AN ASSESSMENT OF
NEW JERSEY DEER HUNTER OPINION
ON EXPANDING ANTLER POINT RESTRICTION (APR) REGULATIONS
IN DEER MANAGEMENT ZONES 28, 30, 31, 34 AND 47
Survey mailed: April 2010
Data analyzed: June 2010
Report issued: August 2010
Division of Fish and Wildlife
David Chanda, Director
Larry Herrighty, Assistant Director
Bureau of Wildlife Management
Patrick C. Carr, Supervising Wildlife Biologist
by
Deer Research Project
Carole Kandoth, Principal Wildlife Biologist
Joe Leskie, Senior Wildlife Biologist
Dan Roberts, Senior Wildlife Biologist
Jodi Powers, Senior Wildlife Biologist
Andrew Riviello, Seasonal Wildlife Technician
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The use of Antler Point Restrictions (APR) in deer management has become a popular management strategy
for state agencies and hunters throughout the United States. APR is a component of Quality Deer
Management (QDM), which establishes appropriate harvest restrictions for bucks, usually protecting
younger age class bucks by setting the minimum number of antler points for a legal antlered deer. QDM is a
management philosophy or practice that unites landowners, hunters and managers in a common goal of
producing biologically and socially balanced deer herds within existing environmental, social and legal
constraints.
The use of APR in New Jersey is primarily a social hunting issue, where hunters prefer to protect the
majority of young antlered bucks from the harvest each year in the hopes that additional larger-antlered
bucks will be available for harvest in following years. The New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW)
believes that APR has no biological or management consequences in most of the State, but would not
support its implementation where the habitat does not provide for healthy annual antler growth or where
human population densities make a lowered buck harvest undesirable.
DFW and the Fish and Game Council (Council) implemented an experimental Antler Point Restriction
program in 2000 for Deer Management Zones (DMZ) 3, 6, 9, 13, 27, 29, 35 and 63. Hunters in these DMZs
are required to harvest only those antlered bucks having at least one antler with 3 or more points on one side.
Based on hunter dissatisfaction with APR in DMZ 6, the Council deleted this DMZ from the APR program
in 2005.
Recent data analysis of existing southern zones with APR regulations (DMZs 27, 29, 35 and 63) showed the
combined average harvest before APR was 1,876 bucks per year. After the institution of APR, the combined
average harvest was 1,289 bucks per year. This 31% decline in the antlered harvest due to APR regulations
was not unexpected by DFW biologists. APR is an impediment to the harvest of an antlered deer. Because
APR makes a substantial number of yearling bucks illegal, a large percentage of that age class elude harvest
resulting in a decline in that segment of the antlered harvest. The 2.5 yr old and 3.5+ yr old segments show
an increase as a percentage of total antlered harvest. It should be noted that the percentage of older age class
bucks harvested increases purely as a response to the decline in the yearling segment of the harvest, even if
the actual number of older age class bucks harvested does not increase.
Recently, the Council received a request to add five southern New Jersey DMZs, 28, 30, 31, 34 and 47, to
the APR program. Because Council sets seasons, bag limits and manner of take based on scientific evidence
presented to it by DFW, DFW biologists conducted a scientific survey to determine the opinion of hunters
who hunt deer within the five proposed DMZs.
Prior to the mailing of the survey package, three public seminars were held to provide actual data to allow
hunters to form an opinion, and to answer any questions from hunters. Postcards about the scheduled
seminars were sent out to all hunters who purchased a deer permit from at least one of the proposed DMZs.
DFW biologists presented harvest data from APR DMZs already existing in southern NJ and harvest data
and projections for the five proposed DMZs. Over 3,200 postcards were sent out; attendance at all three
seminars totaled only about 120 people.
The survey was conducted in April 2010 to determine the opinion of deer hunters on the inclusion of the
proposed DMZs into APR regulations. The survey was mailed to 3,231 hunters who purchased a deer
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
Page 2 of 57
hunting permit from at least one of the five proposed APR DMZs during the 2008-09 season. Hunters
returned 1,351 completed surveys and 128 surveys came back as undeliverable. The survey return rate was
(44%) indicating a strong interest in this subject.
DFW biologists have determined the following conclusions from the survey:
¾ The majority (66%) of respondents had hunted during at least one of the bow seasons.
The majority (78%) of respondents had hunted during at least one of the gun seasons.
The majority (91%) of respondents had hunted during the 6-day firearm season.
¾ The majority of respondents (73%) were 40 years or older,
¾ An overwhelming majority of the respondents (97%) were male.
¾ The majority of respondents (81%) were affiliated with some sort of hunting organization (QDMA,
NJSFSC, UBNJ, deer hunting club or other hunting organization)
¾ The majority of respondents (64%) hunted private land and the majority of those properties were less
than 100 acres (64%).
¾ The majority of respondents (83%) hunted deer from an elevated stand.
¾ The majority of respondents (80%) hunted deer over bait.
¾ 33% of respondents stated that they were a member of a hunting club that actively “drives” deer
during the deer season.
¾ The majority of respondents (61%) harvested NO antlered bucks.
¾ A slight majority of respondents (54%) harvested NO antlerless deer.
¾ Less than half of respondents were satisfied with deer hunting, both in total and by DMZ.
¾ Only about one-quarter of respondents were satisfied with buck hunting; respondents from DMZ 28
(36%) were more satisfied than respondents from the other DMZs.
¾ More than 2/3 of respondents were in favor of APR Regulations, both in total and by DMZ.
¾ The majority of respondents (60%) would be willing to harvest more antlerless deer and see an
increase in the antlerless harvest.
¾ The majority of respondents (69%) would give up the chance of shooting small-antlered deer and
shoot more does in exchange for the increased chance of shooting a large-antlered buck in later years.
¾ The majority of respondents (84%) chose to harvest fewer bucks if those bucks were older, had more
mass and more antler points as opposed to harvesting more bucks that were younger, with fewer
points and less mass.
¾ A slight majority of respondents (56%) would be willing to accept a 4-point Antler Point Restriction
in DMZs with high quality browse and food availability.
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
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¾ In all DMZs, the majority of respondents who harvested NO bucks in 2008 felt that it's acceptable for
less "older" age class bucks to be harvested. The percentages varied by DMZ.
¾ In all DMZs, about 1/3 of respondents who harvested 1 buck in 2008 felt that it's acceptable for less
"older" age class bucks to be harvested. The percentages varied by DMZ.
¾ In all DMZs, about 10% of respondents who harvested 2 bucks in 2008 felt that it's acceptable for
less "older" age class bucks to be harvested. The percentages varied by DMZ.
¾ In all DMZs, less than 5% of respondents who harvested 3 or more bucks in 2008 felt that it's
acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested. The percentages varied by DMZ.
¾ Concerning the current buck bag limit in New Jersey per hunting year, respondents were evenly split
between keeping the buck bag limit where it is now at six antlered deer (51%) and changing it to less
than six antlered deer (49%). This even split occurred in the overall survey and by DMZ.
¾ When respondents chose to harvest less bucks than what currently is allowed, the majority of those
respondents chose to harvest 2 bucks or less. The percentages varied by DMZ.
¾ When asked about the difficulty in identifying legal bucks while driving deer with the APR
restrictions, the majority of respondents (69%) agreed that it would be difficult to identify legal bucks
while driving deer.
¾ Less than half of respondents (44%) stated that they would give up driving deer because it may be
harder to identify legal antler points if APR regulations were enacted.
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
DMZ 28: 73% of Deer Club member respondents are IN favor of APR regulations for DMZ 28
DMZ 30: 71% of Deer Club member respondents are IN favor of APR regulations for DMZ 30
DMZ 31: 69% of Deer Club member respondents are IN favor of APR regulations for DMZ 31
DMZ 34: 65% of Deer Club member respondents are IN favor of APR regulations for DMZ 34
DMZ 47: 69% of Deer Club member respondents are IN favor of APR regulations for DMZ 47
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
DMZ 28: 71% of Deer Club member respondents who DRIVE deer are IN favor of APR regulations.
DMZ 30: 72% of Deer Club member respondents who DRIVE deer are IN favor of APR regulations.
DMZ 31: 70% of Deer Club member respondents who DRIVE deer are IN favor of APR regulations.
DMZ 34: 62% of Deer Club member respondents who DRIVE deer are IN favor of APR regulations.
DMZ 47: 70% of Deer Club member respondents who DRIVE deer are IN favor of APR regulations.
The results of the 2010 Antler Point Restriction Survey were compared to similar results from a 2006 New
Jersey Deer Hunter Satisfaction survey conducted for the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife by
Responsive Management.
Deer hunters were asked to share their opinions about Quality Deer Management efforts.
In the 2006
survey, deer hunters were willing to accept the proposed restrictions. Seventy-six percent of respondents
were willing to give up the chance to shoot small-antlered bucks and shoot more does in exchange for an
increased chance to shoot large-antlered bucks in later years. In the 2010 survey, sixty-nine percent of deer
hunters in all the proposed APR zones were willing to give up the chance to shoot small-antlered bucks and
shoot more does in exchange for an increased chance to shoot large-antlered bucks in later years to increase
the overall quality of the herd. Also, hunters who hunted deer over bait have increased greatly from the 2006
survey (41%), compared to the 2010 survey in which (80%) of respondents hunted deer over bait.
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
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Introduction and Methodology
A mail survey was sent to 3,231 deer hunting permit holders from five southern New Jersey Deer
Management Zones (DMZ) proposed for inclusion in Antler Point Restrictions (APR). Questions were
constructed to solicit opinions from hunters about adding DMZs 28, 30, 31, 34 and 47. Permit purchasers
were identified through the Electronic Licensing System (ELS), which has collected data on license and
permit holders since its implementation in 2006. Due to time constraints imposed by the Fish and Game
Council’s timeline to vote on amendments for the 2011 Game Code by August 2010, survey participants
were drawn from the ELS database of all deer permits sold in the proposed DMZs from the 2008-09 hunting
season.
The survey package, mailed out in April 2010, consisted of an introductory letter from the New Jersey
Division of Fish & Wildlife’s Deer Research Project, a twenty-one question survey, and an addressed,
stamped return envelope. Instructions were to return the survey no later than May 12, 2010. Survey
acceptance was cut off on May 17, 2010. All data was processed and entered by May 28, 2010. Hunters
returned 1,351 completed surveys and 128 surveys came back as undeliverable. The survey return rate was
(44%) indicating a strong interest in this subject.
DFW biologists mailed survey packages to 100% of the permit buyers due to small permit sale numbers in
some of the targeted DMZs. Statistically, sampling these DMZs with a small number of permit buyers would
have resulted in a confidence interval of less than 95% with a sampling error greater than 5%.
DFW biologists also determined that permit buyers purchased permits for more than one of the five targeted
DMZs, as allowed in the deer hunting regulations. Permit buyers returned 1,351 surveys. The total number of
responses by DMZ totals 1,647 because respondents answered survey questions for more than one of the
targeted DMZs. Because of this multiple DMZ permit buying, there were 500 respondents for DMZ 28; 259
for DMZ 30; 230 for DMZ 31; 453 for DMZ 34 and 205 respondents for DMZ 47. Also note that some
results may not sum exactly to 100% due to rounding or multiple answers by respondents.
DFW biologists have determined the following conclusions from the survey:
PARTICIPATION IN DEER HUNTING
¾ The majority (66%) of respondents had hunted during at least one of the bow seasons.
Also, the majority (78%) of respondents had hunted during at least one of the gun seasons.
The majority (91%) of respondents had hunted during the 6-day firearm season.
¾ DMZ 28: 72% respondents had hunted during at least one of the bow seasons. Also, 80% of
respondents had hunted during at least one of the gun seasons. 91% of respondents had hunted during
the 6-day firearm season.
¾ DMZ 30: 67% of respondents had hunted during at least one of the bow seasons. Also, 81% of
respondents had hunted during at least one of the gun seasons. 91% of respondents had hunted during
the 6-day firearm season.
¾ DMZ 31: 74% of respondents had hunted during at least one of the bow seasons. Also, 81% of
respondents had hunted during at least one of the gun seasons. 92% of respondents had hunted during
the 6-day firearm season.
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
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¾ DMZ 34: 66% of respondents had hunted during at least one of the bow seasons. Also, 75% of
respondents had hunted during at least one of the gun seasons. 91% of respondents had hunted during
the 6-day firearm season.
¾ DMZ 47: 63% of respondents had hunted during at least one of the bow seasons. Also, 80% of
respondents had hunted during at least one of the gun seasons. 90% of respondents had hunted during
the 6-day firearm season.
LEVEL OF DEER HUNTING AND BUCK HUNTING SATISFACTION BY ZONE
¾ DMZ 28: 49% of respondents were satisfied with deer hunting, with 26% being dissatisfied with deer
hunting.
Also, 36% of respondents were satisfied with buck hunting, with 40% being dissatisfied with buck
hunting.
¾ DMZ 30: 41% of respondents were satisfied with deer hunting, with 31% being dissatisfied with deer
hunting.
Also, 28% of respondents were satisfied with buck hunting, with 43% being dissatisfied with buck
hunting.
¾ DMZ 31: 36% of respondents were satisfied with deer hunting, with 36% being dissatisfied with deer
hunting.
Also, 26% of respondents were satisfied with buck hunting, with 45% being dissatisfied with buck
hunting.
¾ DMZ 34: 34% of respondents were satisfied with deer hunting, with 44% being dissatisfied with deer
hunting.
Also, 24% of respondents were satisfied with buck hunting, with 53% being dissatisfied with buck
hunting.
¾ DMZ 47: 40% of respondents were satisfied with deer hunting, with 33% being dissatisfied with deer
hunting.
Also, 24% of respondents were satisfied with buck hunting, with 46% being dissatisfied with buck
hunting.
HARVEST OF BOTH ANTLERLESS AND ANTLERED DEER
¾ The majority of respondents (61%) harvested NO antlered bucks.
¾ A slight majority of respondents (54%) harvested NO antlerless deer.
¾ DMZ 28: The majority of respondents (73%) harvested 1 antlerless deer or less;
the majority of respondents (84%) harvested 1 antlered buck or less.
¾ DMZ 30: The majority of respondents (76%) harvested 1 antlerless deer or less;
the majority of Zone 30 respondents (89%) harvested 1 antlered buck or less.
¾ DMZ 31: The majority of respondents (67%) harvested 1 antlerless deer or less;
the majority of respondents (89%) harvested 1 antlered buck or less.
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
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¾ DMZ 34: The majority of respondents (89%) harvested 1 antlerless deer or less;
the majority of respondents (89%) harvested 1 antlered buck or less.
¾ DMZ 47: The majority of respondents (80%) harvested 1 antlerless deer or less;
the majority of respondents (88%) harvested 1 antlered buck or less.
HUNTERS WILLING TO HARVEST MORE ANTLERLESS DEER AND INCREASE ANTLELRESS
HARVESTS
¾ The majority of respondents (60%) would be willing to harvest more antlerless deer and see an
increase in the antlerless harvest.
¾ DMZ 28: 61% of respondents would be willing to harvest more antlerless deer and see an increase in
the antlerless harvest.
¾ DMZ 30: 55% of respondents would be willing to harvest more antlerless deer and see an increase in
the antlerless harvest.
¾ DMZ 31: 53% of respondents would be willing to harvest more antlerless deer and see an increase in
the antlerless harvest.
¾ DMZ 34: 61% of respondents would be willing to harvest more antlerless deer and see an increase in
the antlerless harvest.
¾ DMZ 47: 67% of respondents would be willing to harvest more antlerless deer and see an increase in
the antlerless harvest.
HUNTERS WILLING TO GIVE UP A CHANCE TO SHOOT SMALL ANTLERED BUCKS AND
SHOOT MORE DOES IN EXCHANGE FOR AN INCREASED CHANCE TO SHOOT LARGEANTLERED DEER
¾ The majority of respondents (69%) would give up the chance of shooting small-antlered deer and
shoot more does in exchange for the increased chance of shooting a large-antlered buck in later years.
¾ DMZ 28: 69% of respondents would give up the chance of shooting small-antlered deer and shoot
more does in exchange for the increased chance of shooting a large-antlered buck in later years.
¾ DMZ 30: 71% of respondents would give up the chance of shooting small-antlered deer and shoot
more does in exchange for the increased chance of shooting a large-antlered buck in later years.
¾ DMZ 31: 69% of respondents would give up the chance of shooting small-antlered deer and shoot
more does in exchange for the increased chance of shooting a large-antlered buck in later years.
¾ DMZ 34: 66% of respondents would give up the chance of shooting small-antlered deer and shoot
more does in exchange for the increased chance of shooting a large-antlered buck in later years.
¾ DMZ 47: 74% of respondents would give up the chance of shooting small-antlered deer and shoot
more does in exchange for the increased chance of shooting a large-antlered buck in later years.
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
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ZONES WITH HIGH QUALITY DEER BROWSE AND FOOD AVAILABILITY, WOULD A 4 POINT
ANTLER POINT RESTRICTION BE ACCEPTABLE
¾ A slight majority of respondents (56%) would be willing to accept a 4-point Antler Point Restriction
in zones with high quality browse and food availability.
¾ DMZ 28: 57% of respondents would be willing to accept a 4-point Antler Point Restriction in zones
with high quality browse and food availability.
¾ DMZ 30: 54% of respondents would be willing to accept a 4-point Antler Point Restriction in zones
with high quality browse and food availability.
¾ DMZ 31: 53% of respondents would be willing to accept a 4-point Antler Point Restriction in zones
with high quality browse and food availability.
¾ DMZ 34: 57% of respondents would be willing to accept a 4-point Antler Point Restriction in zones
with high quality browse and food availability.
¾ DMZ 47: 60% of respondents would be willing to accept a 4-point Antler Point Restriction in zones
with high quality browse and food availability.
IN FAVOR OF APR REGULATIONS BY ZONE
¾ DMZ 28: 73% of respondents were in favor of APR Regulations.
¾ DMZ 30: 73% of respondents were in favor of APR Regulations.
¾ DMZ 31: 72% of respondents were in favor of APR Regulations.
¾ DMZ 34: 69% of respondents were in favor of APR Regulations.
¾ DMZ 47: 69% of respondents were in favor of APR Regulations.
NEW JERSEY DEER HARVEST COMPRISED
¾ The majority of respondents (84%) chose to harvest fewer bucks that are older, have more mass and
more antler points as opposed to harvesting more bucks that are younger, with fewer points and less
mass.
¾ DMZ 28: 85% of respondents chose to harvest fewer bucks that are older, have more mass and more
antler points.
¾ DMZ 30: 84% of respondents chose to harvest fewer bucks that are older, have more mass and more
antler points.
¾ DMZ 31: 85% of respondents chose to harvest fewer bucks that are older, have more mass and more
antler points.
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
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¾ DMZ 34: 81% of respondents chose to harvest fewer bucks that are older, have more mass and more
antler points.
¾ DMZ 47: 82% of respondents chose to harvest fewer bucks that are older, have more mass and more
antler points.
HUNTERS WHO FELT IT WAS ACCEPTABLE FOR LESS OLDER AGE CLASS BUCKS TO BE
HARVESTED COMPARED TO THE NUMBER OF BUCKS THEY ACTUALLY HARVESTED IN 2008.
¾ In all DMZs, the majority of respondents who harvested NO bucks in 2008 felt that it's acceptable for
less "older" age class bucks to be harvested. The percentages varied by DMZ.
¾ In all DMZs, about 1/3 of respondents who harvested 1 buck in 2008 felt that it's acceptable for less
"older" age class bucks to be harvested. The percentages varied by DMZ.
¾ In all DMZs, about 10% of respondents who harvested 2 bucks in 2008 felt that it's acceptable for
less "older" age class bucks to be harvested. The percentages varied by DMZ.
¾ In all DMZs, less than 5% of respondents who harvested 3 or more bucks in 2008 felt that it's
acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested. The percentages varied by DMZ.
¾ DMZ 28:
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (NO) bucks in 2008 was 52%. Of that 52%, 88% were in favor of APR.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (1) buck in 2008 was 32%. Of that 32%, 92% were in favor of APR.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (2) bucks in 2008 was 13%. Of that 13%, 91% were in favor of APR.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (3+) bucks in 2008 was 3%. Of that 3%, 100% were in favor of APR.
¾ DMZ 30:
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (NO) bucks in 2008 was 62%.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (1) buck in 2008 was 27%.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (2) bucks in 2008 was 10%.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (3+) bucks in 2008 was 2%.
¾ DMZ 31:
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (NO) bucks in 2008 was 50%.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (1) buck in 2008 was 39%.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (2) bucks in 2008 was 9%.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (3+) bucks in 2008 was 3%.
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
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¾ DMZ 34:
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (NO) bucks in 2008 was 61%.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (1) buck in 2008 was 29%.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (2) bucks in 2008 was 9%.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (3+) bucks in 2008 was 1%.
¾ DMZ 47:
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (NO) bucks in 2008 was 67%.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (1) buck in 2008 was 23%.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (2) bucks in 2008 was 7%.
-The percentage of hunters that felt that it's acceptable for less "older" age class bucks to be harvested
and who harvested (3+) bucks in 2008 was 3%.
NEW JERSEY TOTAL BUCK BAG LIMIT
¾ In regards to the current buck bag limit in New Jersey per hunting season, the response was relatively
even for keeping the buck bag limit where it is now at six antlered deer and changing it to less than
six antlered deer per hunting year. When respondents chose to harvest less bucks than what currently
is allowed, however, the majority of those respondents chose to harvest 2 bucks or less. The
following is a breakdown of the respondents who chose to harvest 2 bucks or less per hunting season:
¾ DMZ 28: 66% of respondents would choose to harvest 2 bucks or less during a hunting season.
¾ DMZ 30: 70% of respondents would choose to harvest 2 bucks or less during a hunting season.
¾ DMZ 31: 63% of respondents would choose to harvest 2 bucks or less during a hunting season.
¾ DMZ 34: 72% of respondents would choose to harvest 2 bucks or less during a hunting season.
¾ DMZ 47: 68% of respondents would choose to harvest 2 bucks or less during a hunting season.
LAND TYPE HUNTED AND PROPERTY SIZE
¾ The majority of respondents hunted private land (64%) and the majority of those properties were less
than 100 acres (64%).
¾ DMZ 28: 77% of respondents hunted private property with 65% of the properties being under 100
acres.
¾ DMZ 30: 64% of respondents hunted private property with 60% of the properties being under 100
acres.
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
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¾ DMZ 31: 56% of respondents hunted private property with 65% of the properties being less than 100
acres.
¾ DMZ 34: 47% of respondents hunted private property with 62% of the properties being less than 100
acres.
¾ DMZ 47: 69% of respondents hunted private property with 72% of the properties being less than 100
acres.
PRIMARY METHOD OF DEER HUNTING
¾ The majority of all respondents (83%) hunted deer from an elevated stand.
¾ DMZ 28: 90% of respondents hunted from an elevated stand.
¾ DMZ 30: 83% of respondents hunted from an elevated stand.
¾ DMZ 31: 87% of respondents hunted from an elevated stand.
¾ DMZ 34: 77% of respondents hunted from an elevated stand.
¾ DMZ 47: 83% of respondents hunted from an elevated stand.
MEMBER OF A DEER HUNTING CLUB THAT ACTIVELY DRIVE DEER
¾ 33% of all respondents stated that they were a member of a hunting club that actively “drives” deer
during the deer season.
¾ DMZ 28: 30% of respondents stated that they were a member of a hunting club that actively “drive”
deer during the deer season.
¾ DMZ 30: 31% of respondents stated that they were a member of a hunting club that actively “drive”
deer during the deer season.
¾ DMZ 31: 38% of respondents stated that they were a member of a hunting club that actively “drive”
deer during the deer season.
¾ DMZ 34: 35% of respondents stated that they were a member of a hunting club that actively “drive”
deer during the deer season.
¾ DMZ 28: 42% of respondents stated that they were a member of a hunting club that actively “drive”
deer during the deer season.
DEER DRIVE DIFFICULTY IN IDENTIFYING LEGAL BUCKS WITH THE APR RESTRICTIONS
¾ When asked about the difficulty in identifying legal bucks while driving deer within APR restriction
zones, the majority of respondents (69%) agreed to some extent, that it would be difficult to identify
legal bucks while driving deer.
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
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¾ DMZ 28: 71% of respondents agreed, to some extent, that it would be difficult to identify legal bucks
while driving deer.
¾ DMZ 30: 66% of respondents agreed, to some extent, that it would be difficult to identify legal bucks
while driving deer.
¾ DMZ 31: 67% of respondents agreed, to some extent, that it would be difficult to identify legal bucks
while driving deer.
¾ DMZ 34: 66% of respondents agreed, to some extent, that it would be difficult to identify legal bucks
while driving deer.
¾ DMZ 47: 67% of respondents agreed, to some extent, that it would be difficult to identify legal bucks
while driving deer.
HUNTING DEER OVER BAIT
¾ The majority of respondents (80%) hunted deer over bait.
¾ DMZ 28: 75% of respondents hunted deer over bait.
¾ DMZ 30: 75% of respondents hunted deer over bait.
¾ DMZ 31: 80% of respondents hunted deer over bait.
¾ DMZ 34: 86% of respondents hunted deer over bait.
¾ DMZ 47: 87% of respondents hunted deer over bait.
AFFILIATION
¾ The majority of respondents (81%) were affiliated with some sort of hunting organization (QDMA,
NJSFSC, UBNJ, deer hunting club or other hunting organization)
¾ DMZ 28: 77% of respondents had some sort of affiliation with a hunting organization, with 39%
affiliated specifically with a deer hunting club.
¾ DMZ 30: 65% of respondents had some sort of affiliation with a hunting organization, with 39%
affiliated specifically with a deer hunting club.
¾ DMZ 31: 80% of respondents had some sort of affiliation with a hunting organization, with 44%
affiliated specifically with a deer hunting club.
¾ DMZ 34: 74% of respondents had some sort of affiliation with a hunting organization, with 47%
affiliated specifically with a deer hunting club.
¾ DMZ 47: 99% of respondents had some sort of affiliation with a hunting organization, with 52%
affiliated specifically with a deer hunting club.
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
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AGE AND GENDER
¾ The majority of respondents (73%) were 40 years or older with an overwhelming majority of the
respondents (97%) being male.
¾ DMZ 28: 70% were 40 years or older and 97% were male.
¾ DMZ 30: 71%, were 40 years or older and 95% were male.
¾ DMZ 31: 71%, were 40 years or older and 99% were male.
¾ DMZ 34: 72% were 40 years or older and 96% were male.
¾ DMZ 47: 74% were 40 years or older and 98% were male.
DEER CLUB MEMBER RESPONDENTS IN FAVOR OF APR REGULATIONS PER ZONE.
¾ DMZ 28: 73% of Deer Club member respondents are IN favor of APR regulations for Zone 28
¾ DMZ 30: 71% of Deer Club member respondents are IN favor of APR regulations for Zone 30
¾ DMZ 31: 69% of Deer Club member respondents are IN favor of APR regulations for Zone 31
¾ DMZ 34: 65% of Deer Club member respondents are IN favor of APR regulations for Zone 34
¾ DMZ 47: 69% of Deer Club member respondents are IN favor of APR regulations for Zone 47
RESPONDENTS THAT BELONG TO A DEER HUNTING CLUB, THAT DRIVE DEER AND THEIR
APR PREFERENCE PER ZONE.
¾ DMZ 28: 71% of Deer Club member respondents who DRIVE deer are IN favor of APR regulations
for Zone 28.
¾ DMZ 30: 72% of Deer Club member respondents who DRIVE deer are IN favor of APR regulations
for Zone 30.
¾ DMZ 31: 70% of Deer Club member respondents who DRIVE deer are IN favor of APR regulations
for Zone 31.
¾ DMZ 34: 62% of Deer Club member respondents who DRIVE deer are IN favor of APR regulations
for Zone 34.
¾ DMZ 47: 70% of Deer Club member respondents who DRIVE deer are IN favor of APR regulations
for Zone 47.
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
Page 13 of 57
Q1. What deer season(s) do you hunt?
All Respondents (n = 1351)
Sampling size +/- 3%
73%
Fall Bow
68%
Permit Bow
58%
Winter Bow
91%
6-Day Firearm
81%
Permit Muzzleloader
62%
Permit Shotgun
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 500)
Sampling size +/- 4%
Fall Bow
79%
75%
Permit Bow
62%
Winter Bow
6-Day Firearm
91%
Permit Muzzleloader
78%
Permit Shotgun
71%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 259)
Sampling error +/- 6%
Fall Bow
74%
Permit Bow
69%
58%
Winter Bow
91%
6-Day Firearm
85%
Permit Muzzleloader
66%
Permit Shotgun
0%
20%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
60%
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 14 of 57
Q1. What deer season(s) do you hunt? (continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 230)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Fall Bow
82%
Permit Bow
75%
Winter Bow
66%
6-Day Firearm
92%
Permit Muzzleloader
84%
Permit Shotgun
67%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 453)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Fall Bow
72%
Permit Bow
66%
Winter Bow
60%
6-Day Firearm
91%
Permit Muzzleloader
86%
Permit Shotgun
0%
48%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 205)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Fall Bow
71%
Permit Bow
65%
Winter Bow
55%
6-Day Firearm
90%
Permit Muzzleloader
81%
Permit Shotgun
0%
70%
20%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
40%
60%
80%
August 2010
Page 15 of 57
100%
Q2. What is your level of deer hunting and buck harvest satisfaction in the deer zone(s) you hunt?
(Please rate your level of satisfaction below, using the following rating scale:
1 = Very Satisfied 2 = Somewhat satisfied 3 = Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
4 = Somewhat dissatisfied 5 = Very dissatisfied 6 = No opinion
ALL RESPONDENTS (n= 500)
Sampling error +/-4%
DMZ: 28
15%
18%
Very satisfied
21%
Somewhat satisfied
31%
17%
20%
Neither satisfied/dis.
Somewhat dissatisfied
16%
Very dissatisfied
10%
No opinion
2%
4%
No Answer
5%
2%
0%
10%
21%
19%
20%
30%
40%
Total “Buck” hunting satisfaction
Total “Deer” hunting satisfaction
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
Page 16 of 57
50%
Q2. What is your level of deer hunting and buck harvest satisfaction in the deer zone(s) you hunt?
(Please rate your level of satisfaction below, using the following rating scale:
1 = Very Satisfied 2 = Somewhat satisfied 3 = Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
4 = Somewhat dissatisfied 5 = Very dissatisfied 6 = No opinion
ALL RESPONDENTS (n= 259)
Sampling error +/- 6%
DMZ: 30
8%
10%
Very satisfied
20%
Somewhat satisfied
19%
23%
Neither satisfied/dis.
20%
17%
Somewhat dissatisfied
Very dissatisfied
No opinion
31%
14%
23%
1%
1%
No Answer
3%
0%
9%
10%
20%
30%
40%
Total “Buck” hunting satisfaction
Total “Deer” hunting satisfaction
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
Page 17 of 57
50%
Q2. What is your level of deer hunting and buck harvest satisfaction in the deer zone(s) you hunt?
(Please rate your level of satisfaction below, using the following rating scale:
1 = Very Satisfied 2 = Somewhat satisfied 3 = Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
4 = Somewhat dissatisfied 5 = Very dissatisfied 6 = No opinion
ALL RESPONDENTS (n= 230)
Sampling error +/- 6%
DMZ: 31
11%
10%
Very satisfied
15%
Somewhat satisfied
26%
22%
25%
Neither satisfied/dis.
20%
22%
Somewhat dissatisfied
Very dissatisfied
14%
No opinion
2%
2%
No Answer
5%
2%
0%
10%
20%
25%
30%
40%
Total “Buck” hunting satisfaction
Total “Deer” hunting satisfaction
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
Page 18 of 57
50%
Q2. What is your level of deer hunting and buck harvest satisfaction in the deer zone(s) you hunt?
(Please rate your level of satisfaction below, using the following rating scale:
1 = Very Satisfied 2 = Somewhat satisfied 3 = Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
4 = Somewhat dissatisfied 5 = Very dissatisfied 6 = No opinion
ALL RESPONDENTS (n= 453)
Sampling error +/- 5%
DMZ: 34
10%
9%
Very satisfied
14%
Somewhat satisfied
17%
20%
Neither satisfied/dis.
21%
Somewhat dissatisfied
Very dissatisfied
No opinion
25%
27%
32%
17%
1%
1%
No Answer
2%
0%
6%
10%
20%
30%
40%
Total “Buck” hunting satisfaction
Total “Deer” hunting satisfaction
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
Page 19 of 57
50%
Q2. What is your level of deer hunting and buck harvest satisfaction in the deer zone(s) you hunt?
(Please rate your level of satisfaction below, using the following rating scale:
1 = Very Satisfied 2 = Somewhat satisfied 3 = Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
4 = Somewhat dissatisfied 5 = Very dissatisfied 6 = No opinion
ALL RESPONDENTS (n= 205)
Sampling error +/- 7%
DMZ: 47
5%
Very satisfied
12%
19%
Somewhat satisfied
28%
19%
20%
Neither satisfied/dis.
20%
23%
Somewhat dissatisfied
Very dissatisfied
26%
10%
No opinion
3%
4%
No Answer
3%
0%
8%
10%
20%
30%
40%
Total “Buck” hunting satisfaction
Total “Deer” hunting satisfaction
NJDFW APR Survey Results
August 2010
Page 20 of 57
50%
Q3. Did you harvest antlerless deer and if so, how many did you harvest this past season (2009-10)?
All Respondents (n = 1344)
Sampling error +/- 3%
54%
None
26%
One
11%
Two
9%
Three or more
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 498)
Sampling error +/- 4%
45%
None
28%
One
13%
Two
14%
Three or more
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
Zone 30: Respondents (n = 257)
Sampling error +/- 6%
53%
None
23%
One
16%
Two
8%
Three or more
0%
10%
20%
30%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
40%
50%
60%
August 2010
Page 21 of 57
Q3. Did you harvest antlerless deer and if so, how many did you harvest this past season (2009-10)?
(continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 228)
Sampling error +/- 7%
44%
None
23%
One
18%
Two
14%
Three or more
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 451)
Sampling error +/- 5%
61%
None
28%
One
8%
Two
3%
Three or more
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 203)
Sampling error +/- 7%
57%
None
23%
One
Two
10%
Three or more
10%
0%
10%
20%
30%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
40%
50%
60%
August 2010
Page 22 of 57
Q4. Did you harvest antlered bucks and if so, how many did you harvest this past season (2009-10)?
All Respondents (n = 1346)
Sampling error +/- 3%
61%
None
27%
One
10%
Two
2%
Three or more
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 259)
Sampling error +/- 6%
64%
None
25%
One
9%
Two
1%
Three or more
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 259)
Sampling error +/- 6%
64%
None
25%
One
9%
Two
1%
Three or more
0%
20%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
60%
80%
August 2010
Page 23 of 57
Q4. Did you harvest antlered bucks and if so, how many did you harvest this past season (2009-10)?
(continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 230)
Sampling error +/- 7%
None
56%
One
33%
Two
9%
Three or more
2%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 451)
Sampling error +/- 5%
63%
None
26%
One
9%
Two
2%
Three or more
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n=203)
Sampling error +/- 7%
None
64%
One
24%
Two
Three or more
0%
9%
3%
10% 20%
30% 40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
50%
60%
70%
80%
August 2010
Page 24 of 57
Q5. If APR(Antler Point Restriction) is adopted, are you willing to harvest more antlerless deer and
see an increase in the antlerless harvest ?
All Respondents (n = 1334)
Sampling error +/- 3%
Yes
60%
No
No Opinion
30%
9%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 491)
Sampling error +/- 4%
Yes
61%
No
No Opinion
28%
11%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 257)
Sampling error +/- 6%
Yes
55%
No
No Opinion
35%
11%
0%
10%
20%
30%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
40%
50%
60%
August 2010
Page 25 of 57
Q5. If APR(Antler Point Restriction) is adopted, are you willing to harvest more antlerless deer and
see an increase in the antlerless harvest ? (continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 226)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Yes
53%
No
37%
No Opinion
10%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 450)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Yes
61%
No
No Opinion
32%
7%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 203)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Yes
67%
No
No Opinion
25%
8%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
50%
60%
70%
80%
August 2010
Page 26 of 57
Q6. Management of deer populations to produce older or more mature bucks, often called Quality
Deer Management, requires that young, small-antlered bucks be protected and that more does be
killed. Are you willing to give up the chance to shoot small-antlered bucks (for instance a buck with 6
points) and shoot more does in exchange for an increased chance to shoot large-antlered bucks in later
years?
All Respondents (n = 1326)
Sampling error +/- 3%
Yes
69%
No
26%
No Opinion
5%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 489)
Sampling error +/- 4%
Yes
69%
No
26%
No Opinion
5%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 257)
Sampling error +/- 6%
Yes
71%
No
No Opinion
23%
6%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
50%
60%
70%
80%
August 2010
Page 27 of 57
Q6. Management of deer populations to produce older or more mature bucks, often called Quality
Deer Management, requires that young, small-antlered bucks be protected and that more does be
killed. Are you willing to give up the chance to shoot small-antlered bucks (for instance a buck with 6
points) and shoot more does in exchange for an increased chance to shoot large-antlered bucks in later
years? (continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 226)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Yes
69%
No
No Opinion
26%
5%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 443)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Yes
66%
No
No Opinion
29%
5%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 202)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Yes
74%
No
No Opinion
23%
3%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
50%
60%
70%
80%
August 2010
Page 28 of 57
Q7. Research on the current 3-point Antler Point Restrictions in zones 3, 6, 9, 13, 27, 29, 35 and 63
from 2001 through 2005 in New Jersey has shown that on average, 11 yearling bucks saved from the
harvest due to Antler Point Restrictions are missing from the older age class harvest. In other words,
the number of older age class bucks harvested is considerably less than the number of yearlings saved
due to APR. Do you find this acceptable?
ALL Respondents (n = 1317)
Sampling error +/- 3%
Yes
51%
No
28%
No Opinion
21%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
Zone 28: Respondents (n = 484)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Yes
52%
No
28%
No Opinion
20%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
Zone 30: Respondents (n = 251)
Sampling error +/- 6%
Yes
47%
No
32%
No Opinion
21%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
50%
60%
70%
80%
August 2010
Page 29 of 57
Q7. Research on the current 3-point Antler Point Restrictions in zones 3, 6, 9, 13, 27, 29, 35 and 63
from 2001 through 2005 in New Jersey has shown that on average, 11 yearling bucks saved from the
harvest due to Antler Point Restrictions are missing from the older age class harvest. In other words,
the number of older age class bucks harvested is considerably less than the number of yearlings saved
due to APR. Do you find this acceptable? (continued)
Zone 31: Respondents (n = 225)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Yes
52%
No
27%
No Opinion
21%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
70%
80%
70%
80%
Zone 34: Respondents (n = 444)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Yes
50%
No
29%
No Opinion
21%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
Zone 47: Respondents (n = 203)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Yes
56%
No
25%
No Opinion
20%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
50%
60%
August 2010
Page 30 of 57
Q8. In deer management zones with high quality deer browse and food availability, would a 4-point
Antler Point Restriction be acceptable to you?
ALL Respondents (n = 1337)
Sampling error +/- 3%
Yes
56%
No
38%
No Opinion
6%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 493)
Sampling error +/- 4%
Yes
57%
No
No Opinion
39%
4%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
70%
80%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 257)
Sampling error +/- 6%
Yes
54%
No
No Opinion
40%
6%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
50%
60%
August 2010
Page 31 of 57
Q8. In deer management zones with high quality deer browse and food availability, would a 4-point
Antler Point Restriction be acceptable to you? (continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 228)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Yes
53%
No
No Opinion
42%
5%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 450)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Yes
57%
No
No Opinion
37%
6%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 203)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Yes
60%
No
No Opinion
35%
5%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
60%
70%
80%
August 2010
Page 32 of 57
Q9. Would you like to see APR (3 Points or more on one side) regulations in the following zones:
All Respondents
ZONE: 28
(n=1201)
DMZ Selected Respondents
Yes
ZONE: 28
(n=489)
62%
Yes
Sampling error
No
+/- 3%
19%
Sampling error
No
+/- 4%
No opinion
19%
No opinion
0%
ZONE: 30
(n=1181)
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
Yes
60%
70%
80%
Sampling error
+/- 3%
26%
1%
0%
ZONE: 30
(n=256)
57%
73%
40%
50%
60%
70%
Yes
80%
73%
24%
No opinion
2%
26%
0%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
Yes
60%
70%
No
ZONE: 31
(n=225)
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
ZONE: 47
(n=1177)
Yes
Sampling error
+/- 3%
No
20%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
70%
80%
NJDFW
Survey Results
N o o pinio APR
n
26%
50%
60%
70%
80%
29%
2%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
Yes
70%
80%
69%
Sampling error
No
+/- 7%
17 %
40%
69%
0%
ZONE: 47
(n=201)
57%
30%
Yes
No opinion
21%
10%
60%
3%
Sampling error
No
+/- 5%
18%
0%
50%
25%
0%
ZONE: 34
(n=450)
61%
No opinion
40%
72%
No opinion
Yes
Sampling error
No
+/- 3%
30%
Yes
No
28%
10%
20%
Sampling error
+/- 7%
16%
0%
10%
80%
56%
No opinion
ZONE: 34
(n=1227)
30%
17%
No opinion
Sampling error
+/- 3%
20%
Sampling error
No
+/- 6%
No
ZONE: 31
(n=1174)
10%
28%
No opinion
3%
August 2010
Page 33 of 57
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
Q10. Please choose how you would like to see New Jersey’s deer harvest comprised?
Option 1: Fewer bucks harvested, but those bucks are older, have more mass and more antler points.
Option 2: More bucks harvested, but those bucks are younger, have less mass and fewer antler points.
All Respondents (n = 1263)
Sampling error +/- 3%
Fewer Bucks w/more
mass & points
84%
More Bucks w/less
mass & points
16%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 464)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Fewer Bucks w/more
mass & points
85%
More Bucks w/less
mass & points
15%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 242)
Sampling error +/- 6%
Fewer Bucks w/more
mass & points
84%
More Bucks w/less
mass & points
NJDFW APR Survey Results
16%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100
%
August 2010
Page 34 of 57
Q10. Please choose how you would like to see New Jersey’s deer harvest comprised?
Option 1: Fewer bucks harvested, but those bucks are older, have more mass and more antler points.
Option 2: More bucks harvested, but those bucks are younger, have less mass and fewer antler points.
(continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 212)
Sampling error +/-7%
Fewer Bucks w/more
mass & points
85%
More Bucks w/less
mass & points
15%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100
%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 425)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Fewer Bucks w/more
mass & points
81%
More Bucks w/less
mass & points
19%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100
%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 194)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Fewer Bucks w/more
mass & points
More Bucks w/less
mass & points
NJDFW APR Survey Results
82%
18%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100
%
August 2010
Page 35 of 57
Q11. Currently in New Jersey, the total buck bag limit for all seasons combined is 6 per Fall/Winter
hunting year. New Jersey hunters generally harvest 3 bucks or less over all seasons combined in a
Fall/Winter hunting year. During the 2007-08 deer hunting season, 99.2% of successful buck hunters
harvested 3 bucks or less. Would like to see less bucks per hunter allowed for harvest?
If yes to #11, how many bucks per year would like to see allowed per hunter for harvest?
All Respondents (n = 1301)
Sampling error +/- 3%
Yes
49%
No
51%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
1
46%
18%
2
48%
3
54%
No
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
24%
4
6%
5
5%
0%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 251)
Sampling error +/- 6%
20%
1
2
5
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
54%
24%
4
51%
0%
60%
16%
3
No
40%
ZONE 30: # Bucks Allowed for Harvest (n = 114)
Sampling error +/- 9%
49%
Yes
60%
ZONE 28: # Bucks Allowed for Harvest (n = 195)
Sampling error +/- 7%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 478)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Yes
50%
80%
100%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
6%
0%
0%
20%
40%
60%
August 2010
Page 36 of 57
80%
100%
Q11. Currently in New Jersey, the total buck bag limit for all seasons combined is 6 per Fall/Winter
hunting year. New Jersey hunters generally harvest 3 bucks or less over all seasons combined in a
Fall/Winter hunting year. During the 2007-08 deer hunting season, 99.2% of successful buck hunters
harvested 3 bucks or less. Would like to see less bucks per hunter allowed for harvest?
If yes to #11, how many bucks per year would like to see allowed per hunter for harvest?
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 214)
Sampling error +/- 7%
ZONE 31: # Bucks Allowed for Harvest (n = 97)
Sampling error +/- 10%
16%
1
Yes
49%
47%
2
25%
3
No
5
0%
20%
40%
60%
11%
4
51%
80%
100%
1%
0%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 438)
Sampling error +/- 5%
20%
1
2
5
20%
40%
60%
80%
21%
100%
6%
1%
0%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 198)
Sampling error +/- 7%
20%
1
2
5
20%
40%
60%
80%
80%
100%
42%
19%
4
48%
0%
60%
26%
3
No
40%
ZONE 47: # Bucks Allowed for Harvest (n = 90)
Sampling error +/- 10%
52%
Yes
100%
55%
4
49%
0%
80%
17%
3
No
60%
ZONE 34: # Bucks Allowed for Harvest (n = 202)
Sampling error +/- 7%
51%
Yes
40%
100%
11%
2%
0%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
20%
40%
60%
August 2010
Page 37 of 57
80%
100%
Q12. What type of land do you primarily hunt?
All Respondents (n = 1261)
Sampling error +/- 3%
Private
64%
Public
36%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 458)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Private
77%
Public
23%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 239)
Sampling error +/- 6%
Private
64%
Public
36%
0%
20%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
60%
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 38 of 57
Q12. What type of land do you primarily hunt? (continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 208)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Private
56%
Public
44%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 423)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Private
47%
Public
53%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 195)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Private
69%
Public
31%
0%
20%
40%
60%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 39 of 57
Q13. If you hunt private land, how many acres is the property where you hunt?
All Respondents (n = 1034)
Sampling error +/- 3%
46%
5 - 49
18%
50-99
27%
Over 100
8%
Don't Know
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 433)
Sampling error +/- 5%
47%
5 - 49
18%
50-99
Over 100
30%
Don't Know
5%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 199)
Sampling error +/- 7%
37%
5 - 49
23%
50-99
27%
Over 100
14%
Don't Know
0%
20%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
60%
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 40 of 57
Q13. If you hunt private land, how many acres is the property where you hunt ? (continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 171)
Sampling error +/- 8%
5 - 49
46%
50-99
19%
Over 100
22%
Don't Know
13%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 294)
Sampling error +/- 6%
5 - 49
47%
50-99
15%
Over 100
28%
Don't Know
11%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 165)
Sampling error +/- 8%
5 - 49
56%
50-99
16%
Over 100
22%
Don't Know
6%
0%
20%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
60%
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 41 of 57
Q14. What is your primary method of deer hunting ?
All Respondents (n = 1223)
Sampling error +/- 3%
Elevated stand
83%
Ground blind
8%
Deer driving
6%
Still hunting
3%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 448)
Sampling error +/- 5%
90%
Elevated stand
Ground blind
5%
Deer driving
4%
2%
Still hunting
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 234)
Sampling error +/- 6%
83%
Elevated stand
10%
Ground blind
Deer driving
4%
Still hunting
3%
0%
20%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
60%
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 42 of 57
Q14. What is your primary method of deer hunting ? (continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 202)
Sampling error +/- 7%
87%
Elevated stand
Ground blind
6%
Deer driving
5%
Still hunting
1%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 408)
Sampling error +/- 5%
77%
Elevated stand
Ground blind
11%
Deer driving
8%
Still hunting
4%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 185)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Elevated stand
83%
9%
Ground blind
6%
Deer driving
Still hunting
2%
0%
20%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
60%
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 43 of 57
Q15. Are you a member of a hunting club that actively “drives” deer during the deer season?
All Respondents (n = 1316)
Sampling error +/- 3%
Yes
33%
No
67%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 482)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Yes
30%
No
70%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 254)
Sampling error +/- 6%
31%
Yes
69%
No
0%
20%
40%
60%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 44 of 57
Q15. Are you a member of a hunting club that actively “drives” deer during the deer season?
(continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 218)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Yes
38%
No
62%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 443)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Yes
35%
No
65%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 200)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Yes
42%
No
0%
58%
20%
40%
60%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 45 of 57
Q16. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement:
If deer hunters “drive” deer, it is difficult to identify legal bucks with the APR restrictions.
All Respondents (n = 1316)
Sampling error +/- 3%
47%
Strongly agree
22%
Moderately agree
7%
Neither agree nor disagree
Moderately disagree
10%
Strongly disagree
11%
3%
Don't know
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 484)
Sampling error +/- 5%
45%
Strongly agree
26%
Moderately agree
7%
Neither agree nor disagree
Moderately disagree
10%
Strongly disagree
10%
2%
Don't know
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 254)
Sampling error +/- 6%
48%
Strongly agree
18%
Moderately agree
8%
Neither agree nor disagree
Moderately disagree
11%
9%
Strongly disagree
6%
Don't know
0%
20%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
60%
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 46 of 57
Q16. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement:
If deer hunters “drive” deer, it is difficult to identify legal bucks with the APR restrictions. (continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 217)
Sampling error +/- 7%
50%
Strongly agree
17%
Moderately agree
6%
Neither agree nor disagree
11%
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
13%
3%
Don't know
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 444)
Sampling error +/- 5%
46%
Strongly agree
20%
Moderately agree
7%
Neither agree nor disagree
10%
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
14%
3%
Don't know
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 199)
Sampling error +/- 7%
44%
Strongly agree
23%
Moderately agree
5%
Neither agree nor disagree
10%
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
15%
4%
Don't know
0%
20%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
40%
60%
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 47 of 57
Q17. Would you give up “driving” deer because it may be harder to identify legal antler points, to
allow for 3 point rule regulations in your area?
All Respondents (n = 1326)
Sampling error +/- 3%
Yes
44%
No
37%
No Opinion
19%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
70%
80%
70%
80%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 492)
Sampling error +/- 4%
Yes
44%
No
37%
No Opinion
19%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 249)
Sampling error +/- 6%
Yes
51%
No
30%
No Opinion
19%
0%
10%
20%
30%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
40%
50%
60%
August 2010
Page 48 of 57
Q17. Would you give up “driving” deer because it may be harder to identify legal antler points, to
allow for 3 point rule regulations in your area? (continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 227)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Yes
49%
No
32%
No Opinion
19%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 447)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Yes
43%
No
39%
No Opinion
18%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
70%
80%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 201)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Yes
37%
No
41%
No Opinion
22%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
50%
60%
August 2010
Page 49 of 57
Q18. Do you hunt deer over bait?
All Respondents (n = 1328)
Sampling error +/- 3%
Yes
80%
No
20%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 491)
Sampling error +/- 4%
Yes
75%
No
25%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 254)
Sampling error +/- 6%
Yes
75%
No
25%
0%
20%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
60%
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 50 of 57
Q18. Do you hunt deer over bait? (continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 226)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Yes
80%
No
20%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 447)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Yes
86%
No
14%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 202)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Yes
87%
No
13%
0%
20%
40%
60%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 51 of 57
Q19. Are you or have you been a member of:?
All Respondents (n = 1351)
Sampling error +/- 3%
8%
11%
13%
NJSFSC
Deer hunting club
42%
7%
None
41%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
50%
60%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 500)
Sampling error +/- 4%
QDMA
9%
NJSFSC
13%
UBNJ
16%
39%
Deer hunting club
Other
0%
None
41%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 259)
Sampling error +/- 6%
QDMA
10%
NJSFSC
7%
9%
UBNJ
Deer hunting club
Other
39%
0%
None
46%
0%
10%
20%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
30%
40%
50%
60%
August 2010
Page 52 of 57
Q19. Are you or have you been a member of:? (continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 230)
Sampling error +/- 7%
QDMA
10%
NJSFSC
12%
UBNJ
14%
Deer hunting club
44%
Other
0%
None
37%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 453)
Sampling error +/- 5%
QDMA
5%
NJSFSC
9%
UBNJ
13%
Deer hunting club
47%
Other
0%
None
40%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 205)
Sampling error +/- 7%
QDMA
14%
NJSFSC
17%
UBNJ
16%
Deer hunting club
Other
52%
0%
None
30%
0%
10%
20%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
30%
40%
50%
60%
August 2010
Page 53 of 57
Q20. In what age group do you fall?
All Respondents (n = 1340)
Sampling error +/- 3%
10 - 19
6%
20 - 29
8%
30 - 39
14%
40 - 49
27%
50 - 59
23%
60 +
23%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 496)
Sampling error +/- 4%
10 - 19
6%
20 - 29
9%
30 - 39
15%
40 - 49
28%
50 - 59
22%
60 +
20%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 256)
Sampling error +/- 6%
10 - 19
9%
20 - 29
6%
30 - 39
14%
40 - 49
30%
50 - 59
20%
60 +
21%
0%
10%
20%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
30%
40%
50%
August 2010
Page 54 of 57
Q20. In what age group do you fall? (continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 229)
Sampling error +/- 7%
10 - 19
7%
20 - 29
6%
30 - 39
17%
40 - 49
30%
50 - 59
20%
60 +
21%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
40%
50%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 450)
Sampling error +/- 5%
10 - 19
6%
20 - 29
10%
30 - 39
13%
40 - 49
24%
50 - 59
25%
60 +
23%
0%
10%
20%
30%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 203)
Sampling error +/- 7%
10 - 19
7%
20 - 29
6%
30 - 39
14%
40 - 49
32%
50 - 59
20%
60 +
22%
0%
10%
20%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
30%
40%
50%
August 2010
Page 55 of 57
Q21. What is your gender?
All Respondents (n = 1336)
Sampling error +/- 3%
Male
97%
Female
3%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 28: Respondents (n = 495)
Sampling error +/- 4%
Male
Female
97%
3%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 30: Respondents (n = 254)
Sampling error +/- 6%
Male
Female
0%
95%
5%
20%
40%
60%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 56 of 57
Q21. What is your gender? (continued)
ZONE 31: Respondents (n = 227)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Male
99%
Female
1%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 34: Respondents (n = 448)
Sampling error +/- 5%
Male
96%
Female
4%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
ZONE 47: Respondents (n = 202)
Sampling error +/- 7%
Male
98%
Female
2%
0%
20%
40%
NJDFW APR Survey Results
60%
80%
100%
August 2010
Page 57 of 57