ALBANY, NY — The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is expanding a multi-year study to determine whether an increased use of non-lead ammunition for deer hunting can help improve the survival of bald and golden eagles.

As part of this effort, hunters statewide are eligible for a rebate of up to $60 for the purchase of non-lead ammunition during the 2024-25 deer hunting season.

The study was initially available in specific Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) but is now expanding to include all WMUs where firearm hunting for deer is permitted. The goal is to minimize risks to wildlife and people from lead hunting ammunition.

DEC says using non-lead ammunition reduces unintentionally exposing scavenging animals, such as eagles, to toxic lead fragments from bullets.

The study also endeavors to address lead-related mortality among eagle populations, which can slow down population growth. While the golden eagle population in the eastern United States is relatively stable, various human-caused threats persist. Similarly, although the bald eagle population is recovering in New York, lead-related mortality is a factor hindering population growth.

The rebate program is voluntary and aims to encourage hunters to participate in both pre- and post-hunt surveys. Furthermore, the study and rebate program are set to continue for the 2025 and 2026 hunting seasons.

For more information about the program, assistance with finding ammunition, and applying for the program, visit huntersforeagleconservation.org/new-york.