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JAMESTOWN – A group tasked with finding solutions to Jamestown’s urban deer problem appears to be getting closer to solidifying a plan to deal with the issue.
Over the past few months, the Deer Management Work Group has heard from experts about what to do to combat growing numbers of urban deer.
An increased population, city officials say, had led to vehicle accidents, property damage and greater rates of Lyme Disease.
During a meeting last week, Councilman Tom Nelson joined other stakeholders, residents and lawmakers to further discussions and review ideas gathered thus so far.
Over time, the group has deliberated several methods to control the population; everything from sterilizing bucks to hosting-controlled hunts.
“I think it could be an uphill battle,” said Councilman Nelson. “I’m hoping that that changes.”
The effort to host controlled hunts was previously shot down after it did not make it past a general council vote last year.
“I don’t think they’re going to get serious about it until it is a big enough problem where people are seeing sick deer, I wish that would be different, but I don’t think anything will be done about it until it is almost too late,” said resident and committee member Mike Taylor.
The group is scheduled to meet again next month to continue discussions on the matter. During the meeting the committee is expected to discuss the best ways to educate the public on the issue. Some of the members plan to bring photos of large deer gatherings to use as part of the education efforts.
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