Every year, tens of thousands of hunters apply to hunt elk in Pennsylvania, but less than 200 are annually chosen for this opportunity. Hunters view the chance to hunt elk in Pennsylvania as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with many applying for several years without being selected. This opportunity is only heightened by the history of elk in Pennsylvania, as numerous efforts to bring elk to the state and provide suitable habitats for these animals were required to allow for this celebrated hunting tradition to take place.
 
Elk hunting in Pennsylvania is one of the most important aspects of our state’s treasured hunting culture. That is why I plan to introduce a resolution to designate November 3, 2025, the opening day of the 2025 general elk hunting season, as “Pennsylvania Elk Hunt Day” while celebrating both the anniversary of the first regulated elk hunt in Pennsylvania over a century ago, and the 25th anniversary of the reinstatement of elk hunting in Pennsylvania. This recognition will raise awareness about the importance of our state’s elk population to Pennsylvania culture. At the same time, it will educate the public on the storied history of how elk were brought to Pennsylvania and the measures taken by the Pennsylvania Game Commission to support the elk population.
 
Eastern elk are one of the most majestic species to call Pennsylvania home, and our hunters are a critical part of our state’s culture. Help recognize these sportsmen and our wildlife by co-sponsoring this important resolution.