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| The impacts of deer browse on plant communities are witnessed throughout the forest ecosystem. Pictured: A noticeable browse line and damage from over-browsing deer. |
Deer Management
For several years, Metro Parks has attempted to reduce deer density levels in its parks and conservation areas in order to restore and maintain a balanced ecosystem. Regionally and throughout the state, changes in habitat and the elimination of natural predators have allowed deer herds to grow to unnatural densities.
In some areas, deer densities have been documented at more than 200 per square-mile. Densities that exceed 20 per square-mile are associated with threats to biodiversity.
Since 2004, sharpshooters have culled more than 1,000 deer in the park district and the venison has been donated to the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank. Last season (2008-'09), 10,373 pounds were donated.
2009 Archery Program
Metro Parks will permit hunting by bow and arrow in several areas this fall as part of its ongoing deer management program. A July 30 lottery will determine who receives the 25 hunting permits available. Each permit will be good for up to three hunters who are Summit County residents and pass an archery test before a mandatory pre-hunting meeting September 1.
The lottery will be held at 6 p.m. at the Oxbow Area in Cascade Valley Metro Park. Hunters don't have to be present to win.
Press Release | Archery Rules
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