 While hunters registered almost 69,000 deer during the first weekend of the firearm season, the 68,958 deer registered during the first two days of the season is about 3% less than a year ago. DNR officials say these are preliminary numbers and it is too soon to say if the unusual weather had any impact on the harvest. The DNR is projecting the total 2016 deer harvest to be between 165 and 185,000 deer. The 2015 total harvest, as a reference point, was a little more than 159,000 deer. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.