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Tuesday, 26 May 2009 20:08 |
 With development inching its way up the Wasatch Front, primary mule deer wintering grounds are slowly being depleted, consequently, the urban deer population has seen an increase. With deer numbers increasing in residential areas, the complication of human/deer run- ins are more common. With deer- vehicle collision (DVCs) and the destruction of property/landscaping on the rise, cities along the front are looking for a solution. In November of 2008, BOU made a proposal to the RACs about using bowhunting as a viable method of controlling urban deer populations. Through bowhunting management, educated and trained bowhunters have proven to control urban deer numbers in various states throughout the country. Along with managing deer numbers, opportunity for the bowhunting community would also be created as well as revenue through tag sales for the DWR. With overwhelming support from cities wanting to control deer population, the Wildlife Board has requested more information and is looking taking it on as a study item.
BOU is committed to doing what is right for wildlife and knows the value and importance that bowhunting provides. We will continue to educate people of the use of bowhunting as a sound management tool.
BOU's Urban Deer Proposal
To whom it may concern;
Bowhunters of Utah would like to propose the following for RAC discussion and approval. Due to the rapid growth in many areas of Utah and the loss of habitat, Deer populations find themselves in urban areas where there currently is no plan or means for their management. Numerous examples exist on the Wasatch Front and with continued building throughout the state, it is certain to become an increasing issue. For this reason we propose that work begin on the establishment of an urban deer management program with archery as the principle means of harvest and the establishment of a committee to begin work on an education and specialized training plan for those sportsmen wishing to participate. This program would apply only to those deer populations residing within city limits or identified urban areas where the most practical method of harvest would be with a Bow and Arrow. It would not be recommended for application on the Wasatch front extended area hunt.
This program has been established in other states and has been found to be very effective at population control and management while providing the fish and game departments with an economical way of managing these urban deer populations. Furthermore, without such a program Utah Sportsmen will continue to lose opportunity and other costly measures will be needed draining the divisions needed resources. This program can become a tool for the division to help municipalities find answers to increasing deer populations found within their city limits. In recent meetings with Archery shops throughout the state, BOU has found overwhelming support for such a program and has received numerous commitments to certify individuals to help teach this program and provide resources for the specialized training to take place.
We encourage the RAC’s and wildlife board to be proactive in this measure for to be reactive will only result in lost opportunity and furthered frustration for those seeking viable and economical means to control deer populations. We thank you for your discussion and consideration on this important matter.
Sincerely,
Bowhunters of Utah |
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Last Updated on Thursday, 28 May 2009 08:02 |
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