The Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that a special four-day firearms deer season for people with certain disabilities begins Thursday, Oct. 16.

All those who have a DNR permit to hunt from a standing vehicle or who are legally blind, and all military veterans who have been deemed 100 percent disabled or unemployable are eligible to participate.

"A lot of these folks were active deer hunters before their circumstances changed and they just need a little help to get back into it," said DNR Director Rebecca Humphries. "This hunt period is a chance for them to get out in the woods before the weather becomes too harsh and it's during a time frame when they can enlist the aid of other firearm deer hunters who can share the deer hunting experience."

Hunters who participate in the season are required to have documentation of their condition, either from the State of Michigan or the Veteran's Administration, in their possession while in the field.

Legally blind hunters must be accompanied by a sighted individual who can tell them when the laser-sighting device is on target.

All usual firearms regulations and licensing requirements apply.