Grand Traverse County Parks and Recreation is opening Power Island and connected Bassett Island for deer bow hunting between Oct. 20 and Nov. 14, and  between Dec. 1 and Jan. 1, 2019. Firearm hunting will not be permitted. The decision follows a recommendation by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to do so in an effort to control the deer population. Ranger Fred Tank says reports from campers and his personal observations indicate a healthy deer population this year, including some bucks, which is unusual compared to years past. Grand Traverse County Parks and Recreation Commissioners voted to permit hunting on the island beginning Oct. 20, rather than the DNR’s opening day of Oct. 1, because the official camping season on the island ends and the ranger leaves in mid-October. “Keeping park patrons safe is our department’s and commission’s first priority,” said County Parks and Recreation Director Kristine Erickson.