LINCOLN - Archery deer hunting season opens Sept. 1 in Nebraska.

The early opener was requested by archery hunters to allow hunting of deer when bucks are still in velvet. Opening day had been Sept. 15 for the past 35 years.

"For those who don't mind hunting what could be warm days, with lots of leafy vegetation, this is a good time to be out in the woods, when hunter numbers can be expected to be low," said Kit Hams, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission's big game program manager.

The archery deer season runs through Dec. 31. Archery permits are valid statewide, with restrictions, and unlimited in number. The permit bag limit is one deer of any kind. To purchase permits or view the 2014 Big Game Guide, visit www.OutdoorNebraska.org.