DEC expands non-lead ammunition study to help improve bald and golden eagle conservation efforts

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is expanding statewide the multi-year cooperative study of how increased use of non-lead ammunition for deer hunting can improve the survival of bald and golden eagles. Hunters statewide are now eligible for a rebate up to $60 for the purchase of non-lead ammunition for use during the 2024-25 deer hunting seasons.

“Hunters are critical partners in promoting sustainable wildlife management practices across North America, including ongoing efforts to improve golden and bald eagle populations in New York State,” DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said. “By using non-lead ammo, hunters can help ensure scavenging animals like eagles are not unintentionally exposed to toxic lead fragments from bullets. DEC appreciates deer hunters who have volunteered to be part of this study and encourages others to participate during the upcoming hunting season.”

DEC highly prioritizes minimizing risks to wildlife and people from lead hunting ammunition. Eagles can incidentally ingest lead bullet fragments when scavenging the remains left behind after a hunter field dresses a deer. The golden eagle population is relatively stable in the eastern United States, although a multitude of human-caused threats still exist. While the bald eagle population continues to recover in New York, research has shown that lead-related mortality slows population growth. The newly expanded study aims to determine whether this source of mortality can be reduced by increasing the proportion of hunters using non-lead ammunition.

Initially available for hunting in specific Wildlife Management Units (WMUs), the study is expanding statewide to include all WMUs where a firearm can be used to hunt deer. Participation in the rebate program is voluntary and will be available to all firearm deer hunters statewide. DEC’s research partners will be offering rebates up to $60 for the purchase of certified non-lead ammunition and participation in both pre- and post-hunt surveys.

DEC expects to continue the study and rebate program for the 2025 and 2026 hunting seasons. For more information about the program, assistance with finding ammunition, and a program application, visit https://huntersforeagleconservation.org/new-york/.

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