Posted: 11.26.2010

The weather has changed since last weekend, and many Wisconsin deer hunters are hoping that will help their final drive.

Wisconsin's gun deer season wraps up on Sunday, and Keith Warnke with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources tells Pam Jahnke that hunters need to remember respect the elements.  "Think safety first at all times,"  Warnke says, "Stay warm enough  - stay alert, play the weather.  If you need to take a break - take a break. Make sure you know the four rules of firearm safety.  Always point the muzzle in a safe direction. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.  Be sure of your target and beyond. Keep your finger out of the trigger guard until you're ready to shoot."

Last years gun deer season resulted in the 20th lowest harvest in data stretching back to 1966.

Snow cover for tracking is still in short supply across most of the state - with only extreme northern Wisconsin boasting more then trace amounts.

Even with all the expected activity in fields and woods - Friday will be an idle day for many DNR staff.  All Department of Natural Resources offices, will be closed Friday, Nov. 26, for an unpaid furlough day for state employees as part of state government cost cutting measures.

Key DNR services will be maintained. State conservation wardens will be on duty. State parks, forests and trails will be open and staffed as necessary.

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