DEC Region 5 Provides Pelt Sealing Opportunities for Trappers

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Region 5 Wildlife staff are providing opportunities for trappers to have pelts of bobcat, fisher, marten and otter sealed within 10 days after a trapping season closes.

Fisher and marten trapping seasons in the Adirondacks closed November 30, and pelts of these species trapped in the Adirondacks must be sealed by December 10. The trapping season for fisher in eastern New York outside the Adirondacks closes December 10, and pelts of fisher trapped in these areas must be sealed by December 20.

The pelts of all four species must be sealed before the pelt is:

• Sold or transferred to another person;
• Mounted or tanned; or
• Transported out of New York State.

All marten carcasses must be submitted at the time the pelt is sealed. DEC uses the carcasses from marten and other mammals to determine population structure and trends. This information is used to set seasons and limits.

The schedule of DEC Wildlife pelt sealing opportunities:

• Monday, December 5, 2016; 6:30 - 8:00 pm at the Ephratah Rod & Gun Club, 372 State Highway 67, Fort Plain, NY
• Wednesday, December 7, 2016; 5:00 - 8:00 pm at the DEC Region 5 Office, 232 Golf Course Road, Warrensburg, NY 
• Thursday, December 8, 2016; 6:00 - 7:30 pm at the FMB Bait & Tackle Shop, 4133 Main Street, Port Henry, NY
• Thursday, December 15, 2016; 6:30 - 8:00 pm at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Training Center, 556 Middleline Road, Ballston Spa, New York

DEC Wildlife staff can also seal pelts sealed at the DEC offices in Ray Brook or Warrensburg. Trappers should contact the wildlife unit prior to bringing in pelts to ensure wildlife staff is present. Contact the Ray Brook Office Wildlife Unit at 518-897-1291 or the Warrensburg Office Wildlife Unit at 518-623-1240.

DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECO) can also seal pelts but trappers must arrange a meeting time and location in advance. Contact the DEC Dispatch at 518-897-1326 for the name and telephone number of the local ECO or check the DEC website.