2015-03-03_PR Comm Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PLAN Deer Management Options There have been a number of deer management options offered over the years (McAninch, J.B. (ed). 1995). Some managment options are not feasible in Ramsey County and have not been included in this plan. The following options give a range of techniques to address different population levels. The options outlined below will involve the full participation of the surrounding cities. 1. Controlled Archery Hunts during Normal Season. In areas with moderate browse and a record of complaints and or deer/car collisions, general archery hunting could be used. The Metro Bow Hunters Resource Base (MBRB) can provide qualified hunters to hunt specific park sites. Special restrictions can be imposed to limit the times of hunting and the taking of bucks. The hunting period would extend over a number of weeks with low numbers of hunters in the field at any one time. This kind of hunt is preferred because it is generally non -disruptive, low-cost and :involves low -staff time. These hunts are also effective on small (<200 acres) parcels. Sites are posted with signs informing users that a hunt is in progress and the site may or may not be closed to other activities. The cities provide special permits or give standing authority to the RCPRD for these hunts. The cost of this type of hunt are minimal. 2. Special Permit Archery Removal after the Normal Season. This is a method where the deer are hunted at specific baited sites. This technique is used outside of the regular hunting season. Special permits from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources are needed, as well as approval from the cities. The areas around the shooting sites need to be closed. Harvested deer would have to be turned over to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. This option needs sites with buffers of 100 yards or more. , 3. Firearm Sharpshooter Removal. Sharpshooting is an expensive technique involving law enforcement personnel or contracting with a deer removal company. Special permits from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources are required, as well as approval from the cities. The areas around the shooting sites need to be closed. Harvested deer would have to be turned over to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Animal rights groups have accepted this technique as a humane method of removing deer. Sharpshooting can be safely done on small (<20 acres) parcels. Complaints about the safety and noise can arise, but using trained marksman and silencers can minimize these concerns. This is a high cost, potentially high staff and high profile removal option.. Removal costs are a minimum of $200.00 per deer, in 2005 dollars. Deer Management Partners Deer Management activities are conducted in partnership with numerous agencies and municipalities. Current contacts are maintained in the RCPRD Natural Resources files. 17