The Certified Hunter Program helps Pennsylvania landowners experiencing excessive deer damage by connecting them with PGC‑certified hunters who provide controlled, non‑public, safe, and effective assistance in managing local deer populations.

Interested in Enrolling Your Property into the Certified Hunter Program?

Contact by Email

To learn more or to begin the application process, please email us at pgcchp@pa.gov

PGCCHP@pa.gov

Contact by Phone

For more information, contact the Certified Hunter Manager.

717-787-7314

Benefits:

  • Increased antlerless deer harvest – Landowners typically see twice the harvest compared to using the agricultural deer control program alone
  • Decrease in deer related crop and habitat damage
  • Access to a pool of qualified, reliable, and safe hunters to manage antlerless deer
  • Direct PGC liaison for questions/concerns
  • Annual reports and harvest history for your property
  • Peace of mind on who is accessing and hunting your property
  • Simple enrollment process and ease of use
  • No cost to the landowner 
Certified Hunters in field

Requirements:

  • Be eligible for the Agricultural Deer Control program (Ag tag) or Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP)
  • Work with PGC to create a Landowner Usage Guide
  • Provide land access for Certified Hunters