Low water may hinder waterfowl hunting

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - Conservation authorities say the dry summer is likely to make it a tough season for waterfowl hunting in western New York.

The hunting season starts Saturday, and environmental officials say water levels remain below normal despite recent rains, making some traditional hunting areas less attractive to birds and less accessible by boat.

The Department of Environmental Conservation says conditions are worst in the Iroquois Wildlife Management Area. The number of permits issued for the Tonawanda Wildlife Management Area has been reduced 20 percent because of the lack of water in some spots.

The Northern Montezuma area is in better shape and the agency says conditions are good in the Seneca River, Barge Canal and Crusoe Creek.