The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has established guidelines for the placement of mineral supplements to attract or feed deer, effective immediately.

Any commercially available mineral supplement is considered a processed food product, which would mean the taking of black bear or the release of dogs in the vicinity is prohibited.

In North Carolina, placement of processed food products in areas with established bear seasons is against the law. General Statute 113-294 defines a processed food product as any food substance or flavoring that has been modified from its raw components by the addition of ingredients or by treatment to modify its chemical composition or form or to enhance its aroma or taste.

The use of commercially available mineral supplements was not specifically addressed until a resolution adopting the guidelines was approved Oct. 19 by the commission's governing board.

Placement of mineral supplements for attracting or feeding deer remains legal.

For information, call (919) 707-0030 or visit www.ncwildlife.org.