Wisconsin Encourages Venison Donations for Food Pantries

State officials highlight donation programs as hunters help manage high deer populations in two counties.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Hunting

Screen-print poster illustration of dried oak leaves on a wooden surface, evoking Wisconsin's seasonal harvest and community donation initiatives. — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is calling on hunters in Door and Kewaunee counties to donate harvested venison to local food pantries. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should local hunters prioritize using all available tags to help manage local deer populations?

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is urging hunters to donate harvested venison to local food pantries to help manage high deer populations. Hunters can drop off deer at three participating meat processors in Door and Kewaunee counties at no charge.

Why it matters

The program helps address overabundant deer populations in the region while providing a critical source of protein for local community food pantries. It leverages the success of the annual harvest to support residents in need across the state.

Since 2000, hunters have donated more than 100,000 deer, yielding over 4 million pounds of venison. Hunters in Door County may also utilize up to 10 free antlerless tags to assist in population control efforts.

The players

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

This state agency is responsible for managing Wisconsin's natural resources and implementing deer population control regulations.

The details

Deer populations in Door and Kewaunee counties remain extremely high, prompting the state to encourage hunters to use available tags. Hunters have harvested 499 deer in Door County and 299 in Kewaunee County since the current season began.

The state deer donation program began in 2000.
The current deer hunting season began on September 12, 2026.

Culture Shift

This program reflects a growing movement toward sustainable, local food sourcing by turning the results of conservation efforts into community aid. It bridges the gap between state-mandated wildlife management and regional charitable needs.

Hunters in Door County can take advantage of up to 10 free antlerless tags to manage the local population. Residents can benefit from the influx of venison at food pantries supported by donations at local meat processors.

The takeaway

Hunters play a direct role in both local ecosystem health and community food security through these state-backed donation channels. Participating in these programs ensures that surplus deer populations are utilized effectively for public benefit.