NEW CITY, N.Y. — The Rockland County Legislature has approved participation in New York state’s Youth Deer Hunting Program, paving the way for eligible 12- and 13-year-olds to hunt deer under adult supervision if the measure receives final approval from the county executive.
The program, established by New York state as a pilot initiative in 2021 and extended through the 2028 hunting season, allows participating counties to opt in through local legislation. Rockland lawmakers voted this week to join the program, which supporters say promotes outdoor education, hunting safety and wildlife conservation.
Under the state program, young hunters must complete hunter safety education courses, obtain valid hunting licenses and remain under the direct supervision of a parent, legal guardian or qualified mentor while hunting with a firearm or crossbow.
Rockland County Majority Leader Alden H. Wolfe, who sponsored the local measure, said the program offers young people an opportunity to learn responsible hunting practices while participating in conservation efforts.
“Hunting has long been an important outdoor recreational activity that also plays a role in wildlife conservation and management,” Wolfe said. “This program simply allows 12- and 13-year-olds in Rockland County to participate in the same state-authorized youth program already available in other counties, provided they are supervised by a licensed adult and comply with all state safety requirements.”
Supporters say the initiative encourages mentorship and introduces participants to firearm safety, wildlife management principles and responsible outdoor recreation.
“This is about responsible participation, education, and passing down outdoor traditions in a safe and structured environment,” Wolfe said.
According to a February 2026 report from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, there were no hunting-related shooting incidents, violations or hunting license revocations involving 12- and 13-year-old participants during the program’s first four years.
The report also found that youth hunters generated approximately $200,000 annually in hunting license sales, with more than 12,600 youth licenses issued during the 2025-26 big-game hunting season.
State officials authorized 54 of New York’s 62 counties outside New York City to participate in the pilot program. If signed into law by County Executive Ed Day, Rockland would become the final eligible county to opt into the initiative.
County officials emphasized that the local law does not alter existing state hunting regulations. All current restrictions regarding hunting seasons, bag limits, landowner permission requirements and approved hunting locations would remain in effect. Participants must also wear fluorescent orange or pink safety clothing as required by state law, and minors are prohibited from hunting from elevated positions.
Officials also noted that hunting remains prohibited in all county, town and village parks throughout Rockland County. Limited hunting is permitted in designated areas of Harriman State Park with appropriate permits.
The measure now awaits action by the county executive.
