AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — Maine will unveil a new approach to its annual moose hunting permit lottery later this month.

The moose lottery is usually part of a public festival, but this year it will be a virtual event. It’s scheduled to take place on June 13, when it will be broadcast live.

Tens of thousands of people typically apply for a permit. The state gave out about 2,800 permits last year.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills, a Democrat, and other state officials have encouraged residents to take advantage of hunting opportunities while social distancing. The moose hunt takes place every fall.