The Department of Natural Resources reminds sportsmen and sportswomen that hunting season begins 30 minutes before sunrise Monday, Sept. 1, with the opening of the early Canada goose season.

The early season, which is designed to take advantage of resident giant Canada geese, opens statewide on Sept. 1. It runs through Sept. 10 in the Upper Peninsula and in Huron, Tuscola and Saginaw counties, and through Sept. 15 in the remainder of the state. Hunters will be able to harvest five Canada geese per day during this early season which is an increase from three last year.

"Michigan's giant Canada goose populations were similar to last year, and remain within our management goals," said DNR Waterfowl Specialist Barbara Avers. "Hunters should have good opportunities to harvest birds this season."

In addition to a small game license, a hunter must possess a Michigan waterfowl license and a federal waterfowl stamp in order to hunt Canada geese. Shotguns must be plugged so that they can hold no more than three shells of non-toxic shot.