Island hunters took nearly 800 deer during the 2017 deer hunting season, the highest harvest in at least 16 years, according to recently released state data.

Shotgun hunting season began Monday, and the weigh station was busy this week with hunters, biologists collecting ticks, and a new deer donation program.

Check-in stations will be busy Monday as the two-week shotgun deer hunting season gets underway. A new program is also beginning that will allow hunters to donate extra deer.

Island boards of health and a nonprofit partner are rolling out a new program to help hunters donate and process venison on the Island.

The Vineyard has more deer per square mile than most areas in the state, but most of land remains off limits to hunting.

The deer hunting season is underway this week on the Vineyard. The archery season began Oct. 19 and runs through Nov. 28.

Martha’s Vineyard Rod & Gun Club opens its annual Fall Shotgun Shoot to the public on Sunday, Nov. 30. Everyone is eligible for prizes in this marksmanship competition the day before the shotgun deer season opens.

Archery hunting for deer has been ongoing. Now it is the time for those with guns. The two-week season of deer hunting with a shotgun begins next Monday at a half hour before sunrise. To coincide with the start of the hunt, the Martha’s Vineyard Rod and Gun Club is hosting its annual fun Fall Shotgun Shoot on Sunday.