LINCOLN, Neb. - With deer season wrapped up in Nebraska, Game and Parks is analyzing the years harvest numbers to gain valuable information on population in the Cornhusker state. 

NGPC Big Game Program Manager Luke Meduna says hunter success rates gradually increased in 2024 from 2023. The most notable of increases came in western Nebraska where Mule Deer harvest numbers increased, despite recent permit reductions. 

"The harvest data at this point tells us we're starting to turn the corner," Meduna said. "We're starting to see some response from the reduced number of permits over the last few years."

As for whitetail, numbers declined, but by less than in recent years. Areas hit the hardest include northeastern Nebraska units. Meduna says this is due largely in part to severe drought, leading to increases in EHD, a viral infection that is often fatal for deer. 

Meanwhile, numbers in areas like southeast Nebraska remained consistent to recent years. 

Overall, Meduna says this years data is generally positive. 

"That response in the Mule Deer and the response we've seen in the whitetail looks like that trend is starting to swing on the upward side," Meduna said. "It's more on the silver lining side of good news, but we still have some room to turn things around."