(LANSING) - Michigan hunters will have a new way to check their harvest starting with the new license year on April 1.
The Department of Natural Resources is expanding its digital tagging system through the Michigan Hunt Fish app, allowing hunters to tag animals using a smartphone instead of traditional paper tags.
The optional system can be used for deer, turkey, and bear, along with species such as fisher, otter, and marten. Once recorded, harvest data is sent directly to the DNR to help track wildlife populations.
State officials say the goal is to make reporting faster and more convenient.
The change has raised concerns among some hunters about relying on cell service or battery life in remote areas.
The DNR says traditional paper tags will remain available, and the digital option is not required.