The recent death of a seasonal resident with an apparent case of tularemia has sparked renewed discussion about tick-borne illnesses.

The archery season for deer will be extended by two weeks in an area of the state that includes the Vineyard, state officials announced last week.

Dukes County and the Island boards of health are sponsoring a Martha’s Vineyard Tick Fair on Saturday, July 28.

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

Efforts to reduce the Island deer herd, and an apparent spread of lone star ticks, topped a presentation this week.

Oak Bluffs selectmen Tuesday decided to stay the course after revisiting their decision to back an expanded deer hunting season on the Island.