hard it is to take a youngster afield and not see any deer. I wonder if they question my credibility when I tell stories of the deer that I have seen in the woods just two years ago. And, by the way, I do not limit my hunting to one specific area. Yes, I know there are pockets of high deer concentrations. They are all around the suburban areas near my home. Places difficult to gain access to even with a bow. What I do know is that there are many areas where the habitat is healthy, mast crops are bountiful, there are no browse lines, and NO DEER. With the current financial situation, hunting license fee increases won't help much if there are no hunters. I'll struggle with my new hunters for maybe another year or two, but only if you as an agency, start listening to your allies, not your enemies -- the hunters of this state! CHARLES M. ZAMBITO YORK