The Michigan Natural Resources Commission approved elk regulations for the 2009-2010 season that will have slightly more licenses than last year. There will also be an open season in October this year.

The early elk season will be Sept. 1-4 and Sept. 11-15 with 110 licenses. There will be 35 any-elk licenses and 75 antlerless-only licenses available.

The new Oct. 13-21 season is designed to put pressure on elk in agricultural areas before the animals move into traditional wintering areas. A total of 110 licenses, 35 any-elk and 75 antlerless-only licenses, will be available for this hunt. The October season is also designed to reduce hunter congestion during the traditional December hunt.

The traditional December hunt will be Dec. 8-15 with 160 licenses; 56 any-elk and 104 antlerless-only licenses.

The NRC also approved an optional January hunt with a maximum quota of 50 licenses if deemed necessary by Department of Natural Resources wildlife officials. Last year, a January hunt with 40 licenses was held.

In addition, Crawford County will be open to elk hunting this year to target animals that have moved outside of Michigan's traditional elk range.

All elk licenses will be issued by lottery with an application period of May 1- June 1.

The elk hunts are designed to maintain a winter herd of 800-900 animals and limit the expansion of the herd beyond Michigan's traditional elk range.