BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) _ Fewer deer hunting licenses issued in
North Dakota this year and poor weather on the opening weekend of
the season are translating into less work for meat processors in
the state.
Rod Ruscheinsky tells says his Double R Meats business in Carson will process between 150
and 175 deer, compared to 200 in a normal year.
Forty percent fewer deer licenses were issued this year because
of a drop in population due to three straight harsh winters
beginning in 2008.
Dan Kraft at Butcher Block Meats in Mandan says deer season
typically is the busiest time of the year at his shop. He says
having a slow season gives him and his workers more time to devote
to other tasks, and is ``almost a welcome little breather.''
