Maine hunters are doing their part to help feed the neediest by participating in the state's Hunters for the Hungry program.

The program, which is run by Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and the Department of Agriculture’s Temporary Emergency Food Assistance Program, has been distributing donated game to local food pantries since 1999. But the state is making an extra push to promote it this year because some pantries and kitchens have seen demand increase by up to 50 percent.

This year, the program has already distributed 1,282 pounds of donated moose, deer and bear meat, as well as some geese and duck. That's a 375 percent increase over last year's total, according to Jason T. Hall from the Department of Agriculture.

Hall supposes the increase comes from a variety of factors, ranging from an increased awareness of the program to a renewed sense of social responsibility after the economy crashed.

"The avid hunters realized they could share their love of the sport with helping their neighbors," Hall explained to the Exception. "The pantries and kitchens are thankful to receive a low-fat, mineral-rich protein to hand out to those less fortunate. Also, the credit can be placed with the Maine Wardens. They are on the front line talking to communities and promoting the program."

After the meat is donated, state officials make sure it is safe for consumption. The donated meats are quickly processed and frozen to preserve shelf life. The program uses USDA meat processors trained in food safety, according to Hall, and follows the same regulations that apply to domestic animals.

The goal is to get the meat from the distribution center in Augusta to the over 200 pantries, kitchens and shelters that depend on assistance as quickly as possible.

Because game meat is a unique treat, the pantries will often prepare a special dinner for their patrons.

So how does black bear taste?

According to Hall, who is admittedly "more of a moose fan," it depends on who you ask and how you prepare it (options include boiling it and throwing it on the grill, grinding it into sausage or cubing it into a stew).

"Many say it is a cross between pork and chicken," Hall said. "My friend says it is a cross between cabbage and skunk."

If the bear is prepared in a slow cooker, it can be tender and taste like beef, according to Hall. It may also have a sweet flavor because of the bear's all-natural diet.

Hunters who would like to share part of their harvest with their fellow Mainers may call toll free: 1-888-4DEER-ME (433-3763).

Image created by the Exception using public domain photos.