KDFWR seeks public input on deer management

Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources News

Public input sought on deer management during series of meetings this month
Aug. 3, 2009 Contact: Dave Baker
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 1-800-858-1549, ext. 4454
Frankfort, Ky. – The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources is holding a series of six public meetings to gather input from hunters, landowners and concerned citizens about deer management in the coming years. People can voice their opinion about season dates, hunting zones and bag limits, the primary ways Kentucky manages its deer herd.
“This is an opportunity for the public to provide their thoughts on the direction of long-range deer management in Kentucky,” said Tina Brunjes, big game coordinator for Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. “We want people to be active partners in helping us decide the direction to take.”
Kentucky’s deer herd number is at an all-time high. The state consistently ranks in the top five nationally for trophy bucks recognized by the Boone and Crockett Club.
“The deer resource is better than ever across the state, thanks to the management program enacted nearly two decades ago,” Brunjes said. “To continue this, we feel it is time to examine the state of our deer program and assess methods for its continued success.”
Kentucky Fish and Wildlife officials plan to revise the state’s deer management plan, which was originally written to grow the deer herd. The new plan will serve as a map to keep the population of deer at acceptable levels to the public while maintaining the quality of Kentucky’s white-tailed deer.
“Before we lay pen to paper, we need the input of our hunters and landowners,” Brunjes said. “They are the critical tool in managing deer.”
Kentucky Fish and Wildlife officials will hold six public meetings this month across the state for public input. All meetings will begin at 6 p.m. local time.
Scheduled locations and dates include:

Bowling Green: Kentucky Community and Technical College System, 221 Commonwealth Boulevard, Transpark Center, Aug. 10.
Northern Kentucky: Lloyd Wildlife Management Area (WMA) clubhouse, Crittenden, Aug. 11.
Paducah: West Kentucky WMA Club House, 10535 Ogden Landing Road, Kevil, August 19.
London: North Laurel High School Gym, 1300 East Daniel Boone Parkway, London, August 20.
Ashland: Northeastern Fish and Game Association Club House, Herbert C. Ross Drive, Aug. 24. From Ashland, follow US 60 West to KY 180. Continue until passing underneath the Interstate 64 bridges, then turn right on South Big Run Road. Go 1.6 miles, turn left on Herbert C. Ross Drive.
Frankfort: UK Extension Office, Rooms E & F, 101 Lakeview Ct, Frankfort, August 27.

Those unable to attend these meetings may also provide written comments about deer management in Kentucky. Send letters on this issue to: Tina Brunjes, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, #1 Sportsman’s Lane, Frankfort, Ky. 40601.