As of Jan. 1, 2014, the town of Cazenovia will no longer sell hunting and fishing licenses at the town offices.

This decision was authorized by the town board at its Nov. 4 regular monthly meeting in response to the state Department of Environmental Conservation’s newly initiated e-licensing system, which would require the town to purchase a new computer and new computer software to operate, according Town Clerk Linda Mather. The town board decided it was not economically smart to spend money on a new system when the town’s revenues from hunting and fishing licenses are so small.

Because of the numerous other municipalities and licensing agents in and around the Cazenovia area from whom residents could obtain a license, it was decided by the town board that for the town to discontinue its participation in the license program would not be an inconvenience to town residents, according to the board’s resolution.

Residents wanting to purchase hunting and fishing licenses after Jan. 1 can do so through the DEC at dec.ny.gov or by calling 866-933-2257. Licenses can also be purchased at the Nelson, Fenner, DeRuyter and Sullivan town offices, Walmart, Dick’s Clothing and Sporting Goods, Bass Pro Shop, Gander Mountain and Manlius True Value Hardware.

Jason Emerson is editor of the Cazenovia Republican. He can be reached at [email protected].