DNR Outlines Deer Plan On New Blog

The plan recommends that regulated hunting be used as the primary method to manage deer in urban/suburban areas. This is not surprising as recent surveys indicate that Georgians overwhelmingly support the use of regulated hunting to manage deer populations. Additionally, regulated hunting is cost efficient and effective whereas other alternatives are expensive and ineffective. Nevertheless, the plan acknowledged the need for integrated approaches and included recommendations for alternatives to hunting (e.g., habitat modification, exclusion, et al).

Options such as predator reintroduction, contraception, and others are not recommended, as they are neither feasible nor suitable for Georgia.

Several barriers, which may interfere with effective management of deer in urban areas, also are identified in the plan. These include hunter access to undeveloped, wooded areas and green space; local ordinances; public perceptions; and landowner liability concerns. The plan provides several recommendations to facilitate management of deer in urban and suburban areas that will require cooperation among state and local governments, citizens, and private organizations.

For more information see the Urban Deer Management Plan blog available at www.georgiaurbandeerplan.com. At the site, view the plan in its entirety, provide comments, and review responses to frequently asked questions.

For more information about Wildlife Resources Division, visit www.georgiawildlife.com.