New York State Encouraging Hunters To Use Lead-Free Ammunition

On August 27, 2026, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and  Conservation Science Global announced an offer for hunters in New York State.

The program is offering hunters up to $60 for the purchase and use of lead-free ammunition during the big game hunting season for 2027-2027.

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According to the announcement from the New York State DEC, lead ammunition fragments can travel up to 18 inches from the point of impact and are commonly left behind after a deer is harvested and field dressed.

These fragments pose a risk to scavenging wildlife. Lead-free ammunition is made of copper, retaining up to 95% of mass after impact, resulting in deeper penetration without being toxic to scavenging wildlife.

Hunters in North America have been the backbone of wildlife conservation and have led the charge in numerous wildlife management successes, such as the restoration of white-tailed deer and wild turkey. DEC’s lead-free ammunition rebate program is yet another prime example of how hunters can help conserve wildlife. We thank the deer hunters of New York who volunteer to be part of the project. - New York State DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton

The program is voluntary and available for all firearm deer hunters in New York State. The NYS DEC produced a video that compares lead to lead-free ammunition for those interested. View the video HERE.

For hunters who need more information on the program, finding ammunition and applications, visit the  Hunters for Conservation New York website.