Indiana Conservation Officer’s Sportsmen’s Benevolence Fund (SBF) program was used by Indiana deer hunters to donate a record 1,756 deer to feed hungry Hoosiers this past deer season. A total of 81,715 pounds of venison was used by Indiana food banks to provide 326,858 high protein meals from October 2014 to January. Statewide average deer processing costs were $60.61 which averages to $1.30 per pound of venison and $.32 per meal.

“SBF is another way that the DNR Law Enforcement Division works closely with our ethical sportsmen and women to address issues of great interest within our state,” said Danny L. East, DNR Law Enforcement division director. “Our partnership with our hunters, fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts continues to be one of our top priorities and these numbers speaks volumes on how well we are doing”.

This season totals are an increase from the 2013-2014 deer season of 1,411 donated deer, 67,473 pounds of venison providing 269,892 meals.

“The DNR is proud of the hunting community for stepping up to provide for those in need through the SBF Program,” DNR Director Cameron Clark said. “I am proud of the strong relationship that continues to build between our Agency and those who enjoy our vast natural resources.”

SBF received public funding in 2013 through a bill that was authored by Sen. Mike Crider and Sen. Brent Steele.

“I am very pleased with the growth of the SBF program, especially since the statewide deer harvest decreased this season, which shows great support of this program by our citizens,” Sen. Crider said. “I am also pleased that the program was once again funded in the state budget that just passed.”

For more information on the Sportsmen’s Benevolence Fund, visit http://www.in.gov/dnr/lawenfor/3987.htm