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Wild game processors now need free DNR permit

Wild game processors now need free DNR permit

By Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Commercial game processors must immediately register with the Department of Natural Resources. The free registration is part of a larger set of deer management regulations related to hunting licenses, chronic wasting disease response measures, urban conflict and other issues.

“This free permit is to determine how many game processors are in the state of Michigan and where they are located,” said Casey Reitz, DNR wildlife permit specialist.

During its June meeting, the Natural Resources Commission signed the order requiring anyone who receives compensation for processing wild game to be registered.

“As we work to manage white-tailed deer diseases in Michigan, we need to be able to contact processors who might be able to assist us in processing donated deer," she said. "In addition, we would like to provide this information to hunters so they can have their deer processed relatively close to home. Right now, we do not have those capabilities.

“If you receive compensation for processing game, you are now required to be registered with the DNR. It is a quick and easy process of filling out an online form and then printing off your permit.”

Commercial wild game processors are advised to register before the fall hunting season.

The registration form can be found online at www.michigan.gov/wildlifepermits.

Processors unable to fill out the online form should call (517)284-9453 for assistance.

Food safety requirements and licensing are regulated by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, not the DNR. MDARD and USDA conduct inspections associated with those regulations.

Wild game processors with questions related to being licensed or food safety requirements can call (800)292-3939 or check online at www.michigan.gov/meatprocessing.

More online information can also be found at
•  Wild Game Processing at Retail Food Establishments Variance
•  Venison Processing - Processing Guide and Sanitation Requirements for Retail Food Establishments
•  Wild Game Sausage Processing Requirements

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