DNR Asking For Public Input On Deer Management

How many white-tailed deer should we have in Georgia?

The answer varies depending on whom you ask. Management of Georgia’s white-tailed deer herd can be a challenging and, at times, controversial topic.

That’s why the DNR requests your participation in three statewide open house-style public meetings or through an online questionnaire.

According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division, the white-tailed deer is Georgia’s most popular game species.

Currently, management of regional and statewide deer population density occurs through regulated hunting.

However, the DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division wants to hear from hunters and the general public regarding the management of white-tailed deer over the next 6 years.

Citizens are encouraged to provide thoughtful insight on specific key issues.

Some of those issues include a range of topics such as deer population; deer-vehicle collisions; urban deer management; hunting regulations and methods; hunter access; chronic wasting disease; and communications.

Biologists and others will be available at the open house meetings to answer questions about the key issues and provide background information.

The meeting nearest our area will take place next Thursday, March 7 from 3p – 8p. in Gainesville at the Gainesville Civic Center Sidney Lanier Room, on Green St. In Gainesville. The public can drop in at any time during the open house meetings.

And for those unable to attend a meeting, a web-based “open house” is available where the public can access a questionnaire that will be posted at GeorgiaWildlife.com/deer-info.

The online questionnaire will be available through April 7, 2024.

For more information on the Georgia Deer Management Plan, visit GeorgiaWildlife.com/deer-info or call 770-918-6416.