MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The state Department of Natural Resources’ board has prohibited hunters from killing antlerless deer in 13 counties this fall in an effort to regrow the herd in those areas.

The ban includes Douglas, Bayfield, Sawyer, Ashland, Iron, Vilas, Price, Oneida, Langlade, Forest, Florence and Racine counties as well as a portion of Jackson County.

DNR officials say the herd across most of the northern forest remains well below desired levels. Despite the mild winter the herd needs more time to regenerate.

The board approved the prohibition during a meeting Wednesday in Madison.