Missouri hunters have a new, simpler way to help feed hungry Missourians. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) announced that its Share the Harvest program will aim for 6,500 donated deer during the 2026 hunting season and 10,000 in 2027, up from the historic average of about 5,000 per year.
Program changes designed for convenience
“Over the past year, we’ve listened to hunters, meat processors, and other partners to identify ways to make Share the Harvest easier and more accessible,” said Jake Hindman, MDC Share the Harvest expansion coordinator, in a news release. He added that the department is piloting several new options:
- Refrigerated coolers at select processor locations, allowing hunters to drop off field‑dressed deer without worrying about spoilage.
- Elimination of required hunter donation fees, removing a financial barrier for participants.
- Increased reimbursements to meat processors, encouraging more facilities to join the network.
These pilots will be evaluated throughout the season, with the goal of building a stronger, more sustainable program for the long term.
How hunters can contribute
Hunters may donate a whole field‑dressed deer by delivering it to any approved Share the Harvest meat processor. A searchable list of participating processors is available on the MDC website. After a hunter completes the donation form, the processor prepares the meat for distribution to local food banks and pantries.
Families and individuals in need can contact their local food banks to learn about venison availability. The program also accepts financial contributions when purchasing hunting permits or through online donations to the Conservation Federation of Missouri.
History and impact
Share the Harvest began in 1992 when Missouri hunters wanted to share their harvest with neighbors facing food insecurity. Today the program is administered by MDC in partnership with the Conservation Federation of Missouri, the Missouri Association of Meat Processors, Feeding Missouri, and a network of local businesses and sponsors.
According to MDC, the program has averaged about 5,000 donated deer each year, providing roughly 250,000 pounds of venison to Missourians who rely on food‑bank assistance. The expanded goals for 2026 and 2027 reflect both growing hunter participation and a heightened need for nutritious protein in the state’s food‑assistance system.
Community response
Local food‑bank directors have praised the new drop‑off options, noting that refrigerated storage will help maintain meat quality and reduce waste. “Having a reliable source of fresh venison makes a real difference for families who otherwise might go without protein,” said a spokesperson for the St. Louis Food Bank.
Hunters across the state have expressed enthusiasm for the fee waiver, calling it a “win‑win” that supports both conservation values and community service. Many see the program as an extension of the traditional family ethic of providing for neighbors in need.
Looking ahead
The MDC plans to review data from the pilot sites after the 2026 season. Successful elements—such as the refrigerated coolers and higher processor reimbursements—could become permanent fixtures, further expanding the reach of Share the Harvest throughout Missouri.
For more information on how to donate a deer, locate a processor, or contribute financially, visit the Missouri Department of Conservation’s Share the Harvest webpage.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
