Illegal Deer Baiting Operations Uncovered in Cairo and Prattsville

By Max Oppen

GREENE COUNTY — In a recent enforcement operation, Environmental Conservation Officer (ECO) Lucas Palmateer of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) cracked down on illegal deer baiting activities in Greene County. The operation targeted individuals engaging in the unlawful and unethical practice of hunting with the aid of bait, violating state regulations.

In the town of Cairo, Officer Lucas Palmateer issued citations to two hunters who were found using pre-established bait and placing salt licks on lands inhabited by deer. Hunting with the assistance of bait is considered both illegal and unethical, as it provides hunters with an unfair advantage by attracting the targeted game to an unnatural food source.

Using bait in hunting can have detrimental consequences, as multiple deer feeding from the same bait pile can spread diseases within the herd. The DEC emphasizes the importance of maintaining the principles of "fair chase" to ensure that hunting remains a challenging yet rewarding tradition for all participants who venture into the wilderness.

Responding to a tip regarding baiting activities in Prattsville, Officer Palmateer discovered two individuals hunting from a tree stand on State land. Both hunters were found with fresh piles of corn on the ground in front of them, indicating a clear violation of the regulations prohibiting the use of bait.

Further complicating the situation, a third hunting party member was also hunting with bait on a neighboring property. To gather evidence, ECO Palmateer enlisted the assistance of ECO Melissa Burgess, and together, they charged all three individuals with hunting with the aid of pre-established bait.

In addition to the primary charges, one of the subjects faced an additional charge for maintaining a tree stand on State land without displaying owner information, highlighting the importance of responsible hunting practices. Another individual was charged with failing to comply with the requirement of wearing hunter orange for safety.

Hunters are reminded to familiarize themselves with state regulations and adhere to ethical standards to protect the environment and maintain the sustainability of wildlife populations. The DEC encourages the public to report suspicious hunting activities or violations to help safeguard New York's natural resources.