Deer Culling, Bow Hunting Review at March 8 Meeting

Residents concerned with the overpopulation of deer in Avon Lake, and how to address the problem, can attend a special The Environmental Affairs Advisory Board (EAAB) meeting March 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the

This is a different location than the last meeting, which discussed the

At this meeting, EAAB will be considering some draft legislation proposing a deer management program, including an active measure of attempting to reduce the size of the herd through a limited bow hunting program. EAAB will not be making any decisions at this time, but will listening to public comments on this issue. 

Currently bow hunting in Avon Lake is permitted on parcels of property 5 acres or more through a nuisance permit through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Permit seekers must prove the property has sustained profit loss agricultural damage. In 2011, only one permit was taken out in Avon Lake.

Rob James, council’s representative to the EAAB said residents will be welcome to provide suggestions and comments on if, or how, the current ordinance should be amended.

James said he did not know specifically what changes would be made.

“I think it is difficult to anticipate what changes EAAB may consider and recommend to City Council for further consideration,” James said. “Many of the comments that EAAB made to their proposal for a do not feed the deer ordinance came from the public meeting. I expect EAAB to thoughtfully consider any comments from the public as they review the language prior to forwarding the proposal to City Council, if they do in fact choose to forward the proposal.”

James said the point of the meeting will be to listen to comments. No action by the EAAB, a volunteer board of residents and industry representatives, will be taken at the meeting.

The board, which advises council, will be considering some draft legislation proposing a deer management program, including an active measure of attempting to reduce the size of the herd through a limited bow hunting program.

James said options for culling, including bow hunting, will be discussed and stressed that any proposals to council to amend the ordinance would focus on safety.

“If anything, I would expect EAAB to think about ensuring any proposal maximizes the safety of our residents,” James said.

The EAAB website offers the following documents (or see PDF):

EAAB Deer Management Proposed Ordinance Whereas Clauses

EAAB Deer Management Proposed Ordinance