The state Department of Environmental Conservation announced the 2016-17 waterfowl hunting seasons this week.

For the first time, waterfowl hunting dates are also included in the state’s hunting and trapping guide.

Youth waterfowl hunting dates are Sept. 17 and 18 for the northern zone, and Sept. 24 and 25 for the Lake Champlain zone.

Duck season in the northern zone opens Oct. 8 while the Canada goose season opens Sept. 1 for upstate New York.

Snow geese have become so abundant they are causing ecological damage, and a special hunting season will be open upstate from Jan. 16 through April 15. The daily limit for snow geese is 25.

The DEC is also encouraging hunters to purchase a $5 habitat/access stamp. The stamp is optional but helps DEC to conserve habitat and increase public access for fish and wildlife-related recreation.

For more information, visit www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/28503.html.