2025-10-07_PR_Comm_Min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Commissioner Penny asked whether the new software would affect the mailed activity brochures. Staff explained that the brochures will not be impacted by the implementation of Dash. However, staff have updated the brochure layout to make it more user-friendly, modern, and visually clean, aligning with the launch of the new registration system. d) ANNUAL DEER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM UPDATE Staff introduced the annual Deer Management Program to the Commission. Based on calculations from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Roseville has suitable habitat for approximately 15 to 19 deer. When the deer population exceeds this range, it can result in an unhealthy herd, malnourished animals, increased vehicle collisions, property damage, and other negative impacts. Staff provided an overview of the deer population data periodically collected by Ramsey County. The most recent reliable count, conducted in 2021, recorded a minimum population of 41 deer in Roseville. Due to insufficient snow cover, a survey was not conducted in 2025. Deer Reduction Program The USDA Sharpshooters conduct deer removals strictly for population control purposes, not for sport or recreation. Removal locations are selected based on deer population density and public safety considerations. Removal of predetermined number of deer per year, to get Roseville’s deer population closer to a healthy number The program is reviewed annually to assess progress and make adjustments as needed. Staff emphasized that the City’s approach to deer management is multipronged, incorporating data collection, monitoring, and community input. Staff reviewed historical data on deer removal permits, comparing the number of tags issued with the number of tags used. They highlighted that removal numbers were higher during the early years of the program and have since decreased as the program has shifted into a maintenance phase. During the 2024–25 management season, a total of 19 deer (all male) were removed, eight from the Owasso Hills area and 11 from Reservoir Woods. The reduced number of removals reflects the program’s current “maintenance mode,” which focuses on maintaining population stability rather than significant reductions. Staff noted that the USDA recommends conducting removals every year to ensure a stable and healthy herd. Annual removals help prevent overpopulation and reduce the likelihood of unhealthy herd conditions that can result from population fluctuations. Staff noted that estimating the current deer population is more challenging without a recent county survey. In the absence of updated data, staff rely on several anecdotal sources to help assess population trends, including: 7