MADISON, WI (WTAQ) - For now at least, nealry 75 Chippewa Indians will be allowed to go deer hunting at night.

The state DNR has asked a federal judge to halt the practice, saying it’s too dangerous to shoot rifles in the dark.

Sue Erickson of the Great Lakes Indian Fish-and-Wildlife Commission says her group planned to file a legal response today to the DNR’s action.

Last week, the commission told Chippewa tribal hunters they could go hunting after dark – starting tonight – in the ceded territory throughout northern Wisconsin.

The hunters must first be certified in the marksmanship proficiency.

Erickson said 74 hunters from five tribes have qualified.