One threat to the local species and their habitats is the overpopulation of deer. For the past 20 years, Great Parks has monitored how white-tailed deer impact the parks. In response to significant increases in deer populations and the severe ecological damage that resulted, Great Parks began a Deer Management Program in 2003. This management includes continued population monitoring, vegetation surveys, culling and a lottery bow hunt. Since implementing this plan, several years of data have shown more growth and flowering of native plants and a less visible browse line. This plan also benefits the health of deer populations by reducing their competition for food and their risk of transmitting diseases, such as chronic wasting disease.
The application period for the 2025-2026 season is now open.
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